Picture this: you’re nestled under a blanket of stars, the sound of waves gently crashing against the shore, and the warm desert breeze sweeping across your face. This isn’t some far-off fantasy—it’s camping in La Paz, Baja California Sur. While most people flock to La Paz for its laid-back vibes and crystal-clear waters, seasoned travelers know that the beaches around this tranquil town offer more than just day trips and suntans—they offer some of the best beach camping experiences you’ll ever have.
Baja California Sur isn’t just a destination for sipping cocktails and slathering on sunscreen; it’s a place where you can fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up to the most breathtaking sunrises, with nothing but your tent between you and paradise. If you’re a fan of sleeping under the stars and having the beach as your front yard, here are the best places to pitch your tent and live out the ultimate beach-camping adventure.
Tecolote Beach: The Desert-By-The-Sea Experience
Tecolote Beach is the wild child of Baja’s beach scene, where the desert meets the sea, and the result is pure, unfiltered beauty. The best part? You can camp right on the sand for free. That’s right—this long stretch of pristine beach lets you set up camp without a fee, meaning you can enjoy all its natural beauty without burning a hole in your wallet. Just imagine your tent pitched on a sandy dune with the blue Sea of Cortez stretching endlessly in front of you.
Since there are no facilities at Tecolote Beach, it’s a bring-your-own-everything kind of spot. But that’s the charm. With only the occasional beachside restaurant and the rugged landscape around you, camping here feels like you’ve truly disconnected from the world. By day, you can rent a kayak, swim, or even catch a boat tour to nearby Isla Espíritu Santo. By night, the stars blaze like someone cranked the brightness up on the universe.
Balandra Beach: A Protected Gem for Day Trips
While Balandra Beach might be the poster child for La Paz, camping here comes with a caveat. Balandra is a protected area, which means overnight camping isn’t allowed directly on the beach. However, that shouldn’t discourage you from visiting during the day and then setting up camp nearby. Balandra’s shallow waters and stunning landscapes are perfect for a day of paddleboarding or wading through its turquoise lagoon.
If you’re determined to stay close, there are nearby beaches where camping is allowed, and you can enjoy the beauty of Balandra during the day before heading back to your tent at night. The restrictions help preserve the pristine environment, so you can feel good about protecting this natural wonder for generations to come.
Playa El Sargento: For the Windsurfers and Kiteboarders
If you’re looking to mix a little adrenaline with your beach camping experience, Playa El Sargento is the place to be. Located just north of La Paz, this beach is a mecca for windsurfers and kiteboarders who flock here for the perfect winds. But even if you’re not into flying across the water at breakneck speeds, Playa El Sargento is an excellent spot to pitch a tent and soak in the Baja vibes.
The beach is relatively undeveloped, but there are local shops and restaurants nearby if you need a break from campfire cooking. Plus, the sunsets here are nothing short of cinematic—when the sky turns shades of pink, orange, and purple, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a watercolor painting.
Playa La Ventana: The Ultimate Beach for Water Sports
A little further south of Playa El Sargento, you’ll find Playa La Ventana, another beloved spot for wind-powered water sports. This beach is popular with both locals and travelers who are drawn to its windy shores for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and even kayaking. But it’s not just about the sports—La Ventana is a fantastic camping spot, offering plenty of room to set up a tent right by the water.
While this beach isn’t entirely free from development, the campsites here are basic and cater to those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing too many comforts. Whether you’re cooking dinner over a campfire or grilling up some fresh seafood from a local vendor, the combination of wind, waves, and wilderness will make for a beach camping experience like no other.
Playa El Coyote: Baja’s Best-Kept Secret
For a more secluded camping adventure, Playa El Coyote on Bahía Concepción offers an experience that feels miles away from civilization. This remote beach is a few hours north of La Paz but well worth the drive for anyone seeking solitude and breathtaking natural beauty. Picture a small bay ringed by white sand, backed by the rugged Sierra de la Giganta mountains—this is where you’ll pitch your tent.
The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or just floating lazily. Playa El Coyote is ideal for those who want to get away from it all and wake up to the sound of seabirds and gentle waves. Facilities are minimal, but for true campers, that’s just part of the charm.
Playa Pichilingue: Close to Town, Far from Ordinary
If you’re looking for a more laid-back camping experience closer to La Paz, Playa Pichilingue is a solid option. While this beach is more popular with day-trippers, you can also camp here and still be within striking distance of the city. That means if you run out of supplies or crave a restaurant meal, you’re only a short drive from town.
The beach itself offers calm waters and some great spots for snorkeling. Plus, it’s an excellent place for families since the shallow waters are perfect for young kids to play in. With its easy access to La Paz and peaceful atmosphere, Playa Pichilingue offers a more relaxed camping experience without sacrificing convenience.
Camping Tips for Baja California Sur’s Beaches
Before you head out to one of these stunning beaches, it’s essential to come prepared. Many of the best camping spots are remote, with little to no amenities. That means packing everything you’ll need for your stay, including food, water, firewood, and a good tent. Some beaches, like Playa El Coyote and Tecolote, have vendors selling snacks and drinks, but it’s always better to be self-sufficient.
Additionally, remember that many of these beaches are protected areas, so leave no trace. Carry out all your trash, be mindful of wildlife, and avoid damaging the natural environment. After all, it’s these untouched surroundings that make Baja California Sur so magical.
Embrace the Adventure
Camping on the beaches around La Paz is more than just a budget-friendly way to stay—it’s a full-on experience that immerses you in the wild beauty of Baja California Sur. Whether you’re seeking the rugged charm of Tecolote Beach, the wind-whipped shores of La Ventana, or the serene waters of Playa El Coyote, there’s a stretch of sand here waiting for your tent.
Tequilas Bar & Grill offers the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after your camping adventure, giving you a taste of the vibrant local culture. La Paz offers something that few other destinations can match: the opportunity to live, even for just a few days, with the ocean at your doorstep and the stars as your ceiling. So, pack your gear, grab some fresh Baja fish, and set out for the adventure of a lifetime.
