La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos from CABO and San Jose

If you’re considering a day trip from Cabo San Lucas that offers a genuine taste of Baja California Sur’s natural beauty, vibrant towns, and cultural charm, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. Promising visits to Balandra Beach, La Paz, and Todos Santos, it combines scenic landscapes with local flavor—all in one long, adventure-packed day.

We’re here to give you a detailed look based on extensive reviews and the itinerary, so you can decide if this experience is worth your time and money. Two standout features are the breathtaking vistas of Balandra Beach and the thoughtful guides who seem to elevate the journey with their local knowledge and friendly attitudes. However, potential travelers should be aware of the long duration and the importance of good weather, as it’s a full, sometimes tiring, day.

This tour suits those who enjoy scenic drives, exploring authentic towns, and are prepared for a lengthy adventure. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want to see multiple highlights without fussing over logistics or driving themselves. If you’re after a well-rounded day of natural beauty and cultural sights, keep reading for the full scoop.

Key Points

• Stunning beaches: Balandra and Coromuel Beaches offer crystal-clear water and relaxed atmospheres.
• Authentic town visits: La Paz’s seawall and Todos Santos’ artistic vibe make for memorable explorations.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many reviews praise guides for their friendliness and local insights.
• Long but worthwhile: The full-day nature means some might find it a bit exhausting but rewarding.
• Value for money: For around $106, you get transport, lunch, and multiple destinations.
• Great for group travelers: The van group size is capped at 40, making for a social, yet manageable experience.

A Comprehensive Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transit

The adventure begins early—around 4 a.m.—with hotel pickups in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. You’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned van, a smart move for a day that promises multiple hours on the road. Expect a drive of approximately 2 to 3 hours to reach the first stop, Balandra Beach, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

While the long drive can be tiring, many reviewers find it part of the charm—an opportunity to settle into the Baja vibe and chat with your fellow travelers or guide. One guest noted the driver’s professionalism and helpfulness, especially in translating and making everyone feel included. Be prepared for a group of up to 40 people, so it’s a lively, communal experience rather than a private one.

Balandra Beach: Natural Wonder & Photo-Worthy Vistas

The highlight for most travelers is Balandra Beach. Known for its calm, shallow waters and striking rock formations, it’s often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Expect about two hours here, which is enough time to climb to the viewpoint for sweeping panoramas or wade into the gentle waters for a swim.

Bring your own towels and sun protection, as the beach area is protected—no vendors or restaurants here. Several reviews highlight the breathtaking views, with quotes like “Balandra beach was breathtaking, gorgeous,” and “The water was amazing and the views were everything I needed.”

Some guests, however, mentioned the challenge of the long stay—over two hours can feel a bit much, especially if the sun’s relentless or if you’re eager to move on. Also, note that there’s no shade or facilities, so packing snacks, water, and sunblock is essential.

Playa El Coromuel: A Relaxing Stop

Next, the tour takes you to Playa El Coromuel for a more relaxed experience. Here, visitors can enjoy the clear waters and serene environment, perfect for a bit of downtime. With roughly two hours allocated, it’s a fitting spot to soak in the laid-back Baja atmosphere.

Savoring La Paz: Regional Flavors and Local Vibes

A key part of the tour is the lunch stop in La Paz—a city famous for its vibrant waterfront and regional dishes. Travelers typically choose from options like breaded steak, chicken fajitas, or vegetarian dishes, accompanied by rice and greens. The reviews frequently praise the quality and authenticity, with comments like “the food selections were great” and “lunch was amazing, especially the fish tacos.”

It’s a great opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy some regional flavors, all while taking in views along the seawall. The approximately two-hour break ensures you get a decent taste of La Paz’s atmosphere without feeling rushed, though some reviews mention that the time could sometimes be a bit tight.

Todos Santos: Artistic Charm and Cultural Sights

The last major stop is Todos Santos, a quaint town celebrated for its arts scene, historic buildings, and the famed Hotel California. Visitors get about an hour here—enough to walk around, browse shops, and snap a few pictures.

Many reviews describe this as the most charming part of the day, with the town’s relaxed vibe and artistic shops providing a delightful contrast to the beaches and city. Some travelers wish they had more time, but most find the visit enjoyable and worthwhile.

