MOST POPULAR TOUR IN LA PAZ! Swim with Sea Lions Private Boat

If you’re heading to La Paz and looking for a day full of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and authentic Baja magic, this private boat tour to Isla Espiritu Santo is worth considering. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact adventure, it’s recognized as the most booked experience in La Paz, and for good reason.

What we love about this tour is how it offers a small, intimate group (limited to just 12 people), allowing for a more personalized experience than the big crowd excursions. The chance to swim with playful sea lions in their natural habitat is a highlight that truly sets this tour apart. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a delicious beachside lunch with fresh ceviche and sandwiches makes for a relaxed, enjoyable day.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long boat ride—about two hours each way— which may seem daunting if you’re sensitive to lengthy boat trips or prone to seasickness. But for wildlife enthusiasts or those eager to see the best of the area, this trip offers a compelling payoff.

This experience is ideal for anyone who appreciates nature, marine life, and scenic views. Families with children (moderate physical fitness required), couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic Baja adventure will find it well worth the price.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private boat for up to 12 people ensures a personalized adventure.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with sea lions and possibly see whales or dolphins.
• Stunning Scenery: Experience colorful geological formations and crystal blue bays.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, lunch, and fees are included, simplifying the day.
• Longer Journey: Expect a two-hour boat ride to the island, which is worth considering.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.

The Experience at a Glance

This tour claims to be the most popular in La Paz, and for good reason. It combines marine wildlife, spectacular landscapes, and a personalized touch with a private boat. Priced at $1,253.50 for a group of up to 12 people, it’s an investment in a memorable day that offers more exclusivity and flexibility than larger group trips.

Meeting Point and Start Time

You’ll start your day at The Hook Experiences office in La Paz at 9:00 am. The tour begins promptly, so arriving a little early is wise. From there, the boat departs for a day filled with exploration and relaxation. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it accessible.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Bahía de la Paz: Scenic Departures and Wildlife Spotting

Your adventure kicks off with a cruise along the scenic bays of Tesoro, Balandra, and Tecalote, along the San Lorenzo Channel. Here, the chance to see dolphins or whales makes this preliminary leg quite exciting. We loved the way the guide pointed out the different geological features along the way, providing a bit of context about the area’s natural history.

Isla Espiritu Santo: The Jewel of La Paz

The main attraction is Isla Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO World Preserve famous for its dramatic rock formations, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The tour explores the hidden coves and beaches, offering multiple opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. The highlight is the chance to swim with playful sea lions at Islotes, an experience that many reviews describe as unforgettable.

Isla Los Islotes: A Sea Lion Sanctuary

Spending time at Isla Los Islotes is high on most travelers’ lists. This large colony of sea lions is lively, curious, and often playful. Your guides will take you snorkeling in their natural habitat, where you’ll see mothers teaching pups or curious juveniles approaching swimmers. One traveler noted, “We spent time snorkeling with these curious and playful animals in their natural habitat, watching mothers teach their pups.”

Ensenada Grande: Relaxing Beachside Lunch

After the aquatic adventures, you’ll visit Ensenada Grande or a similarly secluded beach. Here, a fresh lunch of ceviche and sandwiches awaits, served under shades with plenty of time to relax. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, snorkel, or simply marvel at the scenery. Multiple reviews mention how refreshing and authentic this part of the tour is, especially the homemade-style ceviche.

Returning Journey: Watching for Marine Giants

On the way back to La Paz, keep your eyes peeled for whales—Humpbacks, Gray, or Fin whales are often seen on this route. The tour’s emphasis on marine wildlife sightings makes the return leg just as exciting as the start.

What the Tour Includes and What Not

Included:

• Fresh ceviche and sandwiches, water, sodas, chips, and cookies, with dietary restrictions accommodated.
• Use of snorkeling equipment.
• All fees and taxes.

Not Included:

• Tips for your captain and guide (which are customary but optional).
• Alcoholic beverages (bring your own for a relaxed day).
• Wetsuits are available for rent at $300 MXP.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One noted, “My wife and I had our 1-year-old and 4-year-old with us, and Angel, our captain, and Carly, our guide, were outstanding—super friendly, helpful, and made the overall experience memorable.” This suggests the tour is family-friendly and well-managed.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler expressed disappointment about the length of the boat ride—over two hours to reach the island—and the lack of detailed commentary from the guide, especially regarding sights en route. It’s important to note that the journey is long, and if you’re prone to seasickness, this could be a consideration.

Should You Book This Tour?

This tour offers a rare combination of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and a small-group, private experience that many larger tours can’t match. The price may seem steep, but the inclusion of food, equipment, and exclusive access makes it a solid value for wildlife lovers and those wanting a more intimate Baja experience.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water and are comfortable with boat rides of about two hours each way. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers seeking authentic encounters with sea lions and breathtaking landscapes will find this tour well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

This private boat trip to Isla Espiritu Santo doesn’t just promise a day on the water—it promises an up-close look at Baja’s marine world. With opportunities to swim with sea lions, explore pristine beaches, and enjoy scenic views, it’s a well-rounded experience that emphasizes authenticity and personal connection with nature.

While the long boat ride might be a hurdle for some, the small group size, knowledgeable guides, and varied activities make it a standout option for travelers wanting more than just a generic sightseeing cruise. It’s a chance to see, hear, and feel the Baja wilderness in a way that’s both fun and educational.

If wildlife, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace appeal to you, this tour is a solid pick. Just be prepared for a full day on the water and a bit of patience—what you’ll take away is a genuine Baja adventure that many won’t forget.

FAQ

• Is this a private tour? Yes, this tour is exclusive to your group of up to 12 people, offering a more personalized experience.
• How long does the tour last? Approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with a long boat ride to and from the island.
• What is included in the price? Snorkeling gear, all fees and taxes, and a beachside lunch of ceviche and sandwiches.
• Can I snorkel during the tour? Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and there’s time at several spots, including Islotes and Ensenada Grande.
• What wildlife might I see? Sea lions are the main attraction, especially at Islotes. You might also see whales or dolphins during the cruise.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, with moderate physical fitness; families with young children report positive experiences.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, towel, swimwear, and possibly a seasickness remedy if you’re sensitive to boat rides.
• Are there any hidden costs? Wetsuit rentals are extra at $300 MXP; tips are also optional.
• What is the cancellation policy? Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Is there a dress code? Casual, lightweight clothing suitable for a day in the sun and water.

This private boat tour offers a rare blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and personal service—perfect for travelers eager to discover Baja’s marine treasures in an authentic way.