If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring pristine islands, swimming with playful sea lions, and relaxing on beautiful beaches, then the Private Tour to Isla Espiritu Santo might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers an intimate, personalized experience, perfect for those who prefer a quiet, tailored adventure over crowded group excursions.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get the chance to interact directly with California sea lions, which are known for their charismatic and friendly nature. Second, the journey includes stunning scenic stops across the island’s most iconic spots, each with its own story and visual appeal. Third, the delicious local lunch and the comfort of a private boat make it a leisurely, indulgent day.
One potential consideration is the price point—at just over $750 for a group of up to five, it’s not the cheapest option out there. But for those who value exclusivity, flexibility, and expert guides, it’s a solid investment. This tour suits travelers seeking a high-quality, memorable day in La Paz, especially those who love wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and cultural insights.
Good To Know
- Private experience means personalized service and flexibility.
- Unlimited snorkeling equipment and a chance to swim with playful sea lions.
- Expert guides, including marine biologists, who love to share their knowledge.
- Beautiful beaches and scenic stops with rich stories behind each location.
- Delicious, fresh local food included, adding to the overall value.
- Comfortable boat with amenities like restrooms, soft drinks, and water.
The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect
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Start at Bahía de San Gabriel
Your adventure begins with a quick 15-minute stop at Bahía de San Gabriel. This spot offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s pearl aquaculture history, with remnants of Latin America’s first pearl farm. It’s also home to Magnificent Frigate seabirds, which you can observe soaring overhead. The guide’s brief talk here adds context, making this more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s a lesson in local history and birdlife.
Ensenada and Sea Turtles
Next, you’ll visit Ensenada for about 15 minutes, with a focus on spotting sea turtles. The area is known as a feeding ground for these graceful creatures, and if luck is on your side, you might see them surface or even catch a glimpse of them swimming nearby. This stop offers a peaceful moment in the tour, with nature doing its thing in front of you.
Playa Candelero and La Máscara Rock Formation
The tour then takes you to Playa Candelero for around 10 minutes to admire the intriguing “La Máscara” rock formation. The story? It’s tied to the first settlers of the island and how they viewed natural landmarks. The rock’s shape resembles a mask, giving it a mystical charm. Here, you’ll hear tales and learn about the island’s cultural roots from your guide.
Passing Under the Arch at Isla Partida
Another scenic highlight is the passage under the arch at Isla Partida. During this brief 10-minute stop, you’ll have the chance to make a wish as you pass through, a small but meaningful tradition for many travelers. The arch offers a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable moment that captures the essence of island life.
Sea Lion Colony at Sea Lion Rock
The most anticipated part of the tour is the sea lion encounter at Sea Lion Rock, lasting about an hour. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim alongside these charismatic animals—except during breeding season (June-August), when swimming is prohibited to protect them. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and curious nature of the sea lions, which makes this a highlight for wildlife lovers.
Relaxing at Ensenada Grande
After the excitement, you’ll land at Ensenada Grande beach for approximately 1.5 hours. This spot features calm, transparent waters perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. The tour staff sets up umbrellas, benches, and tables, so you can sit back and enjoy the provided lunch—a mix of fish ceviche, guacamole, burritos, sandwiches, and fruit, complemented by water and soft drinks.
Exploring Isla Espiritu Santo
The day concludes with a 2.5-hour cruise from La Paz to Isla Espiritu Santo, giving you stunning views and photo opportunities along the way. This part of the trip is included in the price, and many reviews highlight how the comfortable boat and attentive crew make the journey enjoyable.
What’s Included and What’s Not
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The tour is well-equipped for a full day of fun. Snorkeling and scuba gear are provided, so you can explore underwater life with ease. The delicious lunch, bottled water, and soft drinks are included, making for a hassle-free experience. The boat features restrooms, a bonus for comfort during the day.
However, alcohol, coffee, and WiFi are not included. Parking fees, and the need for an air-conditioned vehicle (if you want to arrange your own transport to the meeting point) are additional considerations.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
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Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides, often described as passionate marine biologists who love sharing their expertise. One noted, “Having marine biologist guides, who love their profession and are passionate about explaining the wonders of the sea, is hard to find.” The guides’ ability to blend storytelling with fun makes the trip more meaningful.
Reviewers also praise the quality of the food. One said, “The food is very delicious and has a variety for all tastes,” which adds significant value, especially on a full-day tour. The personalized service and attention to detail—like setting up chairs and umbrellas—are consistent highlights.
The scenery impresses even seasoned travelers. Quotes like “the beaches and the sea… dreamy” and “impressive and beautiful” underline how visually stunning the tour locations are. Swimmers and snorkelers emphasize the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, especially the friendly sea lions.
Practical Tips for Travelers
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- Book early: This is a private tour for groups up to five, so it’s ideal to reserve ahead, especially during peak seasons.
- Arrive on time: The tour starts at 9:30 am from La Paz, and punctuality ensures a smooth experience.
- Bring essentials: Sun protection, swimwear, towels, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case.
- Consider the season: Swimming with sea lions isn’t allowed during June to August, so plan accordingly if that’s a must-do.
- Price worth? If you’re after a personalized, expert-led experience, with plenty of wildlife encounters and scenic stops, the cost reflects the private service and quality.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?
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This private tour to Isla Espiritu Santo is perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, flexible experience rather than a crowded group outing. It appeals to wildlife enthusiasts, snorkelers, and anyone interested in learning from marine biologists. The high-quality food, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery make it a value-packed choice—especially for groups who appreciate comfort and exclusivity.
If you’re looking for a full day of adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty with tailored service, this tour offers a compelling option. It’s well-suited for those with a sense of curiosity, a love of nature, and the desire to explore at their own pace.
FAQ
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Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is exclusively for your group of up to five people, ensuring personalized attention and flexible scheduling.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling and scuba equipment, bottled water, soda, lunch, and the boat with amenities like restrooms.
Can I swim with sea lions?
Yes, during the season outside of June-August, you can swim with the sea lions at Sea Lion Rock. During breeding season, swimming is prohibited to protect the animals.
How long is the boat trip from La Paz to Isla Espiritu Santo?
The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours each way, offering scenic views and a comfortable ride.
What kind of food is served?
A delicious mix of fish ceviche, guacamole, burritos, ham and cheese sandwiches, fruit, and snacks, all included in the tour.
Are there any restrictions or considerations?
The tour can be canceled in case of bad weather. Swimming with sea lions is season-dependent, and the tour is not refundable if canceled by you.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Sun protection, swimwear, towels, and possibly waterproof cameras. The tour provides most equipment and essentials, but bringing personal items is always a good idea.
This private tour offers a well-rounded, enriching day on Isla Espiritu Santo—perfect for those who want to see the best spots, learn from passionate guides, and enjoy the day at their own pace. Whether you’re into wildlife, stunning vistas, or simply relaxing with good food, it’s an experience worth considering for your Baja adventure.