Balandra Beach & City Tour La Paz & Todo Santos hotel California

If you’re planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas and want to see beyond the lively resort scene, a full-day tour to Balandra Beach, La Paz, and Todos Santos might catch your eye. This tour promises a mix of gorgeous coastal scenery, charming towns, and cultural highlights — all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with easy logistics, making it a solid option for those who want to explore without the hassle of planning every detail. The included lunch in La Paz is another plus, saving you from figuring out where to eat. However, a potential consideration is the length of the day — it’s quite packed, and some travelers have found the pace a little speedy.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy seeing a mix of scenic spots, like beaches and towns, with enough time to take photos and relax. If you’re into discovering the local vibe and don’t mind a long day on the road, this could be a good fit. It’s also a popular choice for those who want to avoid the typical Cabo scene for a taste of authentic Baja.

Key Points

• Includes lunch in La Paz, saving extra planning and expenses
• Offers a well-rounded mix of beaches, cultural sites, and charming towns
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off make the day easier
• Tour length is long, so be prepared for a full, busy day
• Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Some reviews mention a quick pace and crowded transportation

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

When considering a day trip like this, it’s good to understand what’s actually involved. The tour is scheduled for about 11 to 14 hours — that’s a significant chunk of your day, but it covers a lot of ground. From the moment you’re picked up in your Cabo hotel, you’ll be on the move, visiting a variety of sights that showcase the best of this part of Baja California.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Balandra Beach kicks things off — and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite spot. Known worldwide for its stunning, crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, Balandra offers a tranquil setting for a couple of hours. The water is warm and inviting, perfect for relaxing or snapping some photos. Travelers like James_C appreciated the beauty, though he also advised caution with jellyfish and stingrays — always good to keep an eye out when swimming or wading.

Next, the tour makes a stop at Playa El Coromuel, which is described as an “awesome place” to unwind. It’s a bit deeper and offers a spot to buy snacks or drinks, use showers, or just kick back with the sound of the waves. With about two hours here, you can really soak in the seaside vibe, and since admission is free, it’s a relaxed addition.

Exploring La Paz

The heart of the day is La Paz, where you’ll visit a historic church — Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz — built by local tribes and Spaniards alike. This quick stop provides a peek into the area’s colonial past, and many find it a meaningful cultural moment.

Then, you’ll stroll the Malecon, a lively seaside promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and palm trees. It’s a perfect spot to take photos, browse local crafts, and enjoy ocean views. One traveler described it as offering “spectacular views of the palm tree-lined beach,” and it’s a favorite for quick photo ops and people-watching.

A highlight for many is the Pearl Farm visit, where you learn about the sea’s pearl cultivation and harvesting. While only lasting 15 minutes, this stop adds a cultural touch and a chance to appreciate the importance of pearls in the region’s history — plus, it’s free.

Lunch and Free Time

Lunch is served at El Paraje, located along the Malecon, and typically involves a fish, chicken, or vegetarian plate. The reviews rave about how good the food is, with one noting the “really good” lunch was a highlight of the day. It’s a good way to refuel before more sightseeing.

After lunch, you’ll have about an hour of free time. This is your chance to stroll, take photos, or enjoy a drink. Many appreciate this flexibility, although some mention that the time can feel a little rushed, especially if you want a longer look around.

The Charm of Todos Santos

The final stop is Todos Santos, a small town famed for its artistic vibe and scenic coastal views. Located roughly halfway between La Paz and Cabo, this charming town has a relaxed atmosphere and, notably, the famous Hotel California — yes, the legendary hotel made famous by the Eagles’ song.

Most reviews agree that Todos Santos offers a peaceful, authentic Baja experience, with some mentioning their brief hour here felt just enough to soak in its charm. The town’s shops and galleries make it a lovely place for a quick stroll, and many travelers find it a perfect ending to their day.

Transportation and Group Details

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the long hours and the warm Baja climate. The group size can be up to 150 travelers, but reviews suggest that the guides do a good job managing the group, and most found the experience personal enough.

Transportation is shared, and some reviews mention that seating can get tight, especially with larger groups. One traveler noted that in some cases, it can be crowded, and a private tour might be more comfortable if space is a concern. The trip includes bottled water, which is appreciated after exploring the sun and heat.

The Guide and Service

Guide quality seems to vary but is generally praised. Many reviews spotlight knowledgeable guides who keep things interesting and provide helpful information. One traveler appreciated a guide named Daniel for his energetic and informative style, while others praised Manuel and Christian for their friendliness and patience.

A few reviews indicate that there can be some logistical hiccups — for example, one guest was almost left behind at pickup or experienced a quick pace that felt rushed. Still, the overall sentiment is positive, especially when guides are attentive and accommodating.

Pricing and Value

Priced at around $154.22 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive way to see some of Baja’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. When you consider that lunch, bottled water, and multiple attractions are included, the value becomes clearer.

It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a guided experience rather than navigating on their own, and when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s easy to see why many find it worthwhile. The long duration might seem steep, but for the variety and ease, many feel it’s a good deal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid the crowded resort scene and see something more authentic and scenic. It’s also perfect if you’re okay with a long day and the possibility of a quick pace.

While not necessarily designed with families or children in mind, the tour’s stops are scenic and engaging enough for most age groups, especially if they enjoy beaches, town strolling, and local culture. Just keep in mind the length and adjust expectations accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Balandra Beach & City Tour from Cabo offers a balanced glimpse of Baja California’s stunning coastline and charming towns. With knowledgeable guides, engaging stops, and the convenience of included meals and transportation, it makes for a practical day trip for those eager to see more than Cabo’s hotels and resorts.

It’s a trip that favors natural beauty and cultural highlights over detailed history or luxury experiences. The long duration and some reviews’ mention of a fast pace are worth considering, especially if you prefer a more relaxed day. This tour provides good value and memorable scenery, especially if you’re into exploring off-the-beaten-path spots like La Paz and Todos Santos.

For anyone seeking a full-day adventure that combines beaches, towns, and local culture, this could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a busy day and want an easy, guided experience that covers a lot of ground.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Cabo hotel, making it more convenient than planning your own transportation.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect about 11 to 14 hours, so it’s a full day, but it covers many sights efficiently.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch in La Paz is included, with options of fish, chicken, or vegetarian plates. Alcoholic drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and water shoes for Balandra Beach if you plan to swim — the water can be cold, but it’s worth a dip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops are scenic and casual, so most travelers with children who enjoy beaches and town strolls will find it suitable.

What about the group size?
Up to 150 travelers, but guides usually manage the group well. Some reviews mention tight seating in the van, so private options might be better for comfort.

Is the tour good for photography?
Absolutely — the stops at beaches, the Malecón, and Todos Santos provide plenty of photo opportunities.

What if Balandra Beach is closed?
Some reviews indicate that Balandra might be closed due to environmental reasons, and the itinerary could change. The tour guides typically adapt, but it’s good to be aware.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Generally, yes. Many travelers praise guides like Daniel, Manuel, and Christian for their helpfulness and information.

How much does the tour cost?
Around $154.22 per person, which includes transportation, lunch, and some attractions — it’s a reasonable price for a full-day sightseeing experience.

If you’re after a day full of scenic beaches, authentic towns, and cultural stops with minimal hassle, this tour from Cabo could be a solid choice. Just remember it’s a long day, so bring your patience and a good camera.