MOST POPULAR TOUR IN LA PAZ! Swim with Sea Lions Private Boat

La Paz’s Most Popular Tour: Private Boat to Swim with Sea Lions and Explore Espiritu Santo

If you’re visiting La Paz and crave an immersive day on the water, this private boat tour to Isla Espiritu Santo offers a uniquely intimate way to see Mexico’s stunning Sea of Cortez. For around $1,253 per group (up to 12 people), you’ll spend roughly 6.5 hours exploring the island’s captivating scenery, swimming with playful sea lions, and enjoying a delicious beach lunch. This is not a crowded, group-packed excursion — it’s your own private vessel that gives you a flexible, relaxed experience.

What we really love about this trip is the exclusivity. You get a maximum of 12 guests on your boat, compared to other tours that often host up to 24 people. Plus, the departure time is early — 2 hours before most other boats — meaning you beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more personal adventure. The second highlight? The chance to snorkel among thousands of marine animals, including sea lions, manta rays, and possibly whales, all in one day.

A potential consideration? The long boat ride to Isla Espiritu Santo, about 50 km from La Paz, can be a bit tiring for some, especially if weather conditions aren’t perfect. Also, while the guides are bilingual, some travelers comment that the guide’s English isn’t always perfect, which might impact the depth of narration or sighting explanations.

This tour suits travelers who love wildlife, scenery, and a more private, personalized experience. If you’re after an authentic, less commercialized outing with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and learn about the area’s geology and history, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Exclusive experience: Small group (up to 12), private boat for a more relaxed and customizable day.
• Early departure: Leaves at 9 a.m., giving you a head start to beat crowds and enjoy quieter sights.
• Wildlife encounters: Possible swimming with sea lions, sightings of whales or dolphins, and manta rays.
• Scenic vistas: Views of colorful, layered geological formations and crystal-clear bays.
• Varied stops: Multiple stops at Isla Espiritu Santo, Islotes, and Ensenada Grande, with free time to snorkel or relax.
• Comprehensive: Includes snorkel gear, lunch, and all fees, making it a hassle-free day.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Out: Scenic Bay Cruising and Early Morning Departure

Your day begins at The Hook Experiences meeting point in La Paz, with departure at 9 a.m. We appreciated the early start, as it means you’re on the water when the island is less crowded and the light is perfect for photos. The boat itself is well equipped and comfortable, with cooler space for BYOB drinks, which you might find handy for a refreshing beverage after snorkeling or lounging.

As you cruise through the scenic bays of Tesoro, Balandra, and Tecalote, you’ll get a chance to spot dolphins or whales — a common occurrence on this route — adding a dash of excitement before even reaching the island. The San Lorenzo Channel and the coastlines are lined with striking red, yellow, and black geological layers, which we found fascinating and a great backdrop for photos.

Isla Espiritu Santo: The Jewel of La Paz

The main highlight of this tour is the exploration of Isla Espiritu Santo. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning mosaic of white sand beaches, rocky coves, and colorful geology. The guide here shares insights about the island’s geology, history, and culture of its original inhabitants — making the trip educational as well as scenic.

The highlight for many is the swim with sea lions at Islotes, the largest colony of these curious animals in the Sea of Cortez. We loved the playful nature of the sea lions, especially the pups being taught by their mothers — a truly adorable experience. The snorkel here is included, and you’re provided with gear, allowing you to get up close to these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. One reviewer noted, “We saw the sea lions for 5 minutes, no snorkeling,” but many found this part of the trip a real delight, especially with guides who provided safety and encouragement.

Beach Lunch and Relaxation

After the snorkeling, you’ll head to Ensenada Grande or a more secluded beach for lunch — a highlight for us. The meal typically features fresh ceviche and sandwiches, and the tour provides water, sodas, chips, and cookies. The lunch spot offers shaded areas for relaxing after your swim, with enough time for snorkel, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the incredible scenery.

One traveler commented, “We had free time on the island,” which indicates the tour balances sightseeing with leisure. The large shade structures and the inviting beach are perfect for unwinding amid nature’s beauty.

Return Journey: Whales and Scenic Cruising Back

On the return trip, you’ll cross back through the bay areas, often spotting whales like humpbacks, gray, or fin whales, especially during their migration season. The long, scenic cruise back is a relaxing way to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the last views of the rugged coastline.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Your private boat comfortably fits up to 12 people, ensuring a relaxed and personalized atmosphere. Compared to other group tours with up to 24 people, this smaller setting makes it easier to interact with guides and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. The boat departs at 9 a.m. from La Paz, giving you plenty of time to see multiple stops.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts roughly 6.5 hours, with the itinerary broken into different stops: about an hour cruising the bays, two hours exploring Isla Espiritu Santo, 30 minutes snorkeling at Islotes, two hours at Ensenada Grande, and an hour returning with whale sightings possible. This pacing allows ample time at each location for snorkeling, relaxing, and absorbing the scenery.

Cost and Value

At $1,253.50 per group, this tour might seem pricey compared to larger group options, but it offers value through exclusivity, flexibility, and a more intimate experience. The inclusion of lunch, snorkel gear, and all fees simplifies planning, making it easier to enjoy the day without extra costs or worries.

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

The mixed reviews highlight some common themes. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with one reviewer sharing, “Angel, our captain, and Carly, our guide, were outstanding — super friendly and helpful.” The experience of swimming with sea lions and exploring the island’s geology often gets high marks.

However, some reviews indicate room for improvement, particularly regarding timing and communication. One unhappy traveler noted a long boat ride (over 2 hours) that was not clearly explained beforehand, and guide language issues have been mentioned. It’s worth noting that the long ride is partly due to the distance — about 50 km — so patience is necessary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience suits travelers who value small-group intimacy and want to avoid the crowds of larger tours. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to snorkel with sea lions and potentially see whales, as well as those interested in geological and cultural insights about the island. If you’re happy with an early start, a longer boat ride, and a more relaxed pace, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and tranquility.

Those looking for a fun, active day on the water with plenty of snorkeling and wildlife sightings will find this tour rewarding. But if you prefer shorter rides or less activity, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in La Paz offers a scenic, wildlife-rich, and personalized day on the Sea of Cortez — perfect for those who want to see the best of Isla Espiritu Santo with fewer crowds. From the stunning geological formations to playful sea lions, every moment is designed to leave you with memorable impressions of Baja’s coastal beauty.

While the cost is on the higher side, the exclusivity, expert guides, and flexible stops justify the price for many travelers seeking an authentic, intimate experience. It’s especially well-suited for families, wildlife lovers, and those who appreciate a slower, more relaxed pace in nature.

In the end, this tour stands out as a top choice for travelers looking to combine adventure, education, and tranquility in one unforgettable day on the Sea of Cortez.

FAQ

How early does the tour depart?
The tour starts at 9 a.m., allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy the island with fewer visitors around.

How long is the boat ride to Isla Espiritu Santo?
The boat ride is approximately 2 hours each way, covering about 50 km from La Paz. It’s a long but scenic journey.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the boat, snorkeling gear, all fees and taxes, and a fresh lunch of ceviche and sandwiches.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, there’s cooler space for BYOB. This is handy if you want to bring your own alcohol or extra beverages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by families; many reviews mention traveling with young children. Just be prepared for the boat ride and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, a hat, sunglasses, and waterproof camera if you have one. Comfort is key, so wear layers if needed and consider wetsuits if you get cold easily (wetsuits are available for rent).

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private boat tour in La Paz balances adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty — perfect for travelers wanting an authentic Baja experience.