Top Attractions in La Paz, Mexico | The Seaside City Where You Can Swim with Sea Lions

La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, Mexico, is located at the southern tip of the long, narrow Baja California Peninsula, which extends south from the U.S. state of California. Its name, "La Paz," means "peace" in Spanish, and true to its name, it is considered one of the safer areas in Mexico, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and secure getaway. In this guide, we introduce nine must-visit attractions in La Paz.

The waters around La Paz are part of the stunning Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as the "Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California." Home to sea lions, whales, and dolphins, this area is one of the world’s premier diving spots. Many divers dream of experiencing this breathtaking underwater world at least once in their lifetime—why not see it for yourself?

1. Espiritu Santo Island (Espiritu Santo Island) and Its Sea Lions

A visit to Espiritu Santo Island is a must! Located about six hours by boat from La Paz, this breathtaking island offers unforgettable cruise and snorkeling experiences. Known as a paradise for marine life, La Paz is home to diverse wildlife—you wouldn't want to leave without seeing them, right? Historical records suggest that humans first set foot on this island around 40,000 years ago.

Tourists flock to Espiritu Santo Island for its incredible wildlife, especially for sea lion watching, snorkeling, and diving alongside these playful creatures. The Sea of Cortez, home to eight species of whales—including the world's largest, the blue whale—makes this destination even more special. Underwater, divers can encounter majestic creatures such as whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and, of course, sea lions in their natural habitat.

With its crystal-clear emerald waters and pristine white sand beaches, Espiritu Santo Island is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

At night, the island transforms into a stargazer’s paradise, making overnight camping a popular activity among visitors. If you're planning a trip to La Paz, be sure to include a stay on the island to fully experience the region’s stunning natural beauty.

2. Balandra Beach (Playa Balandra)

Balandra Beach is the most beautiful beach in La Paz. Even seasoned travelers who have visited beaches around the world are left in awe of its breathtaking beauty.

La Paz, located in the Sea of Cortez, is an internationally renowned diving destination. In 2005, the Sea of Cortez was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site as part of the "Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California." The shallow waters that stretch as far as the eye can see create an unforgettable scenery.

One of the most iconic landmarks of La Paz is the mushroom-shaped rock formation found at Balandra Beach, making it a popular photo spot among visitors. Don't forget to take pictures! If you're visiting La Paz, this must-visit destination should be at the top of your travel list.

3. Álvaro Obregón Avenue

Álvaro Obregón Avenue is a central street in La Paz and a popular spot for a relaxing seaside stroll. Compared to other tourist destinations in Mexico, La Paz is quieter, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

Lined with palm trees and date palms, the scenic boardwalk along the sea offers a refreshing coastal experience. Simply walking here will make you feel like you’re truly on a La Paz getaway!

This avenue is also one of the best places to witness La Paz’s breathtaking sunsets. With fewer crowds, you can have an intimate and unobstructed view of the sun dipping into the horizon.
If you're looking for a beachside paradise away from the usual tourist crowds, Álvaro Obregón Avenue in La Paz is the perfect destination. Experience true relaxation in this serene coastal haven.

4. Malecón Avenue

Malecón Avenue is a must-visit attraction in La Paz, beloved by both tourists and locals. This vibrant promenade is a hotspot for visitors looking for restaurants, souvenir shops, and local experiences.

This area has the highest concentration of restaurants in La Paz, making it ideal for food lovers. Whether you're craving fresh seafood or authentic Mexican dishes, you'll find plenty of options here. Most restaurants have stunning ocean views, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a breathtaking seaside backdrop.

For those eager to dive into La Paz’s crystal-clear waters, Malecón Avenue also has numerous marine activity shops offering snorkeling, diving, and boat tours.

In addition to its lively dining scene, Malecón Avenue features several artistic monuments and sculptures, making it a great spot for sightseeing and photography. Be sure to visit and capture some unforgettable moments!

