La Paz

Blue Heaven: Azul Marino Spices Up the La Paz Marina

Kennia Thackaberry — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:37:50 +0000

Blue Heaven: Azul Marino Spices Up the La Paz Marina

Overlooking the Marina in the modern Costa Baja complex, Azul Marino features delightful International cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere and dedicated service.

Azul Marino showcases spectacular Marina views.

The stylish restaurant has an indoor seating area, as well as a shaded terrace perfect for al fresco dining amidst the amazing natural beauty of La Paz. Its casual and intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for family gatherings, romantic dinners and other special events.

Azul Marino features a stylish outdoor dining area.

Cristina Kiewek, the talented young Chef and co-owner, has crafted a varied menu that combines international flavors and accents with exciting creations. In addition to weekly specials, Azul Marino is committed to using the freshest ingredients available.

The Kiewek sisters: Cristina (right) and Margarita, the talented owners of Azul Marino.

Trained professionally in Mexico City, Cristina spent nearly 10 years in the U.S. working at well-regarded restaurants, before returning to partner with her sister Margarita and open Azul Marino. They opened the benchmark La Paz eatery in 2007.

Chef Cristina is devoted to presenting creative cuisine, and menu highlights include a succulent bacon wrapped pork tenderloin and fresh scallop carpaccio, as well as gourmet thin crust pizzas and decadent dessert options. Regular visitors to the restaurant often see her supervising her staff in the restaurant’s open concept kitchen. Her sister Margarita, meanwhile, can often be found at the front door, greeting diners with her charismatic smile.

Menu highlights at Azul Marino include a pork tenderloin wrapped in bacon, with blue cheese mashed potatoes, vegetables and cranberry sauce.

La Paz is a world famous sport fishing destination, and Azul Marino features many superb dishes that showcase local seafood from the Sea of Cortez. Fishermen often bring their daily catch to the restaurant, allowing Cristina to pair the fresh offerings with Azul Marino’s excellent selection of local and imported wines.

A great example of the catch of the day prepare at Azul Marino.

Whether you want to enjoy appetizers and a glass of wine, or embark on a multi course meal, Azul Marino Restaurant is one of the best places in La Paz. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and walk-ins are welcome.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Have A Baja Moment! A Gringo’s Journey to Isla Espiritu Santo

Scott Koenig — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:43:54 +0000

Have A Baja Moment! A Gringo’s Journey to Isla Espiritu Santo

I slipped off my flip flops, hiked up my backpack and waded into the warm water of Bahia La Paz, just off the malecon in La Paz, Baja Sur. As the small covered panga backed toward me with four passengers already onboard and two smiling local crewmen, I knew that I was in for an adventure.

Interpreter Carlos and Cap’n Eduardo of Espiritu y Baja Tours. Loving their jobs!

Your gringo and his family had just arrived in La Paz a few days prior as part of an extended road trip all around the cape region. One of the things we definitely wanted to do while in La Paz was take a boat tour of Isla Espiritu Santo and surrounding islands. The island is a biosphere and UNESCO World Heritage site boasting 23,000 rugged acres of undeveloped shoreline, arroyos and mountains, 12 postcard-perfect bays, abundant wildlife and a fish population representative of 39% of the world’s species.

View of the beach and Sea of Cortez, Bahia Ensenada Grande, Isla Partida.

Isla Espiritu Santos’ proximity to La Paz (a little over an hour each way) makes it within reach for a day trip. Originally, we had toyed with the idea of taking our rambunctious four-year old on the tour, but ultimately couldn’t picture Wolfie confined to a panga for an extended period of time sans incident, so I was on my own. Perhaps on a day when the channel wasn’t as choppy, a kid with more patience than mine would enjoy this, but I wouldn’t recommend touring the islands this way for very small children.

The friendly front desk staff at the Hotel Marina in La Paz hooked me up with Espiritu & Baja Tours. The morning of the tour, their shuttle driver was running a touch late, picking me up after the boat had already left the marina, thus the panga rendezvous at Bahia La Paz. My panga mates were two friendly girls from Colorado and a couple from Canada down here “doing La Paz”…enjoying a broad itinerary of dining and entertainment options in the area. I joked that between the 7 of us, we were a pretty good representation of NAFTA. The panga headed north along the Pichilingue peninsula, past Playa Tecolote and across the choppy channel to the islands.

The rugged western coastline and gorgeous turquoise waters of Isla Espiritu Santo.

