La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos from CABO and San Jose

Exploring Baja California Sur becomes an unforgettable experience with this full-day tour from Cabo San Lucas. Priced at $105.95 per person and lasting roughly 11 to 14 hours, it offers an ideal way to see key highlights like Balandra Beach, La Paz, and Todos Santos. The tour features air-conditioned transportation, a lunch in a local restaurant, and visits dozens of miles of spectacular scenery, making it a great choice for travelers who want a rundown of the region.

While the tour’s length means it’s suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, most guests appreciate the efficient schedule that covers multiple popular spots. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, ensuring a manageable experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos. The inclusion of bottled water and admission to Balandra Beach enhances the value, although some reviews suggest that the experience can vary depending on the guide and timing.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure covering La Paz, Balandra Beach, and Todos Santos from Cabo San Lucas.
• Price of $105.95 per person, including lunch, transport, and entrance to Balandra.
• Tour duration ranges from 11 to 14 hours, making it suitable for those ready for a long day.
• Pickup service is offered from local hotels, with group sizes up to 40 travelers.
• Highlights include the stunning Balandra Beach, the picturesque town of Todos Santos, and the seawall walk in La Paz.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, especially for their English communication and friendly attitude.

From the Transpeninsular Highway to Balandra’s Viewpoint

The tour begins early, with pickup from hotels in Cabo San Lucas, setting the stage for a drive of approximately 2 to 3 hours along the Transpeninsular Highway. This scenic route introduces travelers to Baja California Sur’s unique landscape, with the guide providing commentary along the way. The anticipation builds as the group approaches Playa Balandra, famous for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery.

The first stop at Balandra Beach is a highlight of the entire experience. Here, visitors have around 2 hours to explore, swim, or simply relax at the protected area. The tour offers the chance to climb to the viewpoint, which provides breathtaking views of the bay. It’s worth noting that no restaurants or vendors operate in Balandra, so bringing snacks, drinks, and sun protection is recommended.

Enjoying the Crystal Waters of Playa El Coromuel

After experiencing Balandra, the tour continues with a visit to Playa El Coromuel, where crystal-clear waters invite swimming and relaxing in nature. With around 2 hours allocated at this beach, guests can unwind and enjoy the peaceful environment. No admission fee applies here, making it a relaxed addition to the schedule. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot for a laid-back break.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to share moments in unspoiled natural settings, with some reviews highlighting the beauty of the beaches and the friendly atmosphere. This stop offers a quieter complement to the more popular Balandra, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Lunch in La Paz Featuring Regional Dishes

The tour’s mid-point is in La Paz, where around 2 hours are dedicated to lunch. The meal options here include breaded steak, chicken fajitas, and vegetarian dishes, all served with rice. The restaurant choice allows travelers to enjoy regional flavors in a local setting, adding a culinary dimension to the trip.

Most reviews note that the guide often provides helpful commentary during lunch, explaining local dishes and sharing insights into the area’s culture. The meal is a good opportunity to relax and recharge before heading to the next scenic destination.

Exploring Todos Santos and the Hotel California

The last major stop is Todos Santos, a picturesque village full of history, culture, and vibrant shops. Guests have about 1 hour here to explore the town, visit local shops, or see the famous Hotel California. The town’s charming streets and artistic vibe make it a great photo opportunity.

Some reviews point out that visiting Hotel California and wandering the streets provides a flavor of local life. However, the time allocated can feel short for those wanting a deeper dive into the town. Still, it offers a snapshot of Baja’s artistic and cultural spirit.

Return Journey Along the Transpeninsular Highway

After exploring Todos Santos, the group departs for Cabo San Lucas via the Transpeninsular Highway, with an estimated 1 to 2-hour drive. The return journey offers time to relax after a long day, with the driver providing a smooth ride back to the hotels in San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas.

The group size and logistics help keep the trip organized, although some reviews mention variability in guide quality, which can influence overall enjoyment.

Practical Tips for the Tour Day

The tour starts early at 4:00 am, so travelers should prepare for a long day. Since Playa Balandra is a protected area, bringing snacks, drinks, and sun protection is essential. The air-conditioned van makes the journey comfortable, and bottled water is included to stay hydrated.

It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothes and footwear suitable for beach walking and town exploring. Also, bringing your own towels is recommended, as some guests mention this enhances the beach experience. The tour is not ideal for babies, as lunch and seating are not provided for children aged 0-5.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Guests frequently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many noting English-speaking guides who are attentive and helpful. The driver’s professionalism also receives positive remarks, especially for making the group feel comfortable and safe.

However, some reviews highlight variability in the overall experience, with concerns about timing issues and guide communication. One review recounts a disappointing day due to poor organization and guide professionalism, emphasizing the importance of expecting a long day with potential inconsistencies.

The Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

This full-day tour offers value for money by combining beaches, towns, and scenic drives, with lunch included. The stunning Balandra Beach remains a top highlight, especially for those eager to experience Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.

The main limitation is the length of the day, which might feel long for some guests, and the timing at certain stops can be rushed. Also, guide quality varies, so it’s wise to clarify expectations, especially regarding language and tour organization.

Final Thoughts on the La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos Tour

This tour from Cabo San Lucas delivers a comprehensive taste of Baja California Sur, perfect for travelers who want to see iconic beaches, explore charming towns, and enjoy regional cuisine in one day. The stunning scenery at Balandra and the cultural charm of Todos Santos make it worthwhile despite the lengthy schedule.

Most guests find the guide’s friendliness and knowledge to be a major plus, though some experiences depend heavily on the guide’s professionalism. Price, included meals, and transportation logistics contribute to a solid value, especially for those eager to discover Baja’s diverse landscapes.

Ultimately, this tour suits adventurers comfortable with long days who want a comprehensive and organized journey through some of Baja’s most famous spots. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting an introduction to the region’s natural beauty and local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 5-10 years can participate, but babies (0-5 years) are not provided with lunch or seats, so the tour is not ideal for very young children or infants.

What should I bring for Balandra Beach?
Since Balandra is a protected area without vendors, bringing snacks, drinks, sun protection, and towels is recommended for comfort and convenience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 11 to 14 hours, with early pickup at 4:00 am and return in the evening, making it a full-day commitment.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch in La Paz with regional dishes like breaded steak and fajitas is included in the tour price, providing good value.

What if the weather is poor?
This tour requires good weather to proceed. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund.

How is the group size managed?
The tour operates with up to 40 travelers, ensuring space to move and ask questions, though some reviews indicate variability in guide engagement.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, air-conditioned vans are used for the entire journey, making the long drives more comfortable, especially in the warmer months.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
The itinerary is fixed, but some reviews suggest shorter visits at certain stops could improve overall enjoyment for future travelers.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of beaches, cultural stops, and scenic drives offers a well-rounded Baja experience, with Balandra Beach often being the main highlight.

Are guides helpful and informative?
Most guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and bilingual communication, which enhances the overall experience, though some reviews note inconsistencies.

Is there anything else I should be aware of?
Prepare for a long day, bring comfortable clothes and sun protection, and manage expectations regarding timing and guide variability.