La Paz: Boat ride to Espiritu Santo island and sloop

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, deserted beaches, and encounters with playful sea lions, this boat tour from La Paz might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, plenty of travelers have, and their experiences paint a picture of adventure mixed with some practical considerations.

What really draws us to this tour are its stunning scenery and the chance to see marine life up close, plus the knowledgeable guides that help bring the region’s natural beauty to life. We also appreciate that the tour includes snorkeling, a scenic stop at Balandra Beach, and time to relax on Ensenada Grande’s sands.

On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the boat can get a bit crowded — one review mentioned feeling uncomfortable on a small boat with 20 people — so if space and comfort are priorities, it’s worth considering.

This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and making the most of Baja’s breathtaking sights in a day. It’s particularly good for travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction to Espíritu Santo and its surroundings without over-complicating things.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with clear waters, white beaches, and impressive rock formations.
• Wildlife encounters, especially with playful sea lions and seabirds like the Magnificent Frigatebird.
• Snorkeling in vibrant marine zones, perfect for underwater enthusiasts or curious beginners.
• Informative guides who share regional insights in both Spanish and English.
• Flexible options to bring your own drinks and enjoy a picnic on the beach.
• Some limitations regarding boat size and time spent at each stop, so plan your expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This boat tour from La Paz offers a well-rounded taste of Baja California Sur’s natural environment. Starting from the fiscal dock of the La Paz boardwalk, you’ll soon be heading out into the shimmering waters, with your guides giving a quick safety briefing before setting sail.

Early Highlights and the Iconic Mushroom

The first photo stop involves the famous mushroom-shaped rock, a classic Baja sight that’s perfect for snapping memorable images. It’s a brief pause—around 20 to 25 minutes—but a great way to set the tone for the day. We loved the way this spot lends itself to capturing striking scenery and is a fun, iconic start to the trip.

San Gabriel Island and Cultural Insights

Next, your journey takes you to San Gabriel Island, a site of historic significance, once home to pearling operations. Here, guides share stories that deepen your appreciation of the area, and you’ll also have a chance to observe some of Baja’s iconic seabirds, like the Magnificent Frigatebird. For those interested in Baja’s maritime history or wildlife, this stop adds meaningful context.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the main draws is the chance to swim in waters teeming with marine life — coral reefs, sea lions, and colorful fish. The snorkeling here can last 15 to 30 minutes, depending on conditions, which is enough to get a good glimpse without feeling rushed. Reviews confirm that this is a highlight, especially for those eager to see the sea lions in their natural habitat. Travelers have mentioned the experience as “acceptable,” but it’s important to note that it’s more about the experience and scenery than an extensive underwater adventure.

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Candelero Bay and Natural Wonders

Moving along, you’ll visit Candelero Bay, home to the famed rock formation called “the Mask,” and possibly passing through a natural arch if the wind cooperates. These scenic spots highlight Baja’s volcanic and sedimentary landscapes, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Reviewers have appreciated these stops for their natural beauty, though some felt the visits are brief.

Ensenada Grande and Relaxation

The final major stop is Ensenada Grande Beach, a true highlight for many. Here, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, relax under umbrellas, and have about an hour and a half to soak up the sun or explore the sands. This stretch is perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing. The beach’s calm waters and expansive sands make it ideal for families or travelers seeking a peaceful break.

The Return Journey

The trip back takes roughly 4 hours, which some find a little long, especially if they’re eager to spend more time at each location. One reviewer noted that the sea lion visit was quite brief relative to the travel time, so if you’re keen on more wildlife viewing, this might feel a bit rushed.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

For $109, this tour covers a lot: guides, snorkeling gear, meals, water, soft drinks, and umbrellas. Meals are described as fresh and regional — ceviche, sandwiches, chopped fruit, and spreads — making it a decent value considering the full day out. The guides seem to be a bright spot, with many reviews praising their friendliness and knowledge.

However, some travelers have found the boat crowded, with one mentioning feeling uncomfortable on a small vessel with 20 people. If you prefer more space or a quieter experience, this is something to keep in mind. Also, the price doesn’t include professional photos or alcoholic drinks, though you’re welcome to bring your own beverages.

The tour is suitable for a broad audience, but it isn’t recommended for those with motion sickness, given the boat ride’s length and movement. The activity is also quite structured, so if you prefer a more free-form experience, consider how this fits with your travel style.

The Experience of Other Travelers

Readers have generally given this tour a solid 4.4 out of 5, with many praising the knowledgable guides and the stunning views. Camilla from the U.S. loved the guides’ entertainment value and the scenery, calling out the food as a positive surprise.

On the other hand, some felt that the cost was a bit steep, especially when they found the actual experience didn’t quite match their expectations or when they perceived the price as high compared to local options. One review pointed out that the journey to the sea lion colony takes about four hours, with only a brief visit, which might be a bit too long for some.

The positive impressions center around the beautiful scenery, wildlife encounters, and the relaxed beach stop, while the critiques often focus on boat comfort and the brevity of some stops.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat ride to Espíritu Santo offers a visually stunning, wildlife-rich experience that can be quite rewarding if you’re looking for a day of scenic beauty, marine encounters, and relaxed beach time. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a guided tour that adds local insights without overloading the day.

If you’re someone who appreciates good guides and memorable vistas but doesn’t mind a potentially crowded boat or shorter visits to each site, this trip could be a great fit. Keep in mind that it’s not designed for those seeking a deep, lengthy wildlife expedition or a more intimate experience.

For families, it could work if your kids are comfortable on boats and enjoy wildlife spotting, but the boat crowd and the journey length are factors to consider.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It can be, especially if your kids are comfortable on boats and enjoy wildlife. Keep in mind the boat can get crowded.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
You can bring your own beverages, as the tour does not include alcohol but allows personal drinks.

How long is the boat ride?
The total tour lasts around 6 hours, with the boat journey taking most of that time. Some reviews mention the boat ride to the sea lion colony takes about four hours, so be prepared for a longer day on the water.

What is included in the price?
Guided tours in both Spanish and English, snorkeling equipment, meals (ceviche, sandwiches, fruit), water, soft drinks, and umbrellas are included.

Are there any restrictions or things I shouldn’t bring?
Yes, avoid high heels, weapons, sharp objects, smoking, vaping, littering, strong fragrances, and unapproved personal items.

What should I bring for the tour?
Beachwear, sunscreen, camera or phone, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, wind conditions might affect passing through some formations or the snorkeling activity.

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

Is there an option to book and pay later?
Absolutely — you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

If you’re seeking a scenic, wildlife-packed day with plenty of relaxing beach time and some snorkeling fun, this tour from La Paz offers a compelling glimpse into Baja’s natural beauty. Just keep an eye on your comfort preferences and timing, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of memorable photos and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: