Experience the natural beauty and marine wildlife of Baja California Sur on this island-hopping adventure from La Paz to Loreto. Spend your days kayaking, snorkeling and swimming while keeping your eyes peeled for sea lions, dolphins, whales and more. Each night, set up camp on remote beaches and islands with the stars twinkling above.

Spend an incredible 7 days kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and camping your way along the Baja California coastline. In this family friendly, island hopping adventure, you discover the ethereal world of Baja from La Paz to Loreto.

Kayak along picturesque beaches, your paddle slipping into warm azure waters teeming with some of the world’s most abundant and diverse marine life. Hike through mountain ranges and sand dunes that cast a sunset-colored contrast to the glimmering blue Sea of Cortez. Stop at local fishing villages to taste fresh seafood prepared a la Baja and interact with the locals. Snorkel and swim alongside playful sea lions and wake up each day immersed in unparalleled landscapes both stunning and tranquil.

Our Island Hopping tour takes you to out-of-the-way locales so that you can experience the full breadth of the world’s most biologically rich body of water. A panga shuttles you between beach camps so that you can spend less time “getting there” and more time “being there” as you explore the coastlines, get face-to-face time with the local wildlife and see where those desert trails take you.

Note: The following itinerary depends on variables such as weather conditions, currents and wildlife sightings and will be adjusted as needed. We will always strive to see that your daily activities fulfill the spirit and objectives of this tour, though maintaining a flexible mindset is key to getting the most out of this tour.

Trip Highlights: 

  • Paddle the remote coastline of the Sea of Coretz from LaPaz to Loreto. 
  • Shuttle between longer distances aboard a panga so you can spend more time paddling along interesting coastline, looking for wildlife, hiking, snorkeling and enjoying time around camp. 
  • Stop at local fishing villages and interact with locals.
  • Snorkel with Sea Lions at Los Islotes rookery. 
  • Paddle along side curious dolphins and flying mantas. 
  • Enjoy more time with friends and Family as our guides take care of all the details, so you can relax and soak in the Baja sun. 

Images & Videos

sea kayaks in sea of cortez
sea lions
panga with sea kayaks in baja
man overlooking sea of cortez
Sea kayak
man photographing ocean
people hiking on Espiritu Santo Island
3 people on a kayak tour
chocolate cake
group on vacation in baja
sea kayaker
rock formation in sea of cortez
fly fishing in baja
tent on baja beach
snorkeling in baja
islands of loreto bay national park
kayak in Loreto, Baja
sea kayaks in sea of cortez
sea lions
panga with sea kayaks in baja
man overlooking sea of cortez
Sea kayak
man photographing ocean
people hiking on Espiritu Santo Island
3 people on a kayak tour
chocolate cake
group on vacation in baja
sea kayaker
rock formation in sea of cortez
fly fishing in baja
tent on baja beach
snorkeling in baja
islands of loreto bay national park
kayak in Loreto, Baja

Itinerary

Collapse all days

Day 0

Note: The following itinerary depends on variables such as weather conditions, currents and wildlife sightings and will be adjusted as needed. We will always strive to see that your daily activities fulfill the spirit and objectives of this tour, though maintaining a flexible mindset is key to getting the most out of this tour.

Arrive in LaPaz

Fly into the city of La Paz or Cabo in Baja California Sur before making your way to your hotel. Settle into your room or explore the city, stroll the malecon and grab some dinner before an orientation meeting in the evening with your guides.

Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.

Or Come A day Earlier!

OPTIONAL: ADD A DAY TO SNORKEL WITH WHALE SHARKS .  

Note: If you are adding on an extension before your kayaking trip, you will need to arrive a day earlier. 

Extend your stay in La Paz a day before or after your kayak tour for a chance to snorkel with whale sharks. These plankton-eaters are the world's largest fish, and can reach lengths of up to 42' (13 m)! Whale sharks migrate into the bay of La Paz from October through April, where the shallow water of the bay harbors the favorite treats of these filter-feeding animals. Meet your guides bright and early to get a head start on the water in search of these peaceful creatures. The tour is approximately four hours, depending on the number of whale sharks present, so you'll have time to spend the afternoon exploring La Paz's beautiful Malecon. 

ACCOMMODATION : not included

Day 1

Kayak Orientation, Snorkeling at Sea Lion Rookery

After breakfast, travel by boat to Espiritu Santo Island (1-2.5 hours), arriving in time for lunch on the beach. After a comprehensive kayaking orientation, set off for a paddling adventure along the island or some swimming. We also visit the sea lion rookery of Los Islotes and go snorkeling with these playful creatures either this afternoon or the following morning.

ACCOMMODATION : Beach Camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch, Dinner

Day 2-6

Kayak, Snorkel, Hike, Fish and Camp From LaPaz to Loreto

Spend the next six days exploring the coast of Baja California Sur, motoring between islands in our passenger boat with the kayaks on top. Camp on Isla San Jose the second night before we head north, stopping at campsites along the mainland coastline. Each transfer between camps takes between one and three hours, with plenty of time to go kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and fishing once we arrive.

The itinerary depends on weather conditions and wildlife sightings, with possible visits to exciting cultural and natural sites including the fishing village of El Pardito, the red sandstone beach of Puerto Gata, Isla San Jose and San Francisquito. We may also stop at the small fishing village of Tembabichi and Monserrate Island before exploring the National Marine Park of Loreto.

ACCOMMODATION : Beach Camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Kayak to Loreto, Explore Town

After a final morning spent kayaking or snorkeling at our camp,  travel by boat to Puerto Agua Verde, where you meet a van that takes you to Loreto. Once there, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the charming town of Loreto. This evening gather with your guides and fellow travelers for a no-host farewell dinner at a local restaurant. 

ACCOMMODATION : not included
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8

Depart Loreto or Extend Your Stay

Today it’s time to say goodbye to your group as you head to the airport for your flight home or continue your stay in Loreto and Baja California Sur.

Dates & Rates

Supplementary Information

Dates by Request. Private charters only for a group of 7 or less:  $18,900

Tour Includes:

  • Full services of our Adventure Consultants
  • Professional naturalist and bi-lingual guides
  • All meals and beverages as indicated on the itinerary
  • All transportation while on tour
  • All kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment
  • Panga supported kayaking tour
  • Taxes

Tour Does Not Include:

  • Airfare
  • Transportation to and from the airport
  • Hotel before and after the tour
  • $30 National Parks & Biosphere Reserves access fees required by itinerary
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature

WEATHER-CAUSED TRIP ALTERATIONS

Strong winds and/or rough water conditions sometimes prevent our trips from going as scheduled. We are at the mercy of nature, as well as the local Port Captains who determine if ports are open or closed.  In particular, on our La Paz-based trips, winds may prevent us from crossing from the Port to Espiritu Santo Island which may also be reason for the Port Captain to close the port or prohibit crossing.  In these cases there are different solutions.  Sometimes we have to delay the crossing by a day or two, or have to leave Espiritu Santo Island a day or two early.  In these cases we provide a substitute activity for the day(s) we cannot kayak.  If the weather forecast predicts a series of days with strong winds, we also reserve the right to transfer the trip to Magdalena Bay on the Pacific Coast, which is almost always in calm, protected waters.  We recognize this isn't ideal, however we have no control over nature.  Most people prefer to still have a trip going, versus no kayak trip at all.  Decisions to alter trips are not made until the last minute*, since we are basing our decisions on wind and weather forecasts that can change.  Your guides will inform you at the evening orientation meeting if the trip location has changed or the itinerary has been altered. We use apps like Windy or Windfinder Pro to monitor winds and forecasts.  The safety and security of our trips is the primary focus of our decisions.

 If you purchase Trip Insurance and wish to cancel on the day of the trip, the "Trip Interruption" coverage may apply if Mexican authorities have closed the Port.  If you have questions about your coverage, call the toll-free number on your Travel Insurance policy to ask.  Neither our guides nor our office staff can determine if coverage will apply. Sea Kayak Adventures does reserve the right to modify and alter trip itineraries and in these circumstances will not provide any refund of trip monies paid.  

  *Last-minute means no sooner than noon the day prior.  Final information will be provided at the evening orientation meeting.

 

ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.

Reviews

5
Average: 5 (1 vote)

Reviews

5

Wonderful week

I was hesitant about camping but thought I could suck it up due to my desire to go to this remote location. I am so glad I did. This was a magical part of our world and the only way to do it justice is to rough it. Sea Kayak Adventures and our knowledgeable trip leaders; Rueben, Damian, Tico, and Carlos made it easy. Btw, they are excellent cooks too.

Add your review

16 + 3 =

FAQ & More

How do I get to La Paz and from Loreto?

Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.

What’s included in this kayak package? What’s not included?

Included: Skilled professional guide services, ground transportation, motorboat-support to carry gear, hotel nights as indicated on itinerary, snorkeling equipment, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.

