La Paz, Mexico, offers incredible experiences for those arriving by cruise ship. While not many Mexican Riviera itineraries include this port, we selected an itinerary that stopped there. We discovered some wonderful attractions in La Paz on our port day.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sea of Cortez, Baja California Sur’s vibrant capital captivates visitors with its blend of scenic beauty and vibrant local culture.
Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, fresh seafood, or cultural experiences, the city has something for every traveler.
The capital exudes an old-world charm, much like Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán. While the port isn’t downtown, the city is easily reachable, and the drive provides a picturesque look at the surrounding landscape.
Getting To The City From The Cruise Port
Reaching La Paz from the cruise port is easy. The cruise ships dock at Puerto Pichilingue, near the ferry terminal, about 10 miles or 22 km north of the city center.
We had several options for transportation:
- Shuttle Buses: The shuttle bus provides the easiest and most economical way to get downtown. The roundtrip ticket cost was USD 10 for adults (13 yrs and over), USD 8 for children 6 to 13, and complimentary for those under five.
- Taxis: A vendor offered taxi rides at the cruise terminal. A ride to downtown costs USD 40 one way, so around USD 80 roundtrip. Taxis would carry up to four with a USD 5 surcharge for each extra person.
The rate for renting a taxi for three hours was USD 150 for up to four passengers.
We traveled with three in our party, so it made sense to take the shuttle. The bus stops at Coromuel Beach (20 mins) and then proceeds to the bus depot downtown, which takes an additional 10 minutes. When leaving the port, sit on the right side to enjoy the ocean views.
Buses can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. On the return run, we needed to show our cruise card to board the bus again.
We were in La Paz from 8 am to 5 pm. Our shuttle buses ran from 8:15 am to 1:30 pm going to town. The return buses ran every 20 minutes; the last one was back at 3:30 pm. Times will vary with your docking time.
The bus terminal sits between the La Paz Cathedral and the Malecon, providing a good starting point for exploration.
Cultural Immersion In La Paz
It’s a short walk from the bus depot to reach attractions that showcase the rich culture and history of Baja California Sur. We chose to walk uphill to the cathedral and museums first, then savor the flat walk along the Malecon afterward.
Baja California Sur Art Museum
The Baja California Sur Art Museum is a cornerstone of La Paz’s cultural scene. At the back of the museum, vintage streetlights mimic the ones found at the LA County Museum of Art. These urban lights make for great selfie opportunities.
The museum itself is located in a beautifully restored building, this neoclassical museum features three exhibit halls with a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art.
Across the street from the museum’s entrance, Jardin Velasco features a bandstand and a colorful La Paz sign. Since the main one on the Malecon attracts a crowd, getting a selfie here is much easier.
Visit the Cathedral of La Paz
Behind the La Paz sign, the Cathedral of La Paz, formally known as Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz, faces the square. It’s an iconic structure that dates to the late 19th century.
The neoclassical style façade with twin towers is constructed of pink quarry stone. It may not have the same appeal as other Mexican cathedrals, but its interior is quite lovely.
We found meticulously crafted altars, religious art, and beautiful stained-glass windows inside. From here, continue up Calle 5 De Mayo to the next museum.
Anthropology And History Museum
La Paz’s Anthropology and History Museum provides a comprehensive look into the region’s past. Exhibits showcase artifacts from pre-Hispanic cultures and Spanish colonial influences that shaped Baja California Sur.
The displays feature ancient tools, pottery, and textiles, each telling a story of the area’s indigenous peoples. This museum is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in La Paz’s culture through its anthropological lens.
Explore La Paz Malecon
Walk down to the waterfront and explore the Malecon. Like Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, this one follows the ocean and features artistic sculptures. The boardwalk offers lovely views of the coastline. Numerous cafes and restaurants dot the route if hunger strikes.
Get A Selfie At The La Paz Sign
One of the must-visit spots on the Malecon is the iconic “La Paz” sign. This colorful installation makes for memorable photos. With an ocean backdrop, this one is more popular than the other by the cathedral.
During our visit, we had to queue for our turn. Locals hang out at this spot, offering to take your photo for a tip. One ingenious local used a DJI mini drone to capture an aerial shot for a USD 15 fee.
Find The Sculptures
One of the highlights of the boardwalk is its artistic sculptures, many depicting elements of the ocean. One of my favorites is the bronze Los Caracoles Músicos, on a street near the waterfront. The set of three seashell musicians is quite whimsical.
The giant pearl in a shell is another standout and pays homage to the area’s waters, once full of pearls.
La Paz’s Malecon stretches for five miles with the Sirena con Delfines statue at one end and the La Barca de Oro at the other. Walk it all or do a small section; either way, the walk is rewarding.
Day Trip To Isla Espíritu Santo
Isla Espíritu Santo offers a unique escape filled with natural beauty and marine life. A day trip here provides an opportunity to encounter playful sea lions. For the adventurous, the thrill of snorkeling with whale sharks makes for an unforgettable experience.
