Sea Kayak Baja | Kayaking Tour Sea of Cortez | ROW

Sea Kayak the Islands of Loreto Bay

To sea kayak Baja in the Sea of Cortez is a "must do" addition to any paddlers' bucket list. Kayakers will appreciate the area's stunning natural beauty and will undoubtedly love just how much there is to see and do.The setting at the Sea of Cortez is unlike anywhere else. High, rugged cliffs cast a dramatic contrast to the calm desert sand and perfect blue waters. It's a paradise that's difficult to even imagine. Not only do the islands look beautiful, they're teeming with beautiful animal species. Wildlife from all walks of life (especially massive whales) are the island locals, while delightful weather remains an almost constant companion throughout your kayak tour.Sea kayaking Baja in Loreto Bay National Marine Park is where you can make the most of the Sea of Cortez. Whether you choose to kayak, hike or snorkel to see it, it's a guaranteed good time at a place that has been honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sea of Cortez's conditions make it an ideal destination for winter vacations.If you are looking for our kayak & whale camp tour, go here: Baja Whale Watching Tour.We also have a kayaking tour based our of La Paz that explores Isla Espiritu Santo, go here: La Paz Kayaking Tour.

The Sea of Cortez's waters offer some of the best opportunities to spot dolphins, sea lions and whales in their natural environment. There is just something more thrilling about getting to see these animals in the wild as compared to an aquarium or zoo. Nowhere else can you kayak this close to manta rays and schools of neon/rainbow colored fish, and it isn't just below your boat where the creatures roam; flying overhead is an assortment of frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and sea pelicans to feast your eyes on.

We feature three, four, five, and six day itineraries for getting around these fabulous islands. Our Baja kayak tours are self- and motorboat-supported and take you through the beautiful Islas of Danzante and Carmen specifically. We always begin in Loreto and include arrival and departure days for your comfort.

If you've ever wondered exactly how a camping and kayaking tour goes down, it basically turns the humble kayak into a suitcase. There might be a motorboat included to cart gear, food and other supplies ahead of your tour group in addition to the panga, which hauls all of our belongings and coolers. You can view a slideshow here to see a sample trip in action.

Images & Videos

Two people in a green tandem kayak pushing off shore and into the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Cortez on a sunny day
Sea kayakers looking into the Sea of Cortez for wildlife from their kayaks alongside Carmen Island in Loreto Bay National Park
Sea kayakers looking over their shoulder and smiling in front of the islands of Loreto Bay
Bottlenose dolphins swimming in the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayakers paddling in the Sea of Cortez with the islands of Loreto Bay scattered behind them
Vertical view of honeymoon beach on Island Danzante in Loreto Bay
Sea kayakers paddling close to a whale swimming by in the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayaker paddling through a scenic cove atop turquoise waters with Carmen Island in the background
Flying manta rays jumping out of the Sea of Cortez
Birdseye view of a single kayaker paddling in Baja California Sur
Large cardon cacti with the islands of Loreto Bay behind it at sunrise
Beach camping set up in Baja California Sur
Two people in a green tandem kayak pushing off shore and into the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Cortez on a sunny day
Sea kayakers looking into the Sea of Cortez for wildlife from their kayaks alongside Carmen Island in Loreto Bay National Park
Sea kayakers looking over their shoulder and smiling in front of the islands of Loreto Bay
Bottlenose dolphins swimming in the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayakers paddling in the Sea of Cortez with the islands of Loreto Bay scattered behind them
Vertical view of honeymoon beach on Island Danzante in Loreto Bay
Sea kayakers paddling close to a whale swimming by in the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayaker paddling through a scenic cove atop turquoise waters with Carmen Island in the background
Flying manta rays jumping out of the Sea of Cortez
Birdseye view of a single kayaker paddling in Baja California Sur
Large cardon cacti with the islands of Loreto Bay behind it at sunrise
Beach camping set up in Baja California Sur

Itinerary

Collapse all days

Day 1

You'll need to have breakfast and be packed by the scheduled meeting time. You'll then board a van along with your fellow trip mates and drive to the launch site. After the boats are good to go, we'll instruct you on the basics of paddling and give you the 411 on all things safety. We won't embark until all trip participants feel safe and secure in their boat. We'll then kayak to our first campsite!

ACCOMMODATION : Seaside Camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch, Dinner

Day 2-5

Each day will start with a spectacular sunrise and finish with a splash of stars and moonlight. In between, we'll be busy kayaking to new locales, snorkeling up a storm, floating among the waves or just plain relaxing. Expect to paddle about three to four hours per day, broken up by a long lunch break. Each awesome day will be capped off with a spectacular spread and fitting margaritas.

ACCOMMODATION : Seaside Camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

After a good meal, we'll leave our current campsite and paddle to our take-out site. You'll be returned to the hotel around 3-4 PM, with plenty of time to clean up with real showers and change into fresh clothing before a farewell dinner with your fellow guests and guides.

ACCOMMODATION : Not included
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7

It's sad to say good-bye to lovely Loreto, but at least you have a host of wonderful memories to take with you! We can arrange to extend your holiday using our preferred rates if eight days just isn't enough. There are day tour and add-on options aplenty!

Please note: The 3-, 4- and 5-day Itineraries will follow the same schedule as the 6-day itinerary, but with one to two fewer days of kayaking and camping. The day 0 and last day remain arrival (fly in) and departure (fly out) days.

Please note: We will always do our best to make good on the schedule listed above. However, the included itinerary may be subject to adjustments due to reasons beyond our control (e.g., wind, waves, inclement weather).

Map

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (USD)Child (USD)
Mar 24, 2024 to Mar 28, 2024
5-Day High Season Lowest Tier Price
$1,580£0€0$0$0$1,480£0€0$0$0
Mar 30, 2024 to Apr 02, 2024
4-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,290£0€0$0$0$1,220£0€0$0$0
Mar 30, 2024 to Apr 04, 2024
6-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,680£0€0$0$0$1,570£0€0$0$0
Apr 06, 2024 to Apr 09, 2024
4-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,290£0€0$0$0$1,220£0€0$0$0
Apr 06, 2024 to Apr 11, 2024
6-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,680£0€0$0$0$1,570£0€0$0$0
Apr 13, 2024 to Apr 16, 2024
4-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,290£0€0$0$0$1,220£0€0$0$0
Apr 13, 2024 to Apr 18, 2024
6-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,680£0€0$0$0$1,570£0€0$0$0
Apr 20, 2024 to Apr 23, 2024
4-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,290£0€0$0$0$1,220£0€0$0$0
Apr 20, 2024 to Apr 25, 2024
6-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,680£0€0$0$0$1,570£0€0$0$0
Apr 27, 2024 to Apr 30, 2024
4-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,290£0€0$0$0$1,220£0€0$0$0
Apr 27, 2024 to May 02, 2024
6-Day Lowest Tier Price
$1,680£0€0$0$0$1,570£0€0$0$0

Supplementary Information

Departure Details

Seasonal Rates and Departure Details

  • 3, 4 & 6 Day Tours depart November - December & April
  • 5 Day Tours depart Mid January through March

3-Day Tours Rates: (Saturday departures) - November and December:

We can offer other 3 Day Kayak Tours throughout the Spring for Custom Groups

  • 2- 6 Guests - $1550
  • 7 - 13 Guests - Adults $1050/ Youth $970

4 Day Tour Rates (Saturday Departures)

  • 2 - 6 Guests - $1390
  • 7 - 13 Guests - $1320

5-Day Tours (Sunday departures- January-March)

Low Season - October 22, 2023 - January 7, 2024 Rates:

  • 2- 6 Guests - $1540
  • 7 - 13 Guests - Adults $1390 / Youth $1280

High Season - January 19 - March 31, 2023 Rates:

  • 4- 6 Guests - $1780
  • 7 - 13 Guests - Adults $1590 / Youth $1500

6 Day Tours Rates (Saturday departures) 

  • 2 - 6 Guests - $1860
  • 7 - 13 Guests - Adults $1680 / Youth $1570

Single Supplement:

  • Single kayaks are available to reserve and use throughout the trip for an additional cost of $100. Please note, you must have previous ocean paddling experience to reserve a single kayak.
  • Solo travelers will be provided with their own tent during all of our kayaking tours, at no additional cost. Please note, a limited number of single tents are available per departure.

