With access to world-famous beaches, the incredible Sea of Cortez, enchanting marine life, and mouth-watering foods, the capital of Baja California Sur in La Paz, Mexico, is a travel dream come true.
In La Paz, the options for exploration are as diverse as the landscape itself, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation by the sea. In this article, we’ll explore what makes La Paz a destination you won’t want to miss.
Where Is La Paz?
La Paz is nestled along the eastern coast of the Baja California Sur peninsula in Mexico. Located on the tranquil waters of the Sea of Cortez, this charming city is the capital of the state of Baja California Sur.
With its breathtaking coastal views, La Paz offers a serene escape from the bustling pace of larger tourist destinations, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
The History Of La Paz
In 1535, fourteen years following the conquest of the Aztecs, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés navigated into La Paz Bay. Despite initially naming the area Santa Cruz, his efforts to establish a colony proved futile, leading to abandonment after a mere two years.
This setback was attributed in part to the overwhelming resistance from the indigenous population, who vividly remembered the intrusive actions of the earlier invaders. Decades later, in 1596, Admiral Sebastian Vizcaino revisited the region, successfully founding a settlement and christening it La Paz.
La Paz Was Not Always The Capital
As the most ancient continuously inhabited settlement in the region, Loreto once held the distinction of being the capital of Las Californias. However, its reign came to an abrupt halt in 1829, when a devastating hurricane and flooding left it nearly in ruins.
The subsequent year witnessed La Paz stepping in as the new capital. In 1930, Baja California was divided into northern and southern territories, but the state of Baja California Sur was only formally established in 1974, with La Paz assuming its role as the capital.
How To Get To La Paz
For those who prefer scenic road trips, La Paz is accessible by car via well-maintained highways. If you are already in Baja California Sur, Highway 1 connects the major cities in the region, offering a picturesque drive with breathtaking views of the desert landscapes.
If traveling from the United States, consider driving down the Baja Peninsula, an adventurous route that showcases the beauty of the coastal landscapes.
How Is The Weather In La Paz?
La Paz boasts a delightful desert climate, characterized by warm temperatures and a refreshing sea breeze. Winters are mild and comfortable, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a break from colder climates. Summers are warm, with temperatures occasionally reaching higher levels.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them great times to explore the city and its surrounding natural wonders.
What Are The Best Things To Do In La Paz?
Nestled along the serene shores of the Sea of Cortez, La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, invites travelers to discover a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural treasures. This charming coastal city, often overlooked in favor of busier cities, holds a wealth of enchanting experiences for those seeking an authentic Mexican getaway.
From pristine beaches and vibrant boardwalks to historic cathedrals and thrilling marine adventures, La Paz has it all.
Swim With Whale Sharks
Experience the waters of La Paz in a new way with Cabo Adventures and swim with whale sharks.
Although these magnificent creatures don't frequent the immediate vicinity of the cities, this adventure offers an unforgettable two-hour scenic road trip from Los Cabos to La Paz, where you'll board a boat for the swim of a lifetime.
Led by professional bilingual guides, the whale shark snorkeling excursion guarantees an unparalleled experience. Cruise alongside these majestic creatures, known as the "gentle giants of the sea," and witness nature's spectacle up close.
The tour extends beyond the water, offering a scenic drive from Cabo to La Paz, providing an intimate introduction to the Baja landscape.
Snorkel With Whale Sharks
Aside from just swimming, the Private Whale Shark Snorkeling Adventure from Cabo Adventures will take you and your group on an underwater excursion like you’ve never experienced before. As a plus, you’ll also get to experience a full “Baja style” lunch.
While the experience of swimming near and even alongside whale sharks is exciting, it is equally safe. The encounter might evoke a surge of adrenaline, especially when witnessing a whale shark open its immense mouth.
However, despite the impressive size of their mouths, these majestic creatures primarily consume tiny micro-organisms. In fact, their throats are only as wide as a quarter, so you can snorkel in peace and admire these creatures without worry.
Experience The Sea Of Cortez
Both of these experiences and the Sea Of Cortez Snorkeling Adventure will let you experience the beauty that is La Paz, Baja California Sur. The Sea Of Cortez tour combines these aquatic adventures with amazing local cuisine, exotic beaches, and drinks to cool off while you soak in Mexico’s amazing weather.
The “Aquarium Of The World”
The Sea of Cortez stands as a legendary marvel, showcasing unparalleled beauty and hosting a rich diversity of exotic marine life. Immerse yourself in the embrace of pristine azure waters and powdery white sandy beaches, treating your senses to panoramic views that linger in the memory for a lifetime.
Renowned marine explorer Jacques Cousteau aptly dubbed this aquatic realm the "aquarium of the world," a distinction well-earned. The Sea of Cortez boasts an extraordinary array of marine life found nowhere else, a distinction that has merited its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take Advantage Of Your Trip To La Paz, México
Baja California Sur is home to some of Mexico’s most beautiful sights and breathtaking experiences, so it’s important that you don’t miss a thing. Cabo Adventures offers amazing tours that will help you explore Baja’s capital to the fullest. Book an adventure today.