As we left the channel and cruised north along the island’s west coast, the water changed from a rich, dark blue to an amazingly bright turquoise reminiscent of the Caribbean. We eventually passed Isla Partida (a smaller island, connected to Espiritu Santo thousands of years ago, now separated by a narrow channel) and arrived at Los Islotes…home to a colony of approximately 300 sea lions, some of whom were to become our swimming buddies in just a few minutes.

The guano-covered islands of Los Islotes, La Paz, Baja Sur.

The sea lion colony of Los Islotes, La Paz, Baja Sur.

Donning our snorkeling gear and dropping into the clear water, we headed toward the island with Carlos and Eduardo, our fearless interpreter and captain, respectively. As we neared the shore, a group of baby sea lions plunged from their rocky perches into the sea and headed toward us. At first, it was a bit disconcerting to have a relatively large wild animal swim right up to my face and look me in the goggles with very alien, curious and dark eyes. But after a few passes with these guys, I felt secure given their playfulness and lack of any sign of aggression. Putting my fist up to approaching sea lions (as instructed by Carlos), the pups enjoyed nibbling on my knuckles, just like a puppy. We were warned to stay away from the lone bull male on the island, and when he decided to swim in my direction, I gave him plenty of berth!

Sea lion colony basking in the sun on Los Islotes, La Paz, Baja Sur

After playing around with the sea lions a bit more, swimming through walls of schooling sardines and exploring a cave that Eduardo led us in and out of, we slowly made our way back to the panga and to our next destination, Bahia Ensenada Grande on Isla Partida. The panga pulled in and Carlos and Eduardo anchored it to the completely deserted and stunningly gorgeous perfect white sand beach.

As Carlos and Eduardo set up lunch, I hiked inland a little, taking a path along the arroyo past yucca, cacti, brush and an amazing outbreak of tiny yellow wildflowers that cascaded down the rocky red hills to the shimmering Gulf of California and blue sky. What a view! We dined on excellent ceviche that Carlos had made with his morning’s catch of tigerfish, as well as sandwiches for those who may not have a proclivity for seafood (i.e. no one in our party…Carlos’ ceviche was duly devoured).

The stunning and remote beach of Bahia Ensenada Grande, Isla Partida.

An arroyo leads inland and dead ends in a canyon. Bahia Ensenada Grande, Isla Partida.

We reluctantly piled back into the panga, leaving Bahia Ensenada Grande and headed south back toward La Paz, slowly skirting the western shore of the islands. We stopped for some more snorkeling in a larger bay where Carlos scooped a baby pufferfish off the surface of the water for us to check out. I think I saw his dad swimming below me!

A baby Pufferfish “gets his defense on” off Isla Espiritu Santo.

Our final stops were along the rocky cliffs of the southern part of Isla Espiritu Santos. Carlos pointed out the funerary caves in the cliffs of the island’s original native inhabitants – the Pericu – who lived on the islands around 10,000 years ago. As we motored out of the bay, Carlos helped us identify the masks that can be made out in the craggy bumps and hollows of the cliffs. These masks were believed to be spirits by Cortez’s invading army that protected the Pericu against invasion (scrambling for an excuse, perhaps. The conquistadors had a history of being repelled by the able defenses of the Pericu and other tribes all up and down the Baja Peninsula). These eerie rock formations give the island its name, Espiritu Santo, or the Holy Spirit.

The “Mask of the Holy Spirit” can be made out along Espiritu Santos’ rocky cliff walls.

Can you make out the profile of the mask here? Isla Espiritu Santo.

Our final stop was at a natural jetty that was home to thousands of squawking frigate birds, performing mating rituals. The sky filled with them. The males on the jetty puffed out their red chests in an attempt to attract the flying females. Mothers fed their chicks and went off in search of more food. Eduardo stopped the panga and we sat watching in wonder for about 15 minutes.

Frigate Bird Colony, Isla Espiritu Santo.

Jacques Cousteau called Isla Espiritu Santo, “The world’s aquarium”, an apt description only lacking in its addition of the landscape to fully describe how impossibly beautiful these islands are. Now that the Mexican government has granted the islands protection from any kind of development, this slice of untouched Baja will remain as a reminder of the natural beauty of the region before modern civilization.

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Have a Baja Moment! in La Paz: Baja Sur’s Capital City Celebrates its 478th Anniversary

Kennia Thackaberry — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 16:58:47 +0000

Have a Baja Moment! in La Paz: Baja Sur’s Capital City Celebrates its 478th Anniversary

by Kennia Thackaberry

Next week, Baja Sur’s capital city of La Paz will celebrate its 478th anniversary with the Fiestas de Fundacion.

