Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park

To those travelers interested in diving, snorkeling, and marine life, the East Cape offers a truly special opportunity. Cabo Pulmo National Park is a 70-square-kilometer protected area within the Sea of Cortez so rich in marine life that Jacques Cousteau called it, “the aquarium of the world.” Cabo Pulmo is home to the oldest of three coral reefs off the west coast of North America, and is inhabited by a myriad of marine animals, including 14 species of sharks, humpback whales, sea turtles, and giant rays.

Visitors of the park may enjoy hiking, sailing, paddleboarding, and sea kayaking–but by far the most popular activities are diving and snorkeling. Cabo Pulmo is considered one of the world’s premier diving destinations, and there are several dive shops in town that offer two-tank dives into the deeper sections of the ocean. However, a dive certification is not required to take full advantage of the reef and marine life at Cabo Pulmo. 90-minute snorkeling tours are offered for about $50 USD, and there is great snorkeling that is freely accessible from the beach as well.

Cabo Pulmo National Park makes for a great day trip, but also offers cabins to rent for those interested in an overnight stay. After a long day swimming with rays, sea turtles, and sharks, head into the tiny town and take advantage of a cultural scene that includes restaurants, music, and museums!

Santiago Hot Springs and Waterfall

While the Sea of Cortez and its coastal communities get most of the attention from East Cape visitors, the inland region of Baja California Sur offers equal opportunity for adventure and idyllic scenery. If you have access to a car, we highly recommend  you make the trip to Sol de Mayo waterfall and Santa Rita hot springs, located about 20 minutes from the small town of Santiago and nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de La Laguna mountain range.

Sol de Mayo

To access the waterfall, visitors park at the Sol de Mayo Ecological Ranch. From there, you’ll take a 1.0 km trek (about 15 min) along what is generally considered to be an easy to moderate trail that descends into a large, oasis-like pool and waterfall. The fresh, clear water is fed by a lagoon in Zorra Canyon. The white stone walls of the canyon that surrounds the Sol de Mayo waterfall are lined with cacti, palms, and Palo Blanco trees and are home to abundant wildlife. Enjoy an afternoon basking on the warm rocks, wading in the pools, or leaping from the waterfall!

Santa Rita

The Santa Rita hot springs are located just a few minutes up the road from the Sol de Mayo Ecological Ranch. From the parking lot, visitors make the 5-minute walk until dense vegetation and the shade of palms and Palo Blanco trees give way to scattered white boulders, tall grass, and a string of stunning turquoise pools. The hot springs are bookended by cold pools, so most people like to alternate between the two. After a day of hiking and swimming, a long soak in these mineral-rich pools is the perfect way to unwind.

Todos Santos

Regardless of which scenic East Cape town you’re staying in, we highly recommend that you hop in a car and make the trip across the peninsula to one of Baja’s most charming and historically significant pueblos: Todos Santos. Originally founded as a Jesuit mission in 1724, Todos Santos is a cultural hub that features vibrant art, music, food, and shopping scenes. It is also home to Cerritos Beach, which offers abundant marine life, as well as some of the best surfing on Mexico’s  West Coast.

Art, Culture & Cuisine

Since the 1980s, Todos Santos has experienced a major influx of fine artists, artisans, and crafts people, turning it into perhaps Baja’s premier destination for cultural tourism. Visitors can browse the numerous galleries and museums, or join the historic homes tour to get a feel for the scene. Additionally, there is a consistent roster of live theater and music events.

Todos Santos thrives on local, community-created art, music, and theater, but perhaps its greatest draw is locally-sourced food. There are dozens of excellent restaurants, and many of them use the farm-to-fork model, which employs local farmers to ensure that all dishes are organic, nutritious, and environmentally friendly.

Cerritos Beach

Unlike the East Cape, Todos Santos faces the Pacific Ocean, and therefore offers excellent surfing. Cerritos Beach is known for its great surfing conditions, making it popular for both beginner and experienced surfers. There are several surf schools and rental shops nearby, all of which offer lessons. While surfing is the main draw, Cerritos Beach also offers great swimming, snorkeling, diving, whale watching, horseback riding, fishing, and sunsets.

