La Paz On a Budget
La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur, Mexico. It has a population of about 215,000 people and is a significant commercial center for the region. The city has a good economy and a high standard of living when compared to much of Mexico. Much of the economy is focused on eco-tourism and there are many protected marine environments in the area.The city sits on the Gulf of California and the Sea of Cortez at the southern end of the peninsula. If you're looking for a less popular destination than the nearby Los Cabos, then La Paz is likely the destination for you. The beaches are beautiful and the town is clean and safe.
La Paz has a desert climate with dry and warm weather year around. Summer highs are usually between 93 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit and winter lows are in the 50s Fahrenheit. Summer months can be very humid. Rain is not common at any point throughout the year, but abrupt downpours may occur during the months of August and September. The driest season is between March and June.
Sights
Most people visit La Paz for the beautiful beaches and various watersports. There are also several islands in the Sea of Cortez that you can visit on a boat tour. These islands are well worth the time and money, and the wildlife viewing can be quite impressive.If you want to enjoy quiet, non-motorized watersports, then head to Playa El Tesoro. This is a protected bay that is ringed with aquamarine shallow water that has plenty of fish.
La Paz has many marinas, boat yards, and water activities. There are countless ways to get out on the water and no shortage of boat captains or guides who will take you there.
Neighborhoods
La Paz is a sprawling city. Malecon Road runs for five kilometers along the coast and has become a center for tourist development. This road is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. It's easy to walk along the road as there is a large sidewalk as well as a bicycle lane.There are a handful of hostels and hotels around town, but one great option is actually beach camping. There are a few places where free camping is available, and if you're willing to pay a little bit you can also find camping with more complete facilities.
Activities
Most people head to La Paz for the beaches and the water sports. You can pass the time relaxing in the sun, but many people choose to participate in a few activities while they are in the area. Whale watching is a particularly popular activity and you have the opportunity to see dolphins as well as gray whales. Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities, as well as visiting the nearby islands in the Sea of Cortez. These are easily visited during boat tours.La Paz has an active nightlife with plenty of bars and clubs that stay open late into the night. There are also several Spanish schools that offer Spanish classes if you're interested in learning or improving your Spanish skills.
Food and Dining
Seafood is the obvious food of choice while you're visiting La Paz. You'll find everything from fish tacos to shrimp, lobster, abulon, and snail. Fresh seafood in the area is absolutely delicious and fish tacos are a local specialty.If you're on a particularly tight budget, your cheapest option is the hot dog stands that you'll find around town. They make for a quick and affordable lunch.
Transportation
The closest airport is Aeropuerto Internacional General Manuel Marquez de Leon. A taxi from the airport to downtown La Paz should cost between US$15 and US$20. You can also take a ferry from Mazatlan or Los Mochis on the mainland. It's an expensive option with tickets costing somewhere between $80 and $90 and the trip taking twelve hours overnight. Prices continue to rise so you should confirm the price with a ferry company before planning your trip.Once you're in town the easiest way to get around is by taxis. They're generally plentiful, relatively cheap, and reliable. There are also bus routes in the area.
Biking is another great way to see the city and the surrounding area. There are several great bike rental shops around town where you can rent a bike by the hour or the day.
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