La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos from CABO and San Jose

Experience the Best of Baja California Sur in a Day

For travelers craving a taste of Baja’s most iconic sights, this La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and charming towns. At $105.95 per person, and with a duration of around 11 to 14 hours, it’s quite the long day — but one filled with unforgettable scenery and authentic Mexican flavor. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this trip takes you from the sunrise pickup in Cabo to the sandy shores and vibrant streets of La Paz and Todos Santos.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of breathtaking natural spots like Playa Balandra and Coromuel Beach, alongside the cultural highlights of Todos Santos, including a visit to the famous Hotel California. Plus, the included lunch in La Paz adds a satisfying culinary touch.

A couple of considerations: the trip is quite lengthy, which might feel tiring if you prefer shorter outings, and some reviews highlight variability in tour guide English fluency. Yet, for those eager to explore beyond the usual Cabo resorts and keen on seeing both scenic coastlines and authentic towns, this tour has plenty to offer.

This experience suits travelers who love nature, culture, and a full day of sightseeing. It’s perfect for those comfortable with long group tours, and who appreciate guided insights and local flavor on their journey.

Key Points

• Stunning natural beauty at Playa Balandra and Coromuel Beach, ideal for photos and relaxation.
• Cultural stops in La Paz and Todos Santos, offering local flavor, shopping, and historic sites.
• Long but rewarding day, with around 11-14 hours of sightseeing and travel.
• Professional guides enhance the experience, especially if they speak fluent English.
• Value for money with included transport, lunch, and entry to key sites.
• Long drives, so be prepared for a full-day commitment.

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

When you sign up for this all-encompassing Baja adventure, you can expect an early start — pick-up begins around 4:00 am. We found this long initial drive to Playa Balandra via air-conditioned van quite comfortable, especially with the scenery passing by and the anticipation building. With over 89 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, most travelers find the trip well worth the effort — but a few note the long duration can be a challenge.

The Journey and Transport

The ground transfer from Cabo San Lucas to Baja’s coast takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief given the early start and warm weather. Given the small group size (a maximum of about 40 travelers), there’s a sense of camaraderie, and the guides tend to keep things friendly and informative.

Balandra Beach: The Star Attraction

Our first stop, Playa Balandra, is often highlighted in reviews as the highlight of the trip. It’s a protected area, so no vendors or restaurants are around — so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. The spectacular scenery includes a bay with calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, plus a viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas.

One reviewer called Balandra “gorgeous,” noting how the water was “amazing,” and many, like Bryan G, recommend bringing snacks like guacamole and chips to enjoy on the sand. The shallow waters make it safe for children and non-swimmers, and the view from the top of the hill is often described as breathtaking.

However, since there are no shaded areas or amenities, it’s wise to plan ahead. Some found the timing at Balandra a bit rushed, but most appreciated the chance to explore this pristine beach without the crowds typical of more accessible spots.

Coromuel Beach: A Relaxing Stop

Next, the tour takes you to Playa El Coromuel, just a short drive away. Here, travelers find a more relaxed vibe, with clear waters perfect for wading and lounging. It’s less crowded and offers a more natural environment to unwind. Reviewers note that the two hours allotted was enough to enjoy the beach without feeling rushed. Still, some mention that the time could feel a little tight depending on how long you wish to stay.

La Paz: Culinary and Seaside Charm

The trip then heads to La Paz for a lunch break. Included in the tour is a meal featuring regional dishes such as breaded steak, chicken fajitas, or vegetarian options like veggie strips, served with rice and beans. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, with some describing the fish tacos as “really good,” and appreciate that the guide helps with ordering if language barriers exist.

In La Paz, you’ll also get about two hours to walk along the seawall, which offers unbeatable views of the bay and the chance to browse local shops or just soak in the lively seaside atmosphere. Travelers often remark on how the guide enhances the experience by sharing insights into the city’s personality and history.

Todos Santos: Art, Culture, and the Famous Hotel California

The last major stop is the picturesque town of Todos Santos, known for its art galleries, cobblestone streets, and bohemian vibe. The tour includes about an hour here, with time to visit the iconic Hotel California, explore local shops, or just enjoy the charming streets. Many reviewers say they enjoyed this stop as a perfect way to experience authentic Baja culture, and some mention that the driver and guide made this part especially enjoyable with their friendly attitude and knowledge.

Returning to Cabo

After Todos Santos, the long drive back (around 1-2 hours) completes the day. Some reviews mention that the drive back can be tiring, especially if the air conditioning fails or if you’re eager to rest after a full day. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your hotel, making it convenient for travelers staying in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo.

What We Love and What to Watch For

Most travelers rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides — many say they felt well taken care of, especially when guides like Tomas, Francisco, or Daniel went out of their way to translate or provide extra info. The stunning scenery at Balandra and the relaxed vibe of Coromuel Beach are frequently praised, making this a highlight for nature lovers.

The value for money is also noteworthy, considering that the fee covers transportation, lunch, and entry to Balandra Beach. For many, the quality of the included meals and the chance to relax at beautiful beaches justify the length and price.

However, some reviewers express concerns about the long duration, noting that parts of the day felt a bit rushed or overly extended, especially the drive back. Others pointed out inconsistencies in English fluency among guides, which can affect the experience, especially for non-Spanish speakers.

Another issue raised by one traveler was the lack of amenities at Balandra, so packing sunblock, water, and snacks is advisable. A few reviews mention that the timing at Balandra was rushed, so planning for a comfortable day by bringing essentials is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day and want a blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and coastal leisure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with group travel, enjoy guided tours, and want to maximize your outdoor experience without the hassle of planning each stop.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-balanced itinerary that combines stunning beaches, charming towns, and regional cuisine — all within a manageable price point. The guided format ensures you get insights into the area’s highlights, and the included transportation and meals make it a convenient choice for travelers looking to see Baja without the stress of planning.

While the length of the day might be a deterrent for some, most reviews support that the experience is worth every extra hour. The opportunity to visit Playa Balandra, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, makes this trip particularly appealing.

For those who love natural scenery, authentic towns, and a bit of adventure, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of memorable moments. If you prefer shorter outings or are sensitive to long drives, you might want to consider alternatives, but for a comprehensive day trip from Cabo, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 4:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Many reviewers mention guides like Tomas or Francisco as being fluent and helpful, but some concerns about language fluency were noted. It’s advisable to ask ahead if English is required.

What should I bring for Playa Balandra?
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and towels, as it’s a protected area with no vendors or amenities.

How long is the drive from Cabo to Balandra?
It’s approximately a 2 to 3-hour drive each way, so be ready for a long day of travel between stops.

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
Yes, admission to Playa Balandra is included, as well as bottled water and lunch.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
This is a group tour with set timings, so individual customization isn’t feasible. However, most reviews suggest there’s enough flexibility for photos and brief exploration.

What if I want more time in Todos Santos or La Paz?
The schedule allocates about 1 hour in Todos Santos and 2 hours in La Paz, which many find sufficient for a quick exploration. To extend your stay, consider a private tour or separate plans.

This tour offers a great way to see some of Baja’s most beautiful sights and charming towns in a single day. Packed with scenic views, cultural highlights, and friendly guides, it’s ideal for travelers eager to make the most of their time outside Cabo’s resorts. Just remember to pack wisely and prepare for a full, energetic day.