We recommend making your trip to Todos Santos an overnight if possible, but you’ll still be able to get a taste of what this town has to offer as a day trip from the East Cape!

Whale Sharks & Sea Lions

Baja is home to one of nature’s true gentle giants: the Whale Shark. Measuring up to 18 meters in length, and weighing as much as 16 tons, the Whale Shark is the ocean’s largest fish. Yes, these magnificent creatures are sharks, but they are unique in many ways. Their wide flat mouths are located across the front of their head, rather than on the underside, and contain up to 300 rows of tiny teeth, as well as 20 filter pads which allow them to feed on small food particles like plankton. They are beautifully spotted, and have a lifespan of up to 130 years!

Whale Sharks are frequently found in the waters off the coast of La Paz, and due to their docile nature, visitors have the chance to swim and interact with them! While there are many great tours available, one of our favorites is the Sea of Cortez Wonders Tour, with VIP Tours. After meeting at La Paz Marina, they will fit you with premium gear, guide you as you swim alongside these giant and graceful creatures, take you snorkeling with Sea Lions, and then finish the day with a picnic on a scenic beach, complete with gourmet food, comfortable chairs, and shade!

Don’t miss out on an adventure that will provide truly rare access and intimate interaction with some of the planet’s oldest and most majestic creatures. It’s magical.

Whale Watching Baja California

Puerto Chale or Puerto Escondido?

With the Sea of Cortez to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Baja California Sur is a remarkable destination for whale watchers. These two bodies of water converge at the southern tip of the peninsula where, during the winter months, many species of whales rendezvous to feed, mate, and give birth to their young. Depending on the types of whales you are most interested in seeing (the primary species are Grays, Humpbacks, and Blues), you may need to factor in some longer drives and overnight stays—a wonderful way to explore and experience the full Baja Peninsula! Even if you are limited by time or access to a car, there are bountiful options for whale watching in any region of the Baja. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Puerto Chale

Located in the northwest corner of the municipality of La Paz, this small fishing port is one of the best locations to see a Gray Whale. Puerto Chale is a whale sanctuary, and as such, consistently provides opportunities for a more up-close and intimate encounter with the Gray Whales. We recommend you look into making a reservation for a guided tour. Plan at least two weeks in advance, as the tours are popular and regularly booked multiple weeks out.

Puerto Escondido (Loreto)

While Humpback and Gray Whales are visible up and down the Baja Peninsula, there’s only one spot where you’re likely to see the largest animal on the planet: the Blue Whale. Every year the Blue Whales migrate to the protected waters of Loreto Bay to feed, calve, and mate. Most tours leave from a small port just south of Loreto called Marina Puerto Escondido. Blue whales are gentle creatures and don’t display acrobatic or interactive behaviors like the Grey Whales in Baja, and the Humpback Whales in Cabo (both of which are sometimes spotted in Loreto). Instead, they’re known for their gentle nature, huge stature, and long life-span. You can learn much more about these magnificent creatures on a whale watching tour. Don’t miss out!

Whales from the Beach

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the ocean when you’re hunting for shells, taking a swim, or having your morning coffee. Not a day goes by without someone in the coastal communities of the East Cape eagerly exclaiming to their neighbor,  “Look! A whale!”

El Triunfo

Take a step off the beaten path and back in time, by driving north to El Triunfo, about 40 minutes by car from Los Barriles. El Triunfo is a well-preserved, quaint mountain town with a variety of attractions ranging from the relics of century-old silver and gold mines, to a museum of music, to Baja Sur’s best bakery! If you arrive in the morning, you must stop by Café El Triunfo for possibly the world’s best croissant outside of France (and a Frenchman once told me including France!). They also serve great lunch in a beautiful garden.

From the church in the town’s central plaza, cobblestone streets wind their way through rows of pastel-colored houses and storefronts. At first glance, it is hard to believe that for decades following the gold and silver rush of the late 18th century, this town was heavily populated with fortune seekers, and its shops and restaurants catered to a decadent crowd. Learn all about this rich history on a guided tour.

