La Paz World class Snorkeling in Balandras Hidden Beaches

Planning a day out in Baja can feel overwhelming — so many tours, so many promises. This particular excursion, offered by Cabo Adventures, promises a luxurious boat ride, snorkeling among sea lions and starfish, and a chance to see Balandra’s famed shallow bays. We haven’t done it ourselves, but with over 540 glowing reviews and a consistent 5-star rating, it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines nature, comfort, and good food — perfect for those who want a memorable, hassle-free day at sea. The professional guides and delicious Mexican lunch stand out as highlights. On the other hand, it’s worth noting that the long drive from Cabo San Lucas might be a consideration for some. This tour is best suited for travelers eager for a well-rounded day of snorkeling, scenic cruising, and relaxation, especially if they enjoy organized, all-inclusive trips.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Baja coastline and the Sea of Cortés.
• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkel among sea lions, starfish, and a variety of fish.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury French catamaran, air-conditioned transport, and all-day drinks included.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy Mexican-style burritos, guacamole, and more, served fresh on board.
• Full-Day Experience: Approximately 8 hours, combining travel, activities, and relaxation.
• Worth the Price: For $219, you get a well-organized trip with lots of value, especially considering food, drinks, and equipment are included.

An Overview of the Experience

The adventure begins early in the morning, with a pickup from your Cabo San Lucas hotel or designated meeting point. The journey to La Paz takes around two hours — a good chance to catch some sleep or enjoy the coastal views. The bus ride is air-conditioned and comfortable, with some reviews praising the smoothness and extra touches like snacks along the way.

Once in La Paz, you’ll board a luxury French catamaran at Pichilingue port. This vessel is the perfect set-up for a day of exploration, with plenty of space, a shaded cabin, and an open bar that’s available throughout the trip. As you cruise into the Sea of Cortés, you’ll immediately notice the beauty — clear waters, rugged coastlines, and plenty of wildlife.

First Stop: Balandra Beach

Balandra’s reputation as one of the world’s top ten beaches is no exaggeration. This protected natural area is known for its calm, shallow waters and unique rock formations, making it ideal for swimming and photography. The tour typically spends about two hours here, giving you time to kayak, snorkel, or simply lounge on the soft sands.

According to reviews, the scenery is indeed spectacular, with many travelers noting the crystal-clear water and the brilliant cyan hues — perfect for snapping memorable photos. Our favorite part? Snorkeling with sea lions and starfish, and marveling at the abundance of marine life.

Snorkeling and Wildlife

The snorkeling experience is a major draw. Guides provide snorkel gear, and you’re encouraged to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, starfish, and playful sea lions (although swimming with sea lions isn’t permitted June through August). Several reviews mention the wildlife encounters as a highlight, with comments like, “The crew was friendly and professional, and the view from the boat is pretty.”

One traveler shared, “We loved the way the guides explained the natural formations and wildlife, making it educational as well as fun.” It’s clear that the guides know their stuff, making the experience both safe and enriching.

Kayaking and Secret Spots

Beyond snorkeling, the tour offers kayaks so you can paddle to find hidden coves and beaches. While some reviews point out that the actual landings at Balandra Beach may be limited or different from expectations, most agree that the scenic boat ride alone is worth the trip.

Lunch and Drinks

A hearty Mexican-style lunch is served mid-day, including local burritos, homemade guacamole, pasta salad, cold meats, and cheeses. Reviewers rave about the flavor and freshness, noting it’s more than just a simple snack.

The open bar is another perk — beer, spirits, sodas, and water flow freely throughout the day, making it easy to relax and enjoy the views. Several guests mention that the refreshing drinks paired perfectly with the warm Baja sun.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at 8 am with pickup, giving you a comfortable window to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive to La Paz. The drive takes around two hours, during which guides often share stories about Baja’s geology and wildlife — a nice way to pass the time.

Upon arrival at Pichilingue port, you’ll hop aboard a luxury French catamaran. This vessel is praised for its spaciousness, comfort, and stability, providing a smooth ride over the waters.

Your first stop is Balandra Beach, one of the most iconic spots on the tour. The area is famous for its shallow, tranquil lagoons, which are ideal for families and less experienced swimmers. Travelers love the calm water that makes floating and snorkeling relaxing, even for beginners.

Next, the boat heads into the Sea of Cortés, where kayaks and snorkeling gear are available. Expect to see a variety of marine species, and if lucky, some playful sea lions. According to reviews, the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about the local ecosystem.

The tour then offers a second stop at a different bay or cove, giving you more time to swim, relax, or explore. Some mention that the last stop may be less suitable for swimming, but the overall experience remains enjoyable.

Finally, after a full day of exploration and relaxation, the boat heads back to Pichilingue, and the coach returns you to Cabo San Lucas around 6 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife encounters are often highlighted — snorkelers frequently see sea lions and starfish in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to this, making sure everyone feels safe and informed.

The food and drinks are another highlight; the Mexican lunch is hearty and authentic, while the all-day open bar offers a chance to unwind with a cold beer or refreshing cocktail.

The scenic drive itself is worth noting, as it offers a different perspective of Baja’s rugged beauty, making the long journey feel worthwhile.

The overall organization is praised across reviews for being seamless, from pickup to return. While some travelers mention the long bus ride, others note that it’s an easy way to relax or catch up on sleep.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

The primary concern for some travelers is the length of the day — roughly eight hours, including travel time. If you prefer a shorter outing, this might feel like a long commitment.

Another point to keep in mind is the $20 entrance fee for Balandra Beach, payable at check-in. It’s not included in the tour price, but it’s a small cost for access to this gorgeous setting.

Some reviews mention that swimming with sea lions isn’t permitted during June, July, and August — so if that’s a key expectation, plan accordingly. Others note that the last stop might not be as ideal for swimming, but the boat’s flexibility allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery instead.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or singles looking for a full day of marine encounters and scenic cruising. The inclusion of food, drinks, and snorkeling gear makes it a good value for those wanting a stress-free, all-inclusive trip.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, wildlife viewing, and beautiful beaches with shallow waters for swimming, this tour covers all those bases. Just be prepared for the long drive and limited time at certain stops, but overall, the experience seems to deliver the authentic Baja adventure many seek.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel or designated location in Cabo San Lucas. Confirm your pickup time and place when booking.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including travel time, boat activities, and lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for use during the trip.

Can I swim with sea lions?
Swimming with sea lions isn’t permitted from June through August, but you’ll still enjoy snorkeling among them outside these months.

How much does Balandra Beach entrance cost?
$20 per person, paid at check-in.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request.

Is there an open bar?
Yes, unlimited beer, spirits, sodas, and water are included throughout the day.

What if there’s bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people are on each trip?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Towel is not included, and sun protection is recommended, especially for extended outdoor exposure.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded Baja experience with stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, good food, and comfort. It’s best suited for those eager to explore Balandra’s celebrated beaches and marine life without sacrificing convenience or amenities. For travelers who want to enjoy a full, relaxed day in Baja’s natural beauty, this trip strikes a balanced and appealing chord.