INCLUDEDS:

  • Full services of our Adventure Consultants
  • Professional naturalist and bi-lingual guides
  • All meals and beverages as indicated on the itinerary
  • All transportation while on tour
  • All kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment
  • All applicable taxes
  • Panga Supported Kayaking Tour. *NOTE: We require 4 paid spaces to confirm a trip. If a trip has only 2-3 participants we offer the option to run it as a "self-supported" trip meaning there is no panga (motorboat) to carry gear. In this case the guide and guests carry their personal gear as well as a portion of the community camping equipment, food and water. Our adventure consultants will discuss this option with you should it arise.

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Airfare
  • Transportation to and from the airport
  • Hotel before and after the tour (and between activities when dictated by the itinerary)
  • $25 National Parks & Biosphere Reserves access fees required by itinerary
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature

Single Supplement: Solo travelers will always have their own tent during kayaking tours, at no additional cost. (limited amount of single tents available at no charge, per departure)

ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.

 

Reviews

5
Average: 5 (1 vote)

Reviews

Google Review
5

Absolutely EPIC

The Loreto islands tour trip was absolutely EPIC. This was my second time doing it (did it 10 years ago) and had to go back. This time I brought 6 girlfriends and they all had an absolute blast. The islands are magical. The sea life is abundant - we saw whales, dolphins, manta rays, turtles and so many fish. And the guides are amazing. Sherman was an amazing head guide. he was so knowledgeable and entertaining. Jennifer, Damian, Vicki, Tania and Rodolfo were also fantastic. the food was delicious, the guide team were there for everything, including snorkeling, baking cakes, sharing drinks with us and the whole group had a trip of a lifetime. I'll be back! Highly highly recommend.

Google Review
5

What a fun adventure!

What a fun adventure! We had such a blast with our guides. The food was amazing and the experience of kayaking & snorkeling around Isla Danzante was magical. Definitely recommend this trip and loved the town of Loreto, super safe and great restaurants.

Google Review
5

Absolutely life changing experience!

Absolutely life changing experience! The kayaking adventure in Loreto exceeded all expectations. The scenery was stunning, with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the national park. Sherman, Lorena, Damian, Rodolfo, and Aaron were expert guides. made the trip both educational and fun! The equipment provided was top-notch, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey. And the food provided was out of this world! We encountered fascinating marine life along the way, adding to the magic of the experience. I highly recommend this adventure to anyone looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience in Baja. Five stars all the way!

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FAQ & More

How do I get to Loreto?

Please check out our Transportation Guide for our recommendations on how to get to Loreto.

Are your tour prices in USD?

Yes, all of our tour pricing is in US Dollars.

What’s included in this kayak package? What’s not included?

Included: Skilled professional guide services, ground transportation, motorboat-support to carry gear, snorkeling equipment, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.

Not Included: Airfare, transportation to and from airport, hotel nights before and after kayaking, gratuities, $25 National Parks & Biosphere Reserves access fees required by itinerary, and items of a personal nature.

What kind of kayaks do you use?

For all of our Baja tours we use high quality, fiberglass kayaks, made by Seward. The majority of our fleet is comprised of tandems, as these boats offer the greatest stability, speed, and ease of paddling. There are typically a small number of single kayaks present on the tour, which will be utilized by the guides. Depending on weather conditions, and interest, they may allow guests to rotate into singles; however this will be at the guide's' discretion based on safety and the paddling objectives for the day. We also have a limited number of solo kayaks available to reserve and use throughout the trip (for an additional cost) for paddlers who have ocean kayaking experience.

Are your kayak trips motorboat supported?

Yes, if at any time a guest does not want to paddle they are welcome to ride in the panga instead.

Can I paddle a single kayak?

We have single kayaks available to reserve and use throughout the trip (for an additional cost of $100) for paddlers who have previous ocean paddling experience. If you would like to reserve a single kayak for your trip you will need to contact our Adventure Consultants to add this to your reservation and provide a summary of your ocean paddling experience.