For those who wish to delve into the mining history of El Triunfo, the El Túnel de las Almas mine offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its depths. During the tour, visitors learn about the extraction methods used in the past and the conditions in which the miners worked. This experience provides a tangible connection to the town’s mining legacy.

You might also try visiting the world-class Museo de Vaquero de las Californias (California Cowboy Museum, and learn about the westward expansion and settlement of the region. Other unique stops are: Museo Ruta de Plata (dedicated to teaching about the mining history and silver route), the El Triunfo Piano Museum (Museo de la Musica) and Margery’s Tea Room which celebrates the ‘boom’ days of the gold and silver rush in the late 19th century.

Visiting this charming historic town can be done in a half day from Los Barriles and is definitely worth the scenic drive and unique cultural experience.

Biking

Great weather year-round, scenic vistas, white sand beaches, and well maintained trails make for great biking options on the East Cape. The mountain biking network of trails in the hills just west of Los Barriles are exceptional. Many of the trailheads can be found just a short ride up the arroyos in town, making them easily accessible without a car. There are actually hundreds of miles of world class mountain biking trails stretching all across Baja. 

For road cyclists, Highway One North winds along the coast of the Sea of Cortez, sprawls through cactus filled stretches of desert, and climbs the Sierra de la Laguna mountains rich with vegetation and wildlife. Or take the Road to Nowhere which climbs out of town to El Cardonal for an option with few cars but watch out for potholes! The views of the ocean are spectacular and El Cardonal makes for a great coffee or lunch spot before turning back.

If you’re interested in trying something a little different, we suggest you try fat tire biking along the beaches. With plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants up and down the coast of Baja Sur, an evening ride for some fish tacos and a stunning sunset is the perfect way to end the day. A fat-tire E-Bike is also great fun.

There is one dedicated bike shop in Los Barriles that can set you up with the proper bike and gear, provide trail maps, and offer suggestions for the best rides in the area. And there are several other outfits that rent bikes. If you can’t bring your own bike, quality rentals are easy and affordable. And a great way to check out the area.

Cortez Dog Rescue & Outreach

Cortez Rescue & Outreach, based in Los Barriles, is a non-profit organization run by dedicated volunteers who care for the health and well-being of stray and abandoned dogs. Their vision is to eradicate cruelty and mistreatment of animals in the East Cape region through education and community support. The staff and volunteers rescue and re-home abandoned, sick and mistreated animals.

The daily tasks are substantial: feeding, training, hands-on care and therapy, medical procedures and subsequent after-care, socializing, coordinating, educating and beyond.

Cortez Rescue has created a unique and effective program to bring about the much-needed change in animal treatment and ownership within the community. To date, they have rescued and re-homed over 1000 dogs since operations began in 2018.

If you are a dog-lover, Cortez Rescue is always looking for volunteers to play with puppies, take dogs for walks, donate a bag of dog food or whatever you’d like to do to help. The need is endless. And, if you are looking for a dog, you will find no better pet than a Baja rescue pup. They truly seem to be the most grateful, loyal and amazing dogs says virtually everyone who has brought one into their home.

Feel good during your vacation by giving back to the community for a few hours! You won’t regret it.

Fishing

The East Cape Region of the Sea of Cortez is a well known destination for sport fishing. Jacque Cousteau called it the Aquarium of the World, with the most species and greatest biomass of any ocean. A major benefit to fishing the East Cape is the proximity of Blue Water fish to the inshore species. In the morning you may be going for rooster fish but when the calls come in … it’s only ten minutes to the blue water in pursuit of Dorado, Marlin, Tuna or Skipjack. 

While seasons and weather patterns are not always predictable indicators, in general the summer months see Dorado, Sailfish, Blue Marlin, Tuna, Skipjack and Wahoo. The winter’s cooler waters bring Striped Marlin, Dorado, Pompano Sierra, Pargo, White Bonito and many jack species. 