According to historians, after Hernan Cortez conquered the great Aztec metropolis of Tenochtitlan he sent an expedition to explore what was then believed to be an island: Baja California. Following two unfruitful explorations, Hernan Cortez finally sighted La Paz on May 3rd, 1535.

Every year, the city commemorates this historic event with a four-day festival that includes a wide variety of activities, from a food festival and off-road race to art exhibitions and dance and music performances.

Baja Sur’s capital city of La Paz will celebrate its 478th anniversary in May.

The 4th annual food exhibit “El Gusto Por Baja California Sur” is scheduled for the evening of May 2nd. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample offerings from more than 50 local restaurants, as well as tasty creations from students at the local culinary school. The event takes place at beautiful Playa El Coromuel, and tickets are $500 pesos each, with a portion of all proceeds benefiting local charities and youth programs.

The Malecon Kiosk will be the stage for free nightly concerts, including a performance by Hamac Caziim, a rock band from Sonora. Other highlights include a reenactment of the arrival of the Spaniards, and the coronation of Queen Calafia on May 3rd.

Have a Baja Moment! at the Fiestas de Fundacion de La Paz.

The cultural tianguis is another recent addition that is becoming very popular. This street market showcases the work of young artists and artisanal products from various towns and villages in Baja Sur.

Also, included in the celebration are several sporting events, the most anticipated of which is the off road-race known as Dos Mares. This two-day race starts on May 4th, and loops around the shores of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez before finishing spectacularly at La Paz’ historic Malecon.

Live performances and historical reenactments highlight the annual Fiestas de Fundacion in La Paz.

The countdown to the 478th anniversary of the foundation of La Paz has officially begun, so make plans now to take part in this historic celebration.

What is your favorite Baja festival? Let us know at Baja.com!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

All photos courtesy of Fiestas de Fundacion de La Paz.

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Kiteboarding at La Ventana: The Wind is Up Near La Paz

Kennia Thackaberry — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:01:30 +0000

Kiteboarding at La Ventana!

by Kennia Thackaberry

La Ventana is a small fishing town located 40 minutes southeast of La Paz, off highway 286. Known for its beautiful beaches and the proximity of Isla Cerralvo, many have visited its shores to camp or take a fishing trip in the surrounding waters of the island. In recent years, the town has experience an increasing number of visitors as word of its charm and consistent winds spread.

Kiteboarding at La Ventana

Discovered first in the 90’s by windsurfers that traveled the roads of Baja from California looking for new adventures, La Ventana quickly gained reputation for its steady winter winds. The location was remote but many that came for windsurfing stayed or came back with more friends. Slowly, it became a great destination for surface water sports and specifically for kiteboarding.

But what makes La Ventana such an ideal spot? The main reason of course is the wind. La Ventana gets hit during the mid-day by side-shore winds of 15 to 25 knots during the months of November through April. Also, the water temperature is a pleasant 70 degrees. Another important feature is safety. The shape of the bay that curves at the end allows drifters to come to a safe landing on the sandy beach.

The popularity of this sport has encouraged the opening of a couple of schools that offer lessons from beginners to experts, all kinds of gear rentals, assisted lessons and accommodations. If you decide to bring your own equipment, don’t hesitate to stop by any of the schools and get assistance from the friendly staff on launchings spots, restaurants or any other questions. Most of them are certified by the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO).

Then, there is Captain Kirk’s Windsport Resort in La Ventana…a boutique beach central lodging in close proximity to some of the world’s best windsurfing and kiteboarding. Captain Kirk and his wife Kitty have been running this unique windsport resort in southern Baja (Baja Sur) since 1993, offering a fresh alternative to the traditional seaside vacation. This is NOT your typical Mexican resort, with crowded swimming pools and beaches patrolled by insistent vendors; it is, rather, a secluded property set near a quiet, pristine beach, with beautiful botanical gardens and gorgeous views, overlooking the dazzling blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. It is the place to find windsports in Baja!

So, what to do when you are done kiteboarding? Well, the fun doesn’t have to end when you get back to shore. The nearby mountains are a perfect place to go for a hike; the proximity of the city’s dam and its system of single track trails are great for mountain biking; sport fishing tours can be arranged; or you might just want to enjoy a relaxing time at the beach. The area is also a good place for spear fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. In the after hours, the town has a few taco stands, restaurants and bars to enjoy the catch of the day and a frozen drink.

The winds are blowing in the shores of La Ventana and kiteboarders are enjoying thrilling rides every day. Don’t miss out on this and many other adventure opportunities La Paz and surrounding areas have to offer.

