With the Sea of Cortez on one facet and the Sierra Laguna Mountains on the opposite, La Paz is a paradise for outside lovers and watersport aficionados.
Situated 160 km (100 miles) north of the extra well-known metropolis of Cabo San Lucas, this conventional city is a must-visit. La Paz itself is a bit sleepy, however concern not, it’s removed from boring.
Throughout my memorable time in La Paz, I snorkeled with whale sharks, paddled a kayak within the sea, went horseback driving within the mountains, and did the entire sights on the town. I can now say it’s certainly one of my favourite locations in Mexico and I can’t wait to return and discover extra enjoyable issues to do in La Paz, Mexico.
21 Finest Issues to Do in La Paz
These ideas of 21 issues to do in La Paz will maintain you in your toes. I made a decision to spend per week in and round La Paz and loved each single day of our November go to.
Planning a visit to Baja California quickly? Take a look at these prime 21 issues to do in La Paz. It’s one of many greatest locations to go to in Mexico! (Don’t miss the Mexico journey sources part on the finish of this publish.)
1. Stroll Across the Previous City
The place La Paz stands right now was visited by Hernan Cortez again in 1535, however the metropolis solely began to develop within the mid-Nineteenth century because of the growth of the pearl diving trade. A lot of the buildings and structure mirror that interval and provides the outdated city its distinctive character.
The principle sq. of Jardín Velazco, additionally referred to as the Plaza Constitución, is among the locations in La Paz widespread with the locals. It’s an awesome place for people-watching. I spent plenty of time sitting on one the quite a few benches and watching households strolling by, seniors chatting collectively and sharing tales gone.
The outdated city and Jardín Velazco are centred round Revolución de 1910 and Calle 5 de Mayo. You possibly can wander the world independently or go on a 2-hour free English strolling tour. This is among the greatest issues to do in La Paz and a good way to get your bearings.
2. Lease a Kayak at Balandra Seashore
A number of seashores north of La Paz are simply accessible inside an hour drive, however Balandra Seashore might be probably the most protected and preferrred for kayakers. Freed from motorboats, you’ll be able to get pleasure from kayaking by means of the inland mangroves, discover the shallow bay, and even get out to the ocean.
Kayak rental is feasible from $15 USD / hour, or e-book a full day or multi-day kayak tour from $60 USD. The mouth of the bay tends to see robust waves and currents and may be difficult for novice kayakers. Look ahead to the stingrays that typically conceal within the sandy bay flooring.
An alternative choice is to e-book a tour with a neighborhood and luxuriate in a small group kayak journey with meals, drinks, and gear included.
If you wish to paddle across the mangroves, turtles, dolphins, and sea lions of the Pure Protected space of El Magote, take a look at this highly-rated journey.
In case you are searching for different seashores to go to with out kayaking, try Playa El Coromuel, Playa El Caimancito, Playa El Tesoro and Playa Pichilingue, and Playa Tecolote. Tecolote gives extra facilities (eating places & restrooms) than different locations, and it turned out to be certainly one of my favourite locations in La Paz.
3. See the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz
The Cathedral was inbuilt 1861 by the Dominicans and stands throughout Jardín Velasco. The tall entrance of the church is among the foremost issues to see in La Paz and can get your consideration as quickly as you arrive on the sq.. The within of the Catedral de Nuestra Senora is price visiting, so be at liberty to step in.
In addition to its significance as a Catholic church, musical occasions corresponding to classical and spiritual performances are typically held within the constructing. This is among the greatest free issues to do in La Paz. The Catedral de Nuestra Senora is on the nook of Revolución de 1910 and Calle 5 de Mayo, and you’ll find it on the map right here.
Handle: Revolución de 1910 S/N, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Checklist of the High 21
4. Go to the Whale Museum
Given their common presence within the Sea of Cortez, it’s no marvel La Paz has a museum devoted to whales. The Museo de la Ballena is on the nook of Nook Calle Obregón and 16 de Septiembre, a brief distance from the Malecón. You possibly can’t miss it because of the huge whale skeleton exhibited in entrance of the constructing.