There are multiple options for great fishing charters running out of Los Barriles. Most of them leave from the Hotel Palmas de Cortez and offer half or full days. And, when you come back with a boat full of fish, many local restaurants are happy to grill it up for you! 

Interested in the competition with the big boys? Try one of these annual tournament, and there are always more!

Dorado Shootout, usually in July.

Bisbee’ East Cape Offshore, usually early August.

Let us know about your fishing interests and we can hook you up!

Hiking

Hiking is a joy in Los Barriles. There are well-maintained trails covering the hills just west of Buena Vista, Los Barriles and north of town. You can find most of these on your favorite hiking app. And they are mostly marked, thanks to some locals who give their time to keeping the trails passable and signage in place. The views of the Sea of Cortez are outstanding!

If you’re into a more intense climb or length of hike, head south to Santiago and then west to San Dionisio where you will find Rancho San Dionisio where you can camp if you’d like. From there, take the trail up into the Sierra La Lagunas walking along rivers (or dry river beds) and high into the mountains, which climb up from the sea an astounding 6800 ft.

You can do a day trip or for the more adventurous, plan on two nights camping in the wilderness and go down the western side ending up not far from Todos Santos. It’s an incredible journey where the flora changes from palms and cacti to pine trees and wildflowers … with stunning views.

Hikers will find plenty of areas to explore throughout all of the East Cape.

Horseback Riding

The East Cape of Baja California Sur has a unique landscape that makes it ideal for a variety of horseback riding experiences. Our local stables offer scenic rides along the beach where from the back of your horse, you can watch rays jump, whales breach, and pelicans dive for fish. We’d recommend a sunset tour so that the warm glow of the sun paints the water with beautiful hues. Sunrise is equally spectacular as it rises over the Sea of Cortez to welcome in a new day. In addition to the beach, riders can venture up the arroyos (dry river beds) that drain the mountain valleys into the seashore, and scurry up the great mountain trails for spectacular views.

There are high quality equestrians in town that offer horseback lessons and tours available to all ages and experience levels. If you have always wanted to ride a horse on the beach but have never had access, a trip to Baja just might be the perfect opportunity. Or, if you are a beginner, take a few lessons until you are comfortable enough to join your friends or family on a sunrise beach ride, a picnic ride up the arroyo, or an evening ride that ends with dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants!

Off-Roading

Four-wheel driving, ATV’s, Side-by-Sides, motorcycles … you name it! The East Cape offers hundreds of miles of great exploration in your preferred motorized vehicle. There is an incredible beach road that takes you north all the way to the Bahia de Los Suenos (Bay of Dreams) near La Ventana for the extreme adventurer, or just head up the closest arroyo to splash your tires and find a waterfall. Or putter along the beach and stop at your favorite lunch spot. You could drive around for a week and be on new roads every day.

There are multiple outfitters where you can rent whatever motor-toy meets your needs and they will provide you with all the needed gear and maps. They offer guided tours as well. There are even overnight tours that head up over the Sierra de Lagunas and down the other side to spend the night in Todos Santos.

Whatever your need for speed and dust, you can find it here in Los Barriles. Rip it up!

Here is a link to fun day rides out of Los Barriles.

Pickleball

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world. It’s fun, easy to learn, and accessible to all ages. It’s inexpensive to play, only requires two people, and is a great workout. Pickleball has taken Los Barriles by storm!

Between two pickleball resorts (Tres Palapas and Hotel Palmas de Cortez) and the public park in the center of town, there are over 50 public pickleball courts in Los Barriles! Furthermore, the local enthusiasm for the sport means you’ll never have trouble finding someone to players.

Pickleball is not just a sport; it’s a community. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, a way to stay active, a chance to socialize and make friends, or a competitive outlet, you’ll find what you’re looking for on the pickleball court!

Health & Wellness

If you’re looking for techno-pulsing nightclubs, jello shots, and dancing until the sun comes up, Cabo San Lucas is right down the road. But, if you’d prefer to use your time in Baja to rejuvenate, recharge, and center yourself, the East Cape is the place for you!