Playa Central Slider Jam 2012 @ La Ventana B.C.S from Carlos Altamirano on Vimeo.

Want to find out more about kiteboarding at La Ventana, Captain Kirk’s, or other places to visit in the La Paz area? Go to Baja.com!

B aja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about localrestaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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CostaBaja Resort in La Paz Offers World-Class Deal. Come Have a Baja Moment!

Chris Sands — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:25:32 +0000

CostaBaja Resort & Spa is a World-Class Resort. Now, book 2 nights (1 room) and the 3^rd free!

by Chris Sands

CostaBaja Resort & Spa is just 10 minutes south from downtown La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur. This world-class resort is set on the magnificent Sea of Cortez, overlooking a 250-slip double-basin marina and a white sand beach. Just north of the hotel, lies Isla Espiritu Santo where you’ll discover one of the greatest marine reserves in the world, along with the best sport fishing in Baja Sur.

CostaBaja Resort & Spa: Enjoy a A world-class resort for 2 nights (1 room) and stay free the third night.

Special Offer at CostaBaja Resort: It is this spectacular locale that has attracted hordes of travelers from the United States, Europe and Asia. CostaBaja is like its own village, in many ways. With restaurants, bars, vistas and a friendly community of staff and visitors, it provides the perfect one-stop venue for total relaxation in spacious, well-appointed rooms. Or, it provides the perfect base from which you can plan your travel adventures and pretty much do it all. Now, until March 31, if you book one room for two nights, the third night is free.

CostaBaja's rooms are comfortable and spacious.

What does ‘do it all’ mean? Well, let’s just talk about two of his expansive world-class resort’s major offerings: whale-watching and golf.

CostaBaja’s Whale Watching Package!

Now is the time – the amazing whales are the headliners, taking advantage of the warm waters off of the coast of Baja. You can have one-on-one experiences with these magnificent creatures, perhaps even touching a baby whale as its mother hovers nearby. Venture out on the Sea of Cortez for a day of whale watching and enjoy luxurious accommodations, daily buffet breakfast and a complimentary room upgrade from just $619 USD for two (1 room) and a minimum of two nights!

CostaBaja Resort offers an exclusive whale watching package that includes a two-night stay at this world-class resort.

Long Drives and Perfect Lies Headline Gary Player’s Signature CostaBaja Resort Course

La Paz may lack Los Cabos’ reputation as a golfing destination, but in terms of sheer star power, Baja Sur’s capital city is gaining fast.

Gary Player has joined Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Tom Weiskopf, Davis Love III, and Tiger Woods as major champions who have brought their design talents to Baja Sur, and the legendary South African linksman is the only one of the group to venture outside Los Cabos, crafting a gorgeous 7,229 yard layout at Costa Baja, a five star resort and residential property located ten minutes south of downtown La Paz.

Golf at CostaBaja on the signature Gary Player course.

“I’ve built more than 300 golf courses around the world,” Player is fond of saying, “and I’ve never seen a course with better views. It’s ocean all the time, and suddenly there are massive mountains.” Gary Player’s Costa Baja course showcases spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez and the resort’s double-basin marina.

With rolling fairways and views of the Sea of Cortez, golf at this world-class resort is ann outstanding travel adventure.

A nine-time major champion, and the only golfer ever to accomplish the career grand slam on both the regular and senior tours, Player brought over five decades of experience to bear on his design for the Costa Baja course, which opened to widespread acclaim in November, 2010. In addition to the spectacular scenic grandeur – an astounding 14 holes feature Sea of Cortez views, million dollar yachts can be seen at the resort’s double-basin marina, and luxury villas hug the surrounding hillsides – the layout features some unique challenges for players of all skill levels.

With extensive bunkering, plenty of uneven stances, and the danger of desert hikes after wayward tee shots, Costa Baja is certainly no pushover. But unlike many courses of this caliber, which seek to punish the slightest misstep, Player’s design philosophy is to temper risk with big rewards. Few courses are this much fun to play, and the combination of elevated tee boxes, wide fairways, and slow greens give even the worst weekend duffer the chance to score well.

CostaBaja's signature Gary Player course is challenging and beautiful.

The diminutive Player, who always had to counter the strength of larger golfers with cunning and accuracy, has achieved some measure of revenge at Costa Baja, a course so generous off the tee that every David feels like a Goliath. Elevated tee boxes abound, and there are several opportunities to hit your driver a country mile (or the better part of a kilometer, if you want to convert to the metric system for the length of your stay). Even the shortest of drivers will be bragging about 300 yard bombs after their round here.

