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Let’s face it: some beaches are almost identical.
I’m not saying a particular destination doesn’t have unique aspects, but vacationers are often left satisfied, whether it’s the underrated coastline of Texas, record-breaking Caribbean islands, or the hidden gems of Mexico.
As long as there is sun, sand and nice hotels, there is no reason to be too picky.
That said, the sheer beauty of some beach destinations is unfathomable without direct comparison.
That’s the case for a secret beach in Mexico, and no, it’s not Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos.
However, the latter comes closest.
The beautiful coastal city of La Paz, a popular day trip or weekend getaway from Cabo, beholds an otherworldly treasure rated as one of the best beaches in the world.
Numero Uno On TripAdvisor
Travelers often scour TripAdvisor looking for the best inside tips, while others know better to rely on this great little place called Travel off the path.
Since there’s no ‘beach’ category for our annual Travel Off Path’s Best In Travel Awards, don’t worry, we’re passing it up this time.
But my vote, in line with TripAdvisor, would definitely go in the direction Balandra Beach.
Achieving such high marks is no easy feat, as many destinations change year on year based on what is considered ‘best’.
Take Clearwater and Siesta Key in Florida as an example. These two nearby beaches battle it out for world supremacy every year, aiming for the status of ‘#1 beach’.
Balandra is tucked away from the mostly laid-back city of La Paz on an unsuspecting bay with shallow waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and even kayaking across the stunning blue waters.
Rated as #1 in Mexicoyou can say goodbye to Cancun, especially since there are now non-stop flights to La Paz.
The only thing missing are the rows and rows of all-inclusive resorts. But don’t worry, Los Cabos is just a 2-hour drive away if you feel like splurging!
La Paz Is No longer just a day trip
Before this year, La Paz’s claim to fame was a fun excursion from Cabo for more culture, fewer crowds, cheaper but delicious cuisine, and a famous seafood scene.
As La Paz continues to embrace the spotlight, more and more about this city is being revealed and new luxury properties are opening, such as the trendy HotelIndigoAmericans are eager to give this beautiful beach city a try.
However, Balandra Beach is the icing on the cake. Honestly, this unique wonder seems out of reach, but it is one of the easiest bucket list beaches to reach.
While La Paz offers other beaches, Balandra is the only one that really makes you feel like you are in a postcard or in your factory computer background.
It just doesn’t seem realistic for a beach to have such striking shades of blue, which makes La Paz all the more attractive for a longer stay.
Additionally, when visiting Los Cabos, many of the region’s beaches are not swimmable.
La Paz gives tourists full access to enjoy the pristine waters under the Baja sun.
Remote and surrounded by volcanic cliffs, mangroves and the unmissable Mushroom Rock (Balandra’s version of Cabo’s famous El Arco), a blissful beach holiday in Mexico simply cannot be beat.
However, there is one disadvantage. Nothing can be perfect, right?
Balandra does limit visitors and charges one entrance feebut it’s only about $3. See how far that gets you in Cabo…
Tip: Show up early to be sure of a spot, as only 450 people are allowed per time slot:
8am-12pm and 1pm-5pm.
La Paz has never been easier to reach
La Paz isn’t exactly a hidden gem anymore, as many Cabo vacationers have known about it for years. The problem is you have to fly into Cabo and deal with traffic, among other issues, to get here.
Of course you can board a Mexican airline, for example by connecting in Mexico City, but many of us prefer non-stops and why wouldn’t we?
Alaska Airlines heard the message loud and clear this summer and announced the only nonstop flight to La Paz (LAP), making travel easier than ever.
Get started November 20, 2024travelers can choose between 2-3 flights per week from Los Angeles (LAX). Tickets are for sale.
Thanksgiving in Paradise, anyone?
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
