The road to the Baja California city of La Paz is varied and gorgeous. (photo by Noreen Kompanik)
Everyone has likely heard of Los Cabos, a celebrated tourist spot that sits on the southern tip of Baja California, the linear peninsula that’s bounded by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sea of Cortez (a.k.a. the Gulf of California) on the other.
But, there may be a better option for sunshine-starved travelers looking to get away on their summertime beach vacations. Situated a mere 62 miles up the coast lies the lesser-known city of La Paz, a vibrant seaside destination that boasts tranquil bays, an eco-friendly ethos, one of the world’s best white-sand beaches and an offshore island that’s designated World Heritage Site, among other things. It also happens to be the state capital of Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Even in the depths of winter, temperatures typically don’t drop below about 78°F, so you can imagine the summer months get rather hot indeed. It can, in fact, get to be pretty sweltering, with daily highs measuring at or above 100°F from June all the way through September. Combined with its spectacular coastal location, this year-round warm weather makes the region a mecca for all kinds of watersports and aquatic activities.
Balandra Bay, recognized as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, in La Paz, Mexico. (Photo Credit: iStock/Getty Images Plus/CampPhoto)
The city is often referred to as the gateway to the celebrated Sea of Cortez, and it’s made all the more dazzling by the way its brilliant blue waters and lush mangrove copses contrast strikingly with an otherwise arid desert landscape. While the tropical climate here is very dry, there is nevertheless an abundance of wildlife to be seen, including marine life in the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau famously called “the aquarium of the world”.
In fact, the waters surrounding La Paz are a natural habitat for 39 percent of the Earth’s marine mammals and over 800 species of fish. Many are migratory, but summer visitors might expect to encounter mobula rays, oceanic mantas, various types of sharks, dolphins and sea lions, among others.
A wide spectrum of available activities on the water means there’s something for everyone to enjoy according to their personal preferences and ability levels, from the fairly tame to the highly adventuresome. Possibilities range from swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving to surfing, sportfishing, boating, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding and more.
Those looking to participate in non-aquatic outdoor pursuits will find that the destination’s terrestrial activities also abound, from relaxed nature walks, trail-hiking, biking, golfing, sandboarding, or off-roading in ATVs or RZRs. Alternatively, you might want to keep to the city proper, exploring its history and soaking in the sights on a guided or self-led tour; or by strolling or cycling along La Paz’ Malecon (waterfront promenade) to take in the many statues, public artworks, eateries and shops that line the three-mile-long boardwalk.
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