Private Scuba Diving in La Paz: Espíritu Santo Day Trip from the Malecon
Board at La Paz’s Malecon and power across the Sea of Cortez for two private dives at Espíritu Santo, a day that mixes wall dives, sea lion sightings, and a beachside picnic on protected shores.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring certification and photo ID
Most operators require an open-water card for certified dives; carry your card and the ID used at booking.
Guard against seasickness
Take antiemetic medication before boarding and sit midboat where motion is least pronounced.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen and avoid lotions that can harm coral and marine life.
Conserve battery and memory for photos
If shooting underwater, bring a charged camera and spare memory—visibility and encounters are best midday.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Los Islotes sea lion colony—an up-close and playful snorkel spot
- •Ensenada Grande on Espíritu Santo—a quieter beach for picnic and shallow snorkeling
Wildlife
- •California sea lion
- •Whale sharks (seasonal, winter–spring)
Conservation Note
Espíritu Santo and surrounding islets are protected; operators collect park fees and follow strict no‑touch rules to reduce impact on reefs and rookeries.
La Paz’s coastline was central to regional pearl harvesting in the 18th and 19th centuries; the Malecon’s clam statue nods to that legacy.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat deck during approach to Espíritu Santo
- • On the sand at Ensenada Grande for wide-angle shorelines
- • Near Los Islotes for sea lion action shots
What to Bring
Shorty or full wetsuitEssential
Spring water can be cool—3–5mm keeps you comfortable during longer dives.
Dive computerEssential
Tracks depth and no‑deco limits more reliably than a gauge alone.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin while reducing impact on local marine ecosystems.
Small dry bag and towel
Keeps valuables dry during transfers and provides a warm layer after dives.
Common Questions
Do I need a certification to dive on this tour?
Yes—most private dive tours require an Open Water certification; contact the operator ahead if you want an introductory supervised dive, which may be possible.
How many dives are included?
The private tour includes two guided dives with a surface interval and a beach picnic between or after dives.
What are the typical depths and conditions?
Dive sites range from shallow reefs at 8–18 m to walls around 25–30 m; visibility is often 10–30 m depending on season and weather.
Is this family-friendly?
Families with older children who are certified divers are welcome; infants must sit on laps and operators limit the number of divers per guide for safety.
What if weather cancels the trip?
Operators will cancel in bad weather and offer a full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before departure or if conditions are unsafe the day of.
Where do we meet and return?
Meet at the Malecon dock in front of the clam-and-pearl statue; the tour departs and returns to the same dock.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
La Paz, Baja California Sur
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to handle stairs, ladder entries, and multiple dives with surface intervals.
Ready to Explore La Paz?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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