La Paz, Mexico, the capital of Baja, California, has some of the most magnificent beaches in Mexico. If crystal clear, gently blue waters and white, powdery sand are what you are looking for, then La Paz is where you want to go. I will mention that the best beaches are located about a 45-minute drive out of La Paz, so La Paz isn’t the type of beach destination like Zipolite is where you can stay in a cabana right on the beach. You do have to rent a car to get to these beaches, as the bus doesn’t go to the most beautiful ones, and while you can take an Uber to the beaches, I wasn’t able to get an Uber to come pick me up from the beach. So, if you don’t mind driving, these are the most beautiful beaches in La Paz, Mexico.

The Best Beaches Of La Paz

1. Balandra

 

Balandra is definitely the most popular of the beaches in La Paz. I’ve never been to a beach quite like it. Crystal clear waters that are very shallow and white sand make up this beach. The water is so shallow, you can walk all the way to the other side without the water coming up much past your waist!

There are no restrooms at Balandra, nor restaurants. But, there are vendors selling coconuts that you can sip the water from and a concession stand that sells water, drinks, and ceviche in the parking lot.

While many people consider to be one of the best beaches in La Paz, it was no longer my favorite because of how crowded it was. The first time I went about ten years ago, I practically had the beach to myself. No longer. It’s also much dirtier than it used to be. It’s still worth a visit, but definitely not what it used to be.

Bring lots of water, snacks, and an umbrella for shade.

2. Playa Tecolote

In my book, Playa Tecolote offers everything that a perfect beach should. Gorgeous calm waters deep enough for swimming, services such as restrooms, beach bars for when you need a drink or lunch, and lots of pretty shells and stones to collect as you walk down the beach.

If you walk to the left once you are facing the beach, it’s easy to find a spot without many people around. There are also vendors that come selling mangoes and paletas, which make for a nice treat in the heat.

This is the best place to book a boat trip to Isla Espiritu Santo, an island nature reserve and marine park. This was my favorite beach, and I spent many hours here just relaxing and soaking up the sun. If you’re lucky, you might even see a few stingrays at this beach. You can also rent both kayaks and jet skis at this beach.

3. Playa El Tesoro

Tesoro Beach, which means the treasure, was my least favorite of Mexico’s La Paz beaches. It was small and filled with lots of children and families. But, it’s worth a mention, if you do have a family. The shallow waters are great for kids, and there’s also a great beach bar that makes an excellent tamarind margarita.

4. The Malecon

While I don’t recommend the beaches on the Malecon in the city of La Paz at all for swimming, it’s a must to walk along it just before sunset. I saw some of the most stunning sunsets of my life here, and it’s also fun to watch the locals gather each evening.

You can walk, bike, or rollerblade the Malecon, or sit along the seawall and watch the show! Make sure to check out the art sculptures and statues along the way.

Also, make sure to read my article on Eating The Globe for the best places to eat and restaurants in La Paz.