29 Amazing Things To Do In La Paz, Mexico + Travel Tips

Thinking of heading to La Paz, Mexico? You’re in for something special. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been—this laid-back coastal town has a way of pulling you back again and again.

Between the calm turquoise waters, epic outdoor adventures, and the chill local vibe, it’s one of my favorite places in Baja. If you’re into marine life, unspoiled beaches, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks, you’re going to love it here.

And just wait until you swim with whale sharks or take a boat out to Isla Espíritu Santo—it’s the kind of stuff you never forget. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in La Paz, plus a few insider tips you won’t want to miss.

Things to Do in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico: An Overview

Embraced by the Sierra de la Laguna mountains on one side and washed by the Sea of Cortez, the World’s Aquarium, on the other, the city of Paz is the pretty capital of Baja California Sur and a beautiful beach destination that has been too underrated.

Hopefully, more travelers find out about its amazing natural resources and the pretty cozy city it has become and will come and enjoy all the amazing things to do in La Paz.

Even Forbes Travel has praised La Paz for its breathtaking views, abundant sea life, beautiful beaches, unique street art, and much more. Things that are making La Paz a worthy competitor of the trendy Tulum on the Riviera Maya.

There are numerous things to do in La Paz, Mexico, to keep you busy for an entire week or a lifetime. However, if you are as curious as I am and love to explore, the rest of the Baja California Peninsula will not disappoint either. This is a promise.

When I came to Baja for the first time, I embarked on a week-long road trip with some friends. Two years later, I returned and went on a solo 2-week road trip around Baja Sur, having a blast that was even better than the first time.

And again a few years later I had an epic month trip from La Paz to Ensenada and back. Baja California keeps me coming back. It’s a fact. I cannot count the times I have visited anymore. And La Paz is always my base.

So much to see!

Here I will share with you all the best things to do in La Paz and the best places to visit in the close surroundings.

If it’s your first time in Baja California or you would like to read an update on where to stay to eat and how to get around, besides other practical tips, read my La Paz, Mexico Travel guide.

Free things to do in La Paz, Mexico

1. Explore the local Markets

Although La Paz is a very tourist city and I had the feeling that the majority of its inhabitants were from the US (nothing wrong with that but I just didn’t feel like I was in Mexicosometimess), however, you can still find a local feeling, especially when you hang out in the markets.

There are two, one is more central and smaller, Francisco Madero, closer to the center. Both are interesting to explore and to try the local specialties.

The biggest one is Mercado Bravo in Calle Bravo (of course), where I used to go every morning for my healthy, freshly made natural juice, but you can find all sorts of local restaurants where you can taste the autochthonous cuisine.

It’s not fancy, but it tastes good and it’s part of the culture.

I’ve even found a vegan option, albeit minimal, and when I told the restaurant staff that I didn’t eat meat or cheese, they looked at me as if I were from Mars.

And they all started to laugh! That was funny.

On Saturdays and Tuesdays, by the central plaza, in Calle Francisco Madero, you will find an organic market selling different kinds of veggies and some food stalls, freshly made bread, and some other organic products.

2. Walk around town and discover the colorful graffiti

Another must-do in La Paz is a walk through the beautiful multicolored graffiti that you find on every wall in the city center. They are a giant representation of local life in relation to nature, primarily the marine population.

It is part of a project made in collaboration with Colectivo Tomate, a group of local artists involved in different urban projects in Mexico, where they have revamped weary areas of different cities, including La Paz.

They have revamped old walls with colorful paintings representing sea life as a celebration of the relationship between the local community and the rich marine life of the sea of Cortez, where the whale is the absolute star.

Below are a few examples.

3. Watch the sunset from the Malecon

La Paz is very popular, among other things, for its spectacular sunsets that you can admire from the Malecon, the promenade by the sea, which is also the beating heart of La Paz, where everything happens.

Every day is a new multicolored show to remind you how powerful and generous nature is and you can’t help but admire its magic.

4. Have a pleasant morning jog on the Malecon

For its strategic location, you can also admire sunrises from the Malecon in La Paz, Mexico. It is fantastic to be able to jog early morning in the first morning light and appreciate the soft colors of the sky reflecting over the water—the best way to start your day.