Not Included: Airfare, transportation to and from airport, National Parks & Biosphere Reserve access fees, gratuities, and items of a personal nature.

Are your kayak trips motorboat supported?

Yes, if at any time a guest does not want to paddle they are welcome to ride in the panga instead.

What are the physical requirements for this trip?

When stopping at shore, you should be able to climb in and out of the kayaks on your own. They will be floating in calf-deep water. Your guides are happy to assist, but balance and limberness are required. When you get to your evening campsite, all group members must to be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line, in teams of 6-8, before the group disperses. You will change camp sites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Camp sites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour.

What’s camp like? Are there toilets and showers at camp?

When you get to your evening campsite all group members must be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line. You will change campsites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Campsites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour. We endeavor to secure the very best campsites for the natural beauty and amenities of the area. Your guides will give a demonstration of how to set up and take down your provided dome tent. We also will provide you with a sleeping bag, liner sheet, pillow and an inflatable thermarest sleeping pad. There will be a kitchen/dining area and shade tarps where you can sit back and relax.

While kayaking, we can only carry enough fresh water for drinking and cooking. There are no fresh water sources on most of the coastline and islands we visit. You can clean up with saltwater and soap off above the high tide line, or bring disposable shower wipes. A porta potty will fit into a hatch of the kayak or on the panga support boat, and will be transported to each campsite and set into a sheltered area for solid waste. Liquid waste can be expelled below the high tide line, or in a separate porta-potty bucket.

Watch Now: Camping in Loreto, Baja with Sea Kayak Adventures

Watch Now: Baja Bathroom Facilities

What happens if it’s too windy to paddle?

If it’s too windy to paddle your guides will have alternative activities for guests to enjoy. There are opportunities to snorkel, hike or just relax on the beach with a margarita. We plan our itineraries to minimize risks posed by weather, but there is always an element of unpredictability in nature. The risk capsizing is reduced by our stable boats, but exists. All of our kayak guides are certified in kayak rescue.

When is the best time to go to see whales in the Sea of Cortez?

The islands of Loreto National Marine Park, located in the Sea of Cortez, are home for 6 different species of whales including Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Bryde's and Pilot whales. From January through April look for spectacular sightings of Blue, Fin and Humpback whales in the warm, calm waters near Loreto on our Sea of Cortez Islands tours. Magdalena Bay and San Ignacio Lagoon, on the opposite side of the peninsula, are both world-renowned winter nursery grounds of the Gray whales. From late-January to mid-March is the best time to see gray whales. We operate both Gray Whale Base Camps and Kayak/Whale Watching Combos during this short season.

Can I fish?

In general, fishing in allowed in Loreto/La Paz. You would need to obtain a fishing license either before arriving or upon arrival. Our guides will not allow fishing if you are unable to produce a valid license. You will also need to bring all of your own fishing equipment. Along our kayaking routes there are areas where fishing is allowed, the guides will let you know where fishing is prohibited. Also, fishing is only allowed at the guide's discretion, as we have an itinerary, schedule and other group members that we have to take into consideration.

What gear do I need?

Sea Kayak Adventures will provide you with a detailed packing list prior to your trip. We provide all of the necessary camping, paddling and snorkeling equipment, which you will need to fully enjoy your adventure. If you are interested in more specific information, check out our general Baja packing list here! If you have any questions, or need help deciding what to bring, you can call or e-mail one of our friendly Adventure Consultants at any time for some extra advice!

Watch Now: How to pack your gear and kayak in Baja!

What kind of food will I eat? Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Our renowned wilderness meals are prepared daily by our guides using local, fresh, healthy ingredients. In Baja you can expect an authentic dining experience, with savory dishes like chiles rellenos, tostadas, ceviche, and chicken mole. We even serve delicious desserts like brownies and pineapple upside-down cake! Each morning, we serve up freshly brewed coffee or tea. Throughout the day we provide an abundance of local fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. Wine and mixed drinks are served with hors d’oeuvres each evening for happy hour. We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests, working within the parameters of the destinations in which we operate. If you have a very strict diet, we recommend packing extra snacks that you know you can eat.

What’s the weather like in Baja?

Please check out this great website Weather Underground for temperature averages in Baja.

Where can I store my luggage while I’m on your tour?

You can leave your luggage at your tour hotel while you are on tour. We recommend getting a luggage lock if you are leaving any electronics in the bags. We’ve never had any issues with guests leaving their bags at the hotel but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. We will transport your luggage from your tour hotel in La Paz to your tour hotel in Loreto for you to pick up upon check-in in Loreto.

You may also be interested in...

Back to top