Sailing the Sea of Cortez

Sea of Cortez

Protected Natural Area, and  World Heritage Site.

Escape to the Espiritu Santo Marine Natural Park in the Sea of Cortez and experience a world of wonder both above and below the water’s surface. Rent a yacht, or charter a catamaran and explore this breathtaking destination in style. Discover an incredible variety of marine and terrestrial life as you dive, snorkel, or embark on a whale and dolphin watching adventure in their natural habitat. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories in one of Mexico’s most stunning locations.

We have 3 special and beautiful areas that we visit:

Inland Beaches near La paz : Balandra Beach is one of the most popular spots and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The clear, calm waters and stunning rock formations make it a must-see.

Espiritu Santo Island is another highlight of the area, with over 15 beautiful bays to explore. The island is a protected natural area and is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions and dolphins. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking on the island.

San Francisquito Island and San Jose Island are also worth a visit. San Francisquito Island is a small, uninhabited island known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. San Jose Island is slightly larger and is home to a small fishing village and beautiful beaches.

Overall, the beaches and islands near La Paz offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot to relax or an active adventure in the water.

Check this fabolous places to HIKE

Mapa Mar de Cortez
San Gabriel Candelero San Francisquito Amortajada Cardonal Caleta Partida El Mezteño Ensenada Gallo/Gallina Bonanza Los Islotes/Lobos El Embudo Isla Ballena Balandra Ensenada Grande

San Gabriel

Bahia de San gabriel

Candelero

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

San Francisquito

Isla San Francisco

Amortajada

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Cardonal

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Caleta Partida

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

El Mezteño

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Ensenada Gallo/Gallina

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Bonanza

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Los Islotes/Lobos

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

El Embudo

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Isla Ballena

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Balandra

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Ensenada Grande

Ensenada grande

Islands and Bays at the Sea of Cortez

Check our Itineraries

And if you like hiking, here you will find everything you need to know about Balandra and Espiritu Santo

Balandra

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters

Upon arriving at this paradise, you can relax and make the most of your beach day, sunbathe on the seashore, and refresh yourself with the calm waves which is a must-do. You will find palapas that you can use free of charge.

If you like to swim, you are in the right place, and you can also practice snorkeling and admire the variety of fish that the Sea of Cortez has, recognized as “The Aquarium of the World.”

For the more adventurous, a kayak or paddleboard ride are good options, every hour of the day has something special to admire, especially if it’s a sunrise or sunset.

And if you’re looking for more experiences, you can do some hiking, you will find 6 trails that take you to viewpoints from where you can appreciate incredible scenarios that are worth capturing. Let our crew point you to these beautiful trails.

Lastly, don´t forget to visit the Mushroom of Balandra, a landmark for La Paz and a postcard to remember.

Bonanza

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersLa Playa Bonanza is one of the most beautiful beaches on Isla Espíritu Santo in the Marine Natural Park of the same name. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, the beach looks like something out of a postcard. It is the longest sandy beach on Isla Espíritu Santo, stretching almost 2 miles from north to south.

A large sandbank extends throughout the bay, allowing boats to anchor almost anywhere along its beautiful beach. The beach offers visitors the opportunity to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a range of water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.

Bahia San Gabriel

Bahia de San gabrielBahía San Gabriel is a stunning and expansive bay located on the western coast of Isla Espíritu Santo, off the coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico. The bay is known for its pristine white sand beach and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

The bay has a rich history dating back to the pearl fishing era, with remnants of the pearl fishery still visible today on the southern coast of the bay. Visitors can also explore the area’s abundant wildlife, including sea birds, dolphins, and sea turtles.

For those interested in hiking, Bahía San Gabriel offers a scenic trail that runs along the coast and offers stunning views of the bay and its surroundings. The trail is also a great way to access nearby beaches and coves.

Overall, Bahía San Gabriel is a beautiful and serene destination that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Isla Espíritu Santo.

Ensenada Gallo/Gallina

Isla Gallo and Playa Gallina, Isla Espiritu Santo, Sea of Cortez, Aerial Photo Puerto Ballena is a stunning and secluded bay located in the Espiritu Santo Island, Baja California, Mexico. The bay is divided into three lobes, each with its unique features that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the region. To the north is Ensenada de la Raza, a tranquil cove with clear blue waters that offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. Ensenada el Gallo is in the center of the bay and is a perfect place for kayaking or paddleboarding, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. To the south of the bay, visitors can find the small islands of Isla Gallo and Isla Gallina (Rooster Island and Hen Island) in Ensenada La Gallina. These islands are known for their rocky shorelines, which provide a perfect habitat for a variety of marine life. Visitors can explore the area by kayak or dinghy and enjoy the abundance of marine creatures such as sea turtles, colorful fish, and even dolphins. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, kayaking, or just relaxing on a secluded beach, Puerto Ballena offers a little something for everyone.

El Candelero

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersEl Candelero is a beautiful and secluded beach located on the west coast of Isla Espiritu Santo in Baja California, Mexico. With its crystal clear waters and stunning landscapes, it is the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The beach is accessible only by boat, providing a peaceful and secluded atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The shallow waters near the beach are ideal for snorkeling, as they are teeming with marine life such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. In addition to its underwater wonders, El Candelero also boasts breathtaking hiking trails that wind through the island’s rugged terrain. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning landscapes and take in the stunning views of the Sea of Cortez from atop its rocky cliffs. Whether you’re looking to relax on a secluded beach, explore the island’s natural beauty, or discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits its waters, El Candelero is a must-see destination for any traveler to Baja California.

El Mezteño

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersEl Mezteno is a small and quiet cove located to the north, just around the corner from Ensenada del Candelero, with space for only one or two small or medium-sized boats.

