Baja California Sur: A Road Trip Through the Peninsula's Best

Baja California Sur: A Road Trip Through the Peninsula's Best

A road trip through Baja California Sur is an adventure like no other. Here, desert landscapes meet endless coastlines, luxurious resorts sit beside sleepy fishing villages, and whale migrations are just as common as tacos al pastor. Whether you are after stunning beaches, artistic escapes, or off-the-grid exploration, Baja Sur has it all. Here’s how to visit Baja California Sur.

Getting There

The best way to explore Baja California Sur is by car, following Mexican Federal Highway 1 (the Benito Juárez Transpeninsular Highway), which begins at the Tijuana–San Ysidro border and spans the entire Baja California Peninsula. This route winds 1000 miles through dramatic desert landscapes and scenic coastlines to reach Cabo San Lucas. While the main road is paved, some sections can be rough. If you plan to venture off Highway 1, a high-clearance or all-wheel drive vehicle is recommended.

Services

Gas, food, and lodging are mostly found in and around towns. Long stretches without fuel are common, and occasionally stations run out, so top off your tank whenever you can.

Military Checkpoints

Routine military checkpoints are common in Baja. They are generally quick and friendly. Be polite, answer questions, and you’ll be on your way in minutes.

Border Documents

All you need is your passport, an FMM (be sure to get this stamped at the border), your driver’s license, and a Mexico tourist auto insurance policy and you can be on your way!

Tip: If you buy your FMM online, you still have to stop at the border get it stamped.

History of the Baja Peninsula

Long before highways and hotels, the Baja California Peninsula was home to the Pericú people, who lived off the land and sea. Their culture was nearly wiped out by disease and conflict after the arrival of Spanish explorers.

For centuries, explorers believed Baja was an island, an error that showed up on maps well into the 1700s. That myth was finally put to rest in 1539, when Spanish navigator Francisco de Ulloa sailed north along the Gulf of California and reached the mouth of the Colorado River.

Many English, French and Dutch pirates also frequented the area, looting Spanish galleons for hundreds of years.

Suggested Itineraries

1 Week Fast Track

During a one-week trip, you can still experience an incredible variety of Baja Sur’s highlights.

Day 1-2:

Day 3-4:

Day 5-6:

2-Week Full Peninsula Experience

With two or more weeks, you can explore the entire Baja peninsula at a relaxed pace, making it all the way to Los Cabos while savoring beach towns, marine parks, and coastal adventures along the way.

Days 1–4:

Days 5–6:

Days 7-8:

Days 9-10:

Days 11-12:

Day 13-14:

Day 15: Begin your return north along Highway 1 at your own pace.

San Ignacio

Tucked into Baja’s central desert, San Ignacio is a peaceful oasis where the spring-fed San Ignacio River nourishes groves of date palms, creating a lush green contrast to the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Originally a Cochimí settlement called Kadakaamán, the site became a Jesuit mission site in the 18th century. The Misión San Ignacio Kadakaamán stone church, completed in 1786, still stands in the palm-shaded plaza and remains one of the best-preserved colonial missions in Baja.

San Ignacio has just a few restaurants, small inns, and minimal services, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting. Whether strolling the square, paddling the river, or listening to the birds along its banks, this place offers a unique and memorable detour on any Baja road trip.

Mulegé

Officially known as Heroica Mulegé, this small town earned its name after a group of locals successfully defended it against the U.S. Navy during the Mexican-American War in 1847. Despite its size, Mulegé has a fascinating history. The Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, built in 1705, is the second oldest mission in Baja. It sits above the town and offers sweeping views of the river valley.

Nearby, the Museo de Mulegé was once the Cananea jail, famously known for allowing inmates to leave during the day to work, and voluntarily return each evening. Today, it houses local artifacts and fossils from the region.

Mulegé is another lush oasis town, thanks to the Río Santa Rosalía. The river nourishes palm groves, farmland, and a few nesting ospreys, creating a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Just south of town, the road winds into the breathtaking coastline of Bahía Concepción and its scenic beaches.

For lodging, we stayed at Hotel Serenidad, located across the river on the outskirts of town. The food and service were excellent, and the grounds include a poolside bar and large patio. For something livelier, head to Mulegé Brewing Company. Brian, the owner, also rents riverside guest cottages on the river, and the taproom serves up great craft beer, American-style food, and live entertainment. It’s easily the most happening spot in town.

