Balandra, La Paz & Todos Santos Day Trip from Cabo with Lunch

Summary

From Cabo to Balandra’s blue bay, La Paz murals and Todos Santos magic

You’ll feel Baja’s rhythm on this day trip: wade through Balandra’s glassy shallows, relax at Coromuel Beach, share lunch in La Paz with regional flavors, and explore Todos Santos’ quirky streets and Hotel California — all with pickup included and time to just breathe in each spot.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand in that shallow turquoise water you see in photos of Balandra Beach? I didn’t really believe it until we got there — after a couple hours winding up from Cabo, watching the desert roll by out the van window. Our guide, Martín, pointed out these weird cardón cacti that looked like arms reaching for the sky. The van was quiet for a while — maybe everyone was just taking it in or still waking up. The air smelled dry and salty when we finally stepped out at Balandra. I kicked off my shoes and walked straight into the water; it was cool but not cold, soft sand underfoot. There were no beach vendors or music blaring — just wind and a few pelicans gliding low over the bay. I tried to climb up to the viewpoint (not as easy as it looks), but wow, that view sticks with you.

We stopped at Coromuel Beach next — less famous than Balandra but honestly just as peaceful. Some folks grabbed a quick swim or stretched out on the sand. By then I’d worked up an appetite (maybe from all that sun), so arriving in La Paz for lunch felt perfect timing. The place Martín took us wasn’t fancy but smelled amazing — fried steak, chicken fajitas, even something vegetarian for my friend Ana (she was relieved). I probably ate too much rice but who cares on vacation? Afterward we wandered along the malecón; there are these bright murals everywhere, and people selling paletas from little carts. Kids running around, old men playing chess under a tree — felt like real life happening around us.

The last stop was Todos Santos. It’s got this sleepy vibe but also a kind of energy? We poked our heads into Hotel California (yes, that one), browsed some shops for souvenirs, and just let ourselves get lost in the side streets for a bit. Sun was starting to dip when we piled back into the van for Cabo. The drive back was quieter — some folks napped, others stared out at the fading light over the desert hills. I kept thinking about those colors at Balandra and how peaceful it all felt compared to busy Cabo San Lucas. If you’re looking for a day trip from Cabo that isn’t just another resort thing… well, this is something else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore beaches and towns of Baja California

• Hotel pickup in Los Cabos
• Drive to Playa Balandra (2-3 hours)
• Visit Playa Balandra and viewpoint
• Relax and swim at Playa El Coromuel
• Lunch and free time in La Paz
• Visit Todos Santos and Hotel California
• Return to San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas

Top questions

How long is the drive from Cabo to Balandra Beach?

The ground transfer takes about 2 to 3 hours each way between Cabo and Balandra Beach.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch at a restaurant in La Paz is included for adults and children over 5 years old.

Are there restaurants or vendors at Balandra Beach?

No, Balandra is protected with no restaurants or vendors; bring your own snacks and drinks.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?

The tour operates in an air-conditioned van with group seating.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; lunch is not included for babies.

Do you visit Hotel California in Todos Santos?

Yes, there’s time to explore Todos Santos including Hotel California and local shops.

Is swimming possible at Coromuel Beach?

Yes, you can swim or relax by the sea during your stop at Coromuel Beach.

Is hotel pickup included from both Cabo San Lucas & San Jose del Cabo?

Yes, pickup is provided from hotels in both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo areas.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Cabo or San Jose del Cabo, bottled water throughout the journey, entry fees for protected beaches like Balandra, a full lunch in La Paz featuring regional dishes (with vegetarian options), comfortable air-conditioned van transport all day long before drop-off back at your accommodation in the evening.