Elevated tee boxes are a course specialty at Costa Baja, and provide plenty of long driving opportunities. The signature par 5 14th hole features a drop of over 200 feet from tee to fairway, and allows golfers to admire their shots for what seems like an eternity. A number of par fours are reachable off the tee, and the par 5 18th can be greened after two well struck shots, with expansive fairways providing a nice margin of error. In other words, leave your 3 wood in the bag.

Elevated tee boxes are a course specialty.

But for all its exhilaratingly elevated tee shots – roughly a third of the holes feature elevated tee boxes, although it feels like more – Costa Baja is a sophisticated layout carved and contoured to preserve the integrity or the surrounding mountain and desert terrain, and a complete test for golfers. The course requires strong iron shots from uneven and downhill lies, as well as a deft touch around the slow-paced seashore papsalum greens (a popular turf alternative in water scarce regions, as it doesn’t require fresh water). Costa Baja also requires the ability to focus on shotmaking amidst breathtaking backdrops of giant Cardon cacti, rugged mountains, and deep blue sea. This heady combination of world-class golf and picture postcard beauty makes Player’s only Mexican design one of the country’s most memorable courses.

The golf course wends through desert and mountain terrain, always with the Sea of Cortez as a backdrop.

As if Player’s pedigree, monstrous tee shots, and awe-inspiring views aren’t enough to entice, Costa Baja is administered by Troon, one of the world’s largest golf course management companies, with top-level layouts in 23 countries and 31 American states, including Troon North in Scotland, and Indian Wells in Palm Springs. Complementing the superb 18 hole layout are a full practice range, short game area, and putting greens, as well as a fully stocked golf shop (with rental clubs by Callaway). There is also a 19th hole bar and grill, where golfers can relive and exaggerate their round over margaritas and other tasty treats.

For information about stay and play packages at Costa Baja, you can visit http://www.costabajaresort.com, or call (612) 123-6000. Or find out more by calling Baja.com, toll free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411.

B aja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

All photos courtesy of Costa Baja Resort & Spa.

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Looking for Windsports in Baja? Captain Kirk’s Windsport Resort in La Ventana!

Chris Sands — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 18:16:04 +0000

Looking for Windsports in Baja? Captain Kirk’s Windsport Resort in La Ventana!

by Chris Sands

“Don’t beam me up Scotty, I want to stay!”

When looking for windsports in Baja, it's Captain Kirk's Resort is out of this world!

That’s the feeling one gets after visiting Captain Kirk’s in La Ventana, a boutique beach central lodging in close proximity to some of the world’s best windsurfing and kiteboarding. Captain Kirk and his wife Kitty have been running this unique windsport resort in southern Baja (Baja Sur) since 1993, offering a fresh alternative to the traditional seaside vacation. This is NOT your typical Mexican resort, with crowded swimming pools and beaches patrolled by insistent vendors; it is, rather, a secluded property set near a quiet, pristine beach, with beautiful botanical gardens and gorgeous views, overlooking the dazzling blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. It is the place to find windsports in Baja!

Captain Kirk's Resort and the sparkling Sea of Cortez

La Ventana also happens to be one of the most consistently windy spots on a notably windy coast (from November through April, anyway), and guests at Captain Kirk’s have ready access to world-class kiteboarding, windsurfing and stand up paddleboarding.

Sea of Cortez waters provide the perfect venue for windsports in Baja.

The team at this premier windsport resort provides expert instruction, essentially teaching everything from “ride the wind 101″ to more advanced techniques, with detailed performance analysis available for experienced “lords of the wind.” A complete inventory of new and used equipment is available, and every dollar spent on lessons and rentals qualifies guests for the Baja Bucks customer rewards program.

Nowhere is better than Captain Kirk's for windsports in Baja.

If the kiteboarding and windsurfing are world-class, the sportfishing and diving are merely spectacular. The local waters are teeming with big fish, and the resort’s panga guides take guests out for dorado, yellowfish tuna, striped marlin, roosterfish, wahoo, sierra, and other denizens of the deep. After reeling in your limit, it’s considered de rigeur to cook up the catch back at the Clubhouse Cocina, although area restaurants are happy to take care of the task for a nominal fee (about $5 U.S.). Snorkel and dive aficionados, meanwhile, can let the Captain set them up with a top local dive master for an unforgettable underwater adventure in the Sea of Cortez, with up-close-and-personal looks at what Jacques Cousteau once referred to as “nature’s aquarium.”

The wide variety of lodging choices at Captain Kirk's offers privacy, charm and fun.