Bahía Concepción & Playa Santispac

Just south of Mulegé, Bahía Concepción is known for its turquoise waters and serene beaches along a stunning coastal bay. The most popular spot is Playa Santispac, where you can camp for around $10 USD/night, rent kayaks or take a boat tour (we recommend using Sal’s), and grab a bite at Ana’s Restaurant Bar.

The crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Several small islands can be explored within a short distance of the beach. Once you’re a little way off the beach, you might even find yourself joined by curious dolphins—we did, and it ended up being the highlight of our trip.

If watersports are not your thing, the beach is great for lounging and soaking up the views.

Caution: Wind conditions here can change quickly. If you are not a strong swimmer or paddler, avoid going out too far or too late in the day, as the return trip may be more difficult than expected.

Loreto

A scenic 720-mile drive south of Tijuana, Loreto is one of Baja’s oldest settlements and a peaceful coastal town, rich with natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. Once the capital of the Californias, Loreto blends centuries-old charm with modern comforts.

It serves as the gateway to the Bahía de Loreto National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing more than 500,000 acres of protected waters and five uninhabited islands. This is the area’s main attraction, and best explored by boat, snorkeling, or fishing tour with operators like Loreto Sea and Land Tours and Dive Center or Wild Loreto Tours.

Inland, the nearby Sierra de la Giganta mountains offer epic hiking. Try the Circuito Cerro de la Cruz, a two-mile loop with stunning views of Isla Danzante. Or, take on the more challenging Tabor Canyon Trail, which follows a palm-lined arroyo with natural pools and towering canyon walls.

Back in town, visit Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó, founded in 1697 and considered the starting point of the historic Camino Real. Then stroll the cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, artisan shops, and laid-back eateries.

Stop by La Route for coffee, pastries, and bike gear, oddly enough. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Mi Loreto or Asadero Super Burro (generous portions and legendary salsa). In the evenings, grab a cold craft beer and catch live music at to El Zopilote Brewing Company.

For accommodations, we recommend Villas del Santo Niño, a charming guesthouse in the heart of Loreto. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and just a short walk from shops, restaurants, and the waterfront, it offers a quiet and convenient base for exploring the town.

Bahía Magdalena

Located on the Pacific side of the peninsula, Bahía Magdalena is part of a 550-square-mile lagoon system. It is one of the largest wetlands on the Pacific coast of North America, and one of the most important.

If seeing gray whales in their natural habitat is on your bucket list, this is one of the best places in the world to do it. From January to March, thousands of gray whales travel from Alaska to give birth in the bay’s warm, sheltered waters.

Book a boat tour with Magdalena Bay Whales, a trusted, family-run outfitter that’s been guiding visitors for over 40 years. Getting close to these gentle giants—sometimes close enough to make eye contact—is an unforgettable experience.

Beyond whale watching, the bay is also a haven for birdlife and ideal for eco-adventures like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and mangrove tours through the region’s peaceful estuaries.

The small fishing villages of Puerto San Carlos and Puerto López Mateos are the two main access points for tours and accommodations. Each offers basic lodging and a handful of local restaurants with a quiet, authentic atmosphere that keeps you close to the action.

La Ventana

Just 40 minutes southeast of La Paz, La Ventana and the neighboring village of El Sargento are the epicenter of Baja’s wind sport scene. From November through March, steady winds transform the bay into one of the best spots in the world for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and wing foiling. The area’s wide beaches, shallow launch zones, and steady thermals drawing enthusiasts of all levels.

Beyond the water, the desert landscape surrounding La Ventana offers more than 70 miles of scenic trails. Mountain biking and hiking through the towering Cardón cactus forests are a top draw.

And when it comes to local charm, La Ventana more than delivers. Start your day at Kijote Craft Coffee, where you can sip a latte or smoothie while watching the wind pick up over the bay. For an unforgettable meal, La Moringa Restaurant at Casa Tara Hotel & Wellness Retreat is a peaceful, open-air spot with exceptional sunsets and the best food I had in Baja. Marlin Azul serves up delicious Mexican dishes with vegetarian options. And if glamping is your thing, ChiloChill offers beachfront luxury tents with private hot showers (and great T-shirts too).

Tip: ATMs are limited and often charge high fees, so bring pesos.

