Isla Espíritu Santo: put this on your kayaking bucket list right now
Outsyda’s, who fancies exploring incredible waters and sleeping over night on beaches under the stars?
It’s rare to escape to a place with no major infrastructure these days, yet that’s the case with Isla Espíritu Santo. All visitors camp on the beaches, eco-lodges or the other side of is luxury yachts in the bay.
Nestled in the warm waters of Mexico's Sea of Cortez, Isla Espíritu Santo is one of Baja California’s most enchanting and untouched islands. Known for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the Coastline
OK Outsydas, this has got to be on your kayaking bucket list. It’s a fantastic way to experience the island’s rugged coastline. Paddle across calm, turquoise waters to secluded coves and hidden beaches that can only be accessed by boat or foot. As you glide over the water, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manta rays that are often spotted here, as well as a variety of seabirds circling overhead. We can arrange overnight kayak tours and custom build your adventure on the island.
'As you glide over the water, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manta rays that are often spotted here'
Snorkeling with Sea Lions: A Wild Encounter
Arguably one of the most iconic experiences you can have on Isla Espíritu Santo is snorkeling with the playful sea lions that call the island home. The waters around the island are teeming with vibrant marine life, but it’s the sea lion colonies that steal the show. Near Los Islotes, a small islet just off Espíritu Santo, you’ll have the chance to swim alongside these curious and friendly creatures.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Discover Hidden Vistas
For those who love hiking, Isla Espíritu Santo offers some incredible trails that lead you through its rugged interior, where cacti-studded hills and dramatic cliffs provide breathtaking vistas of the Sea of Cortez. The trails here are relatively easy to navigate but still provide a sense of adventure as they lead you to some of the island’s most stunning viewpoints. A hike to the Punta la Gringa lookout, for example, offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain.
Camping Under the Stars: A True Escape
Isla Espíritu Santo is one of the last untouched places in Baja California, and camping here allows you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. There are a few designated campgrounds on the island where you can pitch your tent, light a campfire, and watch the night sky light up with stars. As there’s no light pollution, this is the perfect spot for stargazing.
Scuba Diving: Explore the Underwater World
For avid divers, Isla Espíritu Santo offers some of the most pristine and biodiverse dive sites in the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau famously called “the world’s aquarium.” The waters around the island are rich with marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even larger species like hammerhead sharks and whale sharks.
Some of the most popular dive sites around the island include Los Islotes, Punta Norte, and La Reina, each offering unique underwater experiences. The best time for diving is from late spring to early fall when water temperatures are warmer and visibility is excellent.
Protecting Isla Espíritu Santo
A delicate ecosystem, it’s is part of a protected national park, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following the ‘leave no trace’ principle. You must check for any updates on local regulations or restrictions, especially regarding camping and snorkeling areas, as these can vary seasonally to protect the island’s habitats.
Best time of year to travel?
November to May, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. If you like the heat and want to tie in some kite related adventures then the summer months bring stronger winds but also more tourists. With wind comes waves so be prepared to paddle your kayak harder through these.
How do you get there?
For once Outsydas, it’s easy! Isla Espíritu Santo is located just off the coast of La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, so you can get there by water taxi.