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Natural area · San José del Cabo, Baixa Califórnia do Sul
Estero de San José
The estuary of the San José River, fresh water next to the sea, with palm trees, reeds, and birds, between the town center and the beach.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Estero de San José
The Estero de San José is the mouth of the San José River, which reaches the sea nearly dry on the surface and forms, behind a sandbar, a freshwater lagoon surrounded by palm trees and reeds. It is the largest freshwater area in Baja California Sur and a state ecological reserve.
The estuary hosts migratory and resident birds such as herons, pelicans, ducks and kingfishers, and is popular for birdwatching. A flat trail follows the shoreline from the hotel zone, and there are kayak launch points at certain times.
It was around this freshwater that the Jesuits founded the mission in 1730, and the area still separates the old town from the hotel strip by the sea. On the sandbar between the estuary and the sea, when the river runs stronger after rains, the lagoon opens to the Gulf.
It is a short, peaceful outing that shows another side of Los Cabos, green amid the desert.
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
One to two hours.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the birds are more active and the heat is lower.
How to get there
Between downtown San José del Cabo and the hotel zone, with pedestrian access via the beach or along Bulevar Mijares.
Tip
Bring binoculars if you like birds: the area is one of the region's most popular birdwatching sites.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Estero de San José
What is the Estero de San José?
It is the estuary of the San José River, a freshwater lagoon by the sea, protected as an ecological reserve, with birds and palm trees.
Can you walk at the Estero de San José?
Yes, there is a flat trail along the shore from the hotel zone, and kayaks are available for rent at certain times.
What birds are seen in the Estero de San José?
Herons, pelicans, ducks and kingfishers, among others, especially in winter with the migratory species.