La Paz, Mexico, is a paradise for boat lovers. Its calm waters of the Sea of Cortez invite you to explore the region’s stunning beaches, abundant marine life, and scenic islands. Whether you’re into snorkeling with sea lions, enjoying a sunset cruise, or exploring hidden coves, La Paz has a boat tour for every interest. I particularly enjoy the private boat trips, like the Balandra Private Boat Tour, because of their personalized touch and expert guides—some marine biologists—who make the experience both fun and educational. Plus, the chance to spend more time doing exactly what you love, without feeling rushed, makes these trips stand out.
Of course, if you prefer a social atmosphere, the All-Inclusive Catamaran Tour offers a lively day out with organic meals, open bar, and plenty of activities like kayaking and snorkeling. And for a truly special occasion, the Luxury Yacht Tour to Espiritu Santo is perfect for those wanting private, upscale service. No matter your style or budget, La Paz’s boat tours deliver memorable moments on the water.
1. Balandra Private Boat Tour
This private trip offers a tailored experience for up to five people, perfect for families or small groups. It lasts around five hours and includes visits to Balandra Beach, renowned for its shallow, bright blue waters and distinctive mushroom-shaped rock formations, and San Rafaelito Island, home to a sea lion colony and vibrant reef. What makes this tour special is the personalized nature—you control the activities, food, and timing, all aboard well-maintained, comfortable boats. The crew, mainly marine biologists, enrich your trip with insights into local marine life, making it ideal for curious travelers.
Guests often mention how flexible and accommodating the guides are, adjusting to their needs and even helping with snorkeling or other activities. It’s a great option if you want a more intimate, educational experience with plenty of time to relax or snorkel. The price is around $808.54 for a group of five, which, when split, makes it quite reasonable for the exclusivity and expertise involved.
Bottom line: If privacy, flexibility, and learning about marine life matter most, this private tour is hard to beat.
2. All-Inclusive Catamaran Tour | Beaches & Sea Lions from Los Cabos
For those starting in Los Cabos but wanting to explore La Paz’s waters, this half-day sailing cruise delivers a luxurious experience. The spacious catamaran takes you into the Sea of Cortez, where an onboard marine biologist explains what you’re seeing—think tropical fish, sea lions, and possibly dolphins. The tour includes organic meals, an open bar, and access to kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear, making it easy to stay active and entertained. Round-trip transportation from Cabo’s marina adds convenience, removing the hassle of logistics.
Guests rave about the attention to detail, from the friendly crew to the quality of the food and the chance to snorkel in pristine waters. The tour’s value for money lies in its all-inclusive nature and the variety of activities packed into five hours. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of adventure, relaxation, and excellent service in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: If you want a full, fun day with top amenities and expert guides, this cruise offers one of the best bang-for-your-buck options.
3. #1 Beach in La Paz Balandra Perfect For Cruise Groups or Families
This group tour is designed for larger parties, up to 12 people, ensuring plenty of space and comfort. It lasts about five hours and includes a visit to Balandra Beach, famous for its shallow, blue waters and stunning desert backdrop. You’ll avoid the parking issues and long lines typical of visiting Balandra by car—your private boat ensures exclusive access and plenty of time to enjoy the beach and its iconic Balandra Rock.
The tour also includes a stop at San Rafaelito Island for snorkeling with sea lions, giving your group a chance to interact with playful marine creatures. The entire experience is tailored to your schedule, making it ideal for cruise groups or families wanting a relaxed, crowd-free visit to La Paz’s favorite spot.
Guests appreciate how the tour allows personalized time at the beach, with the comfort of a private, intimate setting. The cost is $835.96 for the whole group, which can be economical for those traveling in larger parties.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise passengers or families seeking a private, hassle-free day at one of La Paz’s most beloved beaches.
$835.96 per group (up to 12)
4. Sunset Cruise in La Paz
If you’re after a romantic or peaceful end to your day, the Sunset Cruise offers a gentle, three-hour sail along La Paz’s coast. Departing from Marina Fonatur, you’ll cruise toward Pichilingue Beach as the golden hour casts a warm glow over the Sea of Cortez. The highlight is the spectacular sunset, with vibrant colors providing a perfect backdrop for photos. A national open bar keeps drinks flowing, while light cheese, cold meats, and appetizers are served as the sun dips lower.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on relaxation and scenery—it’s a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Reviewers mention the beautiful sunset views and friendly crew as key advantages. It’s best suited for couples or anyone wanting a calm, scenic experience without too much activity.