Lodging at Captain Kirk’s is spacious and spread out, so that each guest has a feeling of peace, privacy and seclusion. Accommodations are available to suit every budget, and include a charming selection of casas and casitas, all of which feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and views of La Ventana Bay.

Great views are a featured at Captain Kirk’s casas and villas.

The resort boasts several common areas, such as the Clubhouse, Captain’s Deck, and Bath-house, and Continental breakfasts are complimentary. Try starting the day with Kitty’s delicious breakfasts – different every day – that vary from her famous waffles, to huevos rancheros, egg burritos, French toast and huevos Mexicanos. Fresh fruit, yogurt, cold cereals, toast, orange juice, and tea and coffee are available, too. Cooking facilities are available for lunch and dinner, and guests may also explore local restaurant favorites like Las Palmas, Adelita’s and Bandito’s Sushi and Sports Bar.

Before windsurfing and after a Huevos Rancheros breakfast, what about lounging around?

For the first three weeks in March, Captain Kirk’s will be hosting a “Spring Cleaning Yoga Retreat” with Body Soul Movement gurus Federica Clemente and Joshua Gefroh. The retreat will focus on improving mental, physical and emotional health, and in addition to yoga, also features African dance, meditation, and other enlightening pursuits. All-inclusive packages are currently available – accommodations, healthy food, and morning and afternoon classes included – for this unique opportunity to experience light, beauty, and clarity in one of Baja’s most beautiful locations.

For the first three weeks in March, Captain Kirk's is offering the 'Spring Cleaning Yoga Retreat'.

Special offer for Baja.com readers!

March visitors to Captain Kirk’s can also take advantage of a special “4 nights for the price of 3” accommodation package, perfect for maximizing sun and surf and even romance in this secluded seaside paradise. One thing is guaranteed. After the final night, you’ll be begging Scotty not to beam you up.

How to get to Captain Kirk’s: Just fly to Cabo, rent a car, and it’s less than a two-hour drive, with well maintained paved roads the whole way. Or you can fly to La Paz, which leaves only a 45-minute drive or shuttle ride (but airfare and rental cares might be a bit more expensive. At your request, Captain Kirk’s will arrange a door-to-door airport shuttle. The guest must pay the driver directly $70 USD with cash, ($140 for Cabo) each way, per group (up to 4 people, $10 per extra person. 8 maximum). He will meet you outside baggage claim with a “Captain Kirk’s” sign and take you directly to your lodging at the beach. For a good tip, he’ll make a quick stop in La Paz at the Walmart so you can stock up on any special items you may need for your stay. Otherwise you can just go to any of the local La Ventana mini-markets or restaurants that are near our resort.

Where is Captain Kirk’s?

Looking for windsports in Baja? Want to know how you can find the gusts, the sea and the sky at Captain Kirk’s and La Ventana? Visit the resort page at Baja.com.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Have a Baja Moment: La Paz Events in 2013

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Have a Baja Moment: La Paz Events in 2013

Kennia Thackaberry — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 19:21:29 +0000

Major La Paz Events in 2013

by Kennia Thackaberry

As the new year begins, La Paz is preparing for cultural festivals, fishing tournaments, traditional celebrations and off-road races. Here are some of the major events happening throughout the year.

To kick off 2013, the city will celebrate Carnaval. From February 7 -12, the Malecon will host a big street party that includes fair rides, food vendors and live entertainment. The theme this year is “Mysteries of the Seas” and the highly anticipated float parade will take place every evening from the 10-12. For a schedule of activities and the lineup of local and national performers, check out the La Paz Carnaval Facebook page.

La Paz Carnaval, Feb. 7-12

The International Art and Culture Festival for la Pax (Peace) happens October 2 -6. It was created as a way to honor the indigenous cultures around the world through dance, music, theater and visual arts. For information, call 01-612-141-2324.

The most important cultural celebration in La Paz is the Foundation Festival, which commemorates the day the Spaniard explorer Hernan Cortez arrived to the city’s bay. The event runs from May 1-6, and the many activities planned for the occasion include free concerts, film screenings, a cultural open market, art exhibits and other family orientated activities.

As part of this special celebration, the newer Gastronomic Festival “El gusto por BCS” offers a great opportunity to sample local flavors, enjoy music and contribute to a good cause, since all proceedings are destined to help local charities. Contact information: canirac.lapaz@yahoo.com.mx

La Paz has been unofficially named by many “the world’s capital of off road racing” and Dos mares 500 attracts aficionados and racing teams from the US and Canada. The loop takes racers through rough desert terrain along the Sea of Cortez to the Pacific side, and back to the city of La Paz to the finish line. The traditional dates for the race are May 4-6.