El Mezteno is surrounded by high cliffs that offer good protection against the winds from the north. This secluded bay offers a perfect place to chill at the beach and enjoy the quiet to blend in with nature.

At the head of the cove, there are shallow waters and a beautiful white sandy beach.

Caleta Partida

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersEspiritu Santo Island is divided into two parts by the Enmedio Channel, with Isla Partida to the north and Isla Espiritu Santo to the south.

Caleta Partida is a bay located at the point where the two islands meet and separate.

The crystal-clear water of the bay is home to a great variety of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles.

The geological history of Caleta Partida comes from volcanic origins, that is, it is the crater of a large and extinct volcano. For thousands of years, the crater eroded below sea level, losing its western and eastern edges. The steep, high walls and volcanic rocks inside the bay still recall its ancient greatness.

El Cardonal

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersEnsenada el Cardonal is a beautiful bay located in the Isla Partida of Espiritu Santo.

This bay is ideal for those looking for a peaceful and secluded place to enjoy nature in its purest state.

In Ensenada el Cardonal, you can explore the mangroves along the trail that runs along the perimeter of the bay and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape.The trail goes across the island.

There is also an old aquaculture structure on the north coast of the bay that can be explored.

Ensenada Grande

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran charters
Ensenada Grande is a stunning bay located on the east coast of Isla Partida, a small island off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. It is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and for good reason. With crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, Ensenada Grande is a true paradise. The beach is surrounded by dramatic rock formations, creating a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. One of the unique features of Ensenada Grande is its shallow waters, which allows you to walk out into the bay and explore the coral reefs and sea life up close. Snorkeling gear is highly recommended for this activity. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail to the top of the nearby hill provides an incredible panoramic view of the bay and the surrounding islands. Ensenada Grande is a popular destination for day trips and boat tours, but visitors can also camp on the beach overnight. The secluded and peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the stunning natural beauty, make it a perfect place to disconnect and relax. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to soak up the sun and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Ensenada Grande is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Baja California.

El Embudo

el-embudoEl Embudo is a small V-shaped cove located on the northwest end of Isla Partida, which is a small island situated off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. The cove is approximately 0.5 miles south of Punta Maru, which is the northern tip of Isla Partida. Visitors can access the cove by dinghy or kayak, as there is a small sand beach at the head of the cove. The anchorage at El Embudo is small, it offers a peaceful and secluded spot for you to enjoy snorkeling and hiking. One of the main attractions near El Embudo is Los Islotes, which is a popular sea lion rookery located just one mile to the north. You can easily access Los Islotes by dinghy or kayak, and can enjoy watching the playful sea lions in their natural habitat. If you are interested in hiking, there is a trail that begins at the beach and follows a small rocky arroyo across the island for approximately 1 mile to the east side of Isla Partida. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great way to stretch your legs and explore the area. In summary, El Embudo is a small and peaceful cove located on Isla Partida in Baja California, Mexico that offers you a secluded spot to enjoy snorkeling and hiking, and is conveniently located near Los Islotes, a popular sea lion rookery. 

Los Isoltes/La Lobera

Sea of Cortez   Baja by Sea La Paz Yacht and Catamaran chartersLos Islotes is a unique and stunning destination located just off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. This rocky outcrop in the Sea of Cortez is home to a thriving population of sea lions, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, divers, and snorkelers. When visiting to Los Islotes, you can expect to encounter these playful creatures up close and personal, as they swim and bask in the sun on the rocks. The sea lions are known for their curious and friendly behavior, and often approach snorkelers and divers for a closer look. In addition to sea lions, Los Islotes also boasts an incredible diversity of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional dolphin or whale. Divers and snorkelers can explore the underwater rock formations, caves, and canyons that make up this unique ecosystem. For those who prefer to stay above water, Los Islotes offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, with rugged cliffs and crystal clear waters that stretch out as far as the eye can see. You can also hike to the top of the island for panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez and the Baja Peninsula. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a diver, a snorkeler, or simply someone who appreciates the natural beauty of the world around us, Los Islotes is a destination not to be missed. Come experience the magic of this unique and unforgettable destination in Baja California, Mexico

San Francisquito

Isla San Francisco at Sea Of Cortez

Nestled in the southern Sea of Cortez lies Isla San Francisco, one of the most sought-after anchorages in the region. Its close proximity to La Paz and its breathtaking crescent-shaped bay make it a popular destination for boaters and travelers alike. The pristine white sand beaches, complemented by the vivid blue waters and stunning burnt-red rocky cliffs, all of which are part of the National Park system, make for a truly picturesque location.

This idyllic cove is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for activities such as hiking, snorkeling, fishing, and sunbathing. During the winter’s northerly winds, the main bay provides excellent wind and wave protection, making it a safe spot for boats and yachts.

The bay is large enough to accommodate a significant number of boats, including small cruise ships that occasionally tour the Sea of Cortez. 

In summary, Isla San Francisco is a true paradise, offering stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and excellent amenities for boaters and travelers. Don’t miss your chance to experience this hidden gem in the southern Sea of Cortez!

San José / Amortajada

AmortajadaSan Jose Island is a stunning natural paradise in the Sea of Cortez, off the coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico. It’s home to diverse wildlife, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes. Two notable areas to explore on the island are Amortajada and Punta Colorada.

Amortajada is a coastal area on the southern part of San Jose Island, known for its mesmerizing mangroves. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful kayak or paddle board excursion through the calm waters and observe the local marine life, such as colorful fish and sea birds. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery make this a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Punta Colorada is another popular attraction on San Jose Island. While it’s not recommended for swimming due to strong currents and rough waters, Punta Colorada offers incredible hiking trails that showcase the unique rock formations and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and desert landscapes. It’s a great opportunity to experience the rugged natural beauty of San Jose Island and witness the power of nature.