5. Tecolote Beach

Tecolote Beach is a beloved retreat for both tourists and locals in La Paz. Alongside the previously mentioned Balandra Beach, it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

One of the highlights of Tecolote Beach is its renowned seafood restaurants. After enjoying the crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, visitors can indulge in fresh and delicious seafood.
Must-try delicacies include abalone, lobster, and oysters—but affordable in La Paz! Locals also highly recommend trying the flavorful clams, freshly harvested from the region.

Tecolote Beach is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy nature, and treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience.

6. Whale Marine Science Museum

Located along the bustling Malecón, the Whale Marine Science Museum is a must-visit attraction for tourists from around the world.

La Paz is often called "the world's natural aquarium" due to its rich marine biodiversity. It is one of the top destinations for whale watching, making this museum particularly special. Dedicated to large marine mammals, the museum provides an in-depth look into the fascinating world of whales and dolphins.

One of the museum's standout features is the life-sized blue whale skeleton displayed outside, serving as a landmark for visitors. Inside, exhibits showcase the evolutionary history of dolphins and whales through detailed skeletal displays. The collection includes full-scale skeletons of orcas and whales, allowing visitors to learn about marine life in a captivating way.

7. La Paz Cathedral

La Paz Cathedral is a historic Catholic church in La Paz, Mexico. Unlike typical tourist hotspots, this cathedral is primarily a place of worship for locals, offering a sacred and tranquil atmosphere for visitors.

Built between 1861 and 1865, the cathedral is known for its stunning stained-glass windows, which leave a lasting impression on those who visit. If you have time, it is highly recommended to step inside and admire the beautiful interior.
Locals often celebrate weddings here, and if you happen to visit during a ceremony, consider it a lucky experience! During the Christmas season, the cathedral becomes a popular spot for visitors due to its magnificent decorations.

Since it is close to Malecón Street, it’s easy to stop by while exploring the nearby area. Whether you have extra time or simply want to experience a sacred and historical site, La Paz Cathedral is well worth a visit!

8. Los Islotes

Los Islotes is one of the most famous diving spots in La Paz, attracting divers from all over the world. It is best known for its 100% guaranteed sea lion encounters!
As you approach, you’ll see hundreds of sea lions resting on the rocky islets—this is La Paz’s largest sea lion colony, home to over 400 sea lions.

The best time for divers to visit is June to July, when newborn sea lion pups can be seen. By September, they start exploring the water, and from November to May, they become highly active and playful. These curious young sea lions love interacting with divers, often swimming alongside them in an unforgettable experience.

Swimming with wild sea lions is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you can only experience in La Paz! Don’t miss the chance to dive into the crystal-clear waters and enjoy this magical underwater dance with these amazing creatures.

9. Pichilingue Beach

The last beach on our list is a hidden gem in La Paz. If you prefer a more private and peaceful experience away from the crowds, this is the perfect spot. Unlike other tourist-heavy beaches, Pichilingue Beach is frequented more by locals, giving it an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. Despite being less crowded, its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty rival the most famous beaches in La Paz.

One of the highlights of this beach is its highly-rated Mexican and seafood restaurants, loved by both locals and tourists. If you're in the area, trying out these local flavors is a must!

Visiting at sunset is highly recommended. The romantic and peaceful ambiance will wrap you in a breathtaking experience. For those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pichilingue Beach offers the perfect retreat.

◎ Best Tourist Spots in La Paz, Mexico

We’ve introduced some of the must-visit attractions in La Paz, the largest city in Baja California Sur, Mexico. With its warm, tropical climate all year round, La Paz attracts visitors from all over the world looking to experience the vibrant Mexican atmosphere.

La Paz is a paradise for divers and marine enthusiasts. Whether you're into water sports, island-hopping, or simply relaxing on the beach, this destination offers endless possibilities. Imagine watching sea lions in their natural habitat, lounging on pristine white sands, or witnessing the breathtaking leaps of whales and dolphins. A trip to La Paz guarantees unforgettable experiences. Discover the beauty of Mexico’s coastal gem and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Top Attractions in La Paz, Mexico | The Seaside City Where You Can Swim with Sea Lions