The Whale Museum is on the small facet however supplies in depth info on whales, porpoises, and dolphins. A worthy cease for everybody, and I loved it very a lot.
The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm, Sunday 10 am – 6 pm, and closed Monday, in addition to on holidays (January 1st, Might 1st and December twenty fifth). Entrance tickets are 120 to 160 Mexican Pesos ($6 – $8), which features a 45 minute guided tour (English-speaking information accessible).
Handle: Antonio Navarro 855, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
5. Test Out the Native Art work
A white-washed historic constructing on the town plaza, the Authorities Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) hosts rotating reveals from the Centro de Artes, Tradiciones y Culturas Populares de Baja California Sur.
Native painters, potters, glassmakers, and artists get an opportunity to function their paintings, and also you get to look at them as they showcase their inventive expertise in entrance of you.
The centre, positioned on Calle Francisco I. Madero in entrance of the Jardín Velasco, is open Monday by means of Friday 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9 am – 6 pm, with free entrance.
Handle: Francisco I. Madero S/N, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
6. Discover the Museum of Anthropology & Historical past
The Museo Regional de Antropología e Historia is an interesting museum positioned at Altamirano and 5 de Mayo. It options well-researched exhibitions of La Paz and Baja Sur historical past, from the Paleolithic period to the time of the missions, overlaying the affect of the Spanish colonization and the way it impacted the unique inhabitants.
When you’re a historical past buff, this is among the issues to do in La Paz that you just gained’t wish to miss. Observe that almost all (if not all) descriptions are in Spanish, which I believed was a great way to follow the language. Entrance prices 65 pesos (round $3) and is open Monday to Sunday 9 am – 6 pm.
Handle: Calle Ignacio Altamirano s/n, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
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7. Store on the Market
Scent the flavours of Mexico as native individuals store for contemporary fruits, meats, and greens on the Mercado Francisco I. Madero.
Take a look at the leather-based items, hats, and quinceañera attire. Seize snacks and contemporary juices from the meals stalls (comedors) on the entrance of the market, and take a couple of minutes to admire the skin mural.
The Mercado is a long-standing establishment in La Paz, and amongst one of many locations to go to in La Paz to get pleasure from an affordable and engaging Mexican breakfast and lunch. Head to the nook of Revolucion De 1910 and Santos Degollado Monday to Sunday to your fill of yummy meals.
8. Calm down on the Malecón
The 5-km (3-mile) lengthy waterfront Malecón is a neighborhood favourite and will probably be yours too. Joggers get pleasure from their run alongside the shore on Sunday afternoons, whereas households and {couples} stroll right here each day.
The Malecón can be the right spot for watching unbelievable sunsets because the purple, yellow and orange rays illuminate the sky above the ocean and marina. One other one of many prime issues to do in La Paz! (Hanging out on the Malecon is among the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta as nicely!)
9. Bike In and Round La Paz
Lease a motorcycle for 30 pesos an hour ($1.50) and luxuriate in a leisurely journey on the 5 km (3 mile) bike lane alongside the Malecón, whereas having fun with the ocean views and stopping on the waterfront eating places for a break. Or, hit the coastal or mountain trails of Baja California for a day of mountain biking.
These searching for an prolonged biking journey would possibly wish to take into account the 370 km (230 mile) Pichilingue Peninsula coastal loop path north of La Paz. Actually, this was slightly lengthy for me, however I hope to attempt a part of it on my subsequent go to.
Mountain biking excursions begin from $60 relying on trails and length. For these wanting some train, mountain biking is among the greatest issues to do in La Paz.
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10. Snorkel with Whale Sharks
One of many prime issues to do in La Paz is snorkeling with whale sharks. Whale sharks – tiburón ballenas in Spanish – are the biggest recognized fish, as much as 13 m (42 ft) lengthy. They’re current round La Paz between October to March.
Whereas it sounds scary, whale sharks solely eat plankton and care little about people. They’re huge, although, particularly while you’re within the water with them.
