CityTour La Paz, Balandra beach and the Magic Town of Todos Santos

CityTour La Paz, Balandra Beach, and the Magic Town of Todos Santos offers a comprehensive day exploring some of Baja California Sur’s most captivating spots. For $123.05 per person, you’ll spend about 12 to 13 hours soaking in crystal-clear waters, charming towns, and delicious regional cuisine with a small group of fellow travelers. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is designed for those eager to see authentic Baja beyond the usual tourist traps, with carefully curated stops that promise both scenic beauty and cultural insight.

Two things we especially like are the inclusion of free time at multiple beaches, like Balandra, which is renowned for its tranquil, glassy waters, and the chance to explore Todos Santos’ vibrant crafts and history. Plus, the fact that lunch is included at a local seafood restaurant makes this feel like a full, immersive experience rather than just a whirlwind sightseeing spree.

One potential drawback is the early start—begins at 5:00 am—which might be tough for some. Plus, with a packed itinerary, there’s a chance you’ll feel rushed at certain stops. But for those who want a well-rounded taste of Baja’s coast and towns, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to experience the highlights in one day.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, breathtaking scenery, and guided insights into Baja’s culture and nature. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and are eager to maximize your sightseeing time without the hassle of planning, you’ll find this adventure rewarding.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines beaches, cultural sites, and culinary delights within one day.
• Authentic Locations: Visits Balandra, La Paz Malecón, and Todos Santos’ crafts markets, offering a genuine taste of Baja.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides provide history and context, enriching your understanding.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch, bottled water, snacks, and a guided tour for a fair price.
• Timing Considerations: Early start and tight schedule might feel rushed but maximize sightseeing.
• Small Group: Max 12 travelers ensures a more personal, flexible experience.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Early for Baja’s Hidden Gems

The day kicks off at 5:00 am, an early start that might sound daunting but is essential for fitting everything in. We appreciate the effort to beat crowds—particularly at Balandra Beach, which is often a favorite for its calm, clear waters. Their transportation, a private round-trip vehicle, keeps things comfortable, though reviews suggest that the van’s comfort can vary, especially on a long haul—so packing some cushions or snacks might help.

Balandra Beach: The Crown Jewel

Our first stop, Balandra, is famous for its scenic beauty and tranquil waters. The tour includes a bracelet for natural area access, which underscores its protected status. The water is famously calm and shallow—ideal for swimming, taking photos, or simply soaking in the scenery. Travelers have described it as breathtaking, though some found the experience shorter than expected or not as “beachy” as one might hope. One review notes that Balandra is more of a nature preserve and less equipped with amenities, so don’t expect beaches with lounge chairs or food stalls.

Playa El Coromuel: Relaxing Waters

Next, we head to Playa El Coromuel, a free stop offering more opportunity to enjoy Baja’s signature waters. Guests have enjoyed their time here, with some mentioning it as a perfect spot to unwind and share with companions. It’s a quick stop—about an hour—but enough for a swim, a walk, or some photos.

Lunch at Mariscos El Paraje

Eating regional seafood is a highlight for many travelers, and this tour features a generous hour at Mariscos El Paraje. The menu boasts local dishes, and reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food, making it a true taste of Baja. This is a big plus for those who want to experience authentic regional cuisine without hunting for good restaurants on their own.

Exploring La Paz’s Malecón and Puerto de Ilusión

The Malecón of La Paz offers a charming stroll with lovely views and interesting architecture. Our guides typically explain the history and local significance of various sites, adding depth to the walk. Tourists mention how the Malecón’s lively vibe and scenic spots make for great photo opportunities. Visiting the Puerto de Ilusión, with its quaint boats and local businesses, adds a touch of daily Baja life.

Visiting Hotel California

The so-called “hotel made famous by the Eagles” is a quick stop but a fun photo op. Visitors love taking pictures here and hearing its stories, although the tour only allows about 20 minutes to explore, so don’t expect a full hotel tour. It’s more about capturing the moment and soaking in the atmosphere.

Todos Santos: The Cultural Gem

The second part of the day takes us to Todos Santos, a designated Magic Town. Here, the highlight is the Aztec Calendar, which travelers find fascinating due to its size and history. The town’s crafts market offers local handmade goods, and strolling through its streets gives a feel of Baja’s artistic side. The visit to the wishing tree and the town’s charming atmosphere make this a favorite stop for many.

Final Highlights and Reflection

The tour wraps up around 5:00 pm, bringing you back to your accommodation after a long, yet fulfilling day. Reviewers commend the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and bilingual communication, which makes the experience accessible for English speakers. The small group size enhances the personal touch and flexibility, allowing guides to adapt if some stops need more time.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the quality of guides and the value of the experience. Several mention the “great guides, very knowledgeable and friendly,” and that the tour “had all around a good time,” with some travelers even calling it “100% worth it.” The included lunch at El Paraje, praised for regional flavors, adds to the feeling of authenticity.

However, not all experiences were perfect. Some travelers felt the schedule was too packed, leading to rushing through stops like Todos Santos or feeling exhausted after the early start. One reviewer pointed out that “Balandra Beach is not a typical beach”, emphasizing its status as a nature preserve, which might disappoint those expecting a traditional sandy beach with amenities.

Transportation and Comfort

The transportation, a key part of such a long day, received mixed reviews. While most found the guides and drivers friendly and helpful, some noted that the van’s comfort could be improved, especially on the long ride, which can stretch upwards of 10 hours. Bringing snacks, cushions, or extra water may improve your comfort.

Timing and Schedule

A common theme among reviews is the challenge of fitting so many stops into one day. Some say they would prefer longer in fewer places, especially at Balandra. Others appreciated the early start, claiming it allowed them to avoid crowds and enjoy the sites more peacefully.

Price and Value

At just over $120, the tour offers a lot: transportation, multiple stops, lunch, bottled water, and guided insights. For travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Baja’s highlights, this represents good value, especially considering the included meals and expert guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, enjoy scenic beaches and cultural towns, and are comfortable with an early start, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see the highlights of Baja without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips. Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a leisurely day or have mobility issues, the early start and tight schedule might be less ideal.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded way to experience some of Baja California Sur’s most iconic spots, from the serene waters of Balandra Beach to the vibrant streets of Todos Santos. The inclusion of a local seafood lunch, guided commentary, and a small group setting make it a compelling choice for travelers eager for authenticity and convenience.

You’ll love the chance to enjoy Baja’s natural beauty and charming towns, all in one day. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the scenic stops, create a memorable experience. While the schedule can feel rushed at times, the overall value and authentic flavor make it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to learn, explore, and taste Baja’s best offerings.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate a good story, scenic views, and regional food. If early mornings and a busy schedule don’t scare you, you’ll walk away with fantastic photos, new insights, and a genuine sense of Baja’s coastal charm.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting early at 5:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm, so prepare for a full day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Most guests find the transportation adequate, but some reviews mention that the van could be more comfortable for long hours. Bringing snacks or cushions might help.

What stops are included?
You’ll visit Balandra Beach, Playa El Coromuel, La Paz’s Malecón, Hotel California, the Aztec Calendar in Todos Santos, and the town itself, with plenty of time for photos and walking.

Is food included?
Yes, a seafood lunch at Mariscos El Paraje is included, offering regional dishes that many travelers enjoy as a highlight.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not much—admission tickets and lunch are included, but souvenirs and extra photographs are not.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the early start and long day. Small children might find it tiring, so consider your family’s stamina.

This tour is a well-organized, authentic way to experience Baja’s coast and towns, perfect for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning it all themselves.