Private Tour to Isla Espiritu Santo and snorkel with sea lions

Exploring Isla Espiritu Santo and Swimming with Sea Lions: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a day trip from La Paz to Isla Espiritu Santo, this private tour offers a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and relaxing beach time. It’s designed for travelers who want a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides and plenty of opportunities to snorkel and unwind. We’ve looked into what makes this trip special—and what might be less ideal—to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the emphasis on safety and customer satisfaction. The guides and captain are certified, ensuring peace of mind throughout the day. Plus, the chance to snorkel with California sea lions is genuinely memorable—these playful animals are surprisingly interactive, making for a highlight that many travelers talk about long after the trip ends. On the flip side, a potential concern is the price, which might seem steep for some, especially since it’s a full-day, all-inclusive experience.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy wildlife, have a curiosity for marine life, and want a relaxed, private outing rather than a crowded group tour. It’s ideal if you’re okay with a full day on the water and want to see the island’s key sights comfortably. If you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate good food, scenic views, and engaging guides, this could be just the trip to add to your La Paz adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour for up to 5 people ensures a tailored, less crowded day.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swimming with sea lions is a rare and playful highlight, with a focus on wildlife interaction.
• Scenic Stops: The itinerary includes stunning rock formations, seabird colonies, and the arch passing, all with meaningful descriptions.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Enjoy a laid-back afternoon at Ensenada Grande, with umbrellas, benches, and a delicious included lunch.
• Comprehensive Snorkeling: Use of snorkeling and scuba equipment, enhancing your chance to explore underwater.
• Full-Day Journey: The trip lasts around 7 hours, with about 2.5 hours dedicated to the island, making it a full, immersive experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Setup

The tour begins early at Paseo Álvaro Obregón 220, on La Paz’s bustling Malecón. The timing at around 9:30 am is perfect for maximizing daylight, and since it’s a private experience, your group gets exclusive attention. With a company that prioritizes safety, comfort, and personalized service, you’re in good hands from the moment you meet your captain and guide.

First Stop: Bahía de San Gabriel

Your journey kicks off with a brief visit to Bahía de San Gabriel, where the guide shares insights about the area’s history—specifically, the first pearl aquaculture farm in Latin America. This is also a birdwatcher’s delight, as seabird colonies like the Magnificent Frigate can be seen nesting in the bay. The quick 15-minute stop allows you to absorb some local history and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Ensenada

Next, the boat heads toward Ensenada, a feeding ground for sea turtles. While you might not always see the turtles, it’s a great spot to keep your eyes peeled, and the brief stop (another 15 minutes) gives you a chance to spot marine life or simply enjoy the calm waters. It’s a reminder of the vibrant ocean ecosystem just beneath the surface.

Third Stop: Playa Candelero and La Máscara Rock Formation

Here, the focus is on the island’s intriguing geology and early settlers. La Máscara, a rock formation resembling a mask, gets its name from its shape, and your guide will explain why this spot is historically significant. The 10-minute stop is a quick but meaningful photo opportunity, offering a taste of the island’s natural artistry.

Fourth Stop: Isla Partida and the Arch

This quick pass under the arch can be quite a magical moment—make a wish as you glide through the natural rock formation. It’s a popular spot but still feels special, especially if you have a sense of adventure. The brief 10-minute pause lets you capture photos or just enjoy the scenery.

Fifth Stop: Sea Lion Rock

This is the star of the tour—swimming with the California sea lions. The experience is particularly engaging since these animals are known for their playful and curious nature. According to reviews, guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge, often being marine biologists who love explaining the creatures they’re interacting with. Be aware that swimming with sea lions is prohibited during breeding season (June-August), so check the timing if this is a priority for you.

Sixth Stop: Ensenada Grande Beach

After the wildlife encounters, you’ll land on Ensenada Grande, a beach that’s perfect for relaxing. The tour sets up umbrellas, benches, and a table for your included lunch—a variety of snacks including fish ceviche, burritos, sandwiches, and fresh fruit. This two-hour break is ideal for soaking up the scenery, chatting with your companions, or just unwinding on the soft sands.

Final Stop: Isla Espiritu Santo

The return voyage offers stunning views from the boat as you circle the island for about 3 hours, with plenty of photo opportunities and time to appreciate the rugged beauty of the landscape. The boat’s comfortable setup, with a restroom on board and snorkel gear, makes the long ride enjoyable rather than exhausting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Use of snorkeling and scuba equipment, allowing you to explore underwater
• Bottled water, sodas, and soft drinks
• An abundant lunch featuring fish ceviche, guacamole, burritos, sandwiches, fruit, cookies, and snacks
• Restroom on the boat, adding comfort to the day

Not Included:

• Alcoholic beverages (you might find local options on your own)
• Coffee or tea (bring your own if needed)
• Parking fees at the meeting point
• WiFi or air-conditioned transport (most of the experience is on the water)

How the Experience Feels and Its Value

The reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, especially the guides with marine biology backgrounds. Many mention the personalized service as a standout feature. The food is consistently praised as delicious and plentiful, which is a big win for a full-day tour.

Pricing at around $752 for a group of up to five might seem steep, but considering the all-inclusive nature—private transportation, multiple stops, expert guides, snorkel gear, and a hearty lunch—it offers good value, especially for those seeking a more exclusive, tailored outing.

The Downsides

The main concern that emerged from one review was a booking mishap where the tour didn’t show up, which underscores the importance of confirming your reservation. Also, the cost might be a barrier for budget travelers, although the personalized service and private experience can justify the expense.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a lover of scenic boat rides, or someone wanting a comfortable, private day on the water, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable if you value knowledgeable guides and quality food. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer very active, adventure-heavy trips, you might want to look at other options.

FAQ

• Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the focus on wildlife and snorkeling could appeal to older kids if they are comfortable in the water and with boat rides. Always check with the provider if you have young children.
• Can I swim with the sea lions in June? No, during June to August, swimming with sea lions is prohibited due to breeding season.
• How long does the trip last? The total duration is about 7 hours, including all stops and the boat ride.
• What should I bring? Comfortable clothes, sun protection, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera. The tour provides snorkel gear, but you can bring your own if preferred.
• Are refreshments included? Yes, water, soft drinks, and a full lunch are provided.
• Is there snorkeling gear onboard? Yes, you can use the snorkeling and scuba equipment supplied.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Isla Espiritu Santo offers a well-rounded, relaxing day infused with wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and excellent service. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more intimate experience, with the chance to see playful sea lions and enjoy pristine beaches without the crowds. While it comes at a higher price point, the inclusion of personalized guides, quality meals, and snorkeling equipment makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

If you value knowledgeable guides, marine wildlife, and a leisurely pace, this trip could very well be the highlight of your La Paz adventure. Just be sure to confirm your booking and prepare for a day full of natural wonder and relaxation.

Enjoy your trip planning—and I hope your time in La Paz is unforgettable!