Swimming by the large fish is a incredible expertise. Nevertheless, be certain that the tour operator respects the rules that shield the welfare of the animals, together with the strict “no touching” coverage, in addition to a restricted quantity of individuals within the water at one time.
Sunrider Excursions is a extremely rated firm that follows the rules on defending the wildlife, but ensures you have got a good time! Hop aboard a 33-foot catamaran and luxuriate in snorkelling with whale sharks (in small teams of 5 solely), snacks on board, and an English information. This is among the most memorable issues to do in La Paz, and at $80, it’s price each penny.
Discover out extra about this wonderful journey right here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta – Don’t Miss Out!
11. Go Whale-Watching in Magdalena Bay
From January to March, grey whales come to Baja California to benefit from the heat water of Magdalena Bay’s protected lagoon the place they provide delivery to their younger.
Occurring a whale-watching cruise provides you the very best probability of seeing the whales breed and lift their offsprings. Day cruises begin at $130, although multi-day cruises are additionally accessible.
Different whales migrate to the Gulf of California all year long: March to July to see the blue whale (the biggest whale on the earth), February to June for the humpback whale, and October to February for the pilot whale (calderon negro).
This is among the issues to do in La Paz you gained’t wish to miss.
12. Swim with Sea Lions on Los Islotes or San Rafaelito
A cluster of smaller islands, Los Islotes is residence to a number of hundred California sea lions. A gaggle of 250 reside there within the winter however the summer season months can see over 350 with new pups arriving yearly.
If you wish to have a look at sea lions up shut, Los Islotes is among the foremost locations in La Paz the place you are able to do so. Observe that there are rules that restrict the variety of guests to Los Islotes as a way to shield the positioning’s ecosystem.
An alternative choice for observing sea lions of their pure habitat is at San Rafaelito. Whether or not in Los Islotes or San Rafaelito, be certain that so as to add a go to to the ocean lions as certainly one of your prime issues to do in La Paz. A combo tour together with a visit to Espíritu Santo Island and the Sea Lions begins from $120.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Playa del Carmen
13. Sail to Espíritu Santo Island (top-of-the-line issues to do in La Paz!)
Espíritu Santo Island, or Isla del Espíritu Santo because the locals name it, is a few one-hour boat journey north of La Paz. The island is residence to a wealthy and assorted marine life.
The encompassing reefs are teeming with sea creatures: Moorish idols, rainbow wrasse, parrotfish, rays, turtles, sharks, and the occasional pod of dolphins or whales passing by means of!
The island was declared a part of a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1995, and it’s no shock that this space is a paradise for divers and snorkellers.
Most of the actions in La Paz like whale watching, swimming with whale sharks, or snorkelling with sea lions may be mixed with a visit to Espíritu Santo Island.
Some boats allow you to land on the island, the place you’ll be able to then discover the volcanic rock formations, kayak across the island, or simply chill on the distant seashores. Even when you don’t land on Espíritu Santo Island, cruising the Sea of Cortez is certainly top-of-the-line issues to do in La Paz.
When you’re taken with crusing to Espiritu, take a look at this widespread journey, or if you happen to’d fairly be on extra of a pace boat, take a look at this tour. Each embrace snorkelling and lunch.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Guanajuato
14. Scuba Dive within the Sea of Cortez
Jacques-Yves Cousteau named the world the “the world’s aquarium,” and by all requirements, the Sea of Cortez gives beautiful diving alternatives. You’ll see manta rays, dolphins, wholesome reefs, shipwrecks, sea lions, and extra.
High diving spots embrace Espíritu Santo island and Los Islotes. I went to each, and so they have been each incredible. Visibility is greatest from Might to October.
E-book your 2-tank dive boat journey from round $100 by means of one of many many dive facilities in La Paz. And if you happen to’re not but licensed, enroll in a PADI class and begin exploring the marine world. A number of the greatest diving in Mexico is discovered right here within the Baja — get pleasure from!
When you’re planning a visit to the Yucatan, you’ll be able to truly scuba dive in cenotes – that is positively top-of-the-line issues to do in Cancun!
