La Paz: Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour in Espiritu Santo

If you’re seeking a day filled with wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and active fun, the Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour in Baja California Sur offers a compelling mix. This full-day experience, offered by Eco Migrations, promises a chance to swim alongside curious sea lions, enjoy a relaxed lunch on pristine beaches, and paddle along crystal-clear shorelines—all while exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Espiritu Santo.

What makes this tour especially appealing are two standout features: the opportunity to snorkel with playful sea lions at Los Islotes (a true highlight for marine wildlife fans), and the unique mega-paddleboarding experience on multi-person boards, perfect for groups or families wanting a social adventure. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the long boat rides of about 1.5 hours each way, which might be tiring for those prone to seasickness or sensitive to boat noise.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who love wildlife, beautiful scenery, and sharing adventures with friends or family. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, eco-friendly outing that combines education and fun, this experience fits the bill nicely.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes and spot other marine life, such as sea turtles, dolphins, and rays.
• Scenic Experience: Enjoy breathtaking views of Espiritu Santo’s shoreline and the surrounding waters.
• Active & Social: Paddleboarding on large, multi-person boards makes it fun and engaging, especially for groups.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable bilingual guides who share insights about the local ecosystem.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkel gear, wetsuits, lunch, and entrance fees are covered, making the day hassle-free.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The tour kicks off early in La Paz, with a quick walk to the departure point, followed by a 1.5-hour speedboat ride across the sparkling waters of the Sea of Cortez. The boat ride alone offers a chance to start soaking in the scenery — expect to see the coastline’s rugged cliffs and maybe some passing dolphins if you’re lucky.

First Stop: Los Islotes and Snorkeling with Sea Lions

Once at Los Islotes, the highlight for most is the chance to swim alongside curious, inquisitive sea lions. These gentle marine mammals are known for their playful antics, and guides typically share tips on how to approach them safely. During the mating season from June 1st to August 31st, the snorkeling shifts to the San Rafaelito rookery, which might be more crowded but equally entertaining.

We liked how the guides emphasized safety and respect for the animals, making it a responsible wildlife encounter. Many reviews rave about the guides’ knowledge—Shauna from Hong Kong mentioned that “Erin and JJ took great care of us,” ensuring everyone felt comfortable in the water.

Scenic Stop and Tour of Espiritu Santo

After snorkeling, the boat visits a scenic spot on the island, giving everyone a chance to snap photos of the rocky coastline and lush hills. A guided tour introduces you to the island’s flora and fauna, as well as its significance as a protected area. We loved the way guides explained the ecological importance of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, adding context to the natural beauty.

Lunch on the Beach

Next is a well-deserved break on Espiritu Santo’s beaches, where you’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch. You can choose dietary preferences beforehand, which adds to the comfort of the experience. The setting is pretty idyllic — think soft sands, gentle waves, and the occasional seabird overhead. Many find the lunch to be surprisingly tasty, a vital component when fueling up for the afternoon’s activities.

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Paddleboarding Along the Shoreline

The final segment involves paddleboarding along the shoreline on mega-paddleboards—large multi-person boards that turn the activity into a social event. The stability of these boards makes them accessible even for beginners, and guides are on hand to assist. As one enthusiastic review notes, “the giant paddleboard was an experience,” and it’s a fantastic way to see the coastline from a different perspective.

This part of the tour offers a relaxing yet engaging way to enjoy the landscape, with opportunities for wildlife spotting along the way. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, pointing out sea turtles, rays, and possibly even dolphins. The small group setting means you’re never lost in the crowd, and you can truly enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

Return Journey

After approximately an hour of paddleboarding and sightseeing, the boat heads back to La Paz, offering a chance to unwind and reflect on the day. The boat rides are well-paced, but they do take about 1.5 hours each way, so packing motion sickness medication or bringing a sweater might be wise.

Value for the Price: At $136 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience that combines active pursuits with wildlife education. The snorkel gear, wetsuits, lunch, and access fees are included, which spares you additional costs. Compared to other tours in the area, you get a full day packed with diverse activities, making it a good value for an adventure-packed day.

Small Group Experience: Limited to just 10 participants, the tour ensures a more personalized approach and greater opportunity to interact with guides. This intimacy enhances the learning experience and makes for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Transportation & Logistics: Meeting at Eco Migrations, right in La Paz, is convenient for most travelers. The boat rides, while lengthy, are part of the adventure, offering open water views and the chance to see local marine life from the deck.

Environmental Responsibility: The tour is eco-friendly and aims to minimize impact, with guides emphasizing wildlife safety and conservation. Being part of a protected area adds a layer of purpose to your visit.

Timing & Flexibility: Usually available in the morning and with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, the tour fits well into most travel schedules. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility, especially if plans change.

The only review available gives this tour a full five-star rating and describes it as an “amazing day out.” Shauna from Hong Kong highlights the cuteness of the sea lions and the delicious lunch, as well as the care taken by guides Erin and JJ. Such comments reinforce the tour’s reputation for friendly guides, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty.

Other travelers are sure to appreciate the unique aspect of paddleboarding with multiple people — a less common feature that makes this tour stand out. The experience is described as both fun and memorable, especially for those who enjoy social activities and nature.

This adventure is perfect for families, friends, or active travelers looking for a full day of authentic Baja experiences. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine wildlife watching with water-based activities in a responsible, eco-conscious setting. The guided nature of the tour means you’ll learn about the local ecosystem from experts, adding an educational layer to your fun.

If you’re enthusiastic about marine life, enjoy being on the water, and love sharing experiences with a small group, this tour offers excellent value. Be prepared for a full day that might include some boat motion, but in return, you’ll get close-up encounters with sea lions, scenic views, and a memorable paddleboarding adventure.

How long is the boat ride to Espiritu Santo?
The boat ride from La Paz to the island takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, providing scenic views of the coastline and a relaxing start to your day.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the mega-paddleboards are designed to be stable and accessible for beginners. The small group size and guided instruction make it suitable for families and those new to paddleboarding.

What should I bring?
Bring a reusable water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera. The tour provides snorkel gear and wetsuits, but you may want to bring your own if you prefer.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch suitable for various dietary preferences is included. You can specify your preferences when booking.

What wildlife might I see besides sea lions?
Guides often point out marine creatures like sea turtles, rays, dolphins, and possibly humpback whales depending on the season.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour begins at Eco Migrations, next to the CORE Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Center in La Paz’s Commercial Zone.

The Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour in Espiritu Santo blends active fun, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty into a single memorable day. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a hands-on experience of Baja’s marine environment while enjoying the company of fellow travelers. With knowledgeable guides, all-inclusive pricing, and small-group intimacy, it offers solid value for an adventure that’ll stay with you long after your return home.

Whether you’re a dedicated wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an engaging way to explore the Sea of Cortez, this tour delivers on excitement, education, and natural wonder. It’s a day well spent in Baja — no doubt about that.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby