Hostal Minato

On the Baja Peninsula, La Paz is Mexico’s undiscovered seaside city. It offers a slice of laid-back Mexican culture with its pretty plazas lined with colonial architecture, a thriving local art scene and colourful markets. Thanks to its position on the warm, shallow waters of the Sea of Cortez, the city is a launching pad to some incredible snorkelling and kayaking adventures alongside sea lions and whale sharks. 

La Paz hostels put you within short walking distance to the city’s coast. Get to know other travellers in hostels with cool beach hut-style communal areas, or enjoy some quiet time in places with private rooms and shady balconies. You can expect a free breakfast in most of the hostels in La Paz, and free Wi-Fi in all of them. Several also have on-site cafés. Prefer to cook? Pick a La Paz hostel with a shared kitchen. Helping you get around the city, some places offer bike hire and free city maps. 

Just behind the seafront, you’ll find La Paz’s downtown area. A good starting point is Jardín Velasco, also called the Plaza Constitución, which is where the city’s old town can be found. Wander past colonial buildings like the cathedral and the city hall (Antiguo Palacio Municipal). A 10-minute walk from the old town brings you to the city’s seafront. Along the Malecón (5.5km promenade), you’ll find restaurants, bars and a few clubs. 

While in town, book a walking tour to learn a little more about the city. You’ll get to see some of the city’s colourful street art of the Ciudad Mural project, meet true paceños (a La Paz native) and try local delicacies like fish tacos. If you can’t get enough of the tacos, head to Mercado Francisco I for its market food. A 30-minute drive from town is Balandra Beach. With its natural charm and striking turquoise waters, some consider this to be Mexico’s best beach. Rent a kayak here, or hike to next beach along (San Rafaelito), to swim with the sea lions. 

La Paz International Airport is 13km southwest of La Paz and has both national and international flights. The ferry terminal is 23km north of the city and connects up with Mazatlán and Topolobampo, while the bus terminal is on the Malecón and connects to various cities across Mexico. Taxis operate in La Paz and can take you around town or pick you up from the airport.