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Espíritu Santo Island small-group snorkel and sightseeing tour from La Paz

Espíritu Santo Island small-group snorkel and sightseeing tour from La Paz

A seven-hour small-group boat tour from La Paz that pairs snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and a beach lunch on UNESCO-recognized Isla Espíritu Santo. Guides are bilingual marine biologists and groups are capped at 12 for a quieter, more personal experience.

La Paz, Baja California Sur
6–7 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive early at Marina de La Paz

The meeting point is at Miguel de Legaspy and Topete—arrive 15 minutes early to check in and secure good seating on the boat.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and marine life; reapply only where allowed.

Bring motion-sickness remedies

If you are prone to seasickness, take medication before departure and sit mid-boat where motion is steadier.

Keep a small dry bag

Protect phone, wallet and a light layer from spray and sand during the beach stop.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Los Islotes sea lion colony—quiet viewing from the boat, especially later in the day
  • Ruins of the former pearl farm and the small chapel-cove for photos and shore exploration

Wildlife

  • California sea lions
  • Green sea turtles and many reef fish species

Conservation Note

Espíritu Santo is a federally protected area—visitors must wear a federal bracelet and follow strict no-touch and pack-out rules to preserve breeding sites and seagrass beds.

The archipelago has a long history of fishing and early 20th-century pearl cultivation; remnants of those operations remain along sheltered beaches.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Mid-morning (underwater clarity), Golden hour (sunrise/sunset), Late afternoon on return cruise
Key viewpoints:
  • From the bow while passing Balandra Bay
  • Shallow snorkeling spot—overhead shots of sea lions and fish
  • Beach lunch cove facing the channel for cliff-and-water panoramas
Subjects to capture:Underwater life (reef fish, turtles), Sea lions interacting near the boat, Coastal cliffs and beach lunch scenes

What to Bring

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects your skin and the marine environment during extended sun exposure on the water.

Water shoesEssential

Protects feet on rocky shores and when entering shallow snorkeling spots.

Light windbreaker

Useful for the cooler, windier boat crossing in the morning or late afternoon.

Small dry bag (10L)Essential

Keeps electronics, money and a light layer dry during boat rides and beach stops.

Common Questions

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately seven hours, including boat transfers, snorkeling stops, and a beach lunch.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes—mask, snorkel and fins are included in the price and cleaned between uses.

Is the island entry fee included?

Yes—the federal bracelet for entering the protected area is included.

Can children join the tour?

Children can join but must be able to swim reliably; consult the operator for age-specific recommendations.

What should I eat or avoid before the trip?

Avoid heavy meals just before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness; lunch is provided and includes fish ceviche and meat burritos with vegetarian options on request.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The operator notes wheelchair-accessible transportation and facilities, but boarding a small boat requires mobility—contact the operator to discuss specific needs.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

6–7 hours

Location

La Paz, Baja California Sur

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness recommended—short swims and getting on/off the boat require agility and balance.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore La Paz?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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