72. ⛵ Boating to La Paz, Baja California Sur: Jewel of the Sea of Cortez
Tucked inside a protected bay on the eastern coast of Baja California Sur, La Paz is a dream destination for sailors and boaters. Known for its peaceful anchorage, friendly marinas, and world-class access to the Sea of Cortez, La Paz offers an unmatched blend of marine adventure, Mexican culture, and cruiser camaraderie.
Here’s your complete boating guide to La Paz—a place Jacques Cousteau famously called "the world’s aquarium."
📍 Where Is La Paz?
- Located on the southeastern tip of the Baja Peninsula, inside Bahía de La Paz.
- About 130 NM north of Cabo San Lucas, accessible by day sail or overnight run.
- Entry is through Canal de San Lorenzo—navigable but requires attention to shoals and tides.
⚓ Marinas in La Paz
🛥️ Marina Costa Baja
- Luxury marina with resort amenities.
- Onsite fuel dock, boatyard, pool, restaurants, and marine store.
- 24-hour security, concierge, and customs check-in.
- Great for longer stays and crewed yachts.
🛥️ Marina de La Paz
- Located near downtown—cruiser favorite.
- Community feel, social events, chandlery, and workshops.
- Close to markets, restaurants, and walking promenade.
🛥️ Marina Palmira
- Quiet, scenic marina with shuttle to town.
- Pool, laundry, repair services, and dive shop.
⚓ Anchorage Options
- The La Paz anchorage (off Marina de La Paz) is well protected, but known for the strong “La Paz Waltz” (a tidal current that swings boats in circles).
- Good holding, room for dozens of boats, and access to dinghy docks.
🐠 Things to Do by Boat
1. Isla Espíritu Santo & Isla Partida
- Only 20 NM from La Paz—turquoise water, white sand, and volcanic landscapes.
- Anchorages: Ensenada Grande, Caleta Partida, and Los Islotes.
- Swim with sea lions, snorkel reefs, or kayak among sea caves.
2. Whale Sharks (October–April)
- Swim with gentle giants right in the Bay of La Paz (permit required).
- Tours available or go with a licensed captain.
3. Sportfishing & Diving
- Dorado, tuna, and marlin in deeper waters.
- Nearby wreck dives and reefs offer rich biodiversity.
🧭 Provisioning & Services
- Provisioning: Excellent! Walmart, Chedraui, Soriana, and local mercados.
- Boat Repairs & Services: La Paz is a cruiser service hub—mechanics, fiberglass, sailmakers, electronics, and haul-outs.
- Laundry, showers, fuel, and water available at most marinas.
🛂 Customs & Clearance
- Official port of entry: Clear customs and immigration here if arriving from abroad.
- Documents needed:
- TIP (Temporary Import Permit)
- Crew/Passenger list
- Tourist Visas (FMM)
- Proof of boat ownership and insurance
🌮 Local Culture & Life
- Malecón: Walk the vibrant seaside promenade lined with sculptures, restaurants, and sunset views.
- Food Scene: From taco stands to upscale seafood—try ceviche, chocolate clams, and fresh churros.
- Cruiser Community: VHF net on Channel 22 (daily updates, social events, buy/sell).
🌊 Boating Tips
- Summer = hurricane season: June to November—La Paz is a hurricane hole, but stay aware.
- Northers in winter: Winds can blow hard from the north—check forecasts before anchoring.
- Fuel up: Pemex fuel stations and dockside refueling available.
- Wi-Fi & Cell: Excellent coverage throughout marinas and town.
🛥️ In Summary
La Paz is the perfect balance of adventure and ease. With its access to the pristine Sea of Cortez islands, robust cruising services, and charming downtown, it’s no wonder many sailors stop in and never want to leave.
Ready to explore La Paz and beyond? BoatNCrew.com helps connect captains, crew, and cruisers with marina bookings, local guides, provisioning help, and expert planning support.
From whale sharks to sea lions—La Paz is calling! 🐋⛵🇲🇽