
Hola from La Paz Mexico! This is a beautiful must-see region of Mexico and I am so excited to share more about it with you. One of the most famous calls to visit La Paz is the ability to see Whale Sharks. These peaceful creatures make their way here from October to April and are famous residents during that time. For those who have whale sharks as a must-see, La Paz offers it to you not far from the United States. The name La Paz actually means Peace and you will be sure to find that here. Let us explore this must-see location of La Paz together. Vamanos!

As a luxury travel advisor who has completed training provided by the La Paz Tourism Trust, you can be sure that the knowledge here and shared is after real training and education. My understanding of the city of La Paz and surrounding area ensures you have peace of mind of working with a true professional. Feel free to see this and all certifications on the CARTE ATLAS Accolades page.

La Paz sits just north of Los Cabos, and is part of Baja California Sur. You can fly into La Paz International Airport LAP which has select seasonal international flights. The cruise port of La Paz is also exceptionally popular especially during the whale shark season. You can find luxury cruise lines like Crystal, Ponant and Regent Seven Seas, as well as premium cruise lines like Holland America visiting the port. These itineraries are usually called Baja California or Mexican Riviera.

CARTE ATLAS advises all travelers to become aware of the International Travel Advisory Map from the U.S. Department of State. This map lists out the levels of travel. As of the publication of this blog post, the Mexican state of Baja California Sur carries a Level 2 “exercise increased caution” advisory from the U.S. State Department. That is the same level assigned to France, United Kingdom, and even Antarctica. Once you are educated on the level, you can decide if you wish to visit where thousands of voyagers do each and every year.

Always assume there to not be safe drinking water, and ensure you use bottled water. Ask any restaurants if they have bottled water. Ensure you bring your own bottled water from your cruise ship or purchase bottled water from a local market.

Whale Sharks are most common from October to May. These majestic creatures make their way here and stay through the winter. Swimming with these peaceful creatures only happens with a certified tour operator. Other maritime creatures visit including migrating Gray Whales from January to March. Sea Lion snorkel adventures can happen from September through May. Summer can be exceptionally hot and have some humidity as well. For cruise and nature lovers, a winter cruise may be best. For those who enjoy the heat, you will find summer your best time. Be sure bring reef safe sunscreen!


Home to 250,000 people, La Paz City should never be overlooked. The desert meets the ocean here, and has plenty to enjoy. It is also the gateway to multiple beaches within the area. White sand beaches meet the Sea of Cortez in relaxing ways. The location was visited by the conquistador Hernan Cortes in 1535. In search of gold and pearls, he left and the area did not prosper until a Jesuit missionary arose in 1720. It is now the fourth largest municipality in all of Mexico.
Special sites to see include the Malecon boardwalk along the water of the Sea of Cortez. La Paz Municipal Palace, Juarez Theater, and the Cathedral of Nuestra Senora de la Paz are also worthy of seeing. From here, you can also enjoy maritime excursions which include visits to Perlas de Cortez, a real life pearl farm. La Paz City also has two championship golf courses for an amazing experience.

Known as the “World’s Aquarium” from the famous Jacques Cousteau himself, this must-see destination is waiting for you. Filled with majestic creatures like the Whale Shark and Grey Whales, there is plenty to see. There are also 200 islands around La Paz that fill the region with additional wonder. With it comes plenty of maritime activities like sportfishing and kayaking.
The South Coast of La Paz hosts multiple cities such as El Triunfo. The town is further inland within the Sierra de la Laguna. Gold and silver were mined here. There are museums to explore about the mining as well as the Vaquero, or cowboy, way of life here. With markets, hiking, and plenty to see, it opens up a door to enjoy the “out west” that La Paz has to offer.


On the opposite side, the Pacific Ocean coast of La Paz brings its own beauty. Puerto Chale is quite close to the Grey Whale lagoons where they give birth. Imagine seeing a baby calf coming up to breathe for the very first time. December through March is the prime time to see such wonders occur. The town of Todos Santos has a desert oasis feel to it. It is a designated Pueblo Magico by the Mexican Government. Towns with this distinction of Magical Town, which also includes Lorento, showcase a special beauty.



Read more about the what makes another Pueblo Magico so famous. Hint: the answer is in the picture! Peaceful creatures await you in Loreto.
Read more about the 12 Paradises that make up the Mexican Caribbean. From Cancun and Tulum to Isla Cozumel and beyond.


As a year-round destination, the best time to visit can depend on your interests. With a vibrant art and food scene, stunning nature, and an inclusive LGBTQ+ culture, read more and find the right time for you to visit this icon of Mexico.
Read more about the the many reasons to visit Baja California in Mexico. From nature and aquatic life, to fine dining and gorgeous vineyards, you do not want to miss out on Baja California.

September 21, 2026
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