Espíritu Santo Island, Sea of Cortez

The Wild Territory

Sail to one of the most iconic and protected islands of Baja California Sur.

Explore reefs, swim with sea lions, relax on turquoise beaches, and follow natural history trails. An essential expedition for those looking to discover the heart of the Sea of Cortez.

Essential Expedition from La Paz

An Expedition That Goes Beyond the Surface

For six hours, you’ll explore islands, reefs, sea lion colonies, and turquoise beaches.

But it’s not just about seeing—it’s about immersing yourself in the natural history of the Sea of Cortez, moving respectfully through its waters, and discovering the rhythms and silences of a living ecosystem.

Espíritu Santo National Park is a landmark in any exploration of this sea.
What stays with you, however, is the experience: how the sea transforms those who know how to navigate it with eyes wide open.

What You Will Experience on This Expedition

Sail among reefs, islands, and unique formations of the Sea of Cortez, guided by local experts.

Swim with sea lions in their natural habitat within a UNESCO-protected territory. Note: mating season runs from June 1 to August 31.

Explore turquoise beaches and hidden corners of Espíritu Santo, savor a delicious regional ceviche, and enjoy time to relax and connect with the surroundings. Vegetarian meals available upon request.

The Wild Territory Expedition

How Does the Expedition Start?

We’ll pick you up at your accommodation in downtown La Paz between 9:00 and 10:00 AM.
Together, we’ll head to the boarding dock, where your captain and guide will welcome you and go over the plan for the day.

You also have the option to arrive directly at the boarding dock to check in at 9:45 AM. Advance reservation is required for this option.

What Is the Navigation to Espíritu Santo Like?

You’ll sail across La Paz Bay toward the archipelago, enjoying open views while your guide explains the natural environment.
During the journey, we’ll identify marine wildlife along the way. The trip lasts approximately 40 minutes.

What Is the Encounter with the Sea Lions Like?

We’ll snorkel in the Islotes area, one of the most iconic sea lion colonies in the Sea of Cortez. Swimming will be in small groups and in accordance with current conservation rules, ensuring a respectful and safe encounter.

What else is explored during the excursion?

We’ll visit natural formations such as La Máscara, see the Arco de la Partida, explore bird sanctuaries, and discover hidden beaches on Espíritu Santo Island. We head to the same general area each day, but the exact spots vary—get ready to be surprised!

Your guide will share stories and local knowledge about the geology, wildlife, and natural history of the area.

Where Is Lunch Served?

You’ll enjoy a beach lunch with fresh ingredients, along with time to relax, explore, swim, or simply take in the surroundings.

Typically, lunch is served at Ensenada Grande beach, but this may change depending on weather conditions or the number of visitors that day.

What Time Do We Return to La Paz?

We’ll return to the port around 4:00 PM. From there, we’ll take you back to your accommodation, wrapping up the day after a full day of sailing and exploration. Since this is a fully natural tour, some flexibility is required, as we enjoy each unexpected wildlife sighting along the way.

Testimonials

    
 
 
         
   Janika M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Wir haben eine Tour zur Isla Espíritu Santo gebucht. Die Organisation war sehr gut, wir haben uns jederzeit sicher gefühlt, der Guide war sehr nett, die Spots zum schnorcheln und essen waren wirklich toll! Einziges Problem: mein Mann hat sich am enthaltenen Ceviche den Magen verdorben. Die Mitarbeiter sollten noch mehr im Umgang mit rohem Fisch und Hygiene geschult werden - oder auf ein Essen wechseln, das weniger Risiko bietet…
  
 
        
   Ixch M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Tours variados y bien planeados, los precios son muy buenos en relación al resto de las ofertas y es muy seguro, te brindan atención a tus solicitudes y el personal es sumamente amable, la mejor opción para contratar tours en La Paz.
  
 
        
   Rafael G 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. ¡Excelente todo! Pedimos informes por whatsapp 30 minutos antes del inicio del tour y la atención fue tan buena que nos decidimos de inmediato por el tour a la Isla Espíritu Santo. Enviaron una camioneta por nosotros al hotel, nos llevaron al puerto y nos explicaron todo a detalle en todo momento. Viajamos con 2 niños y todo estuvo perfecto para ellos (tienen aletas, chalecos, goggles y snorkels). Las vistas tanto del mar como de la isla son excepcionales, y ver a los lobos marinos con sus crías es algo muy especial. Sin duda volveríamos a reservar con Alonso Tours.
  
 
        
   Fernando J 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelente tour, los guías y el capitán muy amables, bebidas las que quisiéramos, el servicio excelente, la comida rica, muy atentos y siempre cuidando el medioambiente… súper recomendado los servicios de ellos.
  
 
        
   José G 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. El tour a la Isla del Espíritu Santo es una experiencia imperdible! Los guías muy amables y te van explicando todo. El ceviche que te dan en la playa muy rico
  
 
        
   Raquel D 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Muy buen servicio! Lo recomiendo!!
  
