Balandra Bay is a protected area north of La Paz, Mexico, and is known for its pristine white sand beaches surrounded by rocky mountains and crystal blue waters.
Balandra Beach is a favorite among locals who come to relax amongst the white sand dunes. The calm, crystal-clear waters are shallow and perfect for beginner swimmers and families. Hiking up the neighboring mountain is a great way to soak in the beauty of Balandra Beach. As part of a protected area, there are restrictions on the number of daily visitors permitted and limited parking available. You can also visit as part of a boat tour that takes you to various attractions along the coast, like San Rafaelito where you can spot sea lions
A short sail away from La Paz, Isla Partida is one of the UNESCO protected sister islands on the beautiful Baja peninsula. Separated from Isla Espiritu Santo by a narrow blue channel, when the tide is right it's even possible to wade across to both islands. Isla Partida is home to the Ensenada Grande - celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Mexico. This remote beach is all Tiffany blues, sculpted rock formations, and homemade fish tacos.
Spend the day paddleboarding to admire the chiseled coast, swim in the jewel toned waters, and visit the blue footed boobie colonies close by. Those who adore diving will certainly be in their element when ducking beneath the blue as scores of marine life make their home on this evocative sea shore. Even if you stay on the surface you are likely to see playful sea lions, dolphins, and even pods of humpback whales if you are there in the winter months.
On the eastern coast of the balmy and bohemian Baja Peninsula, Isla San Francisco is separated from the mainland by a 10km channel stretch. It’s a tiny island, less than 2km long and less than 3km wide and is of course, completely uninhabited. The sheltered waters that ebb and flow around Isla San Francisco make it an ideal anchorage, especially for those who want to soak up stark beauty, get up close and personal with the island's reptile population, and snorkel in the vibrant blue and remarkably clear waters. Charter guests can take a hike up along the ridge for majestic views or spend a lazy afternoon swimming and snorkeling. There’s also the opportunity to head out kayaking around the coast or to explore the salt flats.
On the southern tip of the balmy Baja peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is one of the main destinations for those seeking a slice of Mexico’s resort action. This sizzling city has it all - from snorkeling the whale shark rich waters of the Sea of Cortez to culture, food, and night-time fun. Active adventurers can hike in Fox Valley and for small town feels, you can head into the charm of San Jose del Cabo where colonial architecture and creative galleries pique your interest before a fresh seafood supper. Sailing around this coastline is heaven sent. From big sport fishing to whale watching and pastel painted sunsets that would make Monet proud and an endless string of pink sand beaches and salt whipped waves, Cabo San Lucas never fails to dazzle.