 Walking by the water is a daily appointment that you cannot miss, and you never get tired of it.

Many people are running, skating, or simply strolling, enjoying the views with their families.

5. Enjoy the artworks displayed on the Malecon

The promenade along the bay is filled with artworks that represent the local population’s appreciation and respect for the sea. You can also observe symbolic representations, such as the man and the sea, as well as Jacques Cousteau, who called the Sea of Cortez “The World’s Aquarium,” and many more.

You just need to walk along the 5 km Malecon to find out what’s your favorite piece of art.

6. Explore La Paz beaches

Among the many free things to do in La Paz, going to the beach is always on top of the list. All the beaches of La Paz are in the same direction, moving towards the north side.

Playa Balandra

If you need to choose one beach, Playa Balandra is a must-see in la Paz. This is the most beautiful beach and the last one. There are no bars or restaurants there, so make sure you bring water and something to eat with you.

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If you decide to stay for the sunset, you’ll have a beautiful show in the sky, but you can’t access Balandra from the original entrance to watch the Sunset. You will need to go on a short hike on the hills right before balandra for that.

If you go during the day to enjoy the beach there are some rules to respect

The water has easy access, like a natural swimming pool. The majority of the time, the tide is even too low, and if you like to swim, you will need to walk further away from the shore.

You can access the other beach on the right either via water or by hiking up a little hill. I would suggest making an effort to go for a little hike, as the view is fantastic.

You can climb in your flip-flops, although you will be more comfortable in your gym shoes.

If you visit on Saturdays or Sundays, please note that it will be hectic. To enjoy it fully, try to go early in the morning.

How to get to Balandra beach? 

You can either get on the bus leaving from the autobus station on the Malecon or get a taxi, of course, if you didn’t rent a car (which I would recommend).

If you have a car, simply drive along the Malecon all the way up north, keeping the sea on your right side, and you will arrive at it.

NEW RULES FOR BALANDRA ACCESS – At the moment there is amax capacity of 400 person in Balandra and there are two slots, one in the morning from 8 to 12 and the other in the afternoon from 13 to 17. If you get there by car you need to line up and wait for your turn. Afternoon are easier. If you get there by bus or taxi, you just walk in not after speaking with the local staff who will remind you about some basic rules, such as do not smoke and do not fly the drone, among others. Keep in mind that Balandra is in a protected area. You can read more information on my dedicated guide.

Playa Tesoro

It’s a very tiny beach but worth a visit. You can find a restaurant and bar, but you can also bring your food and drinks.

They also rent a “Palapa” to get shade from the sun, chairs, and a small table, for 250 pesos for the entire day.

It’s another option from Balandra if that one gets too busy.

Playa Tecolote

This one is very close to Balandra but on the right side of the road. The beach is great, but in the weekend it’s crazy busy. If you go on week days it’s amazing.

The beautiful view of the turquoise sea is interrupted by a sort of shacks where people gather and drink, finding shade from the sun.

You can also read about the most amazing beaches in La Paz on my Mexico blog.

Unmissable tours and activities in La Paz

7. Paddleboard in the bay of La Paz

If you wish to do some exercising and see La Paz from another perspective, you can rent paddleboards for 10 USD for one hour or two and go out on the bay right in front of the Malecon. You will easily find shops to rent your board and row.

8. Rent  a bike

You can rent a bike for 50 pesos per hour and bike around the city or venture out along the coast. For the boldest adventurers, there are lots of mountain bike trails in the surrounding hills. The local bike rental shops also organize biking tours.

Katun MTB day adventures offer a variety of biking and hiking tours around la Paz.

9. Check out the Anthropology Museum

Situated between Calle 5 de Mayo and Altamirano, the Museum of Anthropology of La Paz has been recently reopened and offers an interesting overview of the history of Baja California, from the first inhabitants until the arrival of the Jesuits and the development of the new villages up to the modern society.

10. Scuba dive in the Sea of Cortez

Nominated as the Aquarium of the World by Jacques Cousteau, the Sea of Cortez in the Gulf of California is indeed one of the most amazing diving experiences. You will be able to see manta rays, dolphins, and most of all healthy reefs, sadly very rare to find,  sea lions, and much much more.

The top diving spots include Isla Espíritu Santo and Los Islotes.

It’s best to dive from May to October when visibility is best.

You should know that the Sea of Cortés comprises 244 islands, islets, and coastal areas that have been proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Sites for being home to “695 vascular plant species,  more than in any marine and insular property on the World Heritage List. Equally exceptional is the number of fish species: 891, 90 of them endemic. The site, moreover, contains 39% of the world’s total number of species of marine mammals and a third of the world’s marine cetacean species.” (cit.)

11. Take a day trip to La Ventana

It is a resort town about 1 hour’s drive from La Paz.

The road is surreal, winding through cacti and limestone rocks.

La Ventana used to be a tiny, laid-back town, a paradise for kite surfers because it’s always windy, with just a few accommodation and a camping site. Well, not anymore.

I went back after 7 years from my last visit and it was completely changed. Many hotels, home rentals, bigger populations and more tours to swim with sea lions and do whale and dolphin watching.

From May through July, you may be able to see mobula rays put up a show. During my tour I wasn’t so lucky with the weather but it was still a great adventure.

12. Swim with the sea lions in Isla Espiritu Santo

Among the top things to do in La Paz, swimming with sea lions and swimming with whale sharks are the most exhilarating experiences.

There are two main tours you can do from La Paz, and they are by boat. If you love being in the water, those are for you.

Espíritu Santo is a one-day boat tour -a 1h 1/2 ride in the beautiful bay in the Sea of Cortes to the island of Espíritus Santo so popular for its funny inhabitants, playful sea lions that would swim with you and bite your fins or your go pro. The time you spend with them is short but totally worth it.

You will need to wear a life jacket for security reasons as you are entering a marine park. If you go in winter from October through April, it is advisable to wear a wetsuit since the water gets quite cold at that time.

Those are not included in the tour price but are always available for rent at 150 pesos with the tour providers. The tour costs from 800 to 1100 pesos, depending on the tour company.

The tour departs from La Paz around noon and concludes around 5:30/6:00 pm.

You will stop at a nice, deserted beach to have your lunch, which is included. It is normally based on ceviche, crackers, sandwiches, and some fruit.

13. Swim with whale sharks

This tour is seasonal for obvious reasons, as these gentle giants of the sea are in the area only from December until the end of March or April, essentially for the entire high season.

The tour lasts about 1h 30 minutes as it takes only 15 minutes to reach the whale shark zone.

The boat captain will know where to go and look for them, and when he finds them, he will move along their route so that you can swim with them more often.

If you have never done it and you love the sea life, it’s an incredible experience that you should try once in a lifetime. The cost goes from 800 to 1000 pesos, depending on the tour company.

This is one of the only 2 places where you can swim with the whale sharks in Mexico.

The other one is from the Riviera Maya as they swim between Holbox Island and Isla Mujeres, and they are also seasonal.  You can check out how and when to swim with whale sharks in the Riviera Maya.

14. Hike el Cerro de la Calavera

Located just outside the city center on the road La Paz – Pichilingue, it is called Cerro de La Calavera, which means hill of skulls, for the peculiar rock formations that have been molded and eroded with time by wind and water, some of them forming skull-like sculptures as you can see in the picture below. It has become a sort of geological monument of the city.

There are many legends about this place, one of which says that during the Spanish invasion, the crew of a boat that disembarked here was affected by the flu. Some died there and were buried on that hill.

It is now home to the morning routines of fit locals who come here to train and curious tourists who come to admire amazing sunsets and sunrises, although the sunsets have more of an impact as the sun dips in the water right in front of your eyes.

I went with a local friend in the morning and enjoyed the hike and views not only of the sunrise but also of the typical vegetation, among cactuses and typical desert plants, very different from what I am used to in the Caribbean.

15. Enjoy the Nightlife

Although it’s not as busy as Cabo San Lucas, La Paz’s nightlife is still quite lively and offers a different, cozy place to listen to good music, have a drink, meet people, or simply enjoy the vibes. On the Malecon, you can find different bars to enjoy spectacular views.

One particular place that I love, instead, that is not on the Malecon, ares La Morante Art and wine bar, a vintage decorated place with a lovely internal patio where they sometimes offer live music shows. And of course, they sell food.

