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Let’s face it – some beaches are nearly identical.
Not to say there aren’t unique aspects to any particular destination, but vacationers are often content regardless of whether it’s the underrated coastline of Texas, record-breaking Caribbean islands, or Mexico’s hidden gems.
As long as there is sun, sand, and nice hotels, there’s no reason to be too picky.
That being said, some beach destinations’ sheer beauty is unfathomable with no direct comparison.
That’s the case for a secret beach in Mexico, and no, it’s not Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, or Los Cabos.
The latter being the closest, however.
A popular day trip or weekend getaway from Cabo, the pretty coastal city of La Paz beholds an otherworldly treasure rated as one of the best beaches in the world.
Numero Uno On TripAdvisor
Oftentimes, travelers scour TripAdvisor for the best inside tips, while others know better to rely on, you know, this great little place called Travel Off Path.
Since there’s no ‘beach’ category for our annual Travel Off Path’s Best In Travel Awards, no worries, we’ll let it slide this time.
But my vote, in line with TripAdvisor, would certainly go toward Balandra Beach.
Receiving such high marks is no easy feat as many destinations change year to year on what’s perceived as ‘best’.
Take Florida’s Clearwater and Siesta Key, as an example. These 2 nearby beaches duke it out each year for world supremacy seeking ‘#1 beach’ status.
Balandra is tucked away from the mostly laid-back city of La Paz on an unsuspecting cove with shallow waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and even kayaking across the mind-bending blue water.
Rated as #1 in Mexico, you can kiss Cancun goodbye, especially since there are now nonstop flights to La Paz.
The only thing missing is the rows and rows of all-inclusive resorts. But don’t worry, Los Cabos is only 2 hours away should you have the urge to splurge!
La Paz Is No Longer Just A Day Trip
Prior to this year, La Paz’s claim to fame was being a fun excursion from Cabo for more culture, fewer crowds, cheaper yet delicious cuisine, and a renowned seafood scene.
As La Paz continues to embrace the spotlight, more and more is being revealed about this city, and with new luxury stays opening like the trendy Hotel Indigo, Americans have been more keen on giving this beautiful beach city a chance.
Balandra Beach is the icing on the cake, though. Quite honestly, this one-of-a-kind wonder seems unattainable but is one of the easiest bucket-list beaches to reach.
While La Paz offers other beaches, Balandra is the only one that truly feels like you’re inside a postcard or your factory-set computer background.
It just doesn’t seem real for a beach to bestow such eye-popping shades of blue, making La Paz all the more appealing for longer stays.
Plus, 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.
Secluded and surrounded by volcanic cliffs, mangroves, and the unmissable Mushroom Rock (Balandra’s version of Cabo’s famous El Arco), a blissful beach escape in Mexico simply can’t be topped.
There is one downside, however. Nothing can be perfect, right?
Balandra does limit visitors and charges an entry fee, but it’s only about $3. See how far that gets you in Cabo…
Tip: Show up early to secure a spot as only 450 people are allowed to visit at each time slot:
8am-noon 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 been in the know for years. Problem being you would have to fly into Cabo, deal with traffic, among other hassles, just to get here.
Sure, you can hop aboard a Mexican airline, say, by connecting in Mexico City, but many of us prefer nonstops and why wouldn’t we?
Alaska Airlines heard the message loud and clear this summer, announcing the only nonstop flight to La Paz (LAP), making trips easier than ever.
Beginning November 20, 2024, travelers can choose between 2-3 flights each week from Los Angeles (LAX). Tickets are on sale.
Thanksgiving in paradise, anyone?
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, 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 within the post.