La Paz: Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour in Espiritu Santo

La Paz: Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour in Espiritu Santo
Location: Baja California Sur, Mexico
Price: $136 per person
Duration: 8.5 hours
Rating: 5/5 based on 1 review
Supplier: Eco Migrations

Planning a day out in Baja California Sur that mixes wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and active water adventures? This Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour offers an engaging way to experience the marine riches of the Sea of Cortez. For around $136, you get to snorkel with curious sea lions at Los Islotes, enjoy a laid-back lunch on Espiritu Santo’s beaches, and paddle along its shoreline on gigantic paddleboards. It’s a full-day experience that balances adventure with relaxation and natural beauty.

Two things we especially like are the expert naturalist guides who help you spot marine life and the small-group setting, which keeps things intimate and flexible. Plus, the variety of activities—from snorkeling to paddleboarding—means you’re constantly engaged without feeling rushed.

One consideration is the full-day duration, which requires a decent amount of time commitment and good weather. If you’re after a more relaxed, less structured day, this might be intense. Also, transportation to the meeting point in La Paz isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who love wildlife, water sports, and being active outdoors. It’s particularly appealing for families, groups, or solo travelers eager for a mix of adventure and nature in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes and spot other marine creatures like sea turtles and rays.
• Scenic landscapes: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Espiritu Santo Island and its shoreline.
• Activities for everyone: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sightseeing—perfect for active travelers.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable naturalists enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a social atmosphere.
• Full-day adventure: A comprehensive tour that packs in a lot but requires energy and good weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting in La Paz and Heading to Espiritu Santo

The day begins with a short walk from the Eco Migrations office in La Paz to the speedboat. We appreciated the fact that the initial walk is only about five minutes, keeping transit time minimal. Once aboard, the boat ride to Espiritu Santo takes around 1.5 hours, giving us time to soak in the views of the Sea of Cortez and start feeling the anticipation build.

During the ride, our guide shared interesting facts about the islands and the marine protected areas we’ll visit. The boat is comfortable enough for a full day, and the crew was friendly and attentive—a good sign for a smooth trip.

Snorkeling at Los Islotes and Marine Wildlife

One of the main highlights is snorkeling with playful sea lions at Los Islotes. These curious creatures often swim right up to snorkelers, often approaching with a friendly, inquisitive attitude. We loved the way the guides emphasized respecting the animals and maintaining a safe distance, which makes the experience both ethical and memorable.

In the mating season from June to August, snorkeling shifts to the San Rafaelito rookery. This change is worth noting if you’re planning your trip during summer, as it may slightly alter what you see.

Beyond sea lions, there’s a good chance of spotting other sea life—sea turtles, mobula rays, and even dolphins, depending on the season and luck. Our guide was excellent at pointing out these creatures and explaining their behaviors, adding depth to the experience.

Lunch on Espiritu Santo’s Beaches

After snorkeling, the boat drops anchor at a secluded beach on Espiritu Santo for a relaxing lunch. The provided meal is a picnic, with options that accommodate dietary preferences, which you choose during booking. We found the food simple but tasty, perfect after a morning of activity. Eating on the sand with the island’s scenic backdrop felt like a genuine escape from everyday life.

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Paddleboarding Along the Shoreline

Post-lunch, the tour turns to paddleboarding on large, multi-person paddleboards. This isn’t your typical solo paddleboard—these giant boards are stable and fun, making them ideal for groups or those looking for a social activity. The guides help everyone get comfortable, and even beginners can enjoy the experience. We loved the chance to glide along the shoreline, with views of rugged cliffs and silent beaches.

This paddleboarding session is more than just exercise; it’s a way to see the coastline from a different perspective, often spotting seabirds or curious marine mammals nearby.

Additional Sightseeing and Wildlife Viewing

The tour continues with more sightseeing and wildlife spotting, including guided walks and scenic stops. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge enhance each moment, making it a true educational adventure.

Returning to La Paz

After a full day, the boat heads back to La Paz, usually taking about an hour. The relaxed ride offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, and many travelers feel the day was packed with memorable moments.

Practical Details and What to Expect

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers most essentials: snorkel gear (including full wetsuits and paddleboard equipment), water, and a tasty lunch. Entrance fees to the protected natural areas are included, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs here.

Transportation to the meeting point in La Paz is on you, so plan your morning accordingly. The tour is limited to 10 people, which means you get personalized attention, a rarity in busy tour groups.

Timing and Duration

The full tour lasts about 8.5 hours, typically starting in the morning. You’ll want comfortable clothes, sun protection, and your reusable water bottle—it’s a long day outdoors. The guides are bilingual, so language isn’t a barrier.

Suitability and Recommendations

Given its mix of active water activities and wildlife viewing, this tour is perfect for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring nature, and sharing the experience with others. It’s especially good for families or groups wanting a memorable day in nature without feeling rushed.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One recent traveler from Hong Kong described the experience as “Amazing day out—the sea lions were so cute, and we saw plenty of fish as well. Lunch was delicious, and the giant paddleboard was an experience.” The guides, Erin and JJ, received praise for their attentive care and knowledge, making the day both enjoyable and informative.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Sea Lions & Mega-Paddleboard Tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a full immersion in Baja’s marine environment. If you love wildlife, enjoy water sports, and want to see the stunning landscapes of Espiritu Santo, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small groups and eco-friendly tours that prioritize natural encounters and sustainability.

While it demands a good part of your day and some physical activity, the rewards are well worth it. Expect to leave with a camera full of photos, a newfound appreciation for Baja’s marine life, and a handful of stories about curious sea lions and scenic shoreline adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the tour’s meeting point included?
No, the tour starts next to Eco Migrations in La Paz. You are responsible for getting there on your own, but the short walk from central La Paz is easy and convenient.

What language are the guides?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, making it accessible to most travelers.

How long is the boat ride?
The trip from La Paz to Espiritu Santo takes about 1.5 hours each way, offering scenic views and a chance to relax before activities begin.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, snorkel gear includes a full wetsuit, which is great for comfort and warmth in the water.

What marine animals might we see?
Besides sea lions, there’s a good chance of spotting sea turtles, rays, and dolphins, depending on the season.

Can beginners paddleboard?
Absolutely. The paddleboards are large, stable, and guided by experienced staff, making it suitable even for first-timers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch that caters to dietary preferences is part of the package. It’s simple but satisfying.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, comfortable clothes, and your sense of adventure.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of wildlife, scenery, and active fun—perfect for those wanting an authentic, memorable day in Baja. It’s a well-rounded trip that’s both educational and exhilarating, making the most of what the Sea of Cortez has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: