Exploring Baja California Sur: A Review of the Private Tour to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos

If you’re dreaming of a day that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and just the right amount of adventure, this private tour from Cabo might be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a well-rounded way to see some of Baja’s most talked-about spots without the hassle of driving.

What really gets us excited about this tour? First, it offers personalized attention with a private group—meaning you can tailor parts of your experience and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Second, the chance to visit Balandra Beach, often called one of Mexico’s prettiest beaches, and explore Todos Santos, a city brimming with art and history, makes for a compelling day out. That said, it is a long day (around 13 hours), with a decent amount of driving, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a quick getaway or traveling with very young children.

One thing to keep in mind: Playa Balandra is a protected natural area, so there are no vendors or restaurants on-site, and facilities are limited. If you’re someone who enjoys snacks, shade, or amenities at the beach, you’ll want to plan ahead. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and with an interest in seeing natural beauty and cultural sites without the stress of logistics.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with expert guides and a small group atmosphere. If you’re into scenic landscapes, authentic local spots, and don’t mind a long day, this could be a memorable choice.

Key Points

Private, Personalized Experience: Focused on small groups with dedicated guides.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Balandra Beach’s shallow waters and views are a highlight.
Cultural & Historic Stops: Explore Todos Santos and the vibrant La Paz.
All-Inclusive Feel: Entrance fees, water, and essentials are included.
Long but Rewarding Day: Around 13 hours with a good mix of travel and sightseeing.
Tour Suitability: Best for those comfortable with a full day of activity and travel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Baja California Sur Private Tour

If you’re considering this tour, understanding what makes each stop special—and what to expect—can help you decide if it’s the right fit.

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Starting with the Logistics

The tour kicks off early—around 4:40 am from San José del Cabo or 5 am from Cabo San Lucas—so you need to be ready for an early start. This timing ensures you arrive at Balandra Beach early enough to enjoy it before the crowds and wind pick up later in the day. The journey involves about 2-3 hours by ground, giving you time to relax, enjoy the scenery, or even catch up on some sleep.

Since it’s a private tour, your group size remains small—up to 3 people—which means a more personalized experience. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drive comfortable, and your guide is fluent in both English and Spanish, adding a layer of ease for international travelers.

Balandra Beach: The Main Attraction

Balandra is often described as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches—and for good reason. We loved the way it combines striking views with tranquility. You can visit the viewpoint to see the sweeping landscape, or wade into its shallow, calm waters, perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

One of the reviews highlights how the guide, David Lopez, knew all the rules and made sure guests made the most of their time, recommending a quick hike first and then swimming, which many found beneficial. The beach itself is protected, so don’t expect vendors or restaurants—bring your own snacks and drinks. There are small portable toilets, but shade is limited, so plan accordingly.

For those into water activities, kayak rentals are available on the beach, although they are not included in the tour. You might find paddleboarding or swimming here to be the highlight of your day, especially with the incredible colors of the bay. Just be prepared for the wind—reviews mention that Balandra can be quite breezy in the morning.

Exploring La Paz

After about four hours at Balandra, you’ll head to La Paz for lunch and some free time. The city offers a lively, colorful atmosphere with bustling streets and murals—an inviting place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, or explore local shops. One review mentions enjoying the vibrant murals and discovering hidden gems in the area.

Lunch isn’t included in the tour, so you can choose a spot that suits your taste—many travelers recommend local seafood or casual cafes. The free time here allows you to soak in the local vibe, take photos, or just relax by the waterfront.

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The Charm of Todos Santos

The last stop is Todos Santos, a small town famed for its art galleries, charming streets, and historical buildings. It’s a perfect spot for a quick explore, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the quaint atmosphere. The 45-minute stop is enough for a walk, and many appreciate the opportunity to see a different side of Baja—more cultural and artsy.

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Returning Home

After Todos Santos, the return trip takes about 1-2 hours. The long day winds down with reflections on what you’ve seen and experienced. Some reviews note that the journey back can be a good time to rest or chat about the day’s highlights.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from travelers consistently praises the knowledgeable guides, especially David, who seems to make a real difference. One said, “Our guide, David Lopez, is very knowledgeable and knew every rule going in Balandra. He made the trip so perfect.” Others highlight the stunning views at Balandra and the delicious local food they enjoyed during free time.

Many appreciate the value for the cost—$354 for a private experience that includes transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and essentials. Given the length and inclusiveness, it’s seen as good value, especially for small groups eager for a personalized day.

While some mention the long drive, most acknowledge that it’s a small price to pay for avoiding the hassle of self-driving, parking, and navigating. Plus, the tour’s flexible approach lets guides offer insights or explore additional spots if time permits.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

Bring comfortable shoes and hat for sun protection.
Pack snacks and drinks as there are no vendors at Balandra.
Consider water shoes for the beach, as the shallow waters can be rocky.
Some reviews suggest bringing a sweatshirt for windier mornings.
Remember to charge your phone to capture the stunning scenery.
Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to stay protected without harming the environment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a full-day, stress-free way to see Baja’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided insights and a small group atmosphere. If you’re comfortable with long travel hours and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and entry fees, this tour fits well.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy nature, scenic views, and cultural stops—and who don’t mind the early mornings and full schedule. If you’re traveling with kids over 11, or enjoy a more leisurely pace, this can suit you too. But for those with mobility concerns or looking for a quick half-day trip, it might be a bit too much.

FAQ About the Tour

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for small private groups of up to three people, giving you a more tailored experience.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned sedan, entrance to Balandra Beach, bottled water, a small cooler with ice, a beach umbrella, and a speaker for music.

Are food and souvenirs included?
No, you need to bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are no vendors at Balandra. Souvenirs and photos are also not included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts about 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, charged smartphone, and insect repellent.

Can I bring large bags or luggage?
No, large bags or luggage are not allowed on the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for ages 11 and up, mainly because of the length and nature of the activities.

What is the best time to visit Balandra?
Early morning offers calmer weather and fewer crowds, but remember it can be windy.

Are there any mobility restrictions?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers over 220 lbs (100 kg).

How do cancellations work?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

Ready to Book?

Private tour to La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos from CABO

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Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, intimate tour that covers major sights in Baja California Sur without the stress of planning every detail, this private experience offers a lot of value. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the destinations—Balandra Beach, La Paz, and Todos Santos—are genuinely beautiful.

While the day’s length and the early start might not suit everyone, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a rundown of the region’s natural and cultural gems. Bring your sense of adventure, some snacks, and an appreciation for gorgeous scenery—you’re likely to come away with memorable photos and stories.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and a mix of relaxation and exploration. If that sounds like your style, it’s worth considering for a full-day Baja adventure.