Why You Should Skip Cabo and Head for La Paz
La Paz boardwalk fronting the Sea of Cortez
Cabo San Lucas has long been the destination of choice for visitors to Mexico’s Baja California Sur, part of the second longest peninsula in the world. But for those who would prefer to skip the build-up of a much too popular resort destination that is also a fave of the college crowd, La Paz, about a two-hour drive north of Cabo, is the place to go. The capital city of Baja California Sur, La Paz has nevertheless long been overlooked by the more conventional tourist…and that’s a good thing. Because what you’ll find in La Paz on the glistening Sea of Cortez (as the Gulf of California is typically called by Mexicans) is an unspoiled desert landscape on a protected sea and a community that retains the flavor of Old Mexico.
Costa Baja's lobby overlooking the pool
This is not to say La Paz is without development. Resort developers have finally discovered this desert beach paradise, but those that are here claim they are dedicated to preserving the pristine landscape and waters that surround the city. Of course, that remains to be seen. The good news, however, is that posh accommodations are available sans the typical tourist crowd. The best place to check into is undoubtedly Costa Baja, La Paz’s first five star resort with gulf front rooms outfitted with modern decor, including glassed-in showers and private balconies overlooking the sea. And while Costa Baja offers the perfect environment in which to take it easy with its own private white sand beach and nighttime gulf breezes to die for, the more adventurous traveler will enjoy the easy access the resort provides to the UNESCO World Heritage Site–the lovely Sea of Cortes.
Adventure on the Sea of Cortez with Fun Baja
Fun Baja will pick up guests right at Costa Baja’s marina for day-long excursions into the gulf on one of its seven yachts with activities ranging from snorkeling with sea lions to scuba diving. Stay tuned for the lowdown on how to best spend the day on the Sea of Cortes….