There are two wellness studios that offer various workout classes every day of the week; you will find a variety of yoga, circuit training, pilates, barre, and other classes. There is also great beach yoga, where you might spot a whale mid-pose! There is a fitness gym complete with most standard equipment.

Or, you can wind down at one of the guided meditation, energy workshops or sound baths. Los Barriles also has a variety of spas that offer body work, facials, nail care and massage.

Prioritize self-care and healthy living, and leave the East Cape feeling like the best version of yourself.

Wildlife

The Sea of Cortez has been named a Marine Miracle and the Aquarium of the World for good reason. It is well known for its high biodiversity including sea lions, seals, whale sharks, dolphins, various whale species, sea horses, squid, barracuda, octopus, sharks, rays, sea turtles and hundreds of fish species. We highly recommend getting out on, or in, the water while visiting to get a close up view of at least of few of these magnificent sea mammals, fish and marine reptiles. Boat tours leave daily to explore the local waters.

We are also extremely lucky to have a local organization — Groupo Tortuguero — that takes care of our beautiful sea turtles, mostly the Olive Ridley species. Groups are on notice to fence off turtle nests and transport the eggs to our local preserve located right on North Beach. Visitors can watch the babies scurry to the water, mostly September through December, but this can vary with the season and weather patterns.

The East Cape of Southern Baja is also a fantastic destination for bird watching, boasting endemic species like the Cape Pygmy Owl, the Xantus Hummingbird and Belding’s Yellowthroat, among others. There are at least 300 bird species found here. If you are visiting us in the spring, you will awaken to the many beautiful songbirds. On the hillside, the hawks will soar by, while beachside, the pelicans constantly entertain you while diving for fish and floating just over the water. The egrets hop along the coastal rocks and the plovers dig in the shallows.

Coastal Birds include the brown pelican, frigate bird, fisher eagle, cormorant, egret, heron, loon, osprey, plover, sandpiper, tern and gulls, among others.

Desert Birds include falcons, hawks, flycatchers, hummingbirds, owls, sparrows, thrashers, kestrels, roadrunners, vernons, turkey vultures, woodpeckers, wrens…
Sierra Birds include the golden eagle, western flycatcher, lesser goldfinch, black-headed grosbeak, red-tailed hawk, pheasant, yellow-eyed junco, white-breasted nuthatch, mountain plover, acorn woodpecker, warblers, hummingbirds and the canyon wren.

If you are interested in the best place to see the various species, please inquire.

Wind & Water Sports

The most popular and exhilarating activities take place on the water along the coast of the Sea of Cortez. Los Barriles is a long-time cult classic windsurfing destination. The El Norte winds deliver consistent wind between November and March. With the advent of kiting (kitesurfing or kiteboarding) two decades ago, Los Barriles also became known as a mecca for kiteboarders from all of the world (Kite World Mag.) And more recently, the newest craze is wing foiling, or winging.

If you get up early enough for a glowing orange and pink sunrise, you’ll see the fishing boats taxi towards deeper waters for the day’s catch. You may see a horizon dotted by silhouettes of paddleboarders getting their day started with a scenic exercise. Throughout the morning on calm days, the waters teem with snorkelers, swimmers, and paddleboarders (SUPs). You may also catch an E-foiler trying out a new rig. E-foiling (electric hydro-foiling) is a new sport where the rider stands on a board equipped with a hydrofoil and an electric motor which allows them to fly above the water.

As the sun climbs higher into the sky, the wind starts to pick up, and the fun begins. As white caps emerge, so do kiters, windsurfers and wingers. By late afternoon, the sky is often filled with the kites of the boarders darting across the water, floating just above its surface, and even soaring through the air!

The beaches along Los Barriles feature several kite boarding schools ready to help you with lessons or rent gear. Even if you just want to be a spectator and lounge on the beach or at one of our great beach bars, make sure to take full advantage of the world-class water sports and activities this unique piece of paradise has to offer.