Espíritu Santo Island is one of the best places to snorkel in the municipality of La Paz, Baja California Sur, although it’s not the only one, as there are other equally recommended destinations.
The city is known for its beaches with calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for water activities. Below, we’ll tell you three alternatives.
What are the best places to snorkel in La Paz?
The city is known for its boat trips and island excursions, but it also has several accessible by land where you can do this activity without having to book a tour.
They aren’t always marked on tourist maps, but these sites offer good conditions for swimming and seeing marine life. Among the most popular are at least four that are ideal for snorkeling:
- La Concha (next to Caimancito)
These spots are very close to each other, less than 300 meters apart, so you can swim from one to the other. La Concha is next to a hotel and a dive center, where you can rent equipment.
It has a reef that can be seen directly from the beach, making it a jumping-off point for many people exploring the bay.
Caimancito has palapas for shade and a small beach where you can also snorkel, although visibility is sometimes poor due to the sand. Despite this, you can still see plenty of fish, especially near the pier.
- Pichilingue Beach
Although it doesn’t look very interesting from the outside, because the ferry terminal is nearby, underwater it’s teeming with marine life.
North of the pier, you can see different types of fish, such as sergeant, trumpet, and damselfish, swimming among the remains of a sunken ship. Although there are no signs marking this spot, it’s easy to find from the beach.
- Tecolote Beach
This is another good spot for snorkeling. The best spots are a little further from the restaurants. If you go to the far right of the beach (looking from the access point), the seabed changes from sand to rocks covered in seaweed.
There, you can see many marine animals, such as octopuses, if you look closely among the rocks. This area is not very deep, making it ideal for those inexperienced in snorkeling.
- Balandra Beach
It’s famous for its beautiful scenery and is also a good place for snorkeling. Although the water is not very deep, you can see tropical fish near the rocks.
It’s important to know that access is controlled, so it’s a good idea to check the hours before going.
All of these La Paz beaches, located on the Sea of Cortez, known as the “Aquarium of the World,” are north of the seawall, following the road to Pichilingue. Now, we’ll tell you what you can find at each one.
What is snorkeling?
It’s an activity in which you can see the seabed without having to fully submerge yourself.
To do this, you use simple equipment that includes a mask for viewing underwater, a snorkel for breathing while your head is submerged, and fins for better movement in the water.
It is practiced in places where the water is clear and shallow, as it makes it easier to see fish, coral, and other marine animals up close.
What should you consider when snorkeling in La Paz?
- Use the right equipment
A mask that fits snugly over your face and doesn’t leak water.
A good-quality snorkel, preferably with a valve to prevent water from entering.
Comfortable and well-fitting fins for easy movement in the water.
- Choose the right location
Practice in areas with calm, clear, and shallow waters, such as reefs or safe coastal areas.
Avoid areas with strong currents, high waves, or where safety could be compromised. 3. Stay close to the shore
Especially if you’re a beginner, it’s a good idea to practice close to the shore so you always have a safe place to return to if necessary.
- Be cautious in the sea
Always be aware of sea conditions, including tides, waves, and currents.
Avoid swimming alone; it’s always best to have a buddy or be supervised if you’re a beginner.
- Practice proper breathing
Breathe in a relaxed and controlled manner through the snorkel. Avoid agitation or rapid breathing, as this can cause anxiety and make breathing difficult.
- Hydration and Sun Protection
Stay hydrated, as the sun and physical activity can cause dehydration.
Use sunscreen on exposed areas to avoid sunburn, and consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt for added protection.
- Respect Marine Life
Do not touch or disturb marine organisms. Do not collect coral, fish, or any other ecosystem creature.
Stay a safe distance from marine animals, such as turtles, fish, or sharks, to avoid disturbing them or putting yourself at risk.
- Know Local Regulations
Before practicing this activity in a specific area, it is important to know local regulations, such as protected or restricted areas, to avoid legal issues and preserve the ecosystem.
Additionally, Los Cabos is known for having perfect places to practice this activity. But you don’t have to go that far, because in La Paz there are also four beaches where you can enjoy snorkeling without going too far.
Source: posta
