La Paz, Baja
The Sea of Cortez in Full Color
The run from Loreto toward La Paz is one of those drives where the Land Cruiser becomes a moving observation deck. Mountains, desert and coastline trade places through the windshield until the peninsula's capital finally appears. Make Playa Balandra one of the day's priorities, famous for its shallow turquoise water and distinctive mushroom-shaped rock, then spend additional time on or around the Sea of Cortez. Isla Espíritu Santo is another centerpiece of the area and opens the door to snorkeling, marine wildlife and some of Baja's most spectacular protected waters.
Finish back on the Malecón as the temperature drops and the city begins to glow. La Paz is where we indulge again: seafood, a great room, a long shower and maybe a drink overlooking the water. It's also an important expedition checkpoint. Inspect the FJ80, check fluids and tires, reorganize gear and resupply. Soon we'll be asking the truck to continue south—and later board the ferry across the Sea of Cortez for mainland Mexico. Adventure works better when preparation happens before you need it.
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