From Cabo/San José del Cabo: La Paz, Balandra & Todos Santos

Planning a day trip around Baja California Sur? This particular tour, offered from Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, promises a mix of stunning beaches, lively towns, and cultural spots. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what you can expect, so you can decide if this is the right adventure for your trip.

Two things we really like about this experience are the chance to visit Balandra Beach, often called one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, and the visit to the legendary Hotel California in Todos Santos — a must-see for any curious traveler. The tour offers a good blend of nature, culture, and local flavor.

However, a key consideration is the long duration – about 13 hours, which means it’s quite a full day. It’s not ideal for young kids or those with mobility issues due to the length and pace. But if you’re comfortable with a long, guided group outing, this trip can be quite rewarding.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Baja’s highlights without having to plan all the logistics themselves. It’s especially good for those who enjoy scenic drives, exploring picturesque towns, and being outdoors.

Key Points

• Beautiful Beaches: Balandra and Coromuel are standouts, offering shallow waters, spectacular views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Cultural Stops: Todos Santos is a charming town with a vibrant arts scene and the famous Hotel California.
• Food & Exploration: La Paz provides time for a relaxed lunch and wandering through lively streets and murals.
• Long but Worthwhile: The 13-hour schedule means an early start and a full day, ideal for dedicated explorers.
• Preparedness Matters: Bring snacks, water, and sun protection since Balandra is a protected area with few amenities.
• Group Experience: Transportation varies depending on the group size — from vans to buses — and is shared with other travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour

The Pickup and Early Morning Start

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo between 3 am and 5 am, depending on your location. Yes, that’s early, but it’s a small price to pay for the benefits of hitting the road when it’s still quiet and getting a full day of sightseeing. The ride to Balandra takes about 2-3 hours, so get comfortable in your air-conditioned vehicle. Keep in mind, the ride is long, and many reviews mention sitting in the back of the van, so bringing something to make the journey more comfortable might be wise.

Exploring Balandra Beach

The highlight for many is Balandra — a stunning stretch of shallow, turquoise water and soft sand that’s perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or even a quick dip if the weather’s warm. The beach is a protected natural area, which means no vendors or restaurants—just pristine scenery. As one reviewer pointed out, there’s a small portable toilet, but no shade or umbrellas, so bringing your own snacks, water, and sun protection is essential.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the area and pointed out the impressive landscape from the viewpoint. If you’re into photography or just need a peaceful spot to unwind, Balandra hits the right notes.

Coromuel Beach and Scenic Views

Next up is Coromuel Beach, about 1.5 hours away. It’s known for its panoramic vistas and a more relaxed vibe. Here, you’ll have time to snap photos, soak in the view, and enjoy a snack or drink. Some reviews mention enjoying local food and taking in the landscape, which is definitely worth doing.

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La Paz: Lunch and Local Charm

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive in La Paz for about two hours. This is a great chance to try local dishes, explore the streets, or check out murals decorating the town. Travelers have spoken positively about the quality of the lunch, describing it as “delicious,” and the free time as ample for a casual stroll or some quick shopping.

Todos Santos and the Iconic Hotel California

The last stop is Todos Santos, a town brimming with history and art. You’ll get about 45 minutes here, which isn’t long but enough to browse local shops, take photos, and soak in the artistic atmosphere. The highlight is of course Hotel California, famous not only for its music legend status but also as a charming spot that adds a touch of cultural mystique to your day.

Returning to Cabo

After Todos Santos, the van takes you back along the same highway, with a travel time of about 1-2 hours. The tour ends with drop-offs at your hotel, so you can relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Many reviews praise the expert guides, who are knowledgeable and attentive. One review states, “Christian was an excellent guide, explaining the places in detail and giving tips,” which highlights the importance of a good tour leader. Another mentions, “Bernardo was super friendly, took us on time, and had great music,” showing that a positive attitude makes a big difference.

People also appreciate the value for money, noting that the trip includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and bottled water, making it a budget-friendly option for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

On the flip side, some concerns were raised about the long hours and transport conditions. One reviewer pointed out that the van was “old,” and their seatbelt was “cut out,” which is worth considering if comfort or safety is a priority. The lengthy drive back can be tiring, especially sitting in the back.

What to Expect in Terms of Logistics

The tour is designed for those who are comfortable with a group setting and a packed schedule. It’s not suited for children under 10, or guests with mobility issues, due to the long day and walking involved. Also, the tour is quite structured, so if you prefer to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Practical Tips for the Day

Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen — the beaches and sun can be relentless. Cash is handy for optional purchases, and a charged smartphone helps with photos and navigation. Remember, there are no umbrellas or large bags allowed, and baby strollers aren’t recommended because of the group size and terrain.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see some of Baja’s most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics. It’s a solid choice if you’re okay with an early start and a long day, and if you love scenic drives, beaches, and charming towns.

While it offers a lot for the price—especially with included lunch, transport, and entrance fees—expect a busy schedule and a lot of time spent on the road. If you’re seeking a relaxed, unstructured day, this might not be the best pick. But if you’re eager to pack in a full Baja California Sur experience, it’s a pretty good way to do it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Not really — it’s a long, full-day tour and not recommended for kids under 10 due to the duration and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and a charged smartphone. Remember, snacks and drinks should be brought along since Balandra doesn’t have amenities.

How long is the travel time?
The drive from Cabo to Balandra takes about 2-3 hours each way, with additional time for stops and exploring.

Are the transportation vehicles comfortable?
Transportation varies depending on group size and day; some reviews mention older vans, so bringing a cushion or being prepared for less plush seats could help.

Can I buy souvenirs or take photographs?
While souvenirs aren’t included, you’re free to take photos at each stop. However, note that there are no vendors at Balandra, so go prepared with your own snacks.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Many agree it’s the chance to see Balandra’s stunning waters and enjoy the artistic vibe of Todos Santos, making for memorable photos and experiences.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Baja California Sur’s natural beauty and culture, perfect for those who love scenic drives, picturesque beaches, and charming towns. It’s a full day, but one that can leave you with lasting memories of this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: