La Paz
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La Paz is the state capital of Baja California Sur and the region’s most traditional city. It now has a population of over 250,000, many of whom are retired North Americans. Attractions include scuba diving, fishing and nature tours, as well as kayaking in the calm waters of the Sea of Cortés.

Located on a large bay in the Sea of Cortés and forming part of Baja’s Proyecto Mar de Cortés, La Paz is now an important tourist destination as well as seaport, and center for silver mining and agriculture. Served by Manuel Márquez de León international airport, it is 80 miles north of Cabo San Lucas on Highway 1. Its appeal in comparison with Los Cabos is its history—it was already inhab-ited when the Spanish landed here it the 1530s—and tradition, with its cathedral and anthropology museum lending themselves to cultural tours.

La Paz is a major center for ecotourism due to its proximity to the whale sanctuary at Magdalena Bay, and to desert areas spotted with exotic flora and fauna. From January to March, enthusiasts from all over the world come here to catch a glimpse of the migration of the gray whales that bask in the Sea of Cortés. Nearby islands Espiritu Santo and Los Islotes possess crystal clear, tranquil waters great for snorkeling and scuba diving. Divers will encounter numbers of hammerhead sharks, dolphins, sea lions, and whale sharks.

The sea is safe for swimming here. Just keep a look-out for stingrays, and remember to protect against sunburn with both a hat and sunblock.
There has been only one indication of seawater pollution since 2003 at the Malecón beach (near the pier, or “muelle fiscal”), but concerned tourists might want to check its current status with local authorities.