Experiences and local guides in La Paz (Baja California)

Nature

La Paz faces the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau called "the world's aquarium": 900 fish species, sea lions, mantas, dolphins and, from October to April, whale sharks feeding in the bay. Off the city lies Espíritu Santo island, a World Heritage site, with white-sand beaches and green water; to the north, Balandra and its knee-deep waters; to the south, Cabo Pulmo, the only hard-coral reef on Mexico's Pacific coast.

Activities

• Swimming with whale sharks in the bay (October to April) with certified guides and limited numbers
• Espíritu Santo: snorkelling with sea lions at Los Islotes, kayaking and camping on the island
• Diving at Cabo Pulmo among schools of jacks, at Los Islotes and on the bay's wrecks
• Grey whales at Magdalena Bay (January to March) and humpbacks in the Sea of Cortez
• Balandra beach, paddleboarding and sport fishing, horseback riding and cycling in the cardón desert

When to go

October to April for whale sharks and grey whales, with mild weather. May to July the water is warm and clearer for diving; August and September are very hot with possible storms.

How to get there

Manuel Márquez de León airport (LAP) is 15 minutes away, with flights from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tijuana and Los Angeles; or Los Cabos (SJD), 2 h 30 by road with a shuttle. Ferries from Mazatlán and Topolobampo. Espíritu Santo and whale-shark trips leave from the malecón and the marina; Balandra is 25 minutes by bus; Cabo Pulmo 2 h 30.