From Los Cabos: City Tour La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos

Discover the Charm of Baja California Sur with the Los Cabos Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour from Los Cabos costs $98 per person and offers a chance to explore some of Baja California Sur’s most captivating spots. Starting early with a 5:00 AM pick-up, the tour spans approximately 12 hours, taking visitors through stunning beaches, lively coastal promenades, and artistic towns. The tour is well-suited for those eager to see La Paz’s natural beauty and Todos Santos’ unique character, though the transportation’s comfort and pacing could be a concern for some.

The experience includes visits to Balandra Beach, famous for its turquoise waters and iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation. It also features a walk along the Malecón in La Paz, a scenic downtown promenade with panoramic sea views and shopping opportunities. The highlight for many is the visit to Todos Santos, a vibrant town packed with local art, crafts, and architectural charm, including a stop at the legendary Hotel California.

This tour’s main appeal lies in its comprehensive itinerary and diverse stops, though reviews suggest that comfort and guide quality can vary. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning, but those sensitive to transport conditions or lengthy drives might want to consider other options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day experience from Los Cabos covering Balandra, La Paz, and Todos Santos
• Price of $98 per person for approximately 12 hours of exploration
• Includes transportation, bilingual guide, light snack, and meal at El Paraje
• Visits Balandra Beach, known for its turquoise waters and mushroom rock
• Walk along La Paz Malecón with scenic sea views and shopping options
• Explore Todos Santos, with a guided tour and free time, visiting Hotel California

Starting Early for a Full Day of Baja Adventure

The tour begins bright and early with a 5:00 AM hotel pick-up in Los Cabos, ensuring a full day to cover Balandra Beach, La Paz, and Todos Santos. The transportation is by comfortable van, but in one recent review, the vehicle was noted to be old and uncomfortable, lacking air conditioning and with some safety concerns. The driver is bilingual, but the guide’s depth of commentary varies, with some reviews mentioning that guides may focus more on driving than storytelling.

The early start means travelers get a long, active day, with the return to Los Cabos around 7:00 PM. This makes it ideal for those who want to maximize their sightseeing but might feel a bit rushed or tired by the end.

Exploring Balandra Beach: Crystal Clear Waters and Unique Rock Formations

The first stop at Balandra Beach is about 2-3 hours of free time, giving ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos of the famous mushroom-shaped rock. The beach’s calm waters and scenic beauty are standout features, making it a favorite for relaxing and snapping memorable pictures.

On the way, travelers enjoy scenic views and a short sightseeing drive that showcases the area’s natural landscapes. Some reviews mention that the beach can be crowded or abandoned in parts, but overall, the scenery remains a major highlight of this tour.

Playa El Coromuel: A Family-Friendly Beach Stop

After Balandra, the tour continues to Playa El Coromuel, a short 25-minute drive away. This stop lasts about an hour, offering a relaxing atmosphere beneath palm umbrellas. It provides a more leisurely pace perfect for families or those wanting a quiet break.

While the beach itself is described as beautiful, some visitors note that beach rentals could benefit from clearer bilingual signage for umbrellas and chairs, as not everyone understands Spanish or the local language. It’s an ideal spot for casual lounging or a quick dip in the sea.

More Great Tours Nearby

Strolling Along La Paz Malecón: Panoramic Views and Local Shops

The Malecón in La Paz is a 30-minute stop, giving visitors the chance to walk along the seaside promenade. This lively area is lined with shops, cafes, and art installations, offering panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. It’s a popular spot for photos and people-watching.

The tour includes some shopping opportunities, and the scenic views make this a memorable part of the day. It’s a good place to buy souvenirs or simply enjoy the breeze and scenery before heading to lunch.

Lunch with a View at El Paraje Restaurant

Lunch is served at El Paraje, a restaurant overlooking La Paz. This meal provides a welcome break and a chance to enjoy local cuisine amid beautiful surroundings. The included meal is a highlight for many, offering a satisfying pause in the busy schedule.

The restaurant’s overlooking location adds to the experience, though some reviews suggest that timing can be tight depending on the group’s pace. Still, it’s a convenient and scenic spot for lunch.

Visiting Todos Santos: Art, Culture, and the Famous Hotel California

The highlight of the second half of the tour is a visit to Todos Santos, a charming artistic town with vibrant streets, galleries, and shops. The guided tour here emphasizes the town’s architectural and cultural charms, including a visit to Hotel California, renowned for its famous music lore.

Visitors have about an hour to explore independently, shop for local crafts, and admire the colorful streets. Many appreciate the guided insights into the town’s history and artistic scene.

Hotel California: A Quirky Landmark in Todos Santos

The Hotel California is a well-known stop on this tour, recognized for its musical association and unique architecture. Visitors can spend about 30 minutes exploring the hotel grounds, taking photos, and soaking in the local ambiance. The hotel’s quirky charm adds a fun element to the trip, especially for fans of music and storytelling.

Return Journey: Long Drive with Mixed Comfort

The return trip involves two hours of travel back to Los Cabos. Some reviews mention that the van’s condition and lack of air conditioning make the journey less comfortable, especially in hot weather. The driver is noted as friendly and bilingual, but the ride quality can vary.

Travelers should be prepared for a long day, with some feeling that the total hours exceeded the advertised 12-hour schedule. Pacing and comfort may influence overall satisfaction.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This full-day tour fits travelers who want a comprehensive experience with scenic beaches, local culture, and artistic towns. It offers great value with included meals and transportation, but the comfort level and guide quality may vary.

People with flexible expectations about vehicle comfort and pacing will likely enjoy the diverse stops and scenic views. However, those sensitive to long drives in older vehicles or hot conditions might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts on the Los Cabos City Tour to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos

This $98 full-day tour provides a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and artistic charm. It offers a cost-effective way to see Baja California Sur’s highlights, especially Balandra Beach and Todos Santos. The itinerary is well-structured, but vehicle comfort and guide experience are areas to consider.

For travelers who prioritize scenery and cultural sights over luxury, this tour delivers good value. It is best suited for those with an adventurous spirit and flexible expectations about comfort and pacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in Los Cabos in a comfortable van.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 5:00 AM with an early pick-up and returning around 7:00 PM.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Balandra Beach, Playa El Coromuel, Malecón in La Paz, and Todos Santos, including a visit to Hotel California.

What is included in the price?
Price includes guided tour services, bilingual driver, traveler insurance, light snack, lunch at El Paraje, and transportation.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking at stops and long hours in transport, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is the size of the group?
The group is limited to 14 participants for a more personalized experience.

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

Are guides available in English?
Yes, guides speak English and Spanish.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, towels, and comfortable clothing. Note that professional photographs are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for families, especially since it includes leisurely beach stops, but consider the length and transport comfort.

How does this tour compare to other similar experiences?
It offers good value with diverse stops and cultural insights, though some reviews highlight comfort issues. Alternatives may include private tours or different itineraries focusing on specific interests.

This full-day adventure from Los Cabos combines stunning scenery, cultural stops, and practical logistics, making it a solid choice for those eager to explore Baja California Sur in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby