We decided to check out the other side of Cabo. La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur, a Mexican state on the Baja California Peninsula. It’s known for its seafront Malecón promenade with fabulous beaches within driving distance. Many bars and restaurants overlook the water. In the city center, the 19th-century Nuestra Señora de La Paz Cathedral dominates the shady Velasco. The town felt very cool.
When we were there, the World Cup was happening. Mexico was losing to Argentina. I guess it ultimately felt ok because Argentina won the whole thing. But the mood was relaxed and fun. I couldn’t imagine a similar scene in England. Edgy, a hint of trouble and of course England would lose and that would set off a whole new ball game.
The beaches were nice, even the town beaches were manageable, and the water was swimmable. Famous for the whale sharks that populate the area from winter through spring. They are the largest fish in the world. Thankfully, they eat plankton! Sadly, oil refineries sat in the distance. A feature of Mexico in general.
And then there was this amazing beach. Playa Balandra. You need a car to easily get there and even though it’s a public beach, it has restricted times for entry. Once capacity is met, the barrier goes down. Early in the morning is better. They’re pretty strict but we managed to get on two days in a row. So, we hadn’t the fuss! It’s just a remarkable shallow bay. When the tide is out, it’s almost impossible to swim. You just can walk forever and cross the bay. The sand is white, the water turquoise and the mountains around stunning. There is wild cactus dotted everywhere and you can rent canoes from a local guy who sits mid-point in the sea, tide permitting.
It reminded me of cricket games with my dad along the shore. I have never seen such a beautiful shallow bay with such an extraordinary tide. Wonderful for kids. For the intrepid surfers there are a couple of beaches with perfect surf conditions nearby. But, for me, this was a beach like no other. Easy to get to on Volaris (Mexico’s budget air carrier) and the rates are low compared to Cabo. My only regret was not seeing a whale shark. Maybe 40-foot sharks that are harmless are still better seen on You Tube!