La Paz is also well known as a sport fishing destination. The Gold Cup Blue and Black Marlin is one of the most important fishing tournaments in La Paz. With fishing grounds that extend from the city’s bay and the surrounding areas of Isla Espiritu Santo all the way to la Ventana, this popular event brings locals as well as fishermen from abroad to win substantial prizes and enjoy the wonders of the Sea of Cortez. This year it will be held on September 3-6^.

La Paz events include action-packed sport-fishing.

The Independence day festivities start the night of September 15 when city officials recreate the “Grito de Independencia,” performed first in 1810 by the priest Miguel Hidalgo as a way of calling people to fight for their independence from Spain. For this occassion, the plaza at the Government Center its the scenario for mariachi music, traditional dances, traditional mexican food and fireworks. On Independence day, September the 16, a civic and military parade marches along the Malecon.

Day of the Dead is celebrated throughout Mexico on November 2. In La Paz, the City Theater esplanade hosts a night of poetry, music and an altar contest. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about culture while sampling some hot cocoa and pan de muerto. Contact information: iscdirecciongeneral@yahoo.com.mx.

Dia de los Muertos: Day of the Dead. A poignant time of celebration.

Baja 1000 is the mother of all off road races. Each year in November, the race brings together more participants and spectators for a unique and thrilling experience. Every other year the race runs from Ensenada to La Paz. 2013 will be a loop race year with start and finish on the northern part of the Peninsula, but La Paz will be ready for 2014.

SCORE Baja 1000

What is your favorite La Paz event? Find out about where to stay, play and eat in La Paz at Baja.com!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411

Festivals in La Paz – A Fun and Family Friendly Way to Learn About Local Culture

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Festivals in La Paz — A Fun and Family Friendly Way to Learn About Local Culture

Kennia Thackaberry — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 23:32:25 +0000

Festivals in La Paz — A fun and family friendly way to learn about local tradition and culture

by Kennia Thackaberry

Festivals have always been a way for people to commemorate special events, celebrate tradition, history, culture and art. In Baja, festivities with long tradition — as well as newer ones — happen year-round. For a chance to experience first-hand the culture of the region and really get to know the people, check out some of the festivals in La Paz and find out what this friendly city has to offer!

The biggest festival held in La Paz is Fiestas de Fundacion (Foundation of La Paz Festival), a week long cultural event to commemorate the arrival to the city of Hernan Cortes on May 3^rd, 1535. For this occasion the state and city governments organize free concerts, art exhibits, traditional dances, film screenings and recently a cultural “tianguis” (a street market) that showcases local arts and crafts, native products and the works of local artists. The activities develop around the historic center of La Paz during the first week in May.

Fiestas de Fundacion is one of the most important festivals in La Paz

Within the Fiestas de Fundacion, a most recent festival was born and it is rapidly becoming popular. The Gastronomic Festival “The taste for la Paz” started three years ago as a forum to showcase the flavors of La Paz and the creations of the culinary school. For this festival more than 60 restaurants and the staff and students of the school offer the visitors a sample of their tasty creations. With the beautiful Coromuel beach as a backdrop, the fiesta-goers enjoy food and performances from renowned musicians. The ticket proceedings go to help the city orphanage and the elderly house.

Taste for La Paz is attracting more and more crowds.

The Carnaval is a popular party that closes the streets of the Malecon preceding the observance of Lent. It symbolizes the last chance to let it all out and enjoy the carnal pleasures before the religious period of abstinence and spirituality. La Paz has celebrated Carnaval since 1888 and for many years it was a private party of the wealthy. After a few decades the event became popular and was open to all.

Carnaval is perhaps the most well known of the festivals in La Paz

Nowadays, Carnaval starts with the burning of the “mal humor” (bad mood) a life-sized papier-mâché man that usually represents a famous character from politics, singers or historic relevance. A satiric and humorous poem is read in honor of the character before the character is ignited. Follow by the coronation of the King and Queen, the streets fill with vendors, music performers on multiple stages, fair rides and then the party continues well into the early dawn hours. During the evening, a parade goes along the Malecon and floats compete for the first prize. This display of elaborate costumes, floats, masks, music, and dancers is a great family oriented activity.

The Day of the Dead Festival in La Paz has become a well organized display of a Mexican tradition that has its roots in pre- Hispanic times. Sip some Mexican hot cocoa, enjoy some “pan de muerto” and poetry recitals while you admired the altar contest held in the City theater esplanade on November the 2nd.