Todos Santos

Just an hour north of Cabo, Todos Santos blends surf culture and a funky, bohemian art scene. Stroll its cobblestone streets and browse local galleries showcasing everything from paintings to handcrafted jewelry. Be sure to stop at the Jill Logan Galeria, famous for its brilliantly colored, desert-inspired abstracts. For local jewelry and boho-style clothing and decor, we recommend Nomad Chic.

A short drive south of town takes you to Playa Cerritos, one of the best surf spots in Baja. Mario Surf School offers both private and group lessons, as well as kayak tours, boat trips, and a surf shop. After a day on the waves, head up the road to Pizzas el Potrero, for wood-fired pizza—hot from the oven and well worth the short drive.

Bonus: If you’re there between December and April, keep a look out for whales, which are often visible right off the beach.

East Cape

If you’re looking for long stretches of undeveloped beaches, colorful coral reefs, and incredible marine life, the East Cape is your place. Just 20 minutes from San José del Cabo, this rugged coast is home to Cabo Pulmo National Park—a UNESCO-designated coral reef on the Sea of Cortez. It is one of the best spots in Baja for surfing, diving, and fishing.

From December to April, you can spot the migration of humpback and gray whales right from the shore or book a boat tour for a closer look.

Reaching many of the best beaches (like Shipwrecks, Nine Palms, or Punta Perfecta) often requires 4WD or high-clearance vehicles.

Buena Vista & Los Barriles

Just north of the East Cape, the small seaside towns of Buena Vista and Los Barriles offer a more relaxed, low-key atmosphere compared to the buzz of Los Cabos. Located on Bahía Las Palmas, Los Barriles got its name from a local legend that pirates buried barrels of gold and silver nearby—treasure that has yet to be found.

Both towns are favorites among snowbirds, sport fishermen, and wind sport lovers (especially in winter). You’ll find easy beach access, good food, and a small-town feel without the crowds or flash of Cabo. They provide a relaxed transition between the wild East Cape and lively Los Cabos.

Los Cabos

At the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez converge, you’ll find Los Cabos, a region that blends dramatic coastal beauty with luxury, nightlife, art, and adventure. It’s made up of two distinct towns: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, connected by a 20-mile stretch of scenic coastline known as the Tourist Corridor.

Cabo San Lucas

Known for its buzzing nightlife, deep-sea fishing, and iconic El Arco natural rock arch located at the very tip of the Baja peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is the perfect mix of party and paradise. Spend the day on a boat tour to Lover’s Beach with charters like Cabo Sailing or Cabo Blue or go whale watching in season (December through April). The bustling Marina area hosts high-end shopping, fine dining, and cocktail bars.

Tip: We love Outpost for its funky, craft cocktails, and sleek rooftop terrace with live music.

San José del Cabo

San José del Cabo offers a much quieter, more cultural experience. Its historic central plaza, Plaza Mijares, and vibrant Art District make it a favorite for art lovers and those seeking a slower pace.

From October to June, Thursday Art Walks transform this city’s cobblestone streets into an open-air gallery event, with dozens of galleries, free wine tastings, and artist meet-and-greets. Be sure to visit Patricia Mendoza Art Gallery, one of our favorites.

Just a short walk from downtown, the San José Estuary and Wildlife Reserve spans 125 acres of protected wetland, home to nearly 50 species of birds. Stroll the peaceful, palm-lined trails or take a kayak tour to explore the area’s natural beauty up close.

Costa Azul and Playa Palmilla beaches, near San José, are the favorites for swimming, surfing, and kayaking.

The Tourist Corridor

Between Cabo and San José lies the Tourist Corridor, a stretch of luxury resorts, world-class spas, golf courses, and gourmet dining. If you are looking for five-star service and dramatic ocean views, this is where you’ll find it.

Camping & RVing

From beachside camps to RV parks, Baja Sur is full of places to unplug and connect with nature.

Tip: Camp only in designated or clearly established areas, and pack out everything you bring in.

Best Time to Visit

After hundreds of miles, sun-soaked beaches, vibrant towns, and desert oases, a road trip through Baja California Sur is more than just a vacation, it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you came for the surf, the silence, or the sea life, Baja delivers a rare mix of adventure, beauty, culture, and charm.

And as you make your way back north, with dust on your tires and memories in tow, you’ll understand why so many travelers return again and again–because in Baja, the journey is just as unforgettable as the destination.

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