What if I don’t have sea kayaking experience?

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

What are the physical requirements for this trip?

When stopping at shore, you should be able to climb in and out of the kayaks on your own. They will be floating in calf-deep water. Your guides are happy to assist, but balance and limberness are required. When you get to your evening campsite, all group members must to be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line, in teams of 6-8, before the group disperses. You will change camp sites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Camp sites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour.

What’s camp like? Are there toilets and showers at camp?

When you get to your evening campsite all group members must be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line. You will change campsites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Campsites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour. We endeavor to secure the very best campsites for the natural beauty and amenities of the area. Your guides will give a demonstration of how to set up and take down your provided dome tent. We also will provide you with a sleeping bag, liner sheet, pillow and an inflatable thermarest sleeping pad. There will be a kitchen/dining area and shade tarps where you can sit back and relax.

While kayaking, we can only carry enough fresh water for drinking and cooking. There are no fresh water sources on most of the coastline and islands we visit. You can clean up with saltwater and soap off above the high tide line, or bring disposable shower wipes. A porta potty will fit into a hatch of the kayak or on the panga support boat, and will be transported to each campsite and set into a sheltered area for solid waste. Liquid waste can be expelled below the high tide line, or in a separate porta-potty bucket.

Is it safe to be around whales in sea kayaks?

As with all adventure travel, there is certainly an inherent risk that comes along with this sort of travel, as well as multiple external factors and variables that are outside of our control.  However, we do take every measure to ensure that you and your family are in a safe situation while paddling. We paddle large, expedition style Sea Kayaks. Their size, girth, and weight make them very stable to paddle. We have never experienced a situation in which a whale has harmed a kayaker in the water. The whales are very aware of their surrounding, and we maintain a safe distance at all times.

What happens if it’s too windy to paddle?

If it’s too windy to paddle your guides will have alternative activities for guests to enjoy. There are opportunities to snorkel, hike or just relax on the beach with a margarita. We plan our itineraries to minimize risks posed by weather, but there is always an element of unpredictability in nature. The risk capsizing is reduced by our stable boats, but exists. All of our kayak guides are certified in kayak rescue.

What are the highlights of this tour?

The Islands of Loreto Bay are high traffic areas only to whales, dolphins, and other marine life! Boats are few and far between, and even other kayakers are seldom encountered. A few coves are popular lunch sites for passing boats or local fisherman, but otherwise you may feel as if you're alone in the wilderness. The Loreto Bay National Park Service assigns campsites on these islands, and only allows one group per site. Barring mix-ups or weather emergencies, your tour will have the beach to yourself.

When is the best time to go to see whales in the Sea of Cortez?

The islands of Loreto National Marine Park, located in the Sea of Cortez, are home for 6 different species of whales including Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Bryde's and Pilot whales. From January through April look for spectacular sightings of Blue, Fin and Humpback whales in the warm, calm waters near Loreto on our Sea of Cortez Islands tours. Magdalena Bay and San Ignacio Lagoon, on the opposite side of the peninsula, are both world-renowned winter nursery grounds of the Gray whales. From late-January to mid-March is the best time to see gray whales. We operate both Gray Whale Base Camps and Kayak/Whale Watching Combos during this short season.

Can I fish?

In general, fishing in allowed in Loreto/La Paz. You would need to obtain a fishing license either before arriving or upon arrival. Our guides will not allow fishing if you are unable to produce a valid license. You will also need to bring all of your own fishing equipment. Along our kayaking routes there are areas where fishing is allowed, the guides will let you know where fishing is prohibited. Also, fishing is only allowed at the guide's discretion, as we have an itinerary, schedule and other group members that we have to take into consideration.

When is the best time to go?

