This laid-back seaside capital blends desert calm with turquoise, wildlife-rich waters.
Begin your day in La Paz with a scenic walk along the Malecón waterfront, where sea breezes, public sculptures, and wide-open views set the tone. Spend time browsing local markets for fresh seafood tacos, regional crafts, or exquisite Baja pearl jewelry. Next, for those feeling like a trip out of the bustle of the city, head to Balandra Beach for its shallow turquoise lagoon and El Hongo, the famous mushroom rock, an ideal spot for swimming and relaxed strolling. If conditions allow, join a guided excursion to Espíritu Santo Island for snorkeling or, from October to April, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish on Earth. End your visit with a quiet sunset along the waterfront, where the sky glows pink over the Sea of Cortez.