Private Tour to Playa Balandra, La Paz and Todos Santos

Discover the Private Tour to Playa Balandra, La Paz, and Todos Santos

Thinking about a day trip from Cabo San Lucas that combines gorgeous beaches, charming towns, and a bit of local flavor? This private tour promises just that, offering an 11-hour journey through some of Baja’s most picturesque spots. It’s especially appealing if you like traveling at your own pace, with no crowds, and appreciate personal attention.

What really draws us in are the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the inclusion of drinks, making the day both comfortable and fun. Plus, the fact that it’s tailored solely for your group means you can explore without feeling rushed or squeezed into a large tour bus. On the flip side, the price is a bit higher than some group excursions, but the private aspect and flexibility often compensate for that. This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience with plenty of time to soak up the scenery and enjoy local spots.

Key Points

• Customizable, private experience tailored to your group’s pace and interests
• Includes drinks and beverages—a nice touch for comfort and refreshment
• Flexible stops and plenty of photo opportunities along the way
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for all-day travel
• Ideal for those seeking a balance of sightseeing, leisure, and local flavor
• Consider the price if traveling solo or on a tight budget—per-group cost might seem high

An Honest Look at the Experience

This private tour is designed as a full-day adventure that offers both comfort and flexibility. Starting early—around 6 am—you’ll be picked up from your hotel (or designated spot), and from there, the journey begins. Expect roughly two hours of traveling to La Paz, which might sound long, but it’s a chance to relax in a well-equipped, air-conditioned vehicle while getting a taste of Baja’s scenery.

La Paz: The Morning Start

Once you arrive in La Paz, you’ll have a couple of hours to enjoy some free time along the Malecon, the city’s waterfront promenade. Visitors love this part—it’s a peaceful spot for a walk, some photos, and maybe a quick breakfast. The reviews highlight how much people appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own pace, with some describing the walk as a quiet, scenic start to the day.

One traveler shared, “We loved the quiet walk along the Malecon and the clear blue water in Balandra Beach,” emphasizing how the relaxed pace allows for soaking in the local vibe. Keep in mind, the time here is flexible but brief enough to prevent the day from feeling rushed.

Playa Balandra: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Next, the highlight—Balandra Beach. Known for its unspoiled sands and shallow waters, it’s perfect for a few hours of sunbathing, swimming, or just chilling with a good book. The tour offers a three-hour window at the beach, which is usually enough for a proper dip and some relaxing.

The included cooler with water and beers makes it nice to refresh without worrying about extra costs. Travelers often mention how the beach is worth the long drive; the visuals of bright blue waters and white sand are truly stunning. One review enthusiastically states, “The water was so clear, and we loved having drinks just by the beach.” However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the drive to Balandra can be long, so be prepared for a bit of travel time.

Todos Santos: Artistic Charm and Shopping

After Balandra, the tour takes you to Todos Santos, a town famous for its art galleries, quirky shops, and laid-back atmosphere. The ride takes about an hour, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. You’ll have around two hours here to walk, explore, and shop.

People rave about the chance to browse local crafts or grab some tasty tacos—this part of the trip feels like a true Baja experience. One reviewer commented, “Ricardo shared some interesting local insights, making the visit even more enjoyable,” highlighting the value of having a guide with local knowledge. Just keep in mind, if you’re not big on shopping or wandering, this might feel a bit quick, but the flexibility means you can choose to spend more or less time here.

Ending the Day

From Todos Santos, it’s about a one-hour and thirty-minute drive back to your hotel, rounding out a busy but rewarding day. The entire experience totals around 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day—though many find it worthwhile for the variety and scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The personalized nature of this trip is a big plus. Unlike larger group tours, you get your own vehicle and a dedicated driver, who often becomes a local guide in disguise. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable drivers—Ricardo and Saul—who not only get you around safely but add insights and a friendly tone that makes the trip feel warm and approachable.

The inclusion of drinks (water, beer, or wine) elevates the experience—no need to worry about carrying your own or stopping at convenience stores. This thoughtful touch, paired with air conditioning, keeps you comfortable even on the hottest days.

Travelers also appreciate the timing and flexibility. With stops whenever you want, the tour adapts to your energy levels and interests. That’s a big difference from rigid group tours—many reviews highlight how this approach makes the day more relaxed.

A Few Considerations

While this private tour offers plenty of benefits, it isn’t perfect for everyone. The long travel times might challenge those who prefer shorter excursions or have difficulty sitting for extended periods. The cost, which is per group (up to four), may seem steep for solo travelers or small families on a tight budget.

One negative review pointed out that the drive was longer than expected and the experience was somewhat limited in scope—no cultural or historical commentary, just scenery and leisure. If you’re after a deep cultural dive or a quick visit, this might not be the best fit.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At $501.40 per group, you’re paying for exclusivity, flexibility, and comfort. For a full day with personalized service, it provides good value—especially when you consider the private vehicle, drinks, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you’re traveling with friends or family, splitting the cost can make this a worthwhile splurge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, customizable day with no crowds, where they can enjoy Baja’s natural beauty and charming towns at their own pace. It’s perfect if you value comfort and personal service, or if you prefer to avoid large group tours. Families with older children, couples, or friends looking for a special day out will find it especially worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Pickups are typically at 6 am, giving you plenty of time for the full day’s itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but if you or your kids have trouble sitting for over 2 hours or have health restrictions, consider that the day includes a lot of travel and some walking.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages like beer or white wine. Tips for the driver are also included.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the private transportation fee is $290, payable directly to the driver. Also, if you want to bring extra drinks or souvenirs, those are extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing a full refund, which offers some peace of mind.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary allows for around 2-4 hours at each main location, enough for sightseeing, relaxing, and shopping, based on reviews.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Baja’s most beautiful spots with all the comforts of a private vehicle and the luxury of flexibility. It’s especially suited for those wanting to escape the crowds, enjoy scenic views, and have a say in how the day unfolds.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized experience that balances sightseeing with leisure, this could be just what you need. You’ll love the views, the drinks, and the chance to explore Baja in your own style. Just keep in mind the long travel times and the higher cost if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget.

Overall, for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and quality, this tour has a lot to offer—making it a memorable part of your Los Cabos trip.