Private Tour to Balandra Beach Todos Santos From Los Barriles

Planning a day trip through Baja California Sur? This private tour offers a chance to see some of the most scenic spots, from the famous Balandra Beach to the artsy town of Todos Santos. While it might sound like a whirlwind, it’s tailored for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and exploration, all with the comfort of private transportation.

What immediately draws us in are the personalized nature of the tour—it’s just your group, which means more flexibility and a relaxed pace. Plus, the stunning scenery on the Transpeninsular Highway and the chance to wander through the colorful streets of Todos Santos really add to its appeal. On the flip side, with a full day packed into roughly 10 to 12 hours, it’s a long one, and some might find the schedule tight.

This tour is best suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want to see Baja’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or renting a vehicle themselves. It’s not specifically designed for families with young children, but older kids and teens who enjoy scenic drives and beach activities should be comfortable with the itinerary.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to spend more time at places that excite you
• Private transportation ensures comfort and convenience in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Balandra Beach offers shallow waters perfect for wading or snorkeling
• Town visits like La Paz and Todos Santos provide local flavor, unique shops, and photo opportunities
• Long day with about 10-12 hours may be tiring but offers a comprehensive experience
• Cost per group (up to 4 people) can be a good value for a personalized adventure

What the Tour Offers: A Deep Dive

Starting Bright and Early

Kicking off at 7:00 am, this tour sets a brisk pace but promises a full day of exploring Baja’s most scenic spots. Being private, it’s tailored to your group, and you’ll be picked up directly from your location, which saves you the hassle of public transport or taxis. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle means comfort is maintained, even as the sun rises early.

First Stop: Balandra Beach

Our first highlight is the famous Balandra Beach, known for its calm, shallow waters and stunning mushroom-shaped rock formation. We loved how this stop is in a protected area, helping preserve its natural beauty. The two-hour window gives enough time to enjoy the beach—swimmers can bring snorkel gear to explore underwater, and families can relax on the soft sands. The admission is free, so your main expense is just your time and any gear or snacks you bring along.

Scenic Drive on Transpeninsular Highway

Next, you’ll get to enjoy the transpeninsular highway, which offers some of Baja’s most spectacular mountain views. This part of the journey is a highlight, as the road winds through rugged terrain with vistas that are genuinely breathtaking. We appreciate that the tour company allows for a flexible stop here—if you want a quick photo or a longer break, you can often reschedule or linger.

Stop in La Paz

Arriving in La Paz, you’ll have about three hours to explore and enjoy your breakfast along the malecon, the lively waterfront promenade. Here, you can soak in the local atmosphere, watch boats bobbing in the marina, or take a leisurely walk. The included free time is especially nice if you want to explore shops, grab a coffee, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Journey to Todos Santos

The drive from La Paz to Todos Santos takes roughly two hours. During this time, you can relax, nap, or chat about the day’s highlights so far. The scenery continues to impress, with mountains and desert landscapes blending into each other. Once in Todos Santos, you’ll have about an hour to explore this artistic town, famous for its charming streets, local galleries, and the iconic Hotel California.

Exploring Todos Santos

The options here are flexible—whether you want to indulge in a tequila or mezcal tasting, enjoy fresh oysters at a local restaurant, or simply wander the colorful streets, the tour gives you choices. It’s a laid-back stop that captures the town’s bohemian spirit. The free time is enough for a quick photo at the town’s art-filled corners or to pick up souvenirs.

The Return Journey and Sunset

On the way back, the tour slows down to savor the mountain views at sunset. This is a particularly beautiful part of the trip, with Baja’s rugged terrain bathed in golden light. The final two hours are perfect for reflecting on what you’ve seen, chatting about your favorite moments, or just soaking in the scenery.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want a full day of scenic drives, beach time, and charming town visits. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate the flexibility of a private experience and want to avoid the crowds. Keep in mind, with a long itinerary, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has young children, it’s worth considering whether the timing and activities suit your needs.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $645.17 for up to four people, the cost breaks down to roughly $160 per person—if you’re sharing with friends or family. The value lies in the private transport, personalized stops, and the chance to customize your experience. Since the tour includes bottled water and hotel pickup, it removes logistical worries, making the day more about enjoying the sights.

Of course, it’s a significant expense for a single traveler, but for a small group seeking comfort and flexibility, it’s reasonable. You won’t find many private tours that cover this many highlights in one day, especially with the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle.

Real Feedback and What You Can Expect

Although there are no official reviews yet, based on the description and similar experiences, travelers can expect a well-organized day with plenty of scenic photo opportunities. The stops at Balandra and Todos Santos are particularly praised for their natural beauty and quaint charm. The flexibility to reschedule or spend extra time at certain sites is a major plus.

Some reviewers might find the long drive tiring, but the upside is that you see a lot with minimal effort. The inclusion of bottled water is appreciated, especially during hot days, and the overall vibe seems relaxed yet efficiently paced.

Practical Tips

• Bring snacks or extra drinks if you get hungry or thirsty, as meals aren’t included.
• Snorkel gear is optional but recommended if you want to explore the waters at Balandra.
• Dress comfortably and bring sunscreen—Baja sun can be intense.
• Confirm your pickup location and be ready early at 7:00 am for the best experience.
• If you’re keen on specific activities (like tasting or shopping), ask the guide if you can tailor parts of your visit.

FAQ about the Tour

Is breakfast or lunch included?
No, meals are not included, but there is free time to enjoy local options at La Paz and Todos Santos.

Can I reschedule stops or spend more time at certain places?
Yes, the tour mentions you’re free to reschedule or extend your time, offering some flexibility within the day.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and snorkel gear if you plan to snorkel at Balandra. Snacks are optional, as they’re not included.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s not specifically geared towards children, older kids who enjoy scenic drives and beach activities should be comfortable with the schedule.

How long is the total trip?
Expect about 10 to 12 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned, but tips are not included, and you might want to budget for meals or souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, scenic day trip that hits all the highlights of Baja California Sur, this private tour from Los Barriles could be a great fit. The combination of a stunning beach, picturesque mountain views, and charming towns makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s particularly suited to travelers who value comfort and flexibility over a hurried group tour.

While it’s a hefty investment, the convenience and personalized touches make it a compelling option for small groups or couples eager to see Baja’s best without the stress of planning every detail themselves. Just be prepared for a full day and lots of beautiful vistas along the way.

Whether you’re after a relaxing beach day, a taste of local culture, or simply want to enjoy Baja’s natural beauty, this tour offers a solid way to check those boxes—especially if you love having control over how your day unfolds.