Baja California in Depth

Today is yours to spend at leisure, soaking up the sun and scenery of Baja California’s remarkable coastline.

Head to one of La Paz’s nearby beaches – Playa Balandra and Playa El Tecolote are two of the most picturesque in the region. Soft white sands, calm turquoise waters and striking desert backdrops offer the perfect setting for swimming, snorkelling or simply unwinding with a book.

If you're feeling active, scenic walking trails nearby offer rewarding views over the Sea of Cortez. However you spend the day, this is a chance to enjoy the pace of Baja life in its most relaxed way.

Discover the island closest to La Paz, Espiritu Santo, on a half-day excursion.

It's home to turquoise waters, picturesque islets, red and black sheer cliffs, and panoramic views over the Sea of Cortez. Wildlife here is abundant, with the biosphere and UNESCO World Heritage Site often compared to the Galapagos Islands regarding the species found. Travellers from around the world come here to snorkel, kayak, hike, scuba dive or soak up the rays on its picture-postcard beaches.

Stop off at Ensenada de Pescadores, a quiet beach with few visitors, except for the local fishermen, and visit Playa Partida. A boxed lunch will be served in Candelero, which is considered by many to be the most attractive bay on the island.

This afternoon, take a short hike up the northern arroyo and visit the sea lion colony at Los Islotes.

After breakfast, you'll travel across most of the southern part of the peninsula with your hire car to reach the charming town of Loreto. The town's lack of mass tourism is reflected in its motto: “300 years old and still undiscovered”. Relax by the rooftop pool of the boutique Posada de las Flores hotel or take advantage of its location in the central plaza.

Wander to the quaint downtown area to explore shaded plazas and the boardwalk, the perfect place for a stroll along the waterfront under the Mexican sun. Loreto Bay National Park is excellent for whale watching (mid-December to mid-March), and is regarded as one of the best places for fishing.

Spend today on a boat trip looking for grey whales (mid-December to mid-March) at Bahia Magdalena.

The serene waters of the Sea of Cortez and the lagoons on the Pacific side of Baja host many marine species. Watching a whale glide silently below your boat is an experience that'll stay with you forever.

Travel from Loreto to Magdalena Bay, which is one of the three main lagoons where the grey whales return every year to mate and calve. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

Today, on a shared excursion, visit Loreto National Park.

Embark on a search for the largest mammal on Earth, the blue whale. This park is considered one of the best places to spot them and one of the very few places in the world where blue whales give birth close to the coast.

Visit the Whale Triangle, which is populated by blue whales, fin whales, humpback whales, dolphins and sea lions. In February and March, you may also spot orcas and pilot whales. Throughout the day, watch for the rich fauna Loreto Bay has to offer.

Drive yourself to Todos Santos. The town has escaped the mass tourism of other towns along the coast, and the local, laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind.

Spend the evening wandering around the cultural centre and the art galleries where locals sell their work. In February, there's an art and music festival which brings a buzz to this small artistic town.

Spend two nights at the Guaycura Boutique Hotel & Spa.

On your final full day in Baja California, simply rest and relax in the tranquil coastal town of Todos Santos. Spend the day at Guaycura Boutique Hotel’s private Beach Club and Spa, where the emerald waters of the Pacific invite you in for a refreshing swim.

Afterwards, stretch out on a shaded sun bed with a cocktail and take in uninterrupted ocean views. If you want to explore, the town’s art galleries and cultural centre are within easy reach. Otherwise, this peaceful setting offers the perfect pause after your wildlife-rich adventures – a chance to slow down and reflect on your journey through Baja.