Bahia Magdalena tour: Sail mangroves, dunes and seabirds

Taste fresh local ceviche while relaxing by the ocean on Magdalena Island

A 5-hour guided tour of Bahia Magdalena combines sailing through mangroves, seabird watching at the Islet of Ducks, and free time walking the sand dunes of Magdalene Island. The tour includes a local guide in English or Spanish, fresh ceviche served on the beach, drinking water and soft drinks, and access to the protected area. Minimum age is 12.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sail, explore dunes, and relax on beach

• Sail through Bahia Magdalena mangroves
• Visit Islet of Ducks and watch seabirds
• Explore sand dunes of Isla Magdalena
• Enjoy free time walking and relaxing on beach
• Eat fresh local ceviche by the sea

The experience

The tour starts with a boat departure into the mangroves of Bahia Magdalena, where you watch seabirds in their habitat before reaching the Islet of Ducks. The shallow-draft shadow boat lets you navigate the narrow channels where larger vessels cannot go, bringing you close to the birds without disturbing them. After the mangrove section, you sail to Magdalene Island and its sand dunes, where you have free time to walk the beach, rest and take in the view across the water.

Fresh ceviche prepared in the local style is served on the beach, paired with drinking water and soft drinks. The guide speaks English or Spanish and knows the area's ecology and wildlife. The tour operates within a protected area, so access itself is part of what you're paying for, not all boats can legally enter these waters.

Five hours is the full duration, which means you can fit this into a morning or early afternoon without losing the rest of your day. The experience suits anyone 12 and older in reasonable health. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or if you are pregnant.

What’s included

• A local guide in English or Spanish.
• fresh ceviche served on the beach.
• drinking water and soft drinks.
• access to the protected area of Bahia Magdalena.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

AgesAdult (12 to 65 years) · Under 12: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 7

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “The tour departs from Puerto San Carlos, Baja California Sur. Upon booking, you will receive the exact location of the meeting point using Google Maps and detailed directions to get there.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Murillos Bros Adventours

Is this one for you?Five hours leaves room for another activity before or after, so you can combine this with a beach day or a separate meal in town. The free time on Magdalene Island is unstructured, so you set the pace once you arrive.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What birds will I see at the Islet of Ducks?

The Islet of Ducks is home to various species of seabirds. The guide will point them out as you sail past, though the exact species present can vary by season.

Is the ceviche included in the price, or do I pay extra?

Fresh ceviche is included in the tour price and is served on the beach during your free time on Magdalene Island.

How much free time do I have to walk the beach on Magdalene Island?

The tour includes free time on the beach at Magdalene Island to walk, relax and admire the scenery, though the exact amount depends on the day's schedule and tides.

Do I need any experience to go on this tour?

No experience is required. The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels, though it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or if you are pregnant. Minimum age is 12.

What should I bring for a 5-hour boat tour?

Drinking water and soft drinks are provided. Bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes for the beach and dunes, and a camera if you want to photograph the seabirds and landscape.