16. Learn Spanish

Living in a Spanish-speaking country is the best way to learn the language and any touristy towns or cities have schools for expatriates and tourists who want to practice the language or learn from scratch. In La Paz, you can also find such schools. It’s also a way to mingle with like-minded people.

One is El Nopal Spanish School, or you can check this directory for other Spanish class centers.

17. Taste fresh seafood

Finding fresh seafood is one of the easiest things to do in La Paz. The last time I was there I tried Fish Tacos and it was delicious. They have a restaurant on the malecon and also one in Calle Marquez de Leon. You will see that’s the busiest one during lunch time. Another good one is Mr Fisher, smaller but cozier with a great selection of fish tacos and tostadas. For dinner you can try Laurel, also on the malecon.

18. Visit the Whale Museum

Dive into the rich marine life of Baja at Museo de la Ballena y Ciencias del Mar—La Paz’s renowned Whale Museum.

This educational and interactive space explores the ecology and conservation of marine mammals, especially the many whale species that migrate along the Baja Peninsula.

The museum is home to impressive life-size skeletons, informative exhibits in both Spanish and English, and displays on local marine ecosystems. It’s a fantastic stop for families, science lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Learn how gray whales make their journey from the Arctic to Baja’s warm waters, or get insights into the anatomy of these ocean giants. A visit here adds depth to any whale-watching tour you might take later.

They offer guided tours, which I recommend. They last 1 hour and the cost is only 100 mxn.

19. Beginner-Friendly Sea Kayak Tour: Mangrove Safari

Perfect for first-time paddlers, this guided kayak adventure from Playa La Posada offers a scenic and safe introduction to La Paz’s natural beauty. After a warm welcome and quick safety briefing, guests paddle across the bay toward Playa El Mogote, passing anchored boats and sunken shipwrecks along the way.

The tour explores a vibrant mangrove ecosystem, where—if tides allow—kayakers glide through narrow channels teeming with wildlife and birdlife. A mid-tour break offers time to relax, enjoy snacks, and snap a few photos before returning to shore. With expert guides and stunning views, this experience blends adventure and serenity in a truly unique way.

Check out rates and availablity

20. Sandboarding Adventure in the Mogote Dunes

Thrill-seekers will love this high-energy sandboarding tour in the Mogote Dunes, just outside La Paz. Guests ride custom sandboards or sleds—designed for all dune types—down sweeping desert slopes in a fun, safe, and adrenaline-filled experience. Expert guides provide sandboards, sleds, wax, safety glasses, and refreshments, including water, beer, and soft drinks. Pick-up is included, and participants 18+ can enjoy a cold one after hitting the dune

Check rates and availability for this Sandboarding tour

21. Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains

Just so you know, hiking in  Baja California is one of the most popular activities for adventurers and explorers. Amazing hiking trails are available all along the mountain chains that cross the Baja Peninsula.

In the farthest south, you will find Sierra de la Laguna, an oasis in the desert where you can have an amazing hike along the canyons, cross rivers, and discover hot springs and secret lakes.

During my 2-week road trip to Baja California, I wanted to include one day of hiking.

I contacted a guide that a friend recommended and booked my tour.

It was an unexpected, incredible area, an oasis in the desert, with palm trees, rivers, and waterfalls in the middle of the rocky desert.

You can check out my 2 weeks itinerary if you wish to learn more, while I am writing a brand new post specifically on the Sierra de la Laguna. Stay tuned!

22. Take a two-day trip to Cabo Pulmo

If you are not in the mood for going on a road trip, you can still rent a car for a couple of days and explore the southern part of Baja California, where the magic happens.

Sea lovers will definitely want to visit Cabo Pulmo and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this popular fishing village, which has become a marine park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its protected marine life.

The Cabo Pulmo snorkeling experience is one of a kind, and if you dive, it’s even more spectacular.

From December through January, you will be able to spot humpback whales, indeed an experience that you will remember forever.

INSIDER TIPS – If you’re into cetaceans and want to see blue whales, you must visit Loreto from December to March. They are incredible creatures that alone make the trip worth it.

23. Go whale watching in Magdalena Bay

I haven’t seen any organized tours from La Paz; however, if you rent a car, you can reach Adolfo Lopez Mateos, the best place in Baja California close to La Paz, where you can see the gray whales.

