Balandra Beach, officially part of the Balandra Wildlife Protected Area, derives its name from the Spanish word for a type of small sailing vessel. Located 17 miles north of La Paz, Baja California Sur, the beach and surrounding area gained protected status to preserve its unique desert-marine ecosystem featuring giant Cardon cacti-covered mountains meeting turquoise waters. The area's history includes tales of pirates who once lurked in the surrounding bays, waiting for Spanish treasure galleons returning from the Far East, and in 1964 a buried treasure was discovered during road excavation near a cove now known as El Tesoro Beach. Access is limited to 450 visitors per period (8am-noon and 1pm-5pm) to maintain its pristine condition.
Swimming and wading are primary activities, as visitors can walk hundreds of meters into the shallow, crystal-clear bay with water rarely rising above hip level. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding allow exploration of the protected cove and mangrove areas, while six hiking trails wind through the reserve offering panoramic views of the bay, desert landscape, and distinctive geological formations. The iconic Balandra Mushroom, a mushroom-shaped rock formation, serves as the beach's most photographed landmark. Snorkeling reveals diverse marine life in the calm waters, and beachcombing along the white sand shores is popular during low tide.
Since Balandra is a protected area with no on-site restaurants, visitors typically bring their own food or visit nearby Playa El Tecolote where La Concha serves fresh seafood dishes including grilled fish and ceviche at rustic beachfront tables. In La Paz, El Zarape offers traditional Mexican cuisine with fish tacos, enchiladas, and homemade salsas in a colorful casual setting. San Benito provides quick bites featuring tortas, quesadillas, and fresh juices near the malecon. El Rancho de la Bola specializes in Baja-style fish tacos, grilled shrimp, and carne asada with ocean views. El Triunfo Cafe delivers artisanal coffee, breakfast burritos, and pastries in a historic mining town atmosphere between La Paz and Cabo San Lucas.
