Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Fiji
National park · La Paz, Baixa Califórnia do Sul
Isla Espíritu Santo
Uninhabited island of reddish rocks off La Paz, a national park and World Heritage site, with deserted beaches and the sea lion colony at Los Islotes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Isla Espíritu Santo
Espíritu Santo Island lies about 25 km north of La Paz, in the Gulf of California. It is uninhabited, with hills of reddish volcanic rock and coves of white sand and turquoise water. It is part of a national park and the Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005.
At the northern end, the rocks of Los Islotes shelter a colony of sea lions, and tours allow swimming with them using masks and snorkel in guided groups. The pups are often curious and approach swimmers.
Tours stop at beaches like Ensenada Grande and La Bonanza, and some operators offer camping on the island with kayaking. Dolphins, seabirds and sometimes whales appear along the way.
Access is only with authorized operators who pay the park fee, and there are rules for the sea lions: do not touch or feed them, and keep a distance from the colony on land.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day trip.
Best time
From October to May, when the sea is calmer. The sea lions remain at the colony year-round; some summer breeding periods have approach restrictions.
How to get there
By boat with authorized operators departing from La Paz and from Pichilingue beach, about an hour’s navigation.
Tip
Bring a wetsuit if you plan to swim in winter: the water gets cold.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Isla Espíritu Santo
Can you swim with sea lions on Espíritu Santo island?
Yes, at Los Islotes, with authorized operators and protection rules.
Is Espíritu Santo island a UNESCO heritage site?
Yes, it is part of the islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California since 2005.
Can you camp on Espíritu Santo island?
Yes, with authorized operators who organize camping.