Return Journey & Drop-offs

After Todos Santos, the tour heads back to Cabo and San José, with an estimated 1 to 2 hours on the road. Expect to arrive back at your hotel relaxed, albeit tired. One reviewer mentioned the return trip was smooth, although others noted the long day can be draining.

What Works Well and What to Consider

Why Travelers Love It

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make each stop engaging and informative. The guides’ ability to translate and share local insights is a recurring praise, making the trip not just sightseeing but a learning experience. Several guests mention their guides’ friendly attitude and professionalism, which helps in making the long day more enjoyable.

The stunning natural scenery—particularly Balandra Beach—is often called breathtaking. Many travelers also appreciate the value for money; for less than $110, the tour covers transportation, lunch, and multiple destinations. The included bottled water and the convenience of hotel pickup simplify the logistics, saving you stress and time.

Potential Drawbacks

The most common complaint is the length of the day. Some find the long drive and extended stops tiring, especially if weather conditions are hot or if you’re not a fan of long group excursions. The early start time (4 a.m.) might also be a challenge for some.

Another point to consider is the quality of the experience in Todos Santos. While charming, some guests feel that an hour isn’t enough to truly explore, and wish the schedule allowed for more time or a more flexible approach.

A more serious concern raised involves the guide’s language skills and professionalism. One review described a disappointing experience where the guide was unhelpful, distracted, or not fluent in English, making the day stressful and less enjoyable. This highlights the importance of choosing a well-reviewed provider and clarifying expectations beforehand.

Value and Practical Tips

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning transport or meals. It’s a great way to see Balandra’s stunning coast, experience local towns, and enjoy regional cuisine—all for a reasonable price.

Given the long duration, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around towns and beaches. Be prepared for a long day, and consider your own stamina if you’re not a fan of extended group outings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple highlights of Baja California Sur in one go. It’s perfect if you’re happy with a long day on the road, love scenic views, and want a taste of local towns and beaches without the hassle of arranging separate trips.

If you value a knowledgeable guide who provides local insights and enjoy the convenience of all-in-one day trips, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for groups who want to share an authentic experience together and are comfortable with the group dynamics of larger tours.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or more time in each location, you might find this tour a bit rushed, especially at the stops in La Paz and Todos Santos.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What time does the tour start? The pickup begins early, around 4:00 a.m., to make the most of the day’s itinerary.

• Is lunch included? Yes, a restaurant lunch with regional dishes is part of the experience.

• How long is the drive? The ground transfer to Balandra Beach takes approximately 2 to 3 hours each way.

• What should I bring? Pack sun protection, towels, water, sunglasses, and snacks for Balandra Beach, as it’s a protected area without vendors.

• How much time is spent at each stop? Expect around 2 hours at Balandra Beach, 2 hours at Coromuel Beach, 2 hours for lunch, and about 1 hour in Todos Santos.

• Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vans suited for group travel.

• Are children and babies allowed? Yes, but note that lunch isn’t provided for babies, and the full day might be long for very young children.

• Can I expect guided commentary? Sure, guides share insights, especially regarding the sites, though some reviews note variability in guide quality.

• What about the group size? The tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers, making it lively but manageable.

• What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations or rescheduling are possible if conditions are poor.

In The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Cabo to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos offers a well-paced journey through Baja California Sur’s most photogenic spots and charming towns. You’ll get to see the calm, turquoise waters of Balandra Beach, enjoy regional cuisine in La Paz, and stroll through the artsy streets of Todos Santos. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning.

The experience’s true strength lies in the friendly guides, the stunning scenery, and the chance to explore beyond Cabo’s resorts. However, be prepared for a long day with lots of bus time, and consider whether you’re comfortable with the potential for busy spots and variable guide quality.

Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed day trip that combines natural beauty, cultural stops, and good company, this tour is worth considering.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances sightseeing with culture, making it suitable for active, curious travelers. It offers a taste of Baja’s best without overloading your day, provided you’re okay with the long hours. With proper planning—such as packing sun protection and arriving prepared—you’ll come away with wonderful memories of the rugged coastlines, colorful towns, and friendly locals that define Baja California Sur.

Note: Always double-check the latest reviews and confirm the guide’s language skills if that’s a priority for you. Book in advance, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot on this popular day trip.