When people call Balandra Beach “the most beautiful beach in Mexico,” they’re right. This amazing spot has bright blue waters so shallow and calm that they look like a natural swimming pool set against desert mountains.
I first saw Balandra on Instagram and knew I had to visit myself. Located just 30 minutes from La Paz in Baja California Sur, this protected lagoon has crystal-clear shallow waters, clean white sand, and the famous Mushroom Rock formation.
As a Natural Protected Area, Balandra stays completely undeveloped. This creates a special experience that feels more like a dream than reality.
What Makes Balandra Beach Special?
Balandra is different from regular Mexican beaches because of its unique lagoon-like setting and complete lack of shops or restaurants.
The beach has crystal-clear shallow waters that rarely get deeper than waist-high. This makes it perfect for families with kids and people who aren’t strong swimmers. The calm, protected bay creates great conditions for floating and wading without waves or strong currents.
Desert mountains, tall cacti, and cool rock formations surround the beach. Balandra feels like an oasis in the desert. First-time visitors always describe it as a “natural swimming pool” where the blue water blends perfectly with the sky.
Best Time to Visit Balandra Beach
La Paz has sunshine all year, but picking the right time can make your trip better and save money.
Peak Season (December-April):
Has the nicest weather with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and low humidity. This time also has whale watching, making it great for doing multiple activities. But expect higher hotel prices and bigger crowds.
Summer Season (May-November):
Gets hotter and more humid, but has far fewer visitors and lower travel costs. Temperatures can hit the 90s°F, but the shallow waters help keep you cool. Weekdays always have smaller crowds than weekends, no matter what season.
How to Get to Balandra Beach?
Getting to Balandra needs some planning, but you have several ways to get there for different budgets and preferences.
From La Paz: The easiest starting point is La Paz, just a 30-minute drive northeast on Highway 11. The beautiful coastal route shows amazing views of the Sea of Cortez and desert scenery.
From Los Cabos: Expect a 2.5-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo. You can book organized tours that handle transportation and permits, rent a car for the most freedom, or charter a private boat for a luxury trip. I recommend booking tours that combine Balandra with La Paz and Todos Santos for a full day.
Entry Rules & Regulations (Important Updates for 2025)
Balandra’s protected status means strict visitor limits and entry rules that change often.
Capacity Limits: Only 450 visitors are allowed per time slot, split into morning sessions (8 AM-12 PM) and afternoon sessions (1 PM-5 PM). The new “Digital Bracelet” system costs 120 pesos per person (about USD 6) and must be bought at the entrance.
Timing Matters: Arrive at least one hour before your preferred time slot to guarantee entry, as spots fill up fast. The first Sunday of every month is set aside just for residents. I learned this lesson when arriving 30 minutes late and being turned away after traveling two hours.
Where to Stay Near Balandra Beach?
No hotels exist right at Balandra because of its protected status, but La Paz has great nearby options.
La Paz Hotels (10 miles away): Orchid House Baja gives a small hotel experience with peaceful gardens, while Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortes has marina views and an infinity pool. Las Gaviotas Condo Hotel works well for longer stays with large units.
Luxury Options: Baja Club Hotel has a cool retro design and top amenities. Other good choices include Casa al Mar for a waterfront location and Republica Pagana for modern comfort. All hotels give easy access to Balandra while offering evening fun and dining options that the beach doesn’t have.
Facilities & What to Expect at Balandra?
Balandra’s clean environment comes with very few facilities, so being prepared is important.
Basic Amenities: No food or drink sellers work at the beach, making it important to bring your drinks and snacks. Limited bathroom facilities require small cash payments. Kayak and SUP rentals are available, with prices in pesos.
Important Limits: Cell phone service barely works, and no trash cans are provided – visitors must take all waste with them. The shallow waters usually feel safe, but watch for stingrays in sandy areas and occasional jellyfish. Water shoes give protection and comfort when walking in the water.
Top Things to Do at Balandra Beach
The main viewpoint hike takes just 10 minutes from the entrance and gives visitors amazing views of the entire lagoon. Other trails include Mirador Balandra for different views and the challenging Tecolote to Balandra coastal hike for serious hikers.
Water activities focus on the calm, shallow lagoon, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The protected bay has great conditions for swimming, floating, and snorkeling without waves or currents.
Don’t miss taking photos of the famous Mushroom Rock (El Hongo) formation, especially during golden hour. Natural shade under palapas gives relief from the desert sun, while nearby Tecolote Beach and Isla Espiritu Santo tours offer more options.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Visit
Balandra Beach in Baja California Sur offers clear waters and rock pools, requiring planning and care to protect its ecosystem.
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the marine ecosystem
- Wide-brimmed hat for extended sun protection during beach activities
- Water shoes to navigate rocky areas and shallow waters safely
- Large towel for comfort on the sandy shores
- Cash for entry fees and any additional park charges
- Trash bag to pack out all waste and maintain the area’s pristine condition
- Personal snorkeling gear, if available, though shallow waters limit underwater visibility
- Arrive early in the morning to secure parking spaces in the limited lot
- Early arrival guarantees entry before daily visitor limits are reached
- Claim preferred spots under natural shade formations before peak hours
- Morning light provides optimal conditions for photography
- Cooler morning temperatures make hiking to scenic viewpoints more comfortable
Conculsion
Balandra Beach is worth every rule, entry fee, and planning step because of its amazing natural beauty. The shallow blue lagoon surrounded by desert mountains creates an experience unlike any other beach in Mexico.
Yes, the capacity limits and entry rules make visiting more complex. However, these same protections keep the clean environment that makes Balandra special. The effort needed to visit makes the experience better by ensuring you truly appreciate this natural wonder.
If you’re planning a trip to Baja California Sur, make Balandra a top choice. Plan, arrive early, and get ready for one of Mexico’s most amazing beach experiences. The memory of floating in that impossibly blue water will stay with you long after you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches in La Paz besides Balandra?
Tecolote Beach has more amenities and beach clubs, while Pichilingue offers great snorkeling. Isla Espiritu Santo has clean beaches that you can reach by boat tour.
Are La Paz beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, most La Paz beaches have safe swimming conditions. Balandra and Tecolote have calm, shallow waters, while other beaches may have more wave action.
Is La Paz safe for tourists?
La Paz is usually very safe for visitors, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Use normal travel safety, but violent crime against tourists is rare.
When should I avoid crowds at Balandra?
Visit on weekdays during the summer months for the smallest crowds. Avoid weekends, Mexican holidays, and the busy December-April season if you want fewer people.
Which beaches have the clearest water?
Balandra always ranks highest for water clarity, followed by beaches around Isla Espiritu Santo. Protected bays usually have better visibility than open-coast beaches.