15. Study to Prepare dinner Mexican Meals
Why not discover ways to prepare dinner yummy Mexican delicacies your self? Buen Provecho gives 5-hour cooking lessons for $80 in San Bartolo, a few one-hour drive from La Paz.
An alternative choice is the downtown-based El Nopal Spanish Academy which gives a $20 lesson as soon as a month. Undoubtedly, that is the tastiest of all of the actions in La Paz! I’ll admit that I loved the consuming as a lot, if no more, than the cooking.
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16. Benefit from the Nightlife
If you wish to celebration, La Paz gives a few nightclubs alongside the Malecón. In any other case, Cabo San Lucas is the place to go for Springbreak-esque leisure.
However if you happen to favor a chilly cerveza whereas having fun with views of the ocean and listening to native musicians, then La Paz is your best choice.
The Malecón sees a lot of the nightlife motion, with mariachi bands strolling round, bars the place you’ll be able to meet locals, or nightclubs taking part in disco.
A few favorite bars embrace Cafe-Bar KM-0 (Paseo Álvaro Obregón), La Morante Artwork Bar (Avenida Revolucion de 1910), Cava Sur – Restaurant & Wine Bar (Calle Ignacio Allende), and Bob Marlin (Calle Ignacio Allende).
17. Discover on Horseback
A number of ranches supply horseback driving alternatives that take you alongside the ocean, by means of cacti, and previous fishing villages. Most of those ranches are genuine working operations, and a visit is a good way to see conventional Mexican ranchers.
A 3-hour horse journey with Rancho El Cajon is about 500 pesos ($25).
18. Brush Up On Your Spanish
Need to enhance your Spanish? Enroll in lessons at both Se Habla…La Paz or El Nopal Spanish College and begin chatting with the locals because of your new language expertise.
Talking with the residents is a good way to study Mexican tradition and traditions, and no matter how poor your Spanish-speaking skills are, the locals will recognize your efforts.
19. Pattern Contemporary Seafood
Given its proximity to the ocean, it’s no shock that La Paz is a wonderful place for contemporary seafood. Consuming tasty meals is certainly one of many prime issues to do in La Paz.
One of many native delicacies is the chocolate clams, bought within the streets by the native fishermen. A must-try! Different locations to get pleasure from nice Mexican meals are Rancho Viejo (Márquez de León 228) and Tacos el Estadio (by the Cathedral).
☞ SEE ALSO: Should-Strive Meals within the Yucatan Mexico
20. Hike within the Sierra Laguna Mountains
Whereas deserts and seashores could be the principle draw of Baja California, the mountain ranges are unbelievable and supply many adventurous issues to do in La Paz.
The Sierra de la Laguna close to the city of Santiago are residence to distinctive mountaineering alternatives, together with waterfalls and sizzling springs. Pack your mountaineering sneakers and discover Canyon del Zorro (Fox Canyon) or the Aguas Calientes (Sizzling Water).
E-book a information or tour firm to search out your technique to the “secret” swimming swimming pools. Day hikes value from $60, whereas multiple-day treks are round $400+.
For one thing slightly nearer to La Paz, get pleasure from a 10-12 hour day journey consists of hikes to lovely view factors and you actually get to see just about the entire main websites round La Paz in a single day. Study extra about this highly-rated hike right here.
21. Strive Kitesurfing in La Ventana
When you’re feeling lively, head to La Ventana and discover ways to kitesurf. An exciting wind and watersport, kiteboarding will see you browsing the waves of the bay. Given the facility of the kite in windy situations, be certain that to take correct coaching earlier than heading out by your self.
La Ventana is about an hour drive from La Paz, and the windy season runs from October to April. Skilled riders can hire gear from $120 for a full day. Rookies can look into lesson packages, with costs various on expertise and length.
High Inns, Hostels & B&Bs in La Paz
I stayed in a number of locations throughout my time in La Paz, and I additionally requested lots of the foreigners I met the place they most well-liked to remain. Listed below are a number of the greatest.
Finances
Peace Hostel MX – rated “Wonderful” 8.9/10. Only a quick stroll to the Malecon, and that includes a sport room, backyard, lounge, and breakfast. Double rooms right here go for round $36/evening within the excessive season. Click on right here to study extra and e-book this hostel.
Pension Baja Paradise – rated “Wonderful” 8.7/10. When you’re travelling with a canine, excellent news this place is pet pleasant! There’s a shared kitchen, BBQ services and a terrace. Rooms are small, however satisfactory and at $35 for a double room within the excessive season, you actually can’t complain. Click on right here to study extra and e-book this hostel.
Midrange
Casa Juarez B&B – rated “Great” 9.4/10. Stunning, fashionable, vibrant rooms, outside pool, nice breakfast and glorious location. Among the best locations to remain in La Paz. Double rooms from $65 within the excessive season. Click on right here to study extra and e-book this B&B.
Lodge Catedral La Paz – rated “Great” 9.2/10. Boasting a gorgeous outside pool (with bar), incredible views of La Paz and comfy beds, this can be a best choice lodging. A incredible breakfast is included and the meals on the onsite restaurant is nice. Click on right here to study extra and e-book this lodge.
High Finish
Hyatt Place La Paz – rated “Very Good” 8.4/10. Providing the entire ordinary facilities you’ll be able to count on from the Hyatt lodge chain, together with fashionable rooms, giant outside pool, health middle, onsite restaurant and bar, and golf course (shut by). The placement is true on the water, a few 10 minute drive from La Paz. Click on right here to study extra and to e-book this lodge.
FAQs About What to Do in La Paz, Mexico
Listed below are solutions to some regularly requested questions in regards to the many enjoyable issues to do in La Paz, Mexico.
It could be overshadowed by Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo farther south, however don’t skip La Paz in your journey to Baja California Sur. There are numerous enjoyable La Paz actions, corresponding to whale watching and scuba diving, and lots of points of interest in La Paz, which has beautiful seashores and a number of other museums.
La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur. Well-known La Paz points of interest embrace the Malecon (walkway alongside the ocean) and colonial period buildings like the federal government palace. Pure areas are a number of the different prime issues to see in La Paz, with many seashores and islands close by.
It’s a captivating small city, however nature is the principle attract La Paz. The most well-liked La Paz actions revolve across the Sea of Cortez, together with whale watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
It’s completely protected to swim in La Paz. Not like the large waves and robust currents of the Pacific Ocean on the opposite facet of the Baja California Peninsula, the Sea of Cortez is mostly calm and flat. Actually, its seashores are a number of the greatest locations to go to in La Paz.
Due to the significance of the vacationer trade, many individuals communicate English. Even when your Spanish expertise lengthen barely past “gracias,” you should not have any downside speaking throughout your journey to La Paz.
Now You Know What to Do in La Paz and Baja California!
La Paz can simply be explored by your self — strolling or biking your means round. If you wish to dive, snorkel with whale sharks, or head to Espíritu Santo Island, reserve a tour by means of one of many tour operators beneficial above.
Not solely they know the very best spots to discover, however they’re educated about marine life and the native historical past. Whereas I like exploring on my own, the excursions I took in La Paz offered me with experiences that wouldn’t have been doable by myself. I received to satisfy some fascinating and informative locals as nicely.
This native experience is very vital when trekking within the mountains, scuba diving, or participating in any of probably the most adventurous issues to do in La Paz. Security is vital, so all the time guarantee your information is respected and educated.
Beside La Paz, Todos Santos is one other favorite of Baja California Sur because of its historic centre, wildlife, and browsing alternatives. And you’ll simply spend a number of days in La Ventana and Los Barriles having fun with water sports activities corresponding to windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking.
Depart touristy Cabo San Lucas behind, and discover the numerous wonders of Baja California Sur — you gained’t remorse it!
Observe: Except in any other case said, photographs on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock. Goats On The Street sources royalty-free photographs from this firm. Study extra right here.
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