The International Festival of Art and Culture for La Paz (Peace) was organized for the first time in March of 2007 to celebrate indigenous cultures around the world and Peace. Each year, a country is showcased and represented through dance, visual arts and theater.

Want to find out more about where to stay when you visit festivals in La Paz?

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Camping at Espiritu Santo Island and Isla Partida

Carla White — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 22:32:52 +0000

Want to Get Away from it All? Try Camping at Espiritu Santo Island and Isla Partida, La Paz!
By Carla White

Maybe it is time to get to La Paz and take the short boat trip to go camping at Espíritu Santo Island (Holy Spirit Island) and Isla Partida (Island that Parted) that are separated by a narrow isthmus. Here, you will find tranquility, natural beauty and some of Baja’s most spectacular views of the sparkling Sea of Cortez. And there is, possibly, no better to way experience this magical serenity than in one of the islands’ protected coves that are bounded by rocky cliffs and coral reefs. A paradise, you say? That is, perhaps, why UNESCO has proclaimed this area to be a biosphere and a true eco-tourism destination. Swimming, diving and kayaking are all popular past-times here, as is simply being at one with the earth, sky and sea. The islands are just a short boat trip away from La Paz…and yet, the journey takes you to another world.

Photo courtesy of Grupo Fun Baja

Tours and guides are available to take you to the islands, and you can also take individual trips by hiring out panga boats ($125-150) but be aware that permits are required for camping, approximately $4 a day. Permits can be obtained by calling the SEMARNAT (a government office that is responsible for oversight of natural resources), at. 612/128-4171.

Camping at Espiritu Santo Island. Photo courtesy of Grupo Fun Baja

What is the best part about beach camping on these undeveloped islands, with their remote coves and shallow bays? Maybe it is the scuba diving and snorkeling that allow you to have personal experiences in the clear water with the marine life that thrives in the coral reefs, or even interact with dolphins, manta rays, turtles and other denizens of the deep. Maybe it is the sound of sea lions barking in the night, as you listen to the gentle lapping of the waves that lulls you to sleep. Or is it the absolute intimacy of sharing a luminous sunset with your partner, as you revel in warm, salt-scented breezes? It might be all of these things, or even just knowing that you are having an exclusive and unique adventure that few of your compadres have ever enjoyed at Espiritu Santo Island and Isla Partida.

Camping at Isla Santo Espirit. Photo courtesy of Grupo Fun Baja

Not camping on this trip? Find out about vacation rentals and more in beautiful La Paz!

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Camping in La Paz: A Local Perspective

Kennia Thackaberry — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 21:02:29 +0000

Camping in La Paz provided some wonderful childhood memories…

By Kennia Thackaberry

Beach camping in La Paz is a tradition among paceños. Some of the best memories from my childhood are the week long camping trips we took during vacations. The adventure started once we left the highway to embark on a wild off-road ride. After what seemed forever, we always ended up at a solitary beach eager to set up our campground and dive in the water.

Beach camping in La Paz

Camping at El Coyote beach near the city of La Paz has grown in popularity and new roads provide easier access to most beaches. However, the camping experience hasn’t changed much. The majority of us still like to practice beach camping the “old fashioned way:” pick a spot, pitch a tent and be resourceful.When camping, the level of comfort is a matter of preference and it is up to you to bring everything you need. But if you want to experience camping in La Paz, here are just a few things to consider:

Where to go?

The beaches between El Coyote (past Tecolote beach) and Las Cruces are ideal. They are public, not crowded and have no restricted access or camping fees. It is a first-come first-serve adventure. To get there, you need to drive on dirt roads and sand, so a car with four wheel-drive can make a big difference.

Camping in La Paz might include an overnight at El Coyote beach on the Sea of Cortez

What to expect?

Since the closest market is at least hours away carry enough food and purified water.
Keep an extra cooler with a block of ice (a lot cheaper and lasts longer, although not for consumption).
Invest in a good shade. The sun is strong even in the winter time and shade becomes a necessity.
On rare occasions, some of us have encountered raccoons at some of these beaches, so keep food away from their reach.
There are no facilities so you are responsible for your own trash and waste.

Overall, as every activity that involves leaving your home, beach camping requires a lot of preparation. But whether you like to sleep in a tent or travel in a fully equipped van, the rewards of waking up to the rustling sound of the water hitting the shore, makes it all worth it.

This combination of adventure and escape is what makes beach camping one of the great activities La Paz has to offer.

Not camping on this trip? Find out about vacation rentals and more in beautiful La Paz!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about localrestaurants,hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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