Quiet & Low-Crowd Beaches in Baja California Sur
Tranquil sands, unspoiled nature, and peaceful ocean horizons away from high-density resort strips in Baja California Sur.
Overview & What to Expect
When you want to trade jet ski noise and crowded sun loungers for undisturbed waves and open skies, Baja California Sur has 11 secluded beaches with documented low crowd levels.
Map View: Quiet & Secluded in Baja California Sur
Explore verified locations and spatial distribution along the coast.
Featured Quiet & Low-Crowd Beaches (11)
Ranked by verified Google Places review popularity and attribute suitability.
Photo: Maria de los Angeles… · CC BY-SA 3.0El Saltito
El Saltito is a captivating destination located south of La Paz, Baja California, Mexico, renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty and cinematic history. Despite being a popular filming location for Western movies like *Big Jake*, *The Sons of Katie Elder*, and *Major Dundee*, it offers visitors a remarkable experience even outside of the rainy season when waterfalls are typically at their fullest. ## Location and Accessibility The site is situated near a dormant volcano, providing stunning views of volcanic rock formations. Access is relatively easy, with the falls being only 200 meters from the road entrance, making it accessible for visitors of all physical abilities. The journey to El Saltito involves traveling along a road that winds through varied altitudes, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. ## What to Expect * **Natural Beauty:** El Saltito is described as a picturesque oasis in the desert, characterized by its volcanic rock formations and unique geological features. * **Movie History:** It’s a significant filming location for classic Westerns, attracting visitors interested in movie history and the landscapes featured in these films. * **Dry Season Charm:** Even during the dry season, the area retains its appeal with its dramatic scenery and the opportunity to explore the volcanic landscape. ## Services and Amenities * **Admission Fee:** A modest admission charge of 15 pesos is typically required to access the area. * **Limited Food Options:** Food and drink options within the area are limited. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks. ## Visitor Experiences & Considerations * **Dry Season Waterfalls:** During the dry season, the waterfalls are typically dry. However, the area remains beautiful and offers opportunities for exploration. * **Heat:** The area can be extremely hot during the day, so it’s essential to bring water and appropriate clothing. * **Potential Entry Fees:** Visitors should be aware of potential extra fees or unregulated practices at entry points. * **Safety:** Navigating the area can be challenging, particularly when returning to the road, as traffic can pose a hazard. ## Contact Information * **Phone:** +52 618 157 9966 * **Address:** 34854 Dgo., Mexico ## Summary El Saltito is a worthwhile day trip destination offering a unique combination of natural beauty, cinematic history, and accessible exploration. While the waterfalls may be absent during the dry season, the volcanic landscape, stunning views, and connection to classic Western films make it a memorable experience for visitors. Be prepared for the heat and potential entry fees, and prioritize safety when navigating the area.
Playa Muertitos
Playa Muertitos is a remote and tranquil beach nestled in Baja California Sur, near La Paz, offering a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. It’s renowned for its unique pink or peach-colored sand and clear, calm turquoise waters, making it ideal for relaxation, snorkeling, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets. The beach offers opportunities for beachcombing, discovering unique shells and marine treasures. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing and relaxation in a serene environment. At night, Playa Muertitos is a popular destination for campers, thanks to its spectacular, dark night skies. However, it’s important to note that there are limited facilities directly at the beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies. Access requires a drive on a dirt road (approximately 10 km) from the highway, or a longer bicycle ride from La Paz.
Playa Agua Caliente
Playa Agua Caliente offers a unique and tranquil beach experience, renowned for its naturally heated sand and seawater. The beach is located approximately 32 miles east of La Paz, near El Sargento, and is a popular destination for those seeking a distinctive coastal adventure. Visitors can create their own personalized, warm bathing pools by digging into the heated sand, which is a result of geothermal activity originating from tectonic plate movement and deep magma beneath the peninsula. To find the hottest areas, it’s recommended to visit during the time between high and low tide. The beach offers limited amenities, with a camping area available, and water shoes are strongly recommended due to the hot sand and stones. Activities include sunbathing, snorkeling (excellent opportunities approximately 1,000 ft south of the beach), and exploring the various hot spots. It’s a place where you can connect with nature and enjoy a truly unique bathing experience. The area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty, and is a great spot for a relaxing day trip. Be sure to stop at the KM-0 Italian Coffee Food & Bakery in El Sargento on your way back to La Paz. Parking is available near the beach. The beach’s natural pools are constantly shifting with the tides and geological processes, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
San Pedrito Beach
San Pedrito Beach is a secluded and inviting beach located near Todos Santos in Baja California Sur, Mexico. It offers a unique escape from typical tourist destinations, evoking a sense of tranquility and isolation. The beach is situated approximately 4 miles south of Todos Santos, accessible via Mexico Highway #19. Specifically, it’s found at Km. 57, where a dirt road branches off to the right. A mile-long drive leads to a parking area at the edge of a palm grove, from which a ¼ mile foot trail extends to the beach. The beach sits alongside a freshwater lagoon. Originally developed in the 1920s by a Mexican general for his guests, the area boasted an airport runway and a large villa. The facilities included a café and restrooms, the foundations of which are still visible today. The airstrip fell into disuse decades ago. Currently, camping is potentially available until development begins on the RV Park. Free parking is available to the right of the entrance sign, or at the trailer park beach to the left. The location within a palm grove and alongside a lagoon creates a truly tropical and secluded atmosphere, reminiscent of destinations like Robinson Crusoe or the Blue Lagoon. Whale spouts are known to occur near the shore during the season. The Golden Gate Bank is only 3 miles offshore, making the beach easily accessible by small boats – a significant advantage compared to the 30-mile boat ride from Cabo San Lucas. Nearby, the fishing village of El Pescadero offers local charm and dining options.
