La Paz is a fantastic base for full-day tours that offer a real taste of Baja California’s natural beauty. Its location on the Gulf of California means you can easily access unforgettable experiences like whale watching, snorkeling with sea lions, or exploring stunning islands. We especially love activities like the Full Day Gray Whale Watching Experience for the chance to see these gentle giants up close, and the Full-Day Tour Nature Experience at Isla Espiritu Santo for its breathtaking scenery and playful sea lions. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or a relaxing day on the water, La Paz has something to offer.
If you’re trying to narrow down your options, this guide will help you compare the top full-day tours — from whale watching in winter to private scuba trips and fishing expeditions — so you can choose the experience best suited to your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of full-day tours in La Paz, ranging from nature-focused trips to private adventures and fishing excursions. Whether you’re interested in whale watching (Tour #1), exploring Espiritu Santo Island (Tour #3), or enjoying a private scuba diving trip (Tour #2), there’s a perfect match here. The list concludes with options for fishing and multi-town explorations. Keep reading for detailed insights on each tour.
1. Full Day Gray Whale Watching Experience
At number 1, the Full Day Gray Whale Watching Experience is a standout for lovers of marine wildlife. This tour is unique because it’s led by a Marine Biologist, ensuring you get expert insights into whale behavior and ecology during the approximately 9-hour trip. You’ll join small groups—typically around 6 people—making it easier to get close to the whales and enjoy an intimate experience. The whales in Baja are famous for approaching boats, sometimes even rubbing against them, and this tour often includes opportunities to touch and interact with these gentle giants.
Guests consistently praise the personalized attention and the ability to see about 15 whales during the trip. Notable reviews mention being surrounded by a pod of over 300 whales, with some coming right up to the boat. The combination of expert guides and the chance to witness such impressive wildlife makes this a top choice. The tour runs from mid-January to February, when whale sightings peak.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in marine life and want a small-group, educational experience, this whale watching tour offers incredible value at $178.44 per person. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, and anyone eager for a close encounter with Baja’s marine giants.
2. Full Day Private Scuba Diving in Espiritu Santo Island
Next on our list is the Full Day Private Scuba Diving in Espiritu Santo Island. For around $1,086.35 per group (up to five people), this tour offers a personalized diving experience that puts your group in control. The private trip is ideal if you’re traveling with family or friends and want the flexibility to customize your schedule, dive spots, and even meals. The vessel is described as comfortable and in excellent condition, with marine biologists on board, adding a layer of educational value.
This tour is best suited for certified divers looking to explore the rich underwater world of Espiritu Santo. The focus is on quality and individual attention, with plenty of time for multiple dives and tailored activities. The marine environment here is teeming with colorful fish and coral, making it a memorable outing for underwater enthusiasts.
Reviews are limited, but the emphasis on customization and the marine biologist-led crew suggest a high-quality dive experience. Note that this tour is more expensive but offers exclusivity and flexibility.
Bottom line: If you want a private, flexible, and expert-led scuba experience in one of Baja’s most beautiful islands, this tour provides excellent value for the personalized attention and mature marine environment it offers.
3. Full-Day Tour Nature Experience at Isla Espiritu Santo! Sea Lions
For those interested in wildlife and scenic beauty, the Full-Day Tour Nature Experience at Isla Espiritu Santo shines. Starting with a smooth boat ride, the tour takes you to Los Islotes, where you can swim with playful sea lions (except during mating season in June to August). During that period, the tour switches to a coral reef with abundant marine life, ensuring year-round appeal. The main highlight is the pristine beaches and clear waters of Isla Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views and ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions.
The trip includes a six-hour adventure with admission included, making it a hassle-free day. The tour emphasizes natural beauty, with opportunities to relax on soft white sands and enjoy the turquoise waters. Reviewers note the spectacular scenery and the chance to observe sea lions in their habitat. This tour is best for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, snorkeling, and relaxing on picture-perfect beaches.
Bottom line: If you love nature and wildlife with a side of scenic photography, this tour offers a memorable day at a reasonable price of $229. It’s perfect for families and active travelers who want an immersive experience.
$229.00 per person
4. Private Full Day Tour to Los Cabos from La Paz
The Private Full Day Tour to Los Cabos from La Paz is a flexible and comprehensive option, though it has mixed reviews—rated 1/5 based on one review. It offers a full day of exploring the Baja coast, starting with a pickup from your hotel around 8 AM. The itinerary includes visits to Todos Santos, where you can stroll the streets and see the historic mission, and then head to Cabo San Lucas for a boat ride beneath the famous arches, with plenty of sightseeing along the way.
This tour is highly customizable, allowing you to spend as much or as little time as you like in each location. It’s suited for travelers wanting a broad overview of Baja’s towns and coast with private transport. The price is $390 per group, making it a mid-range option for a full day out.
However, the key drawback is the limited review data, which suggests checking for current reviews before booking. It’s best if you prioritize privacy and flexibility over a structured group tour.
Bottom line: If you want a tailored tour with private transportation covering Baja’s highlights, this option works, but be sure to verify current reviews and what’s included.
$390.00 per group (up to 5)
5. Full Day Harpoon Fishing in La Paz
Last but not least, the Full Day Harpoon Fishing in La Paz offers a different kind of adventure. For $556.29 per group (up to four people), it’s perfect for anglers eager to try their hand at regulated, authentic fishing in Baja’s waters. The tour promises a full eight-hour day of fishing, giving you plenty of time to catch local species in a natural setting.
Although there are no reviews yet, the emphasis on live animal encounters and fishing activity makes it appealing for those wanting a hands-on experience and a break from sightseeing. The tour’s focus on responsible fishing also makes it suitable for eco-conscious travelers.
Bottom line: If fishing is your passion or you want a day spent connecting with nature through sport, this tour offers an adventurous and genuine experience.
$556.29 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a full-day tour in La Paz, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If marine wildlife fascinates you, the whale watching (Tour #1) provides an awe-inspiring encounter. For underwater explorers, the private scuba trip (Tour #2) offers tailored diving in a pristine environment. Wildlife lovers should not miss the Isla Espiritu Santo, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing on gorgeous beaches.
For those interested in local culture and scenic drives, the Los Cabos tour (Tour #4) delivers a broader Baja experience, but it’s best to check recent reviews. Finally, anglers can consider harpoon fishing if they want a sport-focused day connecting with Baja’s ocean life.
Booking early, especially for wildlife tours during peak seasons, helps ensure availability and the best experience. Think about what excites you most—marine encounters, underwater adventures, cultural sights, or fishing—and pick a tour that matches your style.
Final Thoughts
La Paz’s full-day tours cover everything from whale watching and island adventures to private diving and fishing. For a first-timer, the whale watching (Tour #1) offers an unforgettable close-up with nature. If your group loves personalized experiences, the private scuba dives (Tour #2) make for a special day. Wildlife and scenery fans will find the Isla Espiritu Santo trip (Tour #3) hard to beat.
Whatever your interests, La Paz’s diverse full-day tours make it easy to craft a memorable Baja experience. Just remember to book early—these popular trips fill up fast, especially during whale season. Happy exploring!