Seal Colony Encounter
Encountering the sea lion colony at Isla Espíritu Santo is often a highlight. We can experience the vibrant social interactions of these playful animals at their beachside haunts. Head to the island’s southern end for the best chance to see them.
Sea lion tours often allow visitors to get close to these animals in a respectful manner. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity, showcasing the lively spirit of these marine mammals.
Snorkeling With Whale Sharks
Puerto Vallarta and Cabo offer whale watching tours from boats. Guests usually spot humpbacks or gray whales. In La Paz, visitors can enjoy whale shark sightings from the water.
Snorkeling with whale sharks is a thrilling experience if you’re up for the adventure. These gentle giants reach lengths of up to 40 feet. Tour operators usually provide masks and fins. Recently, tours were suspended when whale shark counts were low, so check they are running before arriving.
During a tour, fast vessels drop snorkelers ahead of the whale sharks and wait for the giants to swim by. Snorkelers can observe all marine creatures but must not touch them as they glide through the water.
Experiencing Local Cuisine
La Paz offers a vibrant culinary scene highlighting the region’s fresh seafood and traditional Mexican flavors. There weren’t as many patio restaurants along the waterfront in comparison to Puerto Vallarta. So many were busy or had waiting times.
Tasting Fish Tacos
No visit to any Mexico beach destination is complete without trying its fish tacos. They are typically made with fresh, grilled, or battered fish. They are served in soft corn tortillas and topped with shredded lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Local vendors and restaurants offer their own unique takes on this beloved dish. We tried many fish tacos, from halibut and rockfish to sea bass and whitefish. I liked the battered better, but it’s the topping that made the difference.
If you prefer to skip the fish, there are options for mariscadas, shrimp, chicken, pork, and lobster. To experience an authentic flavor of the region, try the “chocolate clams.”
Authentic Mexican Cooking Classes
Participating in a cooking class provides a hands-on approach to experiencing the area’s culinary delights. Want-to-be cooks can learn the secrets of authentic Mexican cooking, including techniques and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Classes sometimes include a market tour where we select fresh ingredients. These classes typically cover a range of dishes, allowing us to create meals that reflect local flavors. Alternatively, take a street food tour and leave the cooking to someone else.
Activities Outside The City
Skip downtown and head to the Baja Desert if you are seeking a thrilling adventure. Adrenaline rush activities include ATV rides or embark on a safari on a camel. Alternatively, La Paz has some golf greens for avid golfers.
ATV Rides
Baja Desert ATV rides are popular for adventure seekers but be prepared to get dusty and dirty. Excursions travel through diverse terrains, including sandy dunes and rocky paths, giving riders a full experience of Baja’s natural beauty.
Tours typically last up to four hours and are suitable for all if they have a sense of adventure. ATVs are easy to ride, even for a first-timer. Many tours include stops at breathtaking vistas or local landmarks for photo opportunities.
La Paz Golfing
La Paz, Mexico, offers a fantastic opportunity for golfers visiting on a cruise port day. Just a short drive from the port, you’ll find the exclusive Costa Baja Golf Club, designed by famed architect Gary Player. It offers sweeping views of the Gulf of Cortez.
Alternatively, the Paraiso del Mar Golf Course offers a unique challenge, featuring beautiful desert terrain and coastal vistas.
Camel Safaris
Camel safaris present a unique way to explore the Baja Desert. These tours last up to two hours and provide a slower pace to enjoy the stunning scenery.
These safaris often culminate in a chance to snap Instagrammable images against the backdrop of the vast desert.
Shop At Local Markets
Mexico destinations always scream shopping therapy, and it’s a chance to haggle with locals. Check out Mercado Bravo or Mercado Pioneros to pick up some handicrafts, souvenirs, or the ever-popular real vanilla extract.
During our visit, a pop-up market on the Malecon attracted crowds of cruise passengers. We browsed everything from jewelry, clothing, and small handmade gifts. Trying to support the local economy, we came away with two La Paz T-shirts to add to our collection.
Relax At Balandra Beach
For sun lovers, Balandra Beach is a must-visit destination in La Paz. Its stunning scenery and tranquil waters provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation. Amenities at the beach are limited, so bringing essentials is advisable.
A taxi from the port to Balandra or Tecolote Beach costs USD 25. Be sure to know how to catch one back. Balandra Beach is best known for its soft sand, crystal-clear water, and unique backdrop of giant Cardon cacti.
A Port Day In La Paz Conclusion
La Paz, Mexico, offers an exceptional blend of natural wonders, rich culture, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for cruise guests.
Since fewer ships dock there, we enjoyed the city with fewer people. We found this port a refreshing alternative to the crowds and aggressive salespeople at Cabo San Lucas, and we can’t wait to return.
Karen Hosier, a military brat, grew up traveling the world. She lived in many countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. Later in life, she discovered cruising and shares her love of being on the ocean and exploring faraway lands. Follow her on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.