La Paz & Todos Santos: Balandra Beach, Malecón & Hotel California

Summary

Swim Balandra’s clear waters then wander Todos Santos streets

You’ll walk La Paz’s lively Malecón with locals, float in Balandra’s famously clear waters, eat fresh regional food by the sea, and explore Todos Santos’ crafts markets and Hotel California—with time to wander or just sit quietly if you want. This isn’t just sights—it’s people laughing together over lunch or pausing under old trees when nobody says much at all.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was how salty the air felt as we drove into La Paz. Our guide, Mariana, pointed out the Malecón right away—kids running along the sea wall, a guy selling paletas under a faded umbrella. It wasn’t even 9am and already warm. We stopped for a bit; she told us about pearl cultivation (I didn’t know La Paz had that history) and we ducked into Velvet Box just to see the tiny pearls up close. I tried on a ring for fun—no pressure to buy, which I liked.

Balandra Beach came next. The water really is that clear—like glass over pale sand. There’s this mushroom-shaped rock everyone takes photos with; it’s kind of goofy but you end up doing it anyway. I floated for ages, watching pelicans dive nearby. Sand here is fine and almost cool underfoot even in the sun. Lunch was at Mariscos el Paraje after we’d dried off—a plate of breaded steak with rice and hibiscus water (agua de jamaica). Someone at our table tried to order in Spanish and got a big laugh from the waiter—everyone relaxed after that.

Later in Todos Santos, we wandered past Hotel California (yeah, that one), but honestly what stuck with me more was this crafts market behind the plaza—woven bags, little milagros charms, and a woman showing how she makes papel picado by hand. There’s an old wishing tree too; Mariana said locals tie ribbons for luck but I just touched the bark and hoped for something good. Sunlight slanted through dusty leaves while we stood there—not much talking, just sort of letting it all sink in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore La Paz, beaches, and Todos Santos

• Visit Balandra Beach and see The Mushroom
• Enjoy free time at Playa El Coromuel
• Have lunch at Mariscos el Paraje restaurant
• Tour the Malecón and Puerto de Ilusión
• Visit Velvet Box Jewelry Store
• Photograph Hotel California
• See the Aztec Calendar in Todos Santos
• Explore Todos Santos crafts market and wishing tree

Top questions

How long does the La Paz & Todos Santos day trip last?

The tour covers a full day including stops at Balandra Beach, Malecón de La Paz, lunch at Mariscos el Paraje, and free time in Todos Santos before returning.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

The tour includes round transportation for your convenience.

Can I swim at Balandra Beach during this tour?

Yes, you’ll have free time to swim and relax at Balandra Beach as part of the itinerary.

Are vegetarian meal options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available at Mariscos el Paraje restaurant—just ask your guide or server.

What is included in the price of this tour?

The price covers guided tour services, transportation, entry bracelet for protected areas like Balandra Beach, lunch at El Paraje Seafood Restaurant (with drinks), and a lightweight lunch box snack.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants from 0 to 11 months are not allowed on this tour due to safety regulations.

Will we visit Hotel California in Todos Santos?

Yes, there is free time to visit Hotel California and take photos during your stop in Todos Santos.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from your meeting point or hotel, entry bracelets for protected natural areas like Balandra Beach, a guided walk along La Paz’s Malecón with stops at local shops such as Velvet Box Jewelry Store to learn about pearl cultivation, swimming time at both Balandra and El Coromuel beaches, a lightweight snack box en route if you get peckish early on, full lunch with regional dishes (vegetarian options available) plus drinks at Mariscos el Paraje restaurant—and plenty of unhurried time to explore both La Paz and Todos Santos before heading back.