LA PAZ | MEXICO

La Paz, Mexico is a hidden gym amongst the big name Mexcian resort cities. Situated at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula on the Sea of Cortez, it is surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters that rival those of the Caribbean. Just a short flight from California, La Paz makes a weekend trip to paradise easy. And without the costs associated with the more expensive Cabo San Lucas, Cozumel and Mazatlan, it is doable for so many. So, if you are looking for a refreshing weekend trip or even a week-long vacation, take a look at what La Paz has to offer.

COSTA BAJA | LA PAZ MEXICO

The Coast Baja Resort in La Paz is an amazing retreat to spend your days relaxing by the pool or lounging at the beach club. It also serves as a great hub to explore the adventures that await you in Baja California. From the moment that you arrive, you are treated like royalty. The open-air lobby perfectly frames the pool as you look out to the beautiful Sea of Cortez. After a welcome drink, you and your bags are delivered to your room that is the perfect touch of modern. Take your time to refresh yourself before exploring everything that the resort has to offer.

The pool that is located at the resort is the perfect shade of blue and offers a swim-up bar so you never have to leave the water. There are two restaurants on the property that offer amazing food with outdoor seating and you never have to wait for a table. If you make your way down to the beach, you will find a gradual sloping shoreline that feels like you could walk a mile out in and still be waist deep. The water in October is a perfect 80 degrees. It is almost impossible to leave but you will be glad you did when you see the beach club.

One of the biggest draws to Costa Baja and the beach club is the huge infinity pool that looks out over the ocean. Sitting in the pool and watching the sun set over Mexico is one of my favorite things to do. There is a giant thatched-roof bar that will serve up your favorite island drink while you lay out in one of the water leaves or lounge in one of the beach cabanas. You will never have to fight for whatever kind of spot you desire. When you arrive, you are given what looks like a key fob that allows you to call the staff for whatever you need.

For those that like a little more activity, there are two tennis courts, a full oceanfront gym, ping pong and foosball tables, volleyball court and even a trampoline for the kids. I don't know if it is possible, but once you have had your fill of the beach club, make your way back to the beach where you can find a stand to help you outfit you for more adventures. From snorkeling to kayaking or stand-up paddle board, your days can be full without leaving the resort.

THINGS TO DO IN LA PAZ MEXICO

The Costa Baja Resort is located adjacent to the Costa Baja Marina. The marina is full of restaurants to visit and home, even if temporarily, to some pretty amazing yachts. It is also a great place to start your adventures on the seas as there are many boat and yacht charters located here. Scuba diving is a popular activity in La Paz and something that keeps bringing us back. One of the unique things about La Paz is that it is home to whale sharks, almost year round. Snorkeling with these massive creatures is an amazing way to spend your time here.

Balandra Beach on the aptly named Balandra Bay is a beautiful spot to spend a day. There are hikes that you can explore and the water in the bay is chest deep at its deepest points. That means that you can walk across the bay to explore some of the more deserted beaches. You can also make your way to some pretty incredible overhangs and a rock formation that is iconic of this beach. One of the best hikes is to the top of the hill that is next to the main beach. From there, you can see the entire bay and get a bird's eye view. One of the other famous nearby beaches is El Tecolote, with various beachside restaurants and vendors.

The city of La Paz is just a short 20-minute drive from the Costa Baja Resort and is growing like crazy. There is the Malecon that offers plenty of entertainment, from restaurants and bars to street vendors and live entertainment. If you don't have a car, the resort offers a free shuttle to and from town. There are also a lot of hotels and resorts in the city of La Paz but the advantage of Costa Baja is that it is quiet and secluded, offering you plenty of peace and relaxation and the chance to go to town and get crazy when you want. I hope that you make it to La Paz and if you do, tell them Jason and Amanda said hi!