Playa Hotelera
Playa Hotelera, a mile-long beachfront expanse in San José del Cabo, Mexico, offers a scenic and recreational experience. Situated adjacent to the Presidente InterContinental Los Cabos Resort and extending to the Las Mananitas condo resort, it's primarily known for its natural beauty and activities, rather than direct hotel accommodations. The area features a freshwater estuary teeming with diverse wildlife and a sand berm separating it from the sea, providing a pleasant walking path to La Playa. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, surf fishing, and beach volleyball, with horse rentals and water sports readily available nearby. Important to note, swimming is generally not recommended due to a steep drop-off and high surf. The beach also plays a vital role in sea turtle conservation, with a dedicated area for egg releases. Close proximity to Mega Plaza, Plaza Garuffi & Caracol, and a variety of resorts ensures easy access to amenities and dining options. Historically, the area served as a crucial freshwater source for centuries, reflecting a rich and layered past.
Playa Acapulquito
Playa Acapulquito is a renowned surfer's paradise nestled along the Los Cabos coastline, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Located approximately halfway between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, this laid-back beach attracts both seasoned surfers and beginners with its consistent waves and soft golden sands. Visitors can rent surfboards and take lessons from local instructors, enjoying the clear waters and sandy shores for swimming and sunbathing. Several beachfront restaurants and bars provide Mexican cuisine and refreshing beverages, allowing for a relaxing day under the shade of palapas. The beach maintains an authentic, local vibe, cherished by residents and offering a genuine Baja experience, surrounded by scenic beauty and perfect temperatures. With its picturesque setting and stunning sunsets, Playa Acapulquito provides excellent opportunities for photography and nature appreciation, making it a delightful coastal escape in Los Cabos.
Playa Los Zacatitos
Playa Los Zacatitos is a beautiful, secluded beach located in La Palmilla, Baja California Sur, Mexico. It’s known for its pristine beauty and offers a tranquil escape. Access is via car with free parking, or a 20-30 minute hike to the top of Punta Gorda for panoramic views. The beach boasts white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and fishing. Nearby amenities include Coco Loco for coffee and Central Station Los Zacatitos for supplies and art. Zac’s Bar & Grill offers delicious food and drinks, though it operates on a cash-only basis. The beach is considered family-friendly and dogs are welcome. While lifeguard information is limited, it’s a popular spot for those seeking an affordable luxury beach vacation. Visitors should be aware of the seasonal closure from August to early October and the cultural acceptance of nudism.
Nine Palms
Nine Palms is a secluded and tranquil beach destination located on the East Cape of Los Cabos, Mexico. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere, catering to surfers, beach campers, and nature enthusiasts. The area is known for its relatively uncrowded beaches and a nostalgic, unspoiled feel. Reaching the beach requires a bit of adventure: a scenic drive north along Highway 1 from Cabo San Lucas or utilizing private transportation. Nine Palms Beach provides excellent surfing and bodyboarding opportunities, alongside sunbathing and relaxation. Beach camping is a popular option, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the coastal beauty. During the winter months, whale watching is possible. The Nine Palms Ranch, a private retreat, offers ownership options and exclusive access to a beach club and amenities. The 9 Palms (30A Rental) provides a luxurious vacation rental experience with a private pool and golf cart.
Malecón costero
Malecón Costero is a unique coastal promenade in Ilo, Peru, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This urban space, described as an "urban miracle," preserves a wild and primal landscape reminiscent of prehistoric oceans and ancient cultures. The area features remnants of a past sea and old rocks, connecting visitors to the region's geological history and pre-Hispanic traditions. Designed by architect Edgardo Ramírez Chirinos, the Malecón Costero stands in stark contrast to historical practices, prioritizing preservation over destructive development. Visitors can enjoy a quiet atmosphere, often with a lone ship visible during sunset, evoking a primal feeling. While Ilo’s economy is tied to fishing and mining, the Malecón Costero remains a vital part of the city’s identity and natural heritage. However, safety concerns, particularly regarding drug use, have been raised.
Playa San Cosme
Playa San Cosme is a beautiful coastal oasis nestled near Puerto Aguaje Verde and Loreto in Baja California Sur, Mexico. It’s renowned for its natural hot springs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The beach itself provides a tranquil space for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. Located near Puerto Aguaje Verde and Loreto, access is primarily by vehicle, offering a relatively accessible drive-to destination. The defining feature of Playa San Cosme is its natural hot springs, believed to have therapeutic properties, which offer a delightful contrast to the cooler ocean waters. While specific facilities are limited, the surrounding area likely offers nearby restaurants and accommodations, creating a complete getaway experience. Customer reviews consistently praise the peaceful and natural ambiance, highlighting the warm waters of the hot springs and the overall sense of relaxation, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a respite from crowded tourist destinations.
Beach Loreto Bay
0.2 km from Hotel Loreto Bay Golf Resort & Spa, this Baja California Sur beach is close to Playa Oasis (9.4 km) and the Malecón costero (10 km). Playa La Dársena sits 10.4 km away, with La Negrita Beach at 10.9 km and Playa La Negrita at 11 km.