Private tour to La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos from CABO

If you’re visiting the southern tip of Baja California and craving an authentic taste of coastal beauty and local charm, this private tour offers a flexible, well-rounded way to see some of the region’s most famed spots. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-crafted experience for travelers who want a mix of natural wonder, cultural flavor, and hassle-free logistics.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personalized guide — the reviews highlight guides like David Lopez, who are not only knowledgeable but genuinely caring about making your day memorable. Second, the stunning scenery at Balandra Beach, with its shallow, colorful waters and tranquil vibe, is a major draw. Third, the opportunity to explore Todos Santos, a town brimming with art and history, adds a cultural layer that many travelers cherish. The only consideration? This is a long day — around 13 hours — so it works best if you’re prepared for a full-day adventure. Overall, it’s ideal for those looking to maximize their Baja experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Personalized service with private transportation and dedicated guides.
• Balandra Beach offers unmatched scenery and tranquility, perfect for relaxing or taking photos.
• Cultural stops at Todo Santos deliver local character and artisan shops.
• Time management is efficient, but be prepared for a long day from early morning.
• Value for money is high, given the inclusions like entrance fees, water, and transportation.
• Guides like David are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, enhancing the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from either San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas, with early morning pickups around 4:40 am to 5 am. The journey to Balandra Beach takes roughly 2-3 hours, so be ready for a scenic drive filled with conversation and anticipation of the day ahead. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned sedan, you’ll appreciate the smooth ride and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Balandra Beach: The Main Attraction

Expect to arrive at Balandra after a scenic drive through the Baja landscape. This beach is renowned for its calm, shallow waters and picturesque rock formations. You’ll have approximately four hours here, enough time to enjoy sunbathing, walk up to the viewpoint for sweeping vistas, or paddle in the waters that are often described as a photographer’s paradise. A key point: Balandra is a protected natural area, so there are no vendors or restaurants — bring your snacks, drinks, and perhaps a portable shade because shade options are limited.

Reviewers like Jay and Jonas emphasize how much they enjoyed Balandra’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery. Jonas noted that their guide, David Lopez, was “very knowledgeable, loves what he does, and truly cares about showing you a great experience,” making the visit even more memorable.

La Paz: A Vibrant Coastal Town

Next, the tour heads to La Paz for about 1.5 hours. Here, you’ll find a lively boardwalk lined with shops, murals, and local cafes. It’s an excellent spot to stretch your legs, grab some lunch, and soak in the local vibe. Reviewers mention that the area’s colorful streets and artistic murals add a charming touch to the visit, and the free time allows for some relaxed exploration.

More Great Tours Nearby

Todos Santos: Artistic and Historic Charm

The final major stop is the quaint town of Todos Santos, roughly 45 minutes away. Known as a Pueblo Mágico (magical town), it blends history, art, and local culture seamlessly. You can browse artisan shops, admire murals, or simply wander the cobblestone streets. The reviews highlight how guides like David make sure visitors get a taste of the town’s authentic character and scenic beauty.

Return Journey

After exploring Todos Santos, you’ll head back via the Transpeninsular Highway, with a journey time of approximately 1-2 hours. The entire day wraps up with hotel drop-offs in either San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas.

Highlights and Why They Matter

Balandra Beach: The Crown Jewel

Described as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, Balandra’s shallow waters and dramatic rock formations make it a truly unique spot. Its tranquility offers a stark contrast to busier beaches, making it ideal for relaxation or family-friendly activities like paddleboarding and photography. Reviewers rave about the impressive landscape, noting that the viewpoint offers “breathtaking views” worth the early morning drive.

La Paz’s Boardwalk and Murals

The vibrant streets of La Paz, with their murals and local shops, provide a taste of Baja’s artistic soul. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy some downtime. The free exploration time means you can indulge your curiosity, try some local snacks, or people-watch from a cafe.

Todos Santos: Art, Culture, and Charm

This town’s history and lively arts scene get the spotlight here. Visitors love wandering through art galleries, discovering handcrafted goods, and soaking up the town’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The reviews emphasize how guides like David elevate the experience with local insights and recommendations.

Practical Details and Value

Duration and Timing

This is a long, all-day adventure—roughly 13 hours—which means you need to be prepared for an early start. The value lies in the comprehensive itinerary and personalized attention, with a private group ensuring flexibility and comfort.

Price and Inclusions

At $337 per group up to three guests, this tour offers good value, especially since it includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees, bottled water, and a small cooler with ice. The private nature of the tour means fewer crowds and a more tailored experience.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, hats, biodegradable sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Since Balandra is protected and has no vendors, snacks and drinks are essential. Reviewers note that bringing your own supplies ensures you can enjoy the beach without worry.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is best suited for ages 11 and up, and not recommended for wheelchair users or those over 220 lbs. It’s a full-day trip that demands some walking and being on your feet.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

According to reviews, guides like David are praised for their knowledge, attentiveness, and genuine care. One reviewer, Maria, called David “exceptional” for taking care of everyone all day, while Jonas remarked that he was “very knowledgeable, loves what he does, and truly cares about showing you a great experience.” Such comments suggest that the guide’s personality and professionalism significantly enhance the trip.

Travelers also appreciated the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere at Balandra, calling it “well worth the trip.” Many felt that the day offered a perfect balance between natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour offers a comprehensive, comfortable way to experience Baja California Sur’s highlights in a single day. It’s best suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning and prefer a guided experience with personalized attention. The tour’s long duration suits those who are eager to fully relax and take in sights without rushing.

If stunning beaches, charming towns, and vibrant local culture appeal to you—and you’re comfortable with a full day of travel—this experience delivers excellent value. The expert guides, especially those like David, turn a sightseeing trip into a meaningful, engaging adventure.

However, if you prefer very leisurely or shorter excursions, or have mobility concerns, this might be a demanding option. Still, for most adventurous travelers eager to see Baja’s gems in style and comfort, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

How early are the pickups?
Pickups are around 4:40 am from San Jose del Cabo and 5 am from Cabo San Lucas, designed to maximize sightseeing time.

What does the tour include?
It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned sedan, entrance to Balandra Beach, bottled water, a small cooler with ice, a beach umbrella, and a speaker.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so bringing snacks and drinks is highly recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for ages 11 and older, making it a family-friendly option, provided everyone is comfortable with a full day of activity.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those over 220 lbs, as it involves some walking and full-day activity.

What should I bring for the beach?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, a change of clothes, beachwear, charged smartphone, and insect repellent.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This private tour promises a thoughtfully curated day that balances natural beauty, cultural richness, and personalized service. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free way to explore Baja’s must-see spots without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: