Fronting the Sea of Cortez, La Paz delivers some of Mexico’s finest paddling experiences. The star attraction is Espiritu Santo Island, where kayakers glide past curious sea lions and colorful marine life in crystal-clear waters.
I especially love the combination whale shark and sea lion tours – they’re well-organized and perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
For families and first-timers, the double kayak rentals along the malecón (waterfront promenade) offer a laid-back introduction to La Paz’s shoreline. The guided Kayak Safari stands out for its expert naturalists who reveal hidden mangrove ecosystems.
Meanwhile, Balandra Bay’s protected waters make an ideal spot for beginning paddleboarders.
Let’s look at my favorite La Paz kayak tours, ranked by value and experience:
Key Points
- Balandra Adventure offers a 7-hour small-group tour with hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, priced at $108.49 per person.
- Espiritu Santo Island Boat Ride is a 6-hour kayaking adventure to spot sea lions and marine life, costing $98.58 per person.
- Whale Shark & Sea Lions Tour is an 8.5-hour excursion with kayaking and snorkeling, priced at $170.13 per person.
- Tandem kayak rentals allow for a shared paddling experience and opportunities to spot wildlife along La Paz’s picturesque coastline.
- Kayak Safari Experience is a 2-hour eco-friendly adventure exploring La Paz’s bay and mangroves, priced from $73.97 per person.
La Paz: Water Sports – Kayaks
Kayaking is a popular water sport in La Paz, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s stunning coastline and tranquil bays.
One of the top-rated activities is the Balandra Adventure: Hike, Kayak, and Snorkel, which takes guests on a 7-hour small-group excursion to the picturesque Balandra Beach. Priced at $108.49 per person, this activity combines hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, allowing participants to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Another exciting kayaking option is the Boat ride to Espiritu Santo Island, a 6-hour adventure that costs $98.58 per person. Visitors can paddle through the clear waters surrounding the island, spotting sea lions and other marine life along the way.
For those seeking a more comprehensive water-based experience, the Whale Shark & Sea Lions Tour offers an 8.5-hour small-group excursion that includes kayaking, snorkeling, and the chance to encounter these majestic creatures, all for $170.13 per person.
Read our full review: La Paz: Water Sports – Kayaks Review
Book now: Check availability
La Paz: Double Kayak Rental
For visitors seeking a more leisurely way to explore La Paz’s picturesque coastline, double kayak rentals provide an ideal solution.
These tandem kayaks allow friends, couples, or families to paddle together, taking in the stunning scenery at a relaxed pace. Many of the water activity providers in La Paz offer double kayak rentals, with pricing starting from around $108.49 per person for a 7-hour excursion.
Kayakers can paddle along the calm, sheltered waters, spotting native wildlife like sea lions, pelicans, and even whales on occasion. Some tours also include the opportunity to stop and snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters, allowing visitors to get an up-close look at the vibrant marine life.
With the ability to cover more ground than a single kayak, double kayak rentals are a fantastic way for travelers to maximize their time on the water and create lasting memories in the beautiful La Paz region.
Read our full review: La Paz: Double Kayak Rental Review
Book now: Check availability
KAYAK SAFARI
The KAYAK SAFARI offers a captivating 2-hour adventure, inviting visitors to explore the breathtaking bay of La Paz and the lush mangroves of the Mogote. Priced from $73.97 per person, this eco-friendly activity is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Guided by a SECTUR certified professional, explorers will observe the area’s rich biodiversity, including dolphins and endemic birds, making it an ideal outing for photography enthusiasts. The 6-kilometer route starts at the boardwalk, providing a scenic journey through the mangroves.
Kayak equipment, snacks, hydration, and first aid are all included, along with a photographic memory to capture the adventure. Participants are advised to wear comfortable attire, such as a swimsuit, long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy footwear, and to ensure they’re in adequate physical condition.
The KAYAK SAFARI operates daily from 5:30 a.m., offering flexible travel plans with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: KAYAK SAFARI Review
Book now: Check availability
La Paz: Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Paddle your way through the tranquil waters of La Paz’s pristine bay with a stand-up paddle board rental. With so much to explore, a paddleboard offers a unique perspective of the city’s natural beauty. Rent a board for 3 hours and glide along the calm, turquoise waters, taking in the stunning views of the Espiritu Santo Island and the rugged desert landscapes that surround the bay.
Many tour operators offer stand-up paddle board rentals, with prices starting at around $116 per person. These small-group experiences often include hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all necessary equipment.
Spend your time paddling at your own pace, or join a guided tour to learn more about the local marine life and ecosystem. For a more adventurous outing, combine your paddleboard rental with other activities, such as snorkeling or hiking in the nearby Balandra beach.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddleboarder or trying it for the first time, a stand-up paddle board rental is an excellent way to learn about the natural wonders of La Paz.
Read our full review: La Paz: Stand Up Paddle Board Rental Review
Book now: Check availability
La Paz: Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience in Balandra Bay
Why not explore Balandra Bay’s serene waters on a stand-up paddle boarding adventure?
GetYourGuide offers a 3-hour Stand Up Paddle Board Rental experience in this picturesque location for $93.69. Paddle along the bay’s calm, turquoise waters and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Baja California Sur peninsula.
This activity is perfect for all skill levels, with knowledgeable guides providing instruction and equipment. Glide past the bay’s white sand beaches and rocky coves, keeping an eye out for local marine life.
The tour also includes round-trip transportation, so you can simply focus on enjoying the tranquil paddle. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time, this stand-up paddle boarding experience in Balandra Bay promises an unforgettable way to learn about the natural beauty of La Paz.
Read our full review: La Paz: Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience in Balandra Bay Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
La Paz offers a variety of water sports to enjoy, from kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to exploring the scenic Balandra Bay. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’ll find ample opportunities to explore the stunning marine environment and take in the breathtaking coastal views. With options for both single and double kayaks, as well as stand-up paddle boards, there’s something for all to experience the beauty of La Paz’s waterways.