Family adventures don’t get much better than the Baja Peninsula. With its dramatic coastline, world-class marine life, and friendly locals, it’s a destination that turns a simple holiday into lasting memories. The year-round sunshine and family-friendly attractions make it especially ideal for single parent holidays. Whether you’re relaxing on white sand beaches, exploring the Sea of Cortez, or tasting authentic Baja cuisine, there’s something here for everyone: parents, toddlers, and teens.
How to Get to Baja California
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is divided into two states, Baja California Sur and Baja California Norte. The South has better infrastructure and many luxury resorts popular with tourists from Canada and the US.
1. Booking Flights to Baja:
With better connections and more flights available, your best bet is to fly to one of the major airports in the south, such as San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD). The airport is only 37 km away from the popular resort of Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of Baja. Booking your flights early is advisable to avoid high prices in peak season. The best time to visit is between late autumn and early spring. If you are travelling from the UK, October half term and Easter avoid the crowds and might save you some money, too.
2. Airport Transfers:
Before you can dive into the fun, you need to figure out how to get from the airport to your destination comfortably and safely. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is the main entry point to southern Baja and well connected to all major regions from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas. If you’re travelling solo with kids, ease of transport is key to minimising stress. These three transportation services offer convenience, safety, and family-ready vehicles.
-
Taxi Transfers:
Pre-booking a taxi is always the most stress-free option for anyone travelling solo with kids. SJD Taxi offers both shared and private transfers, with pricing clearly displayed on their website. A private SUV ride for a family of four from the airport to Cabo San Lucas costs around $85. Their drivers speak English, vehicles come with air conditioning, and cold beverages are included in the private service—ideal after a long flight. Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance; a top choice for families.
-
Airport Shuttle to Cabo San Lucas:
Cabo Transfers specialises in luxury and mid-range airport shuttles to and from Cabo San Lucas. Their private suburban SUVs are spacious and comfortable, accommodating up to six passengers. Prices start at $110 to Cabo San Lucas or $60 to San José del Cabo. They also provide infant and child car seats at no additional charge upon request. What sets them apart is their meet-and-greet service—your driver will be waiting with a sign at the arrivals gate, which saves time and confusion.
-
Airport Shuttle to La Paz and Todos Santos:
For budget-conscious families heading to La Paz or Todos Santos, EcoBaja Tours is a shared shuttle service that operates high-quality vans with Wi-Fi and reclining seats. The cost is approximately $40 per adult and $30 per child for a trip to La Paz. The ride takes about three hours and includes scheduled stops at major hotels. It’s not as private, but it’s economical and reliable, making it great for longer intercity connections on a budget.
Things to Do in Baja California
There is so much to do in Baja California with kids, from unique activities such as whale watching, to snorkelling and exploring stunning beaches and charming small towns like Tecate. Here are some of the most popular things to do with kids whilst in Baja:
1. Playa Balandra: Baja’s Most Family-Friendly Beach
Often referred to as the most beautiful beach in Mexico, Playa Balandra near La Paz is perfect for children. The sea is calm, shallow, and warm—ideal for paddling and floating without the anxiety of waves or currents. Unlike tourist-heavy beaches in Cabo, Balandra is part of a protected area, meaning it’s clean, quiet, and unspoiled.
There are no restaurants or vendors on-site, so pack snacks, water, and sun protection. Entry is free, but access is limited to a few hundred people at a time, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or after 3 PM when the first wave of visitors leaves. Free parking is available near the entrance.
2. Whale Watching in Magdalena Bay
From January to March, Magdalena Bay becomes one of the best whale-watching locations in the world. Grey whales migrate here to give birth, and local tour operators offer guided trips that bring you up close to these gentle giants. Some tours report whales swimming so close that kids can touch them, whilst guides ensure that it is safe and respectful.
A typical four-hour trip costs $50–$75 per person, with discounts for children. Departures are usually from Puerto San Carlos, so you’ll need a rental car or driver to reach the area from La Paz or Loreto.
3. The Desert Zoo in Santiago
A lesser-known gem, the Desertica Zoológico in Santiago Baja California Sur is a rescue and conservation centre housing reptiles, exotic birds, and mammals native to the peninsula. It’s located just an hour’s drive north of San José del Cabo, and kids love getting a close up look of the iguanas, foxes, and camels. The park offers shaded walkways, picnic areas, and educational signage in English and Spanish. Entry costs approximately $10 for adults and $6 for children under 12. They also allow visitors to feed some of the animals under staff supervision.
4. A Guided Eco-Tour of Espiritu Santo Island
Families who love marine adventures should book a day trip to Espiritu Santo Island, a UNESCO-protected biosphere near La Paz. The island is accessible only by boat, and eco-tour operators offer full-day excursions with snorkelling, wildlife watching, and lunch on a secluded beach.
Highlights include swimming with sea lions, spotting dolphins, and snorkelling at coral reefs. Tours cost around $120–$140 per adult and include all equipment, lunch, and bilingual guides. Children have to be 7+ and generally love the experience.
5. Surfing Lessons and Artsy Vibes in Todos Santos
If you want a small-town cultural experience, Todos Santos offers surf schools, art galleries, and relaxed family dining. Located about 90 minutes from Cabo San Lucas, this designated Pueblo Mágico has a peaceful feel with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a wide, surf-ready coastline.
Local surf schools like Mario Surf School and Costa Azul offer child-friendly lessons starting at $60 per hour. Most instructors provide boards, rash guards, and basic safety instructions for beginners. After surfing, visit a local taquería or grab homemade paletas (ice pops) from an open-air stand.
How to Have a Safe and Smooth Single Parent Holiday
Keep your stress levels down by following these simple Baja California travel tips:
- Pack smart: Sun screen, UV hats, refillable water bottles, and light cotton clothes are vital. Bug spray is a plus near mangroves and for dusk outings.
- Keep the kids safe and healthy: Teach your kids travel hygiene, such as washing or disinfecting their hands often, especially before meals, sticking to bottled water and canned beverages, avoiding ice cubes and buffets where food has been left out for hours.
- Rent the right car: If you plan to travel between towns, rent an SUV with air conditioning. Request a child seat if needed.
- Get cash out: While many places take cards, smaller towns and vendors may only accept pesos.
- Learn some Spanish: Learning basic Spanish phrases, such as “¿Dónde está el baño?” can go a long way.
- Use WhatsApp: Many hotels, drivers, and tour companies prefer to communicate via WhatsApp.
In Summary
Exploring Mexico’s Baja Peninsula with your children isn’t just a single parent vacation—it’s a chance to bond in one of the most breathtaking places on earth. From the playful sea lions at Espiritu Santo to the calm waters of Playa Balandra, Baja California delivers experiences that enrich, educate, and entertain. With the right planning, a well-planned journey, and a little spirit of adventure, single parent holidays in Baja will be something your kids talk about for years to come.
