La Paz & Balandra Beach Day Trip from Cabo with Lunch

Summary

Todos Santos photos, La Paz malecón strolls, Balandra’s calm water and a seaside meal

You’ll grab breakfast on the go near Todos Santos before strolling La Paz’s lively malecón and watching pearls being polished by hand. Swim or float at Balandra or El Tecolote beach (depending on access), then eat fresh seafood with views of Espíritu Santo Island. It’s a day for small surprises — and maybe sandy shoes on the ride back.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the light hit the old Hotel California sign in Todos Santos — we barely had time to snap a photo before climbing back into the van, but honestly, it made me laugh how everyone tried to squeeze into one selfie. Our guide, Jorge, handed out breakfast burritos from La Garita (still warm, smelled like corn and chiles) and told us stories about Baja’s old pearl divers as we headed north. Didn’t expect breakfast to taste that good on the road.

La Paz was busier than I thought — pelicans gliding over the malecón, couples eating ice cream even though it wasn’t that hot yet. Jorge pointed out these odd bronze statues along the promenade (one looked like a giant fish with wings?) and led us into a tiny jewelry shop for a quick pearl demonstration. The woman there showed us how they polish them — she let me hold one, cool and almost slippery between my fingers. I kept thinking about how much work goes into something so small.

Balandra Beach is famous for its shallow turquoise water but you never really get it until you see it — or wade in and realize you can walk forever without losing your footing. We lucked out with space that day (sometimes they close it when it’s full), but if not there’s El Tecolote next door, which Jorge swore has better fish tacos anyway. Lunch was right on the sand facing Espíritu Santo Island — shrimp grilled with garlic and lime juice, nothing fancy but perfect after swimming. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Todos Santos, La Paz, and Beaches

• Photo stop at Hotel California
• Pick up to-go breakfast at La Garita
• Walk along La Paz malecón
• Watch pearl demonstration at Velvet Box
• Relax at Balandra or El Tecolote Beach
• Enjoy seaside lunch with island views

Top questions

How long does the day trip from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz & Balandra Beach take?

The tour lasts all day, including stops at Todos Santos, La Paz malecón, pearl demo, beach time at Balandra or El Tecolote, plus lunch.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select that option during booking.

Can I swim at Balandra Beach?

Yes, if capacity allows entry; otherwise you'll visit El Tecolote Beach nearby for swimming.

What kind of lunch is served?

A seaside lunch featuring local flavors like seafood is included at El Tecolote Beach restaurant overlooking Espíritu Santo Island.

Is there a guide on this tour?

Yes, a professional guide accompanies you throughout the day trip from Cabo San Lucas.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

No, infants under 4 years old are not permitted on this tour.

What should I bring for the day trip?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and some cash for personal expenses or souvenirs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off if selected when booking, a traditional Baja-style breakfast to go from La Garita Restaurant near Todos Santos, guided strolls along La Paz’s malecón with a stop for a live pearl demonstration at Velvet Box jewelry store, beach time at either Balandra or El Tecolote depending on access limits that day, plus a full seaside lunch overlooking Espíritu Santo Island before heading back in comfort with bottled water provided throughout.