Day trip excursion to La Paz BCS & Balandra beach

Planning a day trip from San Jose del Cabo to explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant towns of Baja California Sur? This tour promises a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, local charm, and cultural highlights—all packed into about 10-11 hours. While it might not be a secret off-the-beaten-path adventure, it offers enough authentic moments to satisfy most travelers seeking a taste of Baja’s best.

What we love about this experience? First, the highlight of Balandra Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and iconic rock formations, is simply breathtaking. Second, the opportunity to stroll through La Paz’s Malecón gives you a chance to soak in local life, colorful murals, and seaside tranquility. And third, the visit to Todos Santos, home of the legendary Hotel California, adds a dash of mystery and history to the mix.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, with limited time at each stop—some travelers wished for longer at Balandra and Todos Santos. If you prefer a leisurely pace or more time for photos and exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Baja in a day, this tour hits many key spots in a manageable way.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a full, authentic taste of Baja’s diverse scenery and culture without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights, especially if you appreciate natural beauty and small-town charm. Let’s break down what makes this tour a worthwhile choice, and where it could be improved.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery at Balandra Beach with its iconic rock formations and clear waters.
• Authentic local experience walking La Paz’s Malecón with murals and seaside ambiance.
• Cultural stop at Todos Santos, with the famous Hotel California adding a touch of legend.
• Efficient transportation on a comfortable bus or minivan with small group size (max 15 travelers).
• Includes essentials like bottled water, light lunch, and entrance to Balandra Beach.
• A full-day itinerary that balances nature, culture, and scenic drives—though it’s quite fast-paced.

The Itinerary in Depth

Start from San Jose del Cabo & Transpeninsular Highway

The journey kicks off early at 7:00 am, with a roughly two-hour drive along the Transpeninsular Highway. This scenic route offers views of Baja’s rugged landscapes, with opportunities to spot local flora and fauna along the way. As one reviewer noted, “We observed flora and fauna of the region, as well as incredible landscapes,” which sets the tone for the day. The drive itself is part of the adventure, giving you a sense of Baja’s wild, open spaces.

Balandra Beach: The Crown Jewel

After the drive, you arrive at Balandra Beach, famous for its dreamlike landscapes and shallow, calm waters. This stretch of paradise is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or simply taking in the views of the “El Hongo” rock formation. The two hours allotted here may feel brief, but it’s enough for a good swim, some photo ops, and a leisurely walk along the white sands.

According to a review, “Playa Balandra and Todos Santos were the best parts of the tour,” highlighting how mesmerizing this spot is. Travelers often remark on its crystal-clear waters and the iconic rocks that seem almost surreal. Bring your snorkel gear if you have it—though not included, the calm waters are ideal for a quick float or underwater exploration.

La Paz Malecón & Local Charm

Next, the tour takes you to La Paz’s Malecón, a lively boardwalk lined with murals, sculptures, and bustling cafes. You’ll enjoy a quick but meaningful stroll, absorbing the local hospitality and seaside energy. The Malecón is a great place for photos, people-watching, and catching views of the Sea of Cortez.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved walking around discovering colorful murals and sculptures,” which captures the essence of this stop. It’s a brief visit—about two hours—but enough to get a feel for La Paz’s relaxed vibe and artistic spirit.

Todos Santos: The Artistic & Historic Town

The next stop is Todos Santos, a charming town with a bohemian atmosphere and a touch of legend. The visit includes a walk around the town, with a visit to the iconic Hotel California, famously associated with the Eagles song. This spot offers a mix of history, music, and local art, making it a memorable cultural experience.

One reviewer shared that “The hotel, immortalized by the famous Eagles song, offers a unique experience,” emphasizing the town’s legendary status. Although the visit is only an hour, it provides a taste of Baja’s eclectic heritage.

Scenic Drive & Sunset Finish

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back along the Transpeninsular Highway, where travelers can enjoy Baja’s stunning sunset views. The last two hours are designed to be a peaceful, picturesque ending to an active day, with the return to San Jose del Cabo.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

Included:

• Bottled water (two per person)
• Light lunch with granola bars
• Entrance to Balandra Beach
• Time at Coromuel Beach
• Short visit to Todos Santos
• Pickup from select locations

Not included:

• Towels, sunblock, or additional food and drinks
• Gratuities for guides
• Land conservation fee of $20 per person

Most travelers find the price of $140.67 reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and entrance fees. The tour remains seated on a comfortable vehicle, with a small group size — a plus for a more personalized experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, towel, and sunblock, even if not explicitly included, since time at Balandra Beach is limited but memorable.
• Arrive early for pickup, as the tour starts precisely at 7:00 am.
• Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes for the Malecón and Todos Santos.
• Remember that the tour operates rain or shine—be prepared for changing weather.
• Consider bringing a camera or phone with a good battery, since there are many photo-worthy moments.
• Tip the guides if you appreciated their insights and service—small groups tend to get more personalized attention.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Baja’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The highlight for many is Balandra Beach, with its stunning waters and iconic formations. The small group size and inclusion of essentials like water and a light lunch make it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

If you’re eager to see La Paz’s vibrant Malecón and explore Todos Santos without planning each detail yourself, this tour saves you time and effort. However, be prepared for a fast-paced day—especially if you prefer more time at each spot, you might find it a little rushed.

This tour strikes a nice balance between scenery, culture, and relaxation, making it an excellent option for travelers who want a taste of Baja’s best in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers short on time but eager to see multiple highlights of Baja California Sur
• Those interested in natural landscapes, like Balandra Beach’s crystal waters
• Cultural enthusiasts wanting a quick peek into La Paz and Todos Santos
• Visitors who enjoy small-group tours for a more personalized experience
• Beach lovers and photo enthusiasts craving stunning scenery
• Travelers comfortable with a busy, full-day schedule

This tour isn’t ideal if you prefer a slow pace, extended beach time, or deep culture.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning around early evening.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transportation, bottled water, a light lunch with granola bars, entrance to Balandra Beach, and a brief visit to Todos Santos.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, there is a $20 land conservation fee per person, payable on the spot. Towels, sunblock, and additional food are not included.

Can I bring my own towels or sunblock?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring your own towels and sun protection, as these are not provided.

How many people are in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the full-day schedule and walking involved, especially at the Malecón and Todos Santos.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking, plus sun protection, are advised. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim at Balandra.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive slice of Baja California Sur’s natural beauty, seaside charm, and cultural history. It’s perfect for travelers who want an efficient, enjoyable day exploring the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. While the pace might be quick for some, if you’re after a memorable, photo-rich adventure, this will serve you well.