Just a 1.5-hour drive from Los Cabos, Mexico, the coastal town of La Paz is a secluded destination on the east coast of Baja California in the Sea of Cortez. Blessed with natural, recreational and cultural abundance, Jacques Cousteau famously named the Sea of Cortez the Aquarium of the World.
Snorkel with the Gentle Giants in the Sea of Cortez
Snorkeling with whale sharks in the Sea of Cortez Photo Tourism La Paz
This UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site is home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals and a wide array of fish species including whale sharks, the largest fish species known to man. Snorkeling with these gentle giants is an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with these docile filter feeders. Growing to more than 40 feet, whale sharks are easily recognised by the white spots on their backs and flat heads. Although it’s a hands-off experience, the whale sharks swim peacefully amongst snorkelers.
Enjoy Life at Casa Tara
In a small fishing village just south of La Paz, the new 12-room boutique hotel Casa Tara is a wellness retreat unlike any other. Owners Marcela Ley and Miguel Bravo have created a space where featuring yoga and meditation classes, to the restaurant, spa, and library facilities. The hotel is solar powered and has been designed in consultation with Feng Shui experts. Their dining program includes organic, seasonal ingredients, and fresh-caught seafood.
Green Tourism with RED Travel
La Paz-based tour operator RED Travel México offers single and multi-day land and sea exploration adventures, based on education and sustainable business practices. RED’s hands-on educational programming provides students with the opportunity to experience the positive environmental and social impacts interwoven with the local habitat and culture.
Learning about sea turtles before releasing them back into the wild Photo Tourism La Paz
Additional tours include visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Espiritu Santo Island and whale shark adventures. RED also specialises in creating private-guided experiences custom-designed for families and small groups that want to get off the beaten path and make a positive impact.
Visit the Whale Museum
An inquisitive grey whale gets close enough to touch. Photo by Shelby Barone
The Whale Museum, or Museo de La Ballena, is just the thing for any animals lovers in your group. The recently opened museum features an impressive whale skeleton outside the main building. Inside, guided tours are available to build a deeper understanding of the variety of species, and exhibitions including a complete orca skeleton suspended from the ceiling. The museum aims to teach visitors and locals alike about the natural history and biology of marine animals as well as sharing valuable research around environmental conservation.
