Balandra Beach (Playa Balandra)

The Basics

Balandra Beach can be visited independently or as part of a La Paz sightseeing tour. Full-day tours from Los Cabos visit Todos Santos, Isla Espiritu Santo, and Balandra Beach. Travelers who want to avoid the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transportation can opt for a tour, including snorkeling and kayaking excursions, that includes transport. Plan to carry enough food, water, and supplies for a day at the beach, as there are few amenities here.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Since 2020, Balandra Beach has been limiting visitor numbers and allowing access during two timed slots only—8am to 12pm, and from 1pm to 5pm. Time slots are subject to change so check prior to your trip.

• Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.

• Stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are available for rent.

• The beach has basic facilities, including parking and palapas.

How to Get There

There are several ways to reach Balandra Beach, located about 45 minutes north of La Paz. Buses depart from the Malecon bus terminal in downtown La Paz. Or, if you’re driving, take the Baja California Sur La Paz-El Tecolote highway. Some tours include round-trip transport.

When to Get There

Balandra Beach can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists; during this time, plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and take advantage of the beach’s limited parking. Other times of the year are less crowded.

La Paz Islands

No trip to Las Paz is complete without a visit to the islands. Don’t miss Isla Espiritu Santo, Isla Partida, or the area’s resident sea lion colony at Los Islotes. Motor boats (pangas) leave from Tecolote Beach, just a few minutes north of Balandra Beach. Relatively untouched and teeming with wildlife, the area as a whole makes for an excellent day trip from La Paz.

Ways to explore

If you visit Balandra Beach on your own, you’ll need to make a reservation online and show up early for your time slot, as the protected area only accepts a limited number of visitors each day. To avoid being turned away, join one of many guided tours to the beach, which often include transportation from La Paz or Los Cabos.

Access Balandra Beach from the water on a full-day boat excursion with snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming by the famous Mushroom Rock. If you’d prefer more time on land, other tours include city visits to La Paz and Todos Santos.

Accessibility

Not accessible without a beach wheelchair

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, food (there are no restaurants at the beach), towel, sunscreen

What to wear

Swimsuit, sunglasses, hat, extra layers for windy boat rides

Not allowed

Climbing on Mushroom Rock, littering, pets (leashed dogs are allowed on the main beach)

Amenities

Restrooms, informational panels, parking

Address

There are several ways to get to Balandra Beach, located about 30 minutes north of La Paz in Baja California Sur. It’s most convenient to join a guided tour with included transportation from La Paz or Los Cabos, but you can also drive or take the bus.

Driving

From La Paz, drive 16 miles (26 kilometers) north on Highway 11 and park in the lot at the beach. From Cabo San Lucas, the drive north takes about 2.5 hours on Highway 19.

Public transportation

Buses to Balandra Beach depart hourly from the Malecon bus terminal in downtown La Paz. The morning bus won’t get you to the beach in time for the 8am entry slot, but you can get there before the 1pm slot.

Best times to visit

Arrive at least an hour before the 8am or 1pm visiting slots for the best chance of getting into the beach. Or, join a guided tour that departs in the morning to maximize your time.

Best days to visit

Weekends and holidays can get especially busy at Balandra Beach, so try going on a weekday to avoid long lines.

Best months to visit

Visit Balandra Beach from October to March, when temperatures are mild and rain is minimal.