Bottom line: This cruise offers an inexpensive way to enjoy La Paz’s stunning coastline at sunset—an experience you’ll remember.
$88.00 per person
5. La Paz Mexico Sunset Cruise with Local Guides : small group
This small-group tour, priced at about $164.40 per person, emphasizes interaction with local bilingual guides who share stories, legends, and facts about the marine life you’ll likely see—dolphins, manta rays, whale-sharks, or sea turtles. It’s a two-hour cruise around La Paz Bay, focusing on nature and wildlife observation. You may encounter dolphins jumping, manta rays, and other marine animals, making it an engaging experience for nature lovers.
Ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate, educational cruise, this tour combines relaxation and learning. The reviews highlight its informative guides and the chance to capture memorable photos of the sunset and marine creatures. It’s a good choice if you want a shorter, focused experience with local insight.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in marine wildlife and local stories, with a more personal touch.
$164.40 per person
6. MOST POPULAR TOUR IN LA PAZ! Swim with Sea Lions Private Boat
This is the most sought-after tour, offering a private boat experience for up to 12 people at a cost of $1,253.50. It lasts around six and a half hours and leaves early to maximize your time. The main attraction is swimming with sea lions at Islotes, part of Espiritu Santo Island, along with opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, manta rays, and enjoy lunch on a pristine beach.
Guests love the exclusive nature of this trip—other boats are larger, less intimate, and more crowded. The itinerary covers bays and channels, with plenty of time to snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The expert crew has experience guiding wildlife encounters, making it ideal for animal lovers.
The tour’s value lies in its personalized, all-day nature encounter, suited for travelers with an interest in marine wildlife and comfort. It’s perfect if your priority is up-close wildlife interaction with a private, flexible schedule.
Bottom line: If you want to swim with playful sea lions and enjoy a private, tailored experience, this tour offers excellent value.
7. Espiritu Santo and Sealion Swimming aboard a luxury yacht
For those seeking a high-end, fully private experience, this luxury yacht tour provides an eight-hour excursion to Espiritu Santo Island. It includes a stop at Balandra, where you can admire the iconic mushroom rock, and a visit to La Lobera, the largest sealion nursery in Baja California Sur. The tour is all about personalized service—you’ll enjoy paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scenic hikes, all with a dedicated crew and gourmet lunch onboard.
This experience is a luxury option with a price tag of $2,000, but it also offers maximum flexibility and exclusivity, perfect for special occasions or travelers who desire a private, all-inclusive adventure. The boat’s amenities and the custom itinerary ensure you experience La Paz’s marine wonders at your own pace.
As it’s a private, customizable tour, reviews aren’t available, but the luxury aspect guarantees a memorable, hassle-free day with top-tier comfort.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a luxury, private experience with tailored activities and premium service.
$2,000.00 per group (up to 10)
8. Snorkel or Sunset in La Paz aboard a 42 feet Yacht
This private yacht experience combines snorkeling and sunset views in an intimate setting. For around $1,270, your group (up to 10) can enjoy a three-hour trip with opportunities to snorkel in secluded bays, where you might encounter sea lions and other marine life, or simply relax on deck with drinks and snacks. The yacht is well-equipped and provides a personalized experience away from crowds.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, allowing them to choose between snorkeling or watching the sunset over the Sea of Cortez. It’s suited for small groups who want a private, tailored escape with an emphasis on comfort and scenery.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a customized, relaxed experience with options for snorkeling or enjoying the sunset aboard a private yacht.
$1,270.00 per group (up to 10)
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in La Paz
When selecting the best boat tour for your trip, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If privacy and marine education are your priorities, the Balandra Private Boat Tour or the Luxury Yacht Tour are excellent options. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Swim with Sea Lions Private Boat offers an up-close encounter with marine animals. Budget travelers may prefer the Sunset Cruise or the Small Group Sunset Tour, which are affordable yet memorable.
Think about the type of experience you want: relaxation, adventure, family fun, or luxury. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular trips.
To sum it up, La Paz offers a wide array of boat tours that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. From private snorkeling adventures with marine biologists to luxury yacht excursions, there’s something for all. For a more personalized, educational experience, the private trips stand out. If you’re after a lively social atmosphere, the catamaran or sunset cruises will suit you perfectly. Consider your priorities, plan ahead, and enjoy the incredible marine world of La Paz—you won’t regret it.