La Paz: 3-Beach Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks

La Paz: 3-Beach Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks
Location: Baja California Sur, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Price: $255 per person
Provider: FunCabo

Imagine spending a day exploring the stunning coastline of Baja California Sur, where the desert meets the sea. This 6-hour snorkeling tour takes you to three beautiful beaches—El Merito, Balandra, and Pichilingue—each offering unique scenery and vibrant underwater life. Guided by friendly locals, you’re treated not only to crystal-clear waters and marine encounters but also to a hearty lunch at the well-known Sea Side Restaurant.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the diverse scenery—from rugged desert landscapes to pristine beaches—and the generous inclusion of full snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. It’s a well-rounded day that combines adventure with relaxation. However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or looking for a very leisurely, non-snorkeling day, this might not be ideal, as snorkeling is at the core of the tour.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who love marine life and scenic coastlines, as well as families or groups seeking a balanced mix of activity and downtime. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate guided tours that handle logistics, making it easier to focus on enjoying the environment.

Key Points

• Multiple Beaches: Visit three different beaches, each offering unique scenery and snorkeling opportunities.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Full snorkeling gear included, ensuring you don’t have to worry about renting equipment separately.
• Delicious Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy a generous meal and beverages at the famous Sea Side Restaurant.
• Expert Guides & Certified Captain: You’ll be in good hands with knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and fun.
• Flexible & Convenient: Round-trip transportation from La Paz resorts/hotels simplifies logistics, with options for private groups.
• Additional Activities: Kayaking or paddleboarding available at extra cost, adding to the day’s variety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Introduction:
The tour kicks off at the Cortez Club, a well-known local hub, where you’ll check in and meet your guide. From there, a comfortable boat whisks you across the waters of the Sea of Cortez, famous for its vibrant marine ecosystem and dramatic coastline.

First Stop: El Merito
This beach is where many travelers say they first get a sense of Baja’s rugged beauty. The waters here are typically calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling. Expect to see a variety of marine life, from colorful fish to perhaps even some sea lions, depending on the season. We loved the way the crystal waters reveal underwater life clearly, making it easy to spot fish or coral formations.

Second Stop: Balandra Beach
This spot is often hailed as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. Its iconic mushroom-shaped rock formations and shallow, turquoise waters make it ideal for a break. After snorkeling here, you’ll have time for a delicious lunch at the Sea Side Restaurant, a favorite among visitors. The food is described as flavorful and plentiful, with drinks to cool you down after a morning in the sun.

Relaxation & Leisure Time:
Post-lunch, you can swim, walk along the soft sands, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore at your own pace. Reviews indicate that many find this part of the tour very relaxing, with some mentioning that the scenery here is truly postcard-worthy.

Final Stop: Pichilingue
This last beach offers a perfect opportunity for one last swim or snorkel. The waters tend to be just as inviting as earlier stops, and if you’re feeling active, renting a kayak or paddleboard at additional cost offers a fun way to wind down.

Return & Reflection:
By mid-afternoon, the boat heads back to La Paz, arriving around 3:00-3:30 pm. Many guests say that the journey back is a peaceful way to reflect on the day, often snapping photos of the coastline as the sun begins to dip.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:
– Visits to the three beaches—El Merito, Balandra, and Pichilingue
– Full snorkeling equipment
– Certified captain and guide
– Lunch and drinks
– National park permit
– Parking, bathroom facilities, and round-trip transportation from La Paz resorts/hotels

Not Included:
– Gratuities (left to your discretion)
– Kayak and paddleboard rentals at $60 USD + 16% tax each
– Transportation from Los Cabos resorts (if applicable)

Practical Details & Tips

What to Bring:
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof camera. Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment. A credit card is handy for optional rentals and tips.

What Not to Bring:
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard, which helps keep the environment and atmosphere safe and family-friendly.

Best for:
Active travelers who enjoy snorkeling and beaches, families looking for a full-day adventure, and anyone who appreciates scenic boat rides and fresh seafood. It’s less suitable if you prefer a very relaxed or land-based experience or have mobility concerns.

The Experience from Our Perspective

We found this tour to be a well-balanced blend of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. The stunning views at each beach, paired with the opportunity to see marine life up close, made it stand out. The full snorkeling gear was a big plus—it’s one less thing to worry about—and the lunch at the Sea Side Restaurant hit the spot after a morning in the water.

The boat ride itself offers a fantastic perspective of the coastline, where the desert’s rugged terrain meets the shimmering sea. Guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to point out marine and land highlights, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.

One potential drawback is the tour’s fixed schedule, which might feel rushed if you want more time at each spot. If you’re a slow eater or prefer to linger in one place, you might want to plan for some extra relaxation time post-tour.

This tour offers excellent value for those keen to explore Baja’s marine treasures without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately. The inclusiveness and convenience make it a smart choice for travelers who want a taste of the Sea of Cortez’s famous waters.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling tour suits travelers who love marine environments, scenic beaches, and guided convenience. It’s especially ideal for those wanting to see diverse marine life and enjoy a day of sun and water. Families with kids comfortable in the water, adventure-seeking groups, or solo travelers eager to meet others will find it a rewarding experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed beach day without the water, or if you’re not interested in snorkeling, this might not be your best fit. Also, those with mobility issues or pregnant women might want to consider the physical demands of boat transfers and snorkeling.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, beach visits, snorkeling, and lunch, with return around 3:00-3:30 pm.

Are snorkeling gear and equipment included?
Yes, full snorkeling equipment is provided, making it easier to enjoy the underwater world without extra hassle.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hearty lunch and drinks are included at the Sea Side Restaurant, providing a satisfying break during the day.

Can I rent paddleboards or kayaks?
Yes, paddleboard and kayak rentals are available at additional costs of $60 USD each, plus 16% tax.

What’s the minimum group size?
A minimum of two people is required to book this tour. It’s perfect for private groups looking for a personalized experience.

Is transportation from Los Cabos available?
No, transportation from Los Cabos resorts is not included, so this tour is primarily designed for travelers staying in La Paz.

To sum it up, this La Paz snorkeling tour offers a thoughtfully curated day exploring some of Baja’s most scenic beaches and marine wonders. It balances active snorkeling with scenic boat rides, lunch, and free time, making it a versatile choice for many travelers. If you love marine life, stunning vistas, and comfortable guided experiences, this tour provides a memorable slice of Baja California Sur’s natural beauty—without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: