Cabo San Lucas Tour To Balandra Beach

Exploring Baja California Sur’s coast through this luxury yacht tour to Balandra Beach sounds like an escape worth considering if you’re after a mix of nature, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who’ve enjoyed it. What stands out most is the opportunity to snorkel with playful sea lions and relax on one of the world’s top beaches, all while traveling comfortably on a private yacht.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the seamless logistics—from pickup to return, everything is well-organized, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy La Paz’s highlights. Plus, the expert guides and attention to comfort, with shaded seating and top-notch amenities onboard, help elevate the trip from just another boat tour. That said, a possible consideration is the price—at about $2,832 for a group of up to 10, it’s not cheap, but for the luxury and unique experiences offered, many will find it to be a worthwhile splurge.

This tour fits best for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day that combines marine life encounters, gorgeous scenery, and gourmet food. If you’re someone who loves a bit of pampering while exploring nature’s best, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also a solid pick if you’re traveling with friends or a small group looking for an exclusive experience.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: A private yacht with top amenities, water toys, and expert-guided snorkeling.
• Unbeatable Scenery: Visits to San Rafaelito Wildlife Sanctuary and Balandra Beach, ranked among the top 15 beaches worldwide.
• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkeling with sea lions offers a rare chance to see marine life up close.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Gourmet meals, drinks, and water toys included, with on-board restrooms and shaded seating.
• Seamless Logistics: Pickup and drop-off from Los Cabos make it easy to access without worries.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Lengthy, well-paced day with plenty of time to enjoy, learn, and unwind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

From Los Cabos to La Paz: The Scenic Transfer

The adventure kicks off with a smooth pickup from your Los Cabos accommodation—whether Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. The roughly 2.5-hour ride through Baja’s desert landscapes and coastal views sets the tone for the day. It’s a comfortable start that lets you relax and get excited about what’s ahead. This transfer is especially appreciated because it removes the stress of getting to La Paz independently, making the whole experience more relaxing.

Breakfast on Board and Cruising to San Rafaelito

Once at Marina Palmira in La Paz, you’re welcomed aboard a luxurious yacht. The onboard continental breakfast—a selection of pastries, fruit, and hot coffee—creates a nice moment to settle in and soak up the ocean breeze. The yacht then departs toward San Rafaelito Wildlife Sanctuary, about 45 minutes away. This part of the trip gives travelers a chance to enjoy the fresh sea air and stunning coastal views.

Snorkeling with Sea Lions at San Rafaelito

San Rafaelito is a highlight—and for good reason. It’s home to playful sea lions and abundant marine life. With a certified guide onboard, snorkeling becomes an interactive adventure. Many travelers note the joy of swimming alongside these curious creatures, which is a rare experience. One reviewer said, “The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, and snorkeling with the sea lions was unforgettable.”

The sanctuary also features a lighthouse, adding some scenic interest during the stop. The boat cruise, combined with marine wildlife viewing, offers an authentic glimpse into Baja’s rich ocean ecosystem—something most visitors find both fun and educational.

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Relaxation and Water Fun at Balandra Bay

After the wildlife encounter, the yacht continues to Balandra Beach, ranked among the top 15 beaches worldwide. Here, you’ll find a peaceful haven of powdery sands and crystal-clear waters. The yacht anchors in the calm, turquoise bay, offering plenty of shade, comfortable seating, and top-tier amenities—including water toys like paddleboards and a dinghy.

You’ll spend around 2-3 hours here, giving you enough time to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or just soak up the scenery. The famous mushroom-shaped rock formation is a must-see photo spot, and some guests choose to walk along the shore or explore the mangrove-adjacent areas with a guided or self-guided walk.

For those who enjoy a little adventure, a scenic hike with a certified guide is available, offering sweeping views of the bay. The natural beauty here is truly breathtaking, and many describe it as a peaceful, almost untouched paradise.

Gourmet Lunch and Final Relaxation

After enjoying the water, it’s time for lunch. The crew prepares a fresh, satisfying spread of seafood, ceviche, sandwiches, and Mexican salsas. The meal is accompanied by soft drinks, water, and a selection of beers and cocktails—think margaritas and local brews. Many guests rave about the quality of the food, calling it “fresh and flavorful,” adding to the luxurious vibe of the day.

The last hour at Balandra is perfect for relaxing, snapping photos, or trying out water toys before heading back to the yacht for the return cruise.

Return Trip to Los Cabos

The yacht departs Balandra Bay after a memorable few hours, heading back toward Marina Palmira. The return trip offers even more scenic views, and you’ll be transferred back to your hotel or chosen drop-off point in Los Cabos. Along the way, there’s an optional stop at a countryside spot for some local flavors, making the return journey feel complete with a taste of authentic Baja.

The Overall Value and Who Will Love It

This tour is priced at $2,832 for up to 10 people, which might seem high at first glance. But when you break down what’s included—a private yacht, gourmet meals, drinks, water toys, marine wildlife encounters, and the convenience of door-to-door transfer—it offers a lot of value. The personalized nature of the experience, along with the comfort and expert guidance, makes it ideal for those seeking a luxury day out with a small group or friends.

It’s important to note that this experience is best suited for those comfortable on boats and not prone to seasickness, as the day involves about 45-minute yacht cruises each way. Also, if you’re traveling with children, their comfort and safety should be considered, although the trip itself isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting to combine marine wildlife encounters, stunning beaches, and a touch of luxury, this private tour hits a lot of the right notes. The experience of snorkeling with sea lions, relaxing in one of the world’s top beaches, and enjoying gourmet meals onboard is pretty special. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable yacht, and seamless logistics all add to the appeal.

However, it’s a premium experience, so it’s best for those who value comfort and exclusivity over budget. If you’re a traveler who appreciates the finer touches—like water toys, shaded seating, and freshly prepared meals—this trip will feel worth every penny. For those craving a more laid-back, self-guided day or on a tighter budget, there might be more affordable options, but they likely won’t offer quite the same level of luxury and personalization.

All in all, if your goal is to see Baja’s marine and coastal beauty without sacrificing comfort, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s about creating memorable moments—whether that’s swimming with sea lions, walking along Balandra’s powdery sands, or simply watching the sunset from a well-equipped yacht.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Los Cabos hotel or resort are included, making it easy to start and end the day without hassle.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including transfers, cruising, stops, and meals.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection like biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, water, and a camera to capture the moments.

Are water toys included?
Yes, paddleboards, a water mat, and a dinghy are available to enjoy during your time at Balandra Bay.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or people prone to seasickness?
It might not be ideal, as it involves yacht cruising and snorkeling, which can be uncomfortable for non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness.

Can children join?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children comfortable on boats and with supervision should be fine. Always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury in Baja California Sur, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a chance to see incredible marine life, unwind on a top-ranked beach, and enjoy a seamless, comfortable day on the water. Perfect for small groups craving an exclusive, memorable escape—just be ready for a full day of fun!

You can check availability for your dates here: