From Cabo/San José del Cabo: La Paz, Balandra & Todos Santos

If you’re dreaming of a day-trip adventure through Baja California Sur, this tour promises a well-rounded experience. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and what’s included suggest it’s an engaging way to see some of the most iconic spots in this stunning region. Expect a full day of scenic views, cultural highlights, and authentic Mexican charm—all for around $114 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making the long hours on the road feel shorter. Second, the stunning natural sights like Playa Balandra and Coromuel Beach are genuinely breathtaking—perfect for photos and relaxing. Third, the opportunity to visit the legendary Hotel California in Todos Santos adds a touch of mystique and cultural depth.

That said, it’s important to note this is a long day, often lasting between 10-14 hours, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those traveling with very young children. Also, because it’s a group tour, flexibility is limited, and some may find the pace a bit brisk. This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and soak up Baja’s unique vibe in a single day.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering beaches, cultural spots, and scenic towns.
Valuable insights and tips from knowledgeable guides.
Natural beauty at Playa Balandra, one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.
Long but rewarding day with a mix of relaxation, exploration, and cultural stops.
Great value for money considering transportation, guided tours, and included lunch.
Not ideal for very young children or mobility-impaired travelers due to duration and walking needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Baja: What’s Included and What You’ll Experience

This tour offers a full day of exploration, starting early in the morning with hotel pickups from San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a must for the long drives, and you’ll be traveling in either a bus or van, depending on the group size. With a price tag of $114, it’s fairly affordable considering the list of highlights and the included amenities like lunch, bottled water, and entrance fees.

Looking for more options in Cabo San Lucas? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Drive: Scenic Transpeninsular Highway

The journey begins with a 2-3 hour drive along the Transpeninsular Highway, offering glimpses of Baja’s rugged landscape. While the drive may seem long, the scenery helps pass the time—think desert landscapes, mountain vistas, and distant ocean views. Reviews mention the transportation as efficient, with guides like Bernardo keeping everyone informed and entertained during the trip.

Playa Balandra: One of Mexico’s Most Beautiful Beaches

Our first major stop is Playa Balandra, renowned for its crystal-clear shallow waters and iconic mushroom-shaped rock formations. With about two hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to relax or explore. Reviewers highlight the tranquility of this spot—the perfect place for sunbathing or taking stunning photos from the viewpoint.

It’s worth noting that Balandra is a protected natural area, so there are no vendors or restaurants on-site. Travelers are encouraged to bring snacks, drinks, and a hat or umbrella for shade, as shade options are limited. Portable toilets are available, but don’t expect full amenities. Many visitors find the quiet, untouched environment a refreshing change from busier beaches.

Coromuel Beach: Panoramic Views and Local Flavors

Next, about 1.5 hours are spent at Coromuel Beach, a lesser-known gem where you can snap panoramic shots of the coastline and enjoy a more relaxed vibe. Reviewers appreciate the spectacular landscape—a perfect spot for a quick dip or to try some local food if you’ve brought snacks. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and soaking in Baja’s rugged beauty.

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La Paz: A Cultural and Culinary Stop

The tour then moves into La Paz, where you’ll have approximately two hours to enjoy lunch and explore. The city’s lively streets, vibrant murals, and laid-back atmosphere are a highlight. Many reviews mention guides like Bernardo sharing interesting facts about the city’s history and culture. Locally, you might find street art and murals that tell stories of Baja’s heritage, adding a layer of authenticity to your visit.

Lunch options are typically included or available nearby, giving you a chance to sample regional flavors. Free time here allows for some shopping or just wandering along the waterfront promenade, where the bustling vibe contrasts nicely with the peaceful beaches.

There's plenty more to explore in Cabo San Lucas

Todos Santos: Artistic Charm and the Hotel California

The last stop is the charming town of Todos Santos, famous for its art galleries, boutiques, and the legendary Hotel California. Although the stop lasts only about 45 minutes, it’s enough to stroll through the streets, browse local shops, and soak up the town’s creative atmosphere. Reviewers have enjoyed just seeing the town’s colorful architecture and hearing stories about the hotel, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to your day.

Return Journey: Reflecting on the Day

After exploring Todos Santos, the group heads back along the Transpeninsular Highway to Cabo and San José del Cabo, with travel times of 1-2 hours depending on traffic. Many travelers mention feeling tired but fulfilled, having packed a lot into a single day. The value comes from the diverse experiences—beaches, towns, and scenic drives—all in one affordable package.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Bring snacks and drinks: As Balandra is a protected area, no vendors or restaurants are available there.
Dress comfortably: Wear breathable clothes, comfortable shoes, and a hat to stay cool.
Prepare for the weather: Baja can be hot and sunny; biodegradable sunscreen is recommended.
Plan for the long day: If you’re prone to fatigue or travel with small children, this might be a challenging tour.
Bring cash: For any souvenirs or optional purchases in towns.
Charge your phone: For photos, navigation, and capturing memories.

What Reviewers Loved

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Bernardo, who share interesting details about each stop and keep the group engaged. Guests also praised the scenic beauty of Balandra, describing it as a must-see. The included lunch and bottled water add good value, helping travelers stay comfortable during the long day.

What Could Be Better

Some reviews hint that the tour’s length might be tiring for younger kids or less mobile travelers. The lack of shade and limited amenities at Balandra could also be inconvenient if you’re expecting full beach resort comforts. However, for most, the natural beauty and cultural insights outweigh these minor drawbacks.

If you’re eager to see Baja’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual trips, this tour offers a practical, well-organized option. It’s ideal for curious travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and want to experience beaches, towns, and local culture in one go. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for very young children or those with mobility challenges due to the duration and walking involved.

This full-day trip from Cabo/San José del Cabo to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos is a great way to make the most of a single day in Baja. With carefully curated stops, insider-guided insights, and a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, it offers excellent value for travelers looking for a balanced, authentic experience.

You’ll love the stunning scenery at Playa Balandra, the vibe of La Paz, and the artistic charm of Todos Santos—all packed into a comfortable and reasonably priced package. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour ticks many boxes without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Baja California Sur. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate guided tours that handle logistics, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the sights. If you value good-value excursions with knowledgeable guides and are prepared for a long day, this tour is worth considering.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off in San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, with air-conditioned vehicles suitable for group travel.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 13 hours, depending on traffic and group size, with early morning pickups and late returns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and a charged smartphone are recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, people with mobility issues, back problems, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg). It is also not recommended for cruise ship guests.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a group tour, flexibility is limited. However, guides often share interesting facts and tips during the stops, enhancing your visit.

What amenities are available at Balandra?
There are small portable toilets, but no vendors or restaurants. Pack snacks and drinks in advance.

This Baja day-trip offers a thoughtfully curated snapshot of the region, combining scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and genuine local charm—perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free adventure in Baja California Sur.

You can check availability for your dates here: