From Cabo/San José del Cabo: La Paz, Balandra & Todos Santos

Traveling through Baja California Sur offers some of the most striking scenery and authentic experiences Mexico has to offer. This full-day tour from Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo aims to hit the highlights: the world-famous Balandra Beach, the lively La Paz waterfront, and the artsy charm of Todos Santos. It’s a long day—about 13 hours—but packed with scenic views, cultural richness, and a taste of Baja life.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are its focus on natural beauty and local character. You get to see some truly iconic spots—like Balandra, with its stunning shallow bay—and experience the laid-back vibe of La Paz with free time for a meal and wandering. The stops at Todos Santos, with its vibrant arts scene and Hotel California, add a dash of authenticity. A potential downside? The tour’s duration makes it less ideal for families with young children or those with mobility issues, given the long drive and walking involved. But if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in one day and enjoy Baja’s varied scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who want a full immersion in Baja’s natural and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. Perfect for those with an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Balandra, recognized as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.
• Cultural charm of Todos Santos, including a visit to the legendary Hotel California.
• Vibrant local life along La Paz’s boardwalk, with free time to explore shops and murals.
• All-inclusive value with lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off included.
• Long but rewarding day, ideal for those comfortable with extended travel time.
• Knowledgeable guides and friendly service, often highlighted in reviews for making the trip memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Baja Adventure: The Experience

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is that it offers an organized yet authentic glimpse into Baja California Sur’s varied landscapes. From the moment you’re picked up in the early morning—anywhere between 3 am and 5 am from your hotel—you’re in for a full day of sights, sounds, and flavors.

The drive along the Transpeninsular Highway (La Carretera Transpeninsular) is a chance to witness Baja’s stark, rugged beauty. Expect cacti and desertscape giving way to coastal views as you travel the 2-3 hours to Balandra. We loved the way this stop balances breathtaking scenery with tranquility. Balandra’s shallow bay, with its famously impressive landscape, offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to relax. The guides are quite clear that it’s a protected natural area, so no vendors or restaurants are around—so bring snacks, drinks, and sunscreen. Some reviews mention portable toilets are available, but it’s best to come prepared.

At Balandra, you can choose to walk up to the viewpoint for panoramic vistas or venture into the shallow bay for its renowned colorful, calm waters. The shallow depth and gentle waves make it kid-friendly for older children, but the tour itself is generally not recommended for kids under 10 due to the length of the day.

Next, the tour heads to Playa El Coromuel, a perfect spot to snap some panoramic photos. Here, travelers often comment on the spectacular views—it’s a peaceful place to relax, enjoy a quick snack, and take in Baja’s sweeping coastline. Some travelers mention enjoying local gastronomy, so if you’re a food lover, keep an eye out for small eateries along the route.

After a good dose of nature, the group moves on to La Paz for about two hours. This free time is a highlight, allowing you to explore the lively boardwalk, admire colorful murals, or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch. The included meal is often praised for being delicious, and the relaxed pace means you can linger or just grab a quick bite. Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides—Bernardo and Christian—to be attentive and full of tips about the area.

The final stop before heading back is Todos Santos, a charming town famous for its art galleries, boutiques, and historic architecture. The 45-minute visit feels just enough to soak up its ambiance, browse local shops, and take photos of the iconic Hotel California—a must-see for music fans and photo enthusiasts alike. The town’s laid-back vibe and cultural flavor make it a memorable conclusion to your day.

The return trip along the highway takes 1-2 hours, giving you a chance to reflect on your day and enjoy Baja’s ever-changing scenery. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your hotel, making it a seamless experience.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is designed with convenience in mind. The price of $120 per person covers transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, entrance fees to Balandra, and bottled water. The vehicle is air-conditioned, a real plus after a long day in the sun. The group size varies depending on the day, which adds to the flexibility and intimacy of the experience.

What travelers love most about the value is that it’s a full-day experience that includes key sights, meals, and comfortable transportation. The guides are noted for their knowledge, making the journey informative and fun.

On the flip side, the tour is quite lengthy—13 hours—and involves a good amount of sitting and walking. Reviewers mention that the van can be cramped, especially on longer stretches, so packing comfortable shoes and clothing is essential. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, or for travelers with mobility issues, as it involves walking and long hours in the vehicle.

The tour’s focus on natural beauty and cultural sites makes it ideal for those who want to see Baja’s highlights without the hassle of separate bookings. However, be prepared for a full day and a lack of shade or vendors at Balandra, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Readers’ reviews add a lot of flavor to understanding what to expect. Many mention the expert guides, with comments like “Christian was an excellent guide” and “Bernardo was super friendly,” emphasizing that good service makes a difference.

The scenery at Balandra often earns special praise—“The trip to Balandra Beach was excellent,” notes one reviewer, who highlights the spectacular landscape as worth the early start. The delicious food at La Paz and the opportunity to explore Todos Santos’ artisanal shops resonate as highlights, too.

A few points of concern include the van’s age and comfort—one reviewer noted the seatbelt issue, which reminds travelers to be mindful of comfort and safety. Others appreciated the structured itinerary but wished for a bit more free time, which shows the importance of managing expectations for such a packed day.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re craving a comprehensive Baja experience that blends stunning beaches, colorful towns, and cultural sights in one day, then this tour offers a lot of value. The emphasis on natural beauty—especially at Balandra—and the chance to explore La Paz and Todos Santos’ unique atmospheres make it a well-rounded choice. Expect a long day, but one filled with memorable views, friendly guides, and authentic local flavor.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with a 13-hour schedule and eager to maximize their Baja experience without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. While not ideal for small children or those with mobility concerns, it’s perfect for those looking to tick off the region’s top sights in a single, well-orchestrated trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final tip: Pack smart—bring sunscreen, hat, snacks, and a sense of adventure—and you’ll find this tour a rewarding way to discover Baja California Sur’s best.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be waiting in your hotel lobby 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time, which ranges from 3 am to 5 am depending on your hotel location.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included as part of the tour, and many reviews praise the quality and taste of the food. It’s a good opportunity to try local dishes and relax during the day.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Absolutely. Since Balandra is a protected natural area with no vendors or restaurants, bringing snacks, drinks, and necessary sun protection is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunhat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen are advised. Pack light but be prepared for a day in the sun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to the long duration and the nature of the stops. It’s better suited for teenagers and adults.

What transportation is used?
Depending on the number of participants, the tour may be in a bus or van. The vehicle is air-conditioned and designed for comfort during the long drive.

What about safety and comfort?
Reviewers note that the van can be cramped at times and mention one seatbelt issue, so traveling with a good attitude and patience is wise. The guides monitor safety and are attentive to group needs.

In essence, this tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to see Baja’s top sights, with an emphasis on natural beauty and local culture. If you’re prepared for a full day and seek an authentic experience, you’ll find this trip well worth the effort.

You can check availability for your dates here: