Get Outside in Mexico: 8 Baja Tours Your Family Will Love

What’s the scoop on Baja California, Mexico? Nobody said it better than Adolfo “Fito” González: “Why Baja? Baja needs no reason. Baja is its own reason.” If you long for vast swathes of rugged coastline, splendid beaches, delish cuisine, and abundant sea life, this is your destination!

This stunning corner of Mexico is highly family-friendly, welcoming adventurous families to dive into incredible experiences like gray whale watching, snorkeling with colorful marine creatures, and camping on pristine, uninhabited island beaches.

Ready to find out more? Here’s our guide to fun Baja tours to get your family outside and unplugged.

1. Check Out Incredible Rock Art in Sierra de San Francisco

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993, the Sierra de San Francisco Archaeological Zone is one of the best locations in Mexico to explore indigenous rock art. The region contains hundreds of caves filled with spectacular ancient paintings.

The dry environmental conditions of the area have worked to preserve these ancient masterpieces, which date from 100 B.C. to A.D. 1300. Created by hunter-gatherers, the cave paintings depict a wide variety of prehistoric animal and human images.

2. Horseback Riding Tours of Baja California

Baja California offers many horseback riding tours, allowing your family access to the tranquil landscapes of the region. Whether you opt for a four-legged exploration of desert trails or an intimate, culturally rich tour of a historical family ranch.

The second option is fantastic for kids who love hands-on experiences with animals. On traditional Baja ranches, critters abound, which means plenty of chances to interact with these local characters while learning about daily life on the farm.

3. La Bufadora Geyser

Seventeen miles south of Ensenada, Mexico, on Punta Banda Peninsula’s tip, you’ll find La Bufadora (literally “the Blowhole”). A natural marine geyser, La Bufadora shoots water more than 60 feet in the air! It’s ranked the second largest marine geyser in the world after Oahu’s Makapuu Point.

Legend says it formed when a whale got wedged between the coastline’s rocks. As a last-ditch effort, the whale blew water to get the attention of its pod. But to no avail. As hope of rescue faded, the whale turned to stone, where it remains today.

Although a fun legend, what’s the real deal when it comes to explaining the phenomenon? As waves get forced into a partially flooded sea cavern, this creates a massive water and air pressure buildup. The water and air must go somewhere, and that somewhere is upwards through the submerged cave’s only exit. The result? A massive waterspout you’ve got to see to believe.

4. Snorkel With Whale Sharks in La Paz

One of the most exhilarating oceanic experiences in Baja California is snorkeling with whale sharks. And don’t let the name fool you. Whale sharks are a far cry from other toothy predators known as sharks. In fact, they’re known affectionately as the “Gentle Giants” of the Sea of Cortez.

Whale sharks flock to La Paz to feed in the plankton-rich waters, providing the perfect opportunity for viewing and interaction. Swimming with the world’s largest fish is an exciting and humbling occasion. When you work with a high-quality, family-friendly tour group, you’ll benefit from the staff’s expertise, quality equipment, and local knowledge.

5. Hang Ten in Todos Santos

Besides hunting down prehistoric cave art and snorkeling with whale sharks, Baja California is also renowned for its incredible waves. Some of the best surfing spots in Mexico are found here. Moreover, you’ll find waves suitable for every skill level, from beginner to advanced. A visit to Baja California with kids marks the perfect time to try surfing.

Although some surf schools will tell you that kids as young as five have taken lessons, most teachers recommend that children be a minimum of eight to ten years old. Kids should be strong swimmers, comfortable in the ocean, and capable of the skills needed to paddle and handle a surfboard.

One of the best parts of a surf lesson? Having the gear provided for you. That way, your family can focus on learning how to hang ten (or maybe just stand up on the board!) rather than where to rent equipment.

6. Scope Out Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay

Magdalena Bay is a haven for marine life observation year round. But if you’re looking more specifically for gray whales, you must time your trip strategically. During the world’s longest migration, whales arrive in the area in late December and early January. They stay until early to late April.

What else should you know about gray whale watching Baja California? In the 1970s, a fascinating phenomenon began when a lone fisherman noticed whales interacting with him. After a few experiences with curious gray whales, word got out.

To this day, friendly whales seek out humans, approaching boats for fun and games. This includes mothers encouraging their young by pushing them toward whale watching boats to have a closer look at the people on board!

7. Explore the Mangroves and Dunes of Magdalena Bay

Although Magdalena Bay is celebrated for its whale watching, the coastal landscapes are also worth exploring. You’ll enjoy incredible views, endless wildlife viewing opportunities, and majestic dunes. A rich ecosystem, exploration occurs against the backdrop of lush mangroves, vast blue oceans, and arid dunes.

The mangroves are great for scoping out breathtaking varieties of birds. We’re talking ibises, egrets, herons, and many other coastal birds. Isla Santa Margarita provides a seasonal hatching ground for brown pelicans. On Bird Island, see hundreds of ducks, pelicans, and cormorants.

And hiking the dunes offers a stark contrast. As light plays on the sinewy landscapes, the terrain comes to life. Although barren at first glance, tiny footprints at dawn or the sight of a lone coyote loping by in the cool of the evening attest to a hidden world of desert wonders. Find out more about some of our other mystical desert adventures.

8. Glamp at Isla Espíritu Santo

Isla Espíritu Santo sits in the Sea of Cortez and is the perfect place for an off-the-beaten-path glamping excursion. Because the island is uninhabited, its environments are pristine. Yet, glamping allows you to soak up the peace and quiet of this desolate location without giving up your favorite creature comforts.

Outdoor activities reign on Isla Espíritu Santo. They include snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing, birdwatching, and hiking. Best of all, you’ll return to comfortable tents and freshly prepared food. Glamping Baja tours to Espíritu Santo come with the benefits of camping without the work.

Outdoor Baja Tours for Family

Options are endless for nature-loving families visiting Baja Mexico. Moreover, you’ll enjoy adventures by land and sea, sure to make for an unforgettable vacation. From horseback riding to whale watching, dune hiking to island glamping, you’ll fall in love with this magical land.

Are you ready to find out more about things to do in Baja California? Or perhaps you’re looking for a broader family trip to Mexico? Either way, we’ve got you covered! Contact us today to start planning your family’s next adventure.