La Paz, Mexico
When Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes sailed into this quiet little bay in 1535, he tried to establish a colony called Santa Cruz. He later abandoned it but, luckily, Sebastian Vizcaino arrived in 1596, renamed it La Paz and the colony has flourished ever since. Here, you'll find a playground of activities that Cortes couldn't even dream of. From a festive downtown full of attractions to sun-drenched beaches, renowned for their soft, golden sand, to warm, inviting water teeming with marine life, La Paz offers a little bit of everything for everybody. And isn't that what vacations are all about!?
Points of Interest
- Regional Anthropology & History Museum
- Cathedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
- El Serpentario Reptile Center
- Local Art
- Todos Santos
- Underwater Adventure
- Whale Watching
- Beaches
Scenic Drive, Artisans & Shopping
- Cathedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
- Local Art
- Beaches
Experience the sights, sounds and local color of La Paz. During your tour of the shops, boulevards and beautiful mile-long waterfront promenade, you'll stop and visit artisans who proudly produce a variety of Mexican crafts with visits to a pottery factory, a weaver and other craft displays.
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity
$49.95
El Serpentario: Wild Animal Rehabilitation Center & Aviary
- El Serpentario Reptile Center
Get an up-close and personal look at Baja's cold-blooded snakes, lizards, and crocodiles at the El Serpentario Reptile Center. A naturalist guide will share his knowledge of these critters before you explore this fascinating attraction. Reptile encounters, a live show and friendly experts add to the fun.
Moderate Activity
$69.95
Highlights of La Paz
- Local Art
- Regional Anthropology & History Museum
- Cathedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
Take in the highlights of La Paz on a relaxing guided tour. Shop for local crafts in the narrow streets of the down town area. Learn about Sea of Cortez pearls at the Anthropology Museum. Marvel at the stained glass windows of Cathedral of La Paz. Then, stroll along the water front boardwalk and enjoy the atmosphere.
Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity
$74.95
Kayak at Paradise Cove
- Beaches
Paddle through paradise aboard a kayak and discover the overwhelming beauty of the Sea of Cortez. After an expert instructional briefing at beautiful Balandra Bay, you'll head to idyllic Paradise Cove and navigate the turquoise waters through a grove of mangrove trees.
Strenuous Activity
$79.95
Hotel California & Todos Santos
- Todos Santos
Spend the day exploring the surfing and artist community of Todos Santos. Stroll through the enchanting zocalo of the historic district and leisurely browse through shops and galleries. Then, have a snack at the landmark Hotel California.
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
$99.95
Snorkeling at Gaviota Island & Balandra Bay
- Underwater Adventure
- Beaches
Take a dive in the waters off of Gaviota Island and snorkel with a sea full of colorful sea creatures. Then, boat over to the crystal clear waters of Balandra Bay, a saltwater lagoon with water so shallow you can see the bottom in more than 20 feet of water.
Strenuous Activity, Includes snack
$99.95
Snorkeling with Sea Lions
- Underwater Adventure
- Beaches
Snorkel with sea lions in the inviting waters off San Rafaelito Island. An expert guide will provide proper instruction and information on the amazing seascape while the underwater wonders of coral heads, angelfish and other aquatic creatures will provide the breathtaking beauty.
Strenuous Activity, Includes snack
$109.95
Whale Shark Encounter
- Underwater Adventure
- Whale Watching
Snorkel and swim with the largest fish in the ocean - the whale shark! This unforgettable experience brings you face to face with these gentle giants in the sparkling waters of the bay of La Paz, just minutes from your ship.
Strenuous Activity, Includes snack
$189.95