An adventure-filled activity; horseback riders silouetted on a Baja beach at sunset

Blog  |  Wednesday, April 19, 2023

8 Obscure Places to Visit During Your East Cape Vacay

Do you enjoy exploring new places on holiday? Shake up your usual East Cape, Baja vacation plans and uncover some real hidden gems.

Take the road less traveled! You’ll discover that luxurious Los Cabos is packed with unique, adventure-filled activities for your whole crew.

Make your next glamorous getaway one to remember. Experience these 8 obscure, local gems; located throughout the East Cape.

Obscure attractions to visit

1. Baja’s Awesome Beach Rides

Baja’s Awesome Beach Rides offers a menu of horseback riding activities for all ages. It’s located in Los Barriles, a landmark for fly fishing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.

Hop in the saddle and go riding along the beach or riverbed any time of day. Or enjoy a leisurely sunset ride beneath the color-streaked sky.
Midday riders can enjoy a beachside picnic, full of local flavor.

Are you celebrating a special occasion; such as a birthday, anniversary, or other memorable milestones? The crew can tailor a customized experience for everyone in your party.

New to riding? No matter your current skill level, you can take horseback riding lessons at your own pace. Enjoy the trusted care and supervision of patient, professional cowboys.

2. Whale shark swimming in Balandra Bay

A 15-minute drive past the picturesque harbor town of La Paz lies bedazzling Balandra Bay, which is composed of several beaches.

The beautiful bay is surrounded by massive rock formations, making it an ideal spot for swimming in warm, calm waters.

It’s known as the “Laguna de los Colores” for its swirls of breathtaking blue water. But swimming with whale sharks is far and above the most popular activity in the area.

Embrace the majesty of these magnificent creatures while soaking up the utterly gorgeous setting.

Whale sharks are most commonly found here during the months of October to April. During this time these “gentle giants,” who happen to be the largest fish on the planet, come close to shore to feed on plankton.

If swimming alongside a massive whale shark is outside of your comfort zone, you can also partake in an unforgettable feeding experience.

Obscure local towns to visit

3. San Felipe

San Felipe is regarded as one of the region’s best-kept secrets, thanks to a wide variety of things to see and do. This charming coastal town is situated on the northeastern side of the Baja peninsula. It’s dotted with thatched, palapa-roofed restaurants, vibrantly-colored shops to browse, and beautiful beaches to admire.

Walk along the waterfront promenade to the lighthouse for a throwback to earlier times. Or feast your eyes on the world’s largest cactus, the 60-foot-plus tall Mexican Cardón.

Kick things up a notch when you take a guided tour to the natural reserve. Known by local experts as The Valley of the Giants, it’s only a short drive, right on the outskirts of town.

4. Buena Vista

Looking for a secluded, peaceful place to visit as part of your upcoming East Cape, Baja vacation plans? Buena Vista has plenty to offer.

Nestled along a stretch of pristine, white sand and jewel-toned waters, this beach town first gained fame as an idyllic fishing spot. Now, residents and tourists alike enjoy activities like kitesurfing and sportfishing to amp up the adrenaline.

Feast on the fresh catch of the day at one of the local restaurants or cafes, pop into one of several unique boutiques and enjoy the laid-back, unassuming luxury to be found in this sleepy, sun-drenched town.

Obscure bars to visit

5. The Nowhere Bar

When you crave a spot to sit and sip a refreshing cocktail on vacation, nowhere else compares to this long-running, downtown Cabo treasure located just off the water.

Drink in the lovely marina views, live music, and a full bar of delicious drinks as the sun sinks into the horizon. Keep the party going and hit the dance floor as the bar transforms into a high-energy, club-like atmosphere later in the evening.

6. The Giggling Marlin Bar and Grille

Your East Cape, Baja vacation plans aren’t complete without a visit to The Giggling Marlin.

Wind down from a day spent at the beach, on the golf course, or fishing in the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez with fabulous food and drinks in a lively, fun-loving atmosphere.

Conveniently located on Marina Boulevard, The Giggling Marlin is renowned for fresh margaritas, must-try shrimp tacos, and a tequila lineup that’s second to none.

Obscure hikes to try

7. Estero San José: The Historic San Jose Estuary

This first fantastic trail is perfect for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous trail to traverse. Located on a tranquil, protected wildlife reserve, it’s easily accessible from the beachfront hotel zone. A 7.2 mile loop offers the flexibility of tailoring the duration of your walk to your preference.

Get in tune with nature on a leisurely walk as you soak up the serenity and spot a bevy of birds, butterflies, and the peaceful waterway.

A favorite of birdwatching enthusiasts, you’re likely to hear the sounds of residents like red-tailed hawks, ospreys, sparrow hawks, and white herons.

8. The Waterfall at Santiago

For more of a moderately-challenging hike, complete with jaw-dropping scenery, look no further than the hiking trail that starts just outside the small town of Santiago.

This trail takes approximately 30 minutes to hike and culminates with the beautiful, 35-foot waterfall. It is a favorite spot for celebrities and seasoned travelers alike.

As you make your way to the waterfall, feast your eyes on lush green vegetation and colorful tropical flowers. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the waterfall, which flows into a secluded lagoon. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic.

You can make these hidden gems part of your regular routine as an owner of a Casa Blake home. Owning a residence in this iconic neighborhood unlocks access to the upscale Costa Palmas Beach and Yacht Clubs. With world-class shopping, dining, and more right at your fingertips. Learn about living the Casa Blake lifestyle in a regal retreat. All mere steps from the water’s edge at Marina Village.