Why sea kayak in Baja California?
Why is sea kayaking in Baja so popular? Clear, turquoise waters where you combine sea kayaking with snorkelling, hiking and whale watching, what’s not to like! Camp on the remote sandy beaches of the Sea of Cortez, home to one third of the world’s marine mammals and watch blue-footed boobies and frigate birds dive for fish from your tent. Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez / Gulf of California, “the world’s aquarium”.
Where can you sea kayak in Baja California?
The best sea kayaking in Baja California is on the Sea of Cortez on the sheltered eastern side of California Sur, Mexico. There are two main bases for sea kayaking in Baja these are Loreto or La Paz.
Sea Kayaking in Loreto
Loreto is a fishing village of 20,000 people. It has a quiet vibe with a few nice restaurants. Loreto has a 1 mile promenade stretching along its waterfront. The Islands of Loreto Bay are busy only with whales and dolphins. You are unlikely to see other groups of sea kayakers or many local boats. In Loreto Bay are a total of five deserted islands—Coronado, Del Carmen, Danzante, Montserrate and Santa Catalina—all of which are protected as part of the Loreto National Marine Park.
Sea kayaking in La Paz
La Paz is the capital city of Baja California Sur, with a population of over 200,000. The city retains an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. The promenade in La Paz is about 4 miles long. You will see other groups and local boats whilst sea kayaking here. The area is famous for snorkelling with sea lions & whale sharks. The gentle whale shark is the largest fish in the world growing up to 60′ (18m) in length.
What is the best time of year for sea kayaking in Baja?
The best time of year for sea kayaking in Baja (the Gulf of California) is from October to May. From May to September, it’s really hot in Baja, California, and not comfortable for kayaking. In January and February, you can get strong winds so the very best conditions are most likely from October to November and March to April.
What equipment is available to hire?
There are several local outfitters based in both Loretto and La Paz who hire good quality fiberglass sea kayaks and paddles. They also hire PFDs/buoyancy aids, spray decks, VHF radios, etc.
Can I camp on beaches?
Baja’s Islands of Loreto Bay and La Paz are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and National Marine Park. You can wild camp on the islands, but this is monitored by a permit system. Unless you are sea kayaking through a local outfitter or agency, you will need to get local permits unless you . You will also need a fishing permit in Baja.
What are the skills of local guides?
Local guides have been trained by international sea kayak providers and are experienced paddlers, most are bilingual. many of whom are also marine biologists.
How can you reach Baja’s Sea kayaking paradise?
If you want to sea kayak from Loreto it has nonstop service from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, and from Calgary, Alberta on WestJet. It’s also possible to cross the border at San Diego using the SkyBridge and get a domestic flight from Tijuana to Loreto.
If you want to sea kayak from La Paz it is easily accessed through the major airport at San Jose del Cabo, which is a 2.5 hour shuttle ride away from La Paz. La Paz also has its own small airport with a few flights from Los Angeles and Mexico City.
You can take a bus shuttle between La Paz and Loretto as they are only 100 miles apart.
Can beginners’ sea kayak in Baja, Mexico?
Yes, the calm tranquil waters are good for beginner and novice sea kayakers.
What is the best sea kayak expedition in Baja?
The Loretto to La Paz sea kayak expedition between October-November or March-April. This classic eight to ten day sea kayak expedition is great for the adventurous paddler desiring to experience a remote area few people see. This Loretto to La Paz kayak expedition journeys along a road-less coastline. The timetable for the trip needs to be relaxed! There can be windy days which prevent kayaking. You explore coastal inlets where the desert and cactus touch the sea. This coastline is one of the most remote and sparsely populated areas in all of Baja. There are no villages or towns, and the only access to the occasional fish camp is by sea.
In February 2023 I went to Mexico to sea kayak in the Sea of Cortez and headed to the Pacific cost to whale the incredible wildlife spectacle of grey whales at Magdalena Bay.
Cory is a sea kayak and canoe guide based in Scotland. He can organise private tour bookings for sea kayaking in Baja or grey whale watching.