It’s an amazing and surreal experience to be able to see them so close by and even touch them. I am not sure if it’s the only place on earth where you can have such a personal encounter with a whale, it’s certainly unique.

It’s very easy and safe to reach.

You can check out my guide to whale watching in Baja California if you want to learn more.

24. Take a day trip to Todos Santos

Todos Santos is a quirky town on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, proclaimed Pueblo Magico for many reasons.

I would probably stay in Todos Santos for a few days but if you only have one day it will be enough to appreciate its quirky historical center, breathtaking sunset over the ocean, some surfing sceneries, and if you are in the right season you can also check out the baby sea turtle release on the beach.

If you cannot stay longer, a day trip to Todos Santos is a must for anyone craving culture, nature, and great food—all in one place. Just an hour’s drive from La Paz, this “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) blends bohemian charm with coastal beauty.

Start your day with a hike at Punta Lobos, where cliffs meet crashing waves, and watch local fishermen at work.

After your hike, head into town for lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant like Agricole or Hierbabuena, where fresh ingredients and artful plating take center stage.

Spend your afternoon browsing the town’s art galleries, artisan shops, and boutique stores.

Don’t forget to peek inside the legendary Hotel California—even if the Eagles didn’t write the song about it, the vibe is undeniably cool. Todos Santos offers a memorable contrast to La Paz’s beachy vibe, making it the perfect getaway for a well-rounded Baja experience.

25. Join a scuba diving liveaboard

Last but not least, Baja California is the only place where you can join one of the few scuba diving liveaboards in Mexico and live one of the most unique underwater experiences ever.

Whether you are an expert diver or you just love to be underwater, you should read more about these multi-day tours.

Small boats will take you around some of the most remote places in the sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, depending on the itinerary you choose.

You can see a white shark through a cage (in this case, you will be the one in the cage) or take multiple dives in the world aquarium (aka the Sea of Cortez). I wrote a specific post on the top liveaboards in Mexico for your convenience.

26. Watch the Sunset from Mirador Balandra

If you’re chasing the perfect sunset in La Paz, Mirador Balandra is the place to be. Perched high above the iconic Balandra Bay, this scenic overlook gives you a panoramic view of turquoise waters, cacti-dotted cliffs, and the famous mushroom rock below.

I wanted to do this hike for a while but I didn’t dare going alone, although now that i have seen it, I would. The first time I hiked to Mirador Balandra was in the morning for spectacular drone shot of the beautiful hues of turquise of Balandra Bay.

The second time I went with some friends I made in La Paz and it was at sunset. It was perfect. If you hike in winter, you may want to bring a jacket for the evening. In the summer you are fine. Don’t forget the camera though. It’s best to arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to snag a good spot, and be prepared for a short uphill walk. It’a mild 30 minutes walk and tt’s totally worth it.

27. Visit the Art Museum

For a cultural infusion, make time to explore the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur. Located in downtown La Paz, this contemporary museum offers a rotating selection of exhibits featuring local, national, and international artists.

From modern installations to traditional Mexican artistry, the museum captures the spirit and creativity of Baja’s vibrant arts scene.

Admission is free and the cool, serene space offers a welcome break from the midday heat. Art lovers and casual visitors alike will appreciate the thoughtful curation and inviting atmosphere.

28. Enjoy a Relaxed Day in One of the Coffee Shops

Sometimes the best way to soak up La Paz is to slow down with a good cup of coffee. The city’s café culture has blossomed in recent years, offering a variety of stylish spots to sip, relax, and people-watch.

Doce Cuarenta, is my favorite, although not ideal for working from your laptop, as the internet is scratchy, but the ambiance is very relaxing and you can indulge in one of their delicious pastry with your favorite cafe.

The cold brews are amazing. For the best tiramisu, or a variety of french dessert, pop into 3 Amigos Coffee, a friendly spot known for great service and rich espresso drinks. WIFI is great there.

29. Find the Mystery Beach

It’s the most beautiful beach in all of Baja but I made a promise not to share it. It’s private, intimate, quiet and pristine. It’s not on the usual tourist maps or maybe it is, and there are no signs to guide you. Crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and absolute silence. I wish you will find it.