La Paz: 3-Beach Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re thinking about exploring the vibrant waters of Baja California Sur, this 3-beach snorkeling tour in La Paz might just be the way to go. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a mix of marine adventure, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed day out—without the fuss of trying to figure out every detail on your own. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve looked into what it offers and what previous travelers have experienced, so I can give you the lowdown.

What really makes this tour stand out are the opportunity to see multiple beaches and diverse marine life in one day, plus the chance to enjoy a delicious lunch at a well-known restaurant. It’s a good pick if you’re after a balanced, scenic, and straightforward snorkeling outing. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone—if you’re after a long, all-inclusive adventure or are traveling with very young children, there might be better options. Still, for those wanting a manageable yet memorable day on the water, this tour hits many sweet spots.

One thing to keep in mind: the price of $255 per person might seem a little steep at first glance, but when you consider the included transportation, full snorkeling gear, and meals, it can be quite reasonable. Just remember that some extras, like kayaking or paddleboarding, come at extra costs. This is a tour that feels curated and comfortable, perfect for travelers who want a guided experience without losing their sense of discovery.

If you’re someone who loves seeing stunning views, exploring different beaches, and having plenty of time to relax or snorkel, then this tour could be a great fit. Now, let’s go through some key points before diving into a more detailed look at what you can expect.

Key Points

• Multiple beaches in one day give you a variety of scenery and marine environments.
• Full snorkeling gear included makes it easy to jump right into the water.
• Lunch and drinks at Sea Side Restaurant provide a satisfying break with good food.
• Flexible options for relaxing on the beach or renting water sports gear like kayaks or paddleboards.
• Transportation from La Paz resorts is included, simplifying logistics.
• Duration of about 6 hours offers a full but manageable experience.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, so check your personal comfort.
• Good for travelers who want guided, small-group adventures with bilingual guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the La Paz Snorkeling Tour

When we picture a day out exploring the Sea of Cortez, it’s easy to imagine endless azure waters, rocky cliffs, and the promise of seeing colorful fish and maybe even some gentle sea turtles. This tour aims to bring that vision to life, and from what past travelers say, it largely delivers on the scenery and marine encounters.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See

Your day begins with a visit to the Cortez Club, a well-known starting point, where you’ll meet your guide and board the boat. From there, the journey takes you to three beautiful beaches: El Merito, Balandra, and Pichilingue. Each spot offers a slightly different vibe and set of features.

El Merito is your first stop, where you’ll jump into the water for your initial snorkel. Expect to see a variety of marine life and a chance to marvel at the diverse underwater ecosystem that the Sea of Cortez is famous for. The waters here are clear, and the marine wildlife is typically abundant, making it a hit for snorkelers.

Next, you’ll head to Balandra Beach—a frequently praised highlight. The beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with soft white sand and calm, shallow waters. After a good swim or snorkel, you’ll enjoy a lunch at the Sea Side Restaurant. The meal is often described as delicious, with options that cater to different tastes, plus drinks included to refresh you after some water time.

Following lunch, the tour continues to Pichilingue Beach. Here, the waters are crystal-clear, perfect for one last swim or snorkel. For those inclined, kayaks and paddleboards can be rented—though at an extra cost—adding some variety to your water adventures.

What Travelers Say About the Experience

Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery—particularly the views where the desert meets the sea as a major plus. One reviewer mentioned that the “beaches are gorgeous, and the marine life was surprisingly diverse.” Others appreciated the full snorkeling equipment provided, which meant they could just relax and enjoy the water without worrying about gear.

Some feedback pointed out that timing can be tight, especially if you want to spend more time relaxing on the beaches or trying out water sports. The tour lasts about six hours, which is enough to see three beaches comfortably but might feel rushed if you’re keen on longer swims or exploring at a slower pace.

A few travelers did mention that the cost of kayaking or paddleboarding is not included, and that can add up quickly if you’re interested in those extras. Also, since transportation from Los Cabos is not included, this tour is best suited for those based in La Paz or those willing to arrange their own transfer.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers a lot that makes your day smoother. It includes round-trip transportation from La Paz resorts/hotels, ensuring you don’t have to worry about how to get to the departure point. All full snorkeling equipment is provided, which is convenient if you don’t have your own gear.

A certified captain and guide lead the way, which adds to the experience’s safety and educational value. The lunch at Sea Side Restaurant, along with drinks, is part of the deal, offering a well-deserved break and some local flavors.

However, some costs are extras. Kayak or paddleboard rentals are $60 USD plus 16% tax, which can feel steep if you’re really into water sports. Gratuities are left to your discretion but are common in tours like this.

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The Experience: What You Can Expect

Expect a relaxed, guided day with plenty of time in the water. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, with opportunities to snap photos of the shoreline and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. The guides are bilingual, so you’ll have no trouble understanding or asking questions.

While the tour is small-group, it’s not exclusive to private bookings, so you might be sharing the experience with other travelers. The tour timing is flexible, and you should check the availability and starting times before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for adventurous travelers who want to see diverse marine life and enjoy some quality beach time. It’s also great if you prefer guided tours that take care of logistics and gear. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group, you’ll appreciate the intimacy.

However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women or those with back problems, given the physical activity involved. Those looking for a very long or multi-day experience might find this a little too brief, but for a single day of exploration, it hits many key points.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and activity-filled day exploring the waters surrounding La Paz, this 3-beach snorkeling tour offers a lot for the price. You’ll get to see some truly beautiful spots, enjoy a tasty meal, and potentially get a good dose of marine wildlife. The inclusion of transportation and gear makes it practical and convenient.

It’s particularly appealing if you value stunning views, guided experiences, and a balanced mix of activity and relaxation. While extras like paddleboarding come at an additional cost, the core tour covers your key interests—snorkeling, beach time, and scenic beauty.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, small-group adventure that showcases the best of the Sea of Cortez without over-complicating things, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a good choice for those who want a memorable, visually stunning day with manageable logistics.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from La Paz resorts and hotels is included, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 6 hours, which typically allows enough time to visit all three beaches, enjoy meals, and do some snorkeling.

Are all snorkeling gear and equipment provided?
Yes, full snorkeling equipment is included in the price, so you can jump into the water without needing your own gear.

Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards during the tour?
Yes, both are available for rent at $60 USD plus 16% tax, but these extras are not included in the base price.

What beaches will we visit?
You’ll visit El Merito, Balandra, and Pichilingue beaches—each offering different scenery and water conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but given the physical activity and water emphasis, it might be best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable in the water.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, a certified captain and guide lead the experience, providing safety, info, and assistance as needed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back issues, due to the physical nature of snorkeling and boat transfers.

If you’re looking to enjoy the Sea of Cortez through snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed pace, this tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience. Just be sure to consider your comfort with water activities and how much time you want to dedicate to exploring these stunning spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: