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Baja California is hands down one of my favorite places to fill up my sun and seaside tank. It’s got a wild and rugged charm you might imagine California had before it became a metropolitan hotspot of North America. And that is pretty much what Baja is – a peninsula that was part of California until the 1800s, when it was returned to Mexico.

The best beaches in Baja California are scattered all along the peninsula, from the incredible surf breaks along the Pacific Coastline to the calm and warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re sunning yourself on the beaches of Balandra or relaxing in the peace and quiet of Cabo Pulmo, this piece of land has an incredible variety of beaches to explore.

Throw in the fact that the sun shines for an average of 350 days a year, and it’s no wonder Baja is a year-round beachy dreamscape.

Some might say there are even too many beaches to choose from around here. If you’re overwhelmed by the options, here is my pick of the top seven beaches in Baja:

two friends on a beach in mexico holding a lizard that has a Sombrero on
Let me take you through my FAV beaches in Baja California 🙂
Photo: @amandaadraper

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    When to Go to Beaches in Baja California

    Like many vacations, the timing of your beach trip to Baja California can make or break the experience. So here’s the lowdown from someone who’s been burnt to a crisp in spring and soaked through with monsoon rain in summer. I’m here so you don’t make the same mistake on your epic trip to Mexico.

    The absolute best time to visit Baja California is between December and April, which predominantly falls over the area’s dry season. While the dry season is technically between January and March, with minimal rainfall and clear water conditions, the shoulder months provide a more budget-friendly time to visit the beaches. 

    mexico baja la ventana drone shot water landscape
    Baja never fails to blow my mind.
    Photo: Audy Scala

    Summers, especially between July and September, are a mixed bag. Sure, it’s hot and steamy, but it’s also monsoon season, which means short and sudden bursts of rainstorms and humidity so intense you’ll feel like showering three times a day. During these months, the water is also unpredictable – the surf is usually larger, water is murkier because of the rain and open river mouths, and there are even some seaweed blooms that can really get in the way of a snorkeling plan. 

    Spring, between March and May, is a time of cool afternoons and mornings. The days are warm, but the water can get particularly chilly this time of year. I would say that fall is underrated. The water is warm, there are fewer tourists around, and as long as you keep an eye on the forecast and avoid any hurricanes, it’s a pleasant time to visit the best beaches in Baja California.

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    cabo san lucas arch beach
    Photo: George Alvarez
    • Who’s it for: families, couples, and groups of friends. Particularly well suited for romantic trips – it’s all in the name
    • Don’t miss: The iconic granite rock formation known as El Arco

    Lovers Beach is located at the very southern tip of Baja California Sur. As such, it touches on the iconic Pacific waters and the clear Gulf sea. If the name didn’t give it away already, this is a particularly beautiful beach for couples and romantic trips.

    In fact, its neighboring beach, ironically called Divorce Beach, is just as beautiful, yet has a more rugged landscape with rougher water. Located on the Pacific side of the peninsula, some reckon this beach is dangerous for swimming because of its wild waves. You’ve been warned.

    The best thing about this beach is that it’s only accessible by boat or kayak. This means fewer tourists, untouched sandy stretches, and gorgeous clear water. You might even say that the journey to the beach is part of the adventure itself. 

    While you’re in the area, you could take a tour to the Cabo San Lucas Arch on a walk through the Bay of the Sea of Cortez. For an even more unique experience, consider booking a boat tour to the Los Cabos Arch, or El Arco. Most boat tours provide snorkeling equipment, so you can check out the landscape underneath the water, too.

    Where to Stay

    Best Luxury Place to Stay
    Best Luxury Place to Stay

    Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

    The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is one of the most lavish luxury hotels to stay at in this Baja California beach town. You can choose from suites with private pools or beachfront rooms, all of which are exquisitely designed and decorated. The hotel features four on-site restaurants, serving a diverse range of cuisine, from Mexican to seafood.

    Best Budget Place to Stay
    Best Budget Place to Stay

    central Cabo apartment

    If this is out of your price range, there are some fantastic, affordable places to stay near the beach. This central Cabo apartment, for instance, features a spacious bedroom and stunning sea views.

    The Best Beach for Snorkeling in Baja California | Santa Maria Beach, Los Cabos

    Santa Maria beach Cabo San Lucas
    The water in Baja is incredible.
    • Who’s it for: snorkelers and swimmers looking for calm and clear water
    • Don’t miss: the colorful coral reefs that are part of a protected marine sanctuary

    Santa Maria Beach is sometimes so quiet that it feels private compared to some of the busier beaches in the area. It’s tucked along the scenic Tourist Corridor of Los Cabos, just a fifteen-minute drive north of Cabo San Lucas. It’s considered a Blue Flag Beach, which means it meets strict water quality requirements. Yup, that means clear and clean water, pristine for swimming and snorkeling. It doesn’t get better than this.

    If you’re heading to this part of town during January to March, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for gray whales; it’s a great time for whale watching in Baja California.

    Speaking of snorkeling, the sea around here is full of colorful coral, sea turtles, and tropical fish. It’s the perfect environment for those starting out snorkeling, like young kids and families. For an extra exceptional snorkeling experience, head out on a boat tour and explore the surrounding reefs without the crowds of the beach. Other fun things to do around here include kayaking on the calm water.

    The vibe is laid-back. There are public bathrooms, showers, and changing rooms, where you can rinse off after swimming, making it one of the best beaches in Baja California for families. That said, there are no restaurants or eateries along the beachfront – another reason the beach stays as quiet as it does. 

    Where to Stay

    Best Luxury Place to Stay
    Best Luxury Place to Stay

    The Cape, a Thompson Hotel by Hyatt

    The Cape, a Thompson Hotel by Hyatt, is no doubt the most beautiful place to stay near the beach. It’s located right on the beachfront of Cabo San Lucas, with five-star service and abundant amenities. 

    Best Budget Place to Stay
    Best Budget Place to Stay

    apartment in a boutique hotel

    Generally speaking, accommodation isn’t the cheapest around here. We are speaking about Cabo, after all. If it’s value for money you’re after, book an apartment rental in the main town of Cabo and travel to the beach by car. This little apartment in a boutique hotel is on the market for a steal of a price – perfect for budget travelers. Another hot tip is to take an umbrella with you – either from your accommodation or bought at a shop in town.

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    Best Beach for Swimming in Baja California | Balandra Beach / Playa Pichilingue, La Paz

    Baja Intimate Insider
    Dreamy paddleboarding spot.
    • Who’s it for: people after a combo of relaxation and adventure
    • Don’t miss: the iconic mushroom-shaped rock and the opportunity to snorkel, hike, and kayak all in one day

    Playa Balandra and Playa Pichilingue are two adjacent beaches just north of La Paz in the calm Gulf of California waters. They’re a seven-minute drive from one another, and each offers gorgeous milky blue waters that almost look too beautiful to be real. They’re particularly known for their calm and shallow water, a feature that surprisingly gives them a good standing in the eyes of families travelling with young kids

    As part of a protected bay, the water is warm and calm in most weather conditions, ideal for wading out to sand banks and floating in the pristine sea. You can pretty much walk on the sandbank from one side of the bay to the other.

    While not exactly crowded with tourists, these beaches certainly aren’t a hidden gem. That said, only 450 people are allowed on this beautiful Baja Californian beach per day, keeping things somewhat uncrowded. With limited access, I suggest securing your spot on the beach as early as possible.

    For the adventurous beach seekers, there are some exciting hikes, kayaking, and snorkeling expeditions in Baja California that allow you to experience all the fun that the has to offer in one adventurous tour.

    Where to Stay

    Best Luxury Place to Stay
    Best Luxury Place to Stay

    Hotel & Suites El Moro

    With the traditional Mexican interiors and tropical-inspired pool area, Hotel & Suites El Moro is a beautiful place to stay in the area. The hotel is just across the street from the sea, and a short drive from Playa Pichilingue.

    Best Budget Place to Stay
    Best Budget Place to Stay

    condo

    For a more affordable trip, this condo across the road from the beach is well-priced, and best of all, it is just a few minutes walk to the coveted Pichilingue beach.

    The Quietest Beach in Baja California | Cabo Pulmo

    Coral at Cabo Pulmo National Park
    Cabo Pulmo is just as pretty under the sea as above it.
    • Who’s it for: those who love nature, snorkeling, and anyone craving a bit of solitude in a protected marine reserve
    • Don’t miss: The Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, home to one of the most impressive (and oldest) coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific

    Cabo Pulmo is technically a national marine park of Mexico, known for its stunning coral reefs, which are some of the most beautiful and oldest in the Pacific. In fact, estimates date it to be more than 20 thousand years old – so old is an understatement here.

    Its claim to fame is its colorful underwater world, which lies just beneath the surface, offering plenty of opportunities to dive and snorkel. It’s an impressive model for marine conservation, with an ecosystem population rebound of more than 400% since conservation efforts began in 1995.

    Coral reefs aside, I’m pushing this as one of the best beaches in Baja California for other reasons – its peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds. Access to the beach is by car, or you could join a guided snorkeling trip or a dive excursion to get the most out of your trip. After all, locals know the place best and will no doubt point you in the direction of the most beautiful sections of the reef.

    Aside from the classic schools of colorful fish and swaying coral plants, you might even spot a humpback whale, sea lions, or even an elusive whale shark cruising the waters. No wonder this beach is a candidate for the UNESCO World Heritage List.

    Where to Stay

    Exquisite Place to Stay
    Exquisite Place to Stay

    Mexican casita

    Colorful and quirky, this traditional Mexican casita is an exquisite place to stay near the beach. The unit is well designed with everything you need for a comfortable stay, and it gazes out across the Sea of Cortez.

    Best Budget PLace to Stay
    Best Budget PLace to Stay

    Bungalows Cabo Pulmo

    Bungalows Cabo Pulmo offer basic, comfortable, and well-priced accommodation right near the beach in Cabo Pulmo. It’s not luxurious, but for the low price per night, you’ll benefit from your own private bungalow, a balcony, and space for up to three guests.

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    The Best Beach in Baja California for Watersports | Chileno Beach, Cabo San Lucas

    cabo san lucas deep sea fishing tour with boats baja
    Chuck that gone fishin’ sign up, folks
    Photo: George Alvarez
    • Who’s it for: snorkelers, kayakers, paddleboarders, and families keen to take advantage of the calm water by spending as much time in it as possible
    • Don’t miss: the snorkeling! This area is a hotspot for turtles and parrotfish

    Chileno Beach is another Blue-Flag certified beach in Baja California. With this, it’s a well-maintained and looked-after haven with gorgeous, clear water and a clean sandy stretch. The beach is perfect for families and is located just a twenty-minute drive from the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Not only is the water calm and clear, but it also has a gentle sloping entry, making it ideal for young children and even wheelchair users. 

    It’s a relatively popular beach, which means it’s equipped with public bathrooms and options to rent a shady palapa or umbrella. While there are a few places to get food, the selection of restaurants is limited, so I recommend taking a packed picnic along. 

    Make sure to pack your snorkel and mask so you can explore the underwater world of this beautiful stretch. It’s home to starfish, turtles, and colorful parrotfish. During whale season, which typically runs between December and April, you might even spot a friendly giant and hear their melodic calls from under the surface.

    If you’re overwhelmed by the options, simplify things by joining a guided beach day trip to Chileno. Or to up the adventure ante, try out this kayak tour between Viudas Beach and Chileno Bay with a snorkeling pitstop along the way.

    Where to Stay

    Best Luxury Place to Stay
    Best Luxury Place to Stay

    Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos

    Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos is a stunning five-star resort located right on the beachfront, just north of Chileno. The pool cabanas, adult-only atmosphere, and all-inclusive service make this one of the most lavish places to stay.

    Best Budget Place to Stay
    Best Budget Place to Stay

    one-bedroom condo

    Chileno Bay is a particularly pricey part of Baja California. So, it’s tough to find an affordable place to stay close to the beach. If you need something affordable, head south towards Cabo and stay in a self-catering apartment like this one-bedroom condo with a swimming pool overlooking the sea. It’s not exactly cheap, but it is much more affordable than some of the luxury apartments and hotels around this expensive Baja Californian beach town.

    Beach With the Most Restaurants in Baja California | Medano Beach

    Cabo San Lucas Panoramic View
    Photo: George Alvarez
    • Who’s it for: foodies, party-seekers, and travelers who like a lively beach scene with good food and access to nightlife
    • Don’t miss: a night out at the El Squid Roe, a legendary live music spot 

    Sometimes all you want is a Mexican beach town where you can lounge about one minute, and order a cocktail and a hot lunch the next. Luckily, these beaches aren’t hard to come by around the popular parts of Cabo and La Paz. That said, with the convenience of restaurants, they do come with a side of crowds. 

    If you want the vibe, the food, and the beautiful beach, Medano Beach hits all three nails on the head. It’s Cabo San Luca’s most lively waterfront destination, just a short walk from downtown. The beach is lined with resorts, each with its own private cabanas and restaurants. It’s one of those spots with everything from volleyball to boat trips and bars all in one easy-to-access area.

    When you aren’t sipping a margarita on the beach or checking out the menu offerings at the different restaurants, you could jet ski around the bay or even swim out to a floating playpen with slides and trampolines.

    Where to Stay

    Best Luxury Place to Stay
    Best Luxury Place to Stay

    Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa

    Set right on Medano Beach in the heart of Cabo, the most famous beach town in Baja California, Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa has everything you might want from a beach resort. A pool? Check. Multiple restaurants? Check. A gym, spa, and onsite shops? Check, check, check.

    Best Budget Place to Stay
    Best Budget Place to Stay

    two-bedroom condo

    If you’re visiting with family and want more space without breaking the bank, this two-bedroom condo with sea views can sleep up to six guests and has fantastic self-catering facilities and a rooftop deck.

    Most Remote Beach in Baja California | Bahía de Los Ángeles

    hut on the beach with mountains at bahia de los Angeles
    • Who’s it for: those looking to escape the daily grind and experience untouched Baja beauty
    • Don’t miss: The incredible Islas Angel de la Guarda, a stunning archipelago known for its diverse wildlife

    Bahia de Los Angeles feels worlds away from the busy beaches of Cabo and La Paz. It looks like a combination of a desert beach paradise and Patagonia, with dramatic mountains and cliffs, untouched windswept beaches, and islands dotted throughout the bay. Things are wilder and more rugged around here, and that’s all part of its appeal as one of the most remote beaches in Baja California.

    With limited places to stay in this peaceful desert coastal town, the beach is hardly busy, sometimes completely empty. With so little human intervention, it checks out that there are more large fish, sea lions, and birds around here than people. The wind can get intense, but it’s all part of the adventure for the sailors and windsurfers who frequent Bahia de Los Angeles.

    There are no tours available in the area. Just you, your towel, and maybe a windsurfing rig to take advantage of the gusty waters.

    Where to Stay

    Spectacular Place to Stay
    Spectacular Place to Stay

    La Trailita, a self-catering converted camper van

    There are no large hotel chains in this remote beach town, which is part of what makes the area such a unique and secluded place to visit. La Trailita, a self-catering converted camper van with a shaded outdoor dining area and direct beachfront access, is one of the most spectacular places to stay for a real remote beach experience.

    Quaint and Peaceful Place to Stay
    Quaint and Peaceful Place to Stay

    Casa Caretta

    Further along the beach, the two-bedroom Casa Caretta is just as quaint and peaceful, featuring traditional wooden ceilings, simple interiors that maximize natural light, and a terrace situated right on the beachfront.

    Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Baja California

    Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect them. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Baja California.

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    Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Baja California

    The beaches of Baja California are some of the most unique and geographically beautiful in the world. They’re where deserts meet the ocean, where soft sand meets turquoise water, and where coral reefs thrive under the calm and clear waters.

    From the lively stretch of Medano Beach, where bars, restaurants, and high-end resorts line the sand, to the isolated and windswept beaches around Bahia de Los Angeles, to the shallow bays of Balandra, there is a beach around here for every type of traveler – just as long as you thrive in the hot sunshine and are happy to eat tacos day and night. 

    Personally, Cabo Pulmo, with its pristine coral reefs and historic reefs, stole my heart. This national marine reserve has as much history as it has dynamic sea life. And as someone who prefers spending time underwater rather than above it, this protected reserve far exceeded my expectations. 

    Whatever it is you’re after, whoever you’re traveling with, and no matter what you have available to spend, there is a beautiful beach in Baja California with your name on it.

    a girl standing on top of a white car as she looks at the sunset and the ocean
    See you in beautiful Baja 🙂
    Photo: @amandaadraper
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