Paddle with Dolphins: SUP Mogote in La Paz Bay
Starting at $70USD | Ages 2+ | 3 Hours | Perfect for Photo Opportunities!
You push off from a sun-warmed beach and the water answers with a cool, steady hush. The first strokes are awkward — feet finding balance, core adjusting to an anchored breathing — then the bay opens, a wide bowl of blue-capped by Sierra de la Giganta to the east and a thin ribbon of sand called El Mogote to the west. A small group of bottlenose dolphins appears like punctuation: sleek bodies breaking the glass, a family inquisitive enough to come within camera range. For three non‑rushed hours you are not just on the water; you are moving through the living edge of La Paz Bay.
Trail Wisdom
Go Early
Morning departures offer calmer water and softer light for photos and wildlife viewing.
Use Reef‑Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by choosing reef‑safe sunscreen.
Secure Small Electronics
Store phones and cameras in a dry bag or a board‑mounted case to prevent saltwater damage.
Mind Local Rules
Keep distance from dolphins and nesting birds — guides will set appropriate viewing distances.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet mangrove fingers where shorebirds concentrate
- •The low‑tide sand flats of El Mogote for postcard‑perfect photos
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Guides follow low‑impact practices like staying out of mangrove root zones and asking paddlers not to disturb wildlife; using reef‑safe sunscreen is recommended to protect sensitive waters.
La Paz has long been a maritime hub for Baja California Sur; El Mogote’s sandbar formed over centuries of sediment transport and has shaped local fishing and landing spots.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calmer seas, Migratory birdwatching
Challenges: Occasional spring winds, Warmer midday sun
Spring brings mild water temperatures and excellent bird activity; mornings are best to avoid rising winds.
summer
Best for: Warmest water for swimming, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Hot midday sun, Occasional afternoon winds
Summer is ideal for swimming off your board but arrive early to beat heat and typical afternoon breezes.
fall
Best for: Stable conditions, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Shorter days later in season, Possible tropical swells
Fall often delivers steady paddling conditions and lower visitor numbers; monitor tropical activity during peak storm months.
winter
Best for: Cooler, crisp mornings, Clear visibility for photos
Challenges: Cooler air and water, Rare choppier seas from northerly winds
Winter mornings are crisp and clear; dress in light layers and expect cooler water temperatures.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
LeashEssential
Keeps you attached to your board when you fall — basic safety for any SUP outing.
Dry BagEssential
Protects phone, camera, and personal items from spray and accidental submersion.
Reef‑Safe SunscreenEssential
Prevents sunburn while minimizing harm to marine life.
Water Shoes
Helpful for rocky or sandy entry points and when exploring shallow shorelines.
Common Questions
How long is the SUP Mogote tour?
The tour is approximately three hours, including a short safety briefing, paddling time, a photo stop at El Mogote, and return.
Is prior paddleboarding experience required?
No — guides provide brief instruction and the tour is suitable for beginners, though basic balance helps.
What age range can participate?
Adults and children are welcome; pricing allows children as young as two to join with guide support.
Will we see dolphins?
Dolphins are commonly seen in La Paz Bay, but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed; guides know the best areas for regular encounters.
What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?
Operators will notify you in advance and offer rebooking or refund options according to their cancellation policy.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes — personal flotation devices are provided and required by guides during the trip.
What to Pack
Reusable water bottle for hydration, reef‑safe sunscreen to protect skin and marine life, a dry bag for electronics, and a wide‑brim hat for sun protection
Did You Know
The El Mogote sand barrier protects La Paz Bay from larger Pacific swells and supports diverse mangrove habitats that are crucial nursery grounds for fish—an ecological role recognized by local conservation groups.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures, bring small bills for tips, confirm the 3‑person minimum before arrival, expect limited cell service on the sandbar
Local Flavor
After your paddle, walk La Paz’s Malecón for fresh ceviche or grilled fish tacos and a cold craft beer at a seaside palapa; the town’s relaxed seafood shacks and corredores offer an authentic Baja meal.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: La Paz (LAP). Driving from town to launch: 10–25 minutes depending on meeting point. Cell service: OK in town, intermittent near El Mogote. Permits: None required for typical tours; operator handles local regulations.
Sustainability Note
This tour emphasizes low‑impact paddling—avoid trampling vegetation, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and pack out all trash to protect important mangrove and sandbar habitats.
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