Spring and fall are the most ideal times for enjoying the Sea of Cortez. The strong northerly winds blow longest and strongest from late November through early March so spring and fall trips are characterized by calmer, warmer days. Fall trips (October & November) offer warm and clear waters for great snorkeling and little chance of strong winds. An added attraction is the opportunity to observe the Baja desert in bloom following the rainy season in August and September. Winter trips (December, January & February) tend to be cooler with more chance of wind. Spring trips (March, April & May) offer warmer waters with warm calm days being common. As an added bonus on spring trips many cetaceans migrate into the Sea of Cortez at this time and sightings may include blue, fin, and humpback whales.

What’s the difference between Loreto & La Paz?

If you are having trouble deciding between the two destinations we suggest reading our article on the differences between kayaking in Loreto and La Paz, Baja.

What gear do I need?

Sea Kayak Adventures will provide you with a detailed packing list prior to your trip. We provide all of the necessary camping, paddling and snorkeling equipment, which you will need to fully enjoy your adventure. If you are interested in more specific information, check out our general Baja packing list here! If you have any questions, or need help deciding what to bring, you can call or e-mail one of our friendly Adventure Consultants at any time for some extra advice!

What kind of food will I eat? Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Our renowned wilderness meals are prepared daily by our guides using local, fresh, healthy ingredients. In Baja you can expect an authentic dining experience, with savory dishes like chiles rellenos, tostadas, ceviche, and chicken mole. We even serve delicious desserts like brownies and pineapple upside-down cake! Each morning, we serve up freshly brewed coffee or tea. Throughout the day we provide an abundance of local fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. Wine and mixed drinks are served with hors d’oeuvres each evening for happy hour.

We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests, working within the parameters of the destinations in which we operate. If you have a very strict diet, we recommend packing extra snacks that you know you can eat.

How many guests per tour?

To keep our group size small and our impact minimal, we typically limit our tours to 14 people or less. Our standard minimum to confirm a departure is 4 guests for our Islands of Loreto Bay kayak tour.

What’s the weather like in Baja?

Please check out this great website Weather Underground for temperature averages in Baja.

Will I have cell phone reception?

Contact your service provider for the best options for taking your cell phone to a different country. You are unlikely to receive cell service while paddling, but WiFi is available in many coffee shops in town. Your guides will be equipped with radios during the tour in case of emergency.

Is there any extensions I can add to the beginning or end of my trip?

If you will be extending your stay in lovely Loreto before or after your tour, we are happy to arrange a Tour Extension option to help you explore Baja. Please inquire with the office if you would like to add on a tour extension to your reservation.

Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

We do try to ensure Solo travelers have their own tent during kayaking tours, at no additional cost.

Where can I store my luggage while I’m on your tour?

You can leave your luggage at your hotel while you are on tour. Please ensure this option at time of booking and when checking in after arrival. We recommend getting a luggage lock if you are leaving any electronics in the bags. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Is there a deposit required? Is my deposit refundable?

A deposit of $500 per person is required within 10 days of your reservation to hold your spaces. If the tour you are signing up for is a confirmed departure your deposit is non-refundable. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance to protect your vacation investment. US residents may purchase travel insurance directly through ROW Sea Kayak Adventures offered by Travel Insured International.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you find it necessary to cancel your trip, you should notify ROW Sea Kayak Adventures in writing, by e-mail or fax immediately. If written cancellation is received (call to verify) before the final balance is due, you will be given a refund less the amount of deposit. Deposits are not refundable. If cancellations are made on or after the final due date, no money will be refunded. If you are unable to go on the trip, you are welcome to find a replacement for yourself. Please understand that once you've signed up, we are unable to sell your reserved space to other individuals or groups. Therefore, we regret that we cannot make exceptions for personal emergencies. For this reason we strongly recommend you consider purchasing a Travel Protection Plan to protect your vacation investment.

When is payment in full due?

Full payment is due 60 days prior to the launch date, as indicated on your invoice. Due to the high demand for these trips, please be sure to pay your balance on time so as to not jeopardize your reservation. Your final payment must be paid by check or bank draft in US funds.  Alternatively, you may pay your final balance with a credit card, but a 3% administrative fee will be added.

Custom or Private

You love this itinerary but want to change it a bit to make it perfect for you?  Or, are you wanting to simply make it private?  Either way, we can do it!

Fill out this quick form to begin a custom or private adventure of a lifetime:

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