As the second-largest peninsula in the world, Baja California is packed with stunning stretches of sand. Check out our list of the best beaches in this gorgeous Mexican state, featuring some great places to stay whilst you’re there.
# Bahia Concepcion, MulegéBahia Concepcion isn’t one beach so much as an area filled with beaches. Coming to Mulegé from the north, you pass miles of stunning waters and bay after bay of pristine white sands: this is Bahia Concepcion, where you could easily spend several weeks exploring each patch of dreamy sand. There is no public transport here, making it a hub for campers who come to enjoy the sun, set up their tents and fire up the barbecue. Our favorite beaches in the area are Playa Santispac and Playa Perla.
# Posada de las Flores LoretoHotel Posada de las Flores sits in the historic heart of Loreto, its Spanish colonial architecture hiding a hacienda-style haven. Behind heavy wooden doors its rose-colored walls and stone archways wrap around a courtyard; look up to see the glass bottom of the rooftop pool dappling the fountain and benches below with warped sunlight. Rooms sit at the top of a huge spiral staircase and are decked out with handmade furniture and Talavera-tiled bathrooms.
# Playa Ensenada Grande, Espiritu Santo IslandIf you’ve made it to La Paz, chances are you’ve heard of Espiritu Santo Island; the home of epic kayaking, up-close encounters with sea lions and some of the most spectacular beaches in Baja South. Every beach on this island is dreamy, but Playa Ensenada Grande probably takes first prize. Come early if you want the beach to yourself though camping here – either on a multi-day kayaking adventure or overnight camping trip – is the best choice.
# Hotel Catedral La PazRubbing shoulders with the Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz, the mosaic-like facade of this hotel contrasts the sleek interior of pristine white walls and sun-drenched courtyards dotted with wicker furniture. The large rooftop pool looks out over the city’s red-tiled roofs to the treetops and rugged mountains beyond. Devour a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning and round off a day of exploration with a fruity cocktail from the rooftop bar.
# Balandra, La PazProbably one of the most famous beaches in Baja California, Balandra is a must-see for any La Paz visitor, with miles of shallow turquoise water, blinding white sand backed by mountains and lush, green oases. When you arrive, you may be a little disappointed by the crowds, particularly at weekends. Despair not, this place is huge. The further you walk from the main car park, the thinner the crowd. Go far enough – up and over the Balandra lookout point – and you may even get one of these magical coves to yourself. Bring your own supplies for the day, though, as you won’t see any sellers past the busy points.
# Posada de las Flores La PazSitting amid a jungle of hot-pink flowers, palm fronds and gnarled trees, this enchanting hotel feels like a portal into paradise. Rooms are warm with sun-yellow walls and dark wood furniture, while each adds its own bohemian twist in the shape of flowery ceramics, paisley armchairs or hanging star-shaped light fixtures. Be sure to bring a book for curling up on the lounge’s plump sofas and don’t miss out on the fresh seafood dishes, dangerously moreish mojitos and spellbinding sea views at restaurant Oliva Al Mare.