 
        
   Marisa I 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. The Holy Spirit Island Tour by Alonso Tours was an incredible excursion! This tour is a great way to spend the day. The tour was set up in a very straightforward way so it was very easy to find the meeting point and we were directed appropriately. Overall, it was so incredible to see several different areas of protected land and wildlife. Our guide, Edgar, was fantastic - incredibly knowledgeable about the area and had such a fun energy that made the whole trip enjoyable. He even switched seats with us so we could be more comfortable when he saw that we were getting a bit chilled from the slight ocean spray! Our captain was also amazing! Being brought to essentially a private beach and having lunch (including a vegan ceviche option!) was just an unforgettable experience. I didn’t join the snorkeling session with the sea lions, but I don’t feel like my experience was diminished at all because it was mind-blowing to get to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, and an essentially untouched beach. There is a lot of boat time, but it is such a gorgeous ride that it’s so worth it.
  
 
        
   Sébastien � 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Equipage très aimable et tour bien guidé !
  
 
        
   Akuwat 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Beautiful tour with Alonso tours! Hands down the best experience with the tour guides! This was such a relaxing experience, beautiful scenery and the tour guides made sure that we got to experience as much as possible. We saw whales, rays, sea lions and a school of dolphins. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
  
 
  
 
  
 
   La evaluación general en Google es 4.9 de 5, en base a 251 reseñas

Who Leads This Expedition?

Every Alonso Tours expedition is guided by captains with decades of experience in the Sea of Cortez, along with certified marine and protected area guides.

We are a family of sailors born in La Paz, with over 15 years exploring these waters and helping thousands of travelers discover them in depth.

Each departure combines the technical knowledge of our captains, the passion of our guides, and the collective commitment of the entire team to provide an authentic, safe, and environmentally respectful experience.

What This Expedition Includes

Certified bilingual marine nature guide
Captain with extensive experience in the area
Equipped vessel (bathroom, shade, safety)
6 hours of guided navigation
Onboard lunch (fish ceviche, sweet and savory sandwiches, water, and non-alcoholic drinks)
Complete snorkeling gear
Life jacket
Permits and access bracelet to the Protected Natural Area
Activity insurance
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (downtown La Paz)

The Wild Territory

Espíritu Santo Island, Sea of Cortez

From $95 usd per person

6-hour expedition guided by certified captains and guides
Snorkel with sea lions in their natural habitat (seasonal)
Sail among islands, reefs, and protected beaches
Beach lunch in a natural setting
Authentic and carefully curated experience

This expedition requires advance planning.

Due to access regulations and marine wildlife control, daily spots are limited. To secure your place, or if you prefer a private expedition, contact us for availability and customized options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to know how to swim to join this expedition?

You don’t need to be an advanced swimmer, but it’s important to feel comfortable in the water to fully enjoy the snorkeling experience.

2. Can I bring my pet?

No, pets are not allowed in protected natural areas. Is it a certified service animal with a medical prescription? Please contact us.

3. What should I bring for the day of the expedition?

We recommend a swimsuit, towel, cap or hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a change of dry clothes for after the activity.

4. Where does the expedition depart from?

We depart from downtown La Paz. Once your reservation is confirmed, you’ll receive the exact meeting point along with recommendations.

5. Is it suitable for children and/or pregnant women?

Yes, with parental supervision. The minimum recommended age is 3 years, as long as children are comfortable in the water and accompanied by responsible adults. This trip is not suitable during pregnancy—please consult your doctor.

6. What is the swimming activity like during mating season?

During June, July, and August we carry out respectful observation at the most important sea lion colony in the Sea of Cortez. You’ll learn fascinating facts while welcoming the newborn pups. Afterward, we head to a coral reef for snorkeling so your eyes can keep delighting in the underwater world.

7. Do I need to rent a wetsuit?

Wetsuit rental is recommended during the winter months, mainly from December to April. This will help you maintain your body temperature and enjoy your time in the water more.

8. What type of sunscreen should I use?

Since this is a protected natural area, only biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens are permitted. This way we help protect the area’s ecosystems.

9. Does the activity depend on weather conditions?

Yes. Safety is our top priority. In case of bad weather or restrictions from the authorities, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled with a refund.

10. Is there parking at the boarding dock?

Yes. The area is very safe and you may use any available public space. There is also private parking, usually at a cost of $60 MXN per day.

11. Cancellation Policies

Tours canceled by the company due to natural events, authority recommendations, or causes attributable to Alonso Tours will be rescheduled or fully refunded. Cancellations or modifications for reasons outside the company’s control are not eligible for refunds.

Espíritu Santo Island, Sea of Cortez

The Wild Territory

Sail to one of the most iconic and protected islands of Baja California Sur.

Essential Expedition from La Paz

Duration:

Mode

Guided experience

Option:

Expert Marine Nature Guides

Sailing Through Protected Territories

Careful Logistics from Start to Finish

An Expedition That Goes Beyond the Surface

Sail to one of the most iconic and protected marine territories of Baja California Sur.

What You Will Experience on This Expedition

The Wild Territory Expedition

A 6-hour journey in the heart of the Sea of Cortez

Testimonials

Who Leads This Expedition?

What This Expedition Includes

The Wild Territory

Espíritu Santo Island, Sea of Cortez

This expedition requires advance planning.

Frequently Asked Questions