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Come Explore the Sea of Cortez
paddling-south

The Baja trips highlighted below operated by Paddling South and Loreto Kayak Tours. They have been in business safely leading thousands of clients since the late ’70s. The Paddling South trips are primarily expedition style, meaning there is no Panga support boat. All of your gear is packed into the boats daily. It is an amazing way to travel the remote islands and coastlines of the Baja Peninsula. Sea Trek’s owners bought the sales side of Paddling South in October of 2015. We felt their expeditions were a great way to round out our Baja offerings. The Paddling South guides are the best in the business and we know you will love your time with them.

Paddling South Expeditions

Take an Unforgettable Baja Trip with Sea Trek

The Sea of Cortez is a breathtaking sight, with the southeastern landscape of Baja California Sur running into the bright blue ocean. The desert ridges and canyons around Loreto boast the richest variety of plant and animal life on the peninsula, and the nearby islands and reefs teem with marine life. From the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range to the idyllic coastline and islands, Baja California Sur is a natural paradise for adventurous travelers.

Explore 'The Paddling South' Baja Trips

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KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported

$1,995

Skiff supported, six day adventure kayaking through the islands and coast of Baja

No experience necessary

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KAYAK AND SUP PRIVATE AND CUSTOM TRIPS

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Custom Baja trip for you and your family and friends. Kayak or stand-up paddling. Expedition style or skiff supported.

Beginner

KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE

$1,795

Kayak expedition down Baja California’s Sea of Cortez, snorkeling, hiking

No experience necessary

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KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE

$1,995

Whale-watching kayak trip in Baja California with hiking and snorkeling

Beginner

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KAYAK LORETO TO LA PAZ 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE

$2,195

Sea kayak expedition with hiking, snorkeling, and sightseeing

Beginner

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KAYAK MULEGE TO LORETO 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE

$1,995

A sea kayak expedition in Baja California Sur with hiking and snorkeling

Beginner

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KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED

$2,195

Whale-watching kayak trip in Baja California with hiking and snorkeling

Beginner

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'23 Baja Schedule

StartEndTripCost
Feb 4, 2024Feb 9, 2024KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED$2,195
Feb 11, 2024Feb 16, 2024KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED$2,195
Feb 18, 2024Feb 23, 2024KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED$2,195
Feb 25, 2024Mar 1, 2024KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED$2,195
Mar 3, 2024Mar 8, 2024KAYAK COASTS & ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – SKIFF SUPPORTED$2,195
Nov 5, 2023Nov 10, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Nov 19, 2023Nov 24, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Dec 11, 2023Dec 16, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Dec 24, 2023Dec 29, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Dec 31, 2023Jan 5, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Jan 15, 2024Jan 20, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Jan 27, 2024Feb 1, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Mar 31, 2024Apr 5, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Apr 28, 2024May 3, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – Skiff Supported$1,995
Oct 16, 2023Oct 25, 2023KAYAK MULEGE TO LORETO 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Apr 2, 2024Apr 11, 2024KAYAK MULEGE TO LORETO 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Oct 30, 2023Nov 8, 2023KAYAK LORETO TO LA PAZ 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE$2,195
Mar 18, 2024Mar 27, 2024KAYAK LORETO TO LA PAZ 10 DAY – EXPEDITION STYLE$2,195
Jan 29, 2024Feb 3, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Feb 12, 2024Feb 17, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Feb 19, 2024Feb 24, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Feb 26, 2024Mar 2, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Mar 4, 2024Mar 9, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS AND WHALE WATCHING – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,995
Oct 9, 2023Oct 14, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Nov 13, 2023Nov 18, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Nov 20, 2023Nov 25, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Dec 4, 2023Dec 9, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Dec 18, 2023Dec 23, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Dec 25, 2023Dec 30, 2023KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Jan 1, 2024Jan 6, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Jan 8, 2024Jan 13, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Jan 15, 2024Jan 20, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Jan 22, 2024Jan 27, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Mar 25, 2024Mar 30, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Apr 8, 2024Apr 13, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Apr 15, 2024Apr 20, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Apr 22, 2024Apr 27, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795
Apr 29, 2024May 4, 2024KAYAK COASTS AND ISLANDS – EXPEDITION STYLE$1,795

Baja Team

JORGE SALAS

PADDLING SOUTH OWNER/LEAD GUIDE

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Jorge Salas,…raised in Loreto… is lead guide, and a partner in our local outfitting company, Loreto Kayak Tours. In 1997 he graduated from R.A.R.E., a natural history training institute, and went on to receive a Baja Guide Scholarship from the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS).
In the Loreto branch of our state university he trains Alternative Tourism students in sea kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, birding and Leave No Trace concepts. He is highly trained in all aspects of trip leadership. Jorge’s professional and friendly attitude always keeps us smiling.

ANTONIO HERNANDEZ

PADDLING SOUTH OWNER/LEAD GUIDE

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Antonio Hernandez, … a local, born and raised in Loreto is one of our head guides, and also a partner in our local outfitting company since 2007. Excelling in sports and studying sports-education he has transferred his skills to the coast and mountains of his hometown and now works as leader on most all of our tours.
Many of our guests who have paddled with ‘Toño’ request him as guide on their return tours. Antonio’s enthusiasm is inspiring, his sense of humor, infectious, and… encourage him to sing a bit… you’ll be back too!

steve

STEVE HAYWARD

DIRECTOR OF BAJA PROGRAMS

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Steve has been our Baja Program director for 15 years now. Steve has been guiding, developing programs, and managing for Sea Trek for over 25 years. He has enjoyed paddling in Chile, Alaska, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Ireland, Wales, BC, and Baja.

With the advent of SUP, Steve has been focused on developing exciting inter-island adventures via paddle boards, on our traditional kayaking routes down in Baja.

He is fully committed to “downwind” paddling during the tempestuous “el Norte” blows we see in the mid-winter on the Sea of Cortez, and enjoys free diving and sharing the many secrets of the unforgettable desert and marine environment of this unique and memorable part of Mexico on the calmer days.

He will usually be the first person you see when you step of the plane down in Loreto for our Baja tours, and if he shows up in your camp later in the week, you can be sure he will likely have something fresh and delicious from the sea to deliver!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the plane ticket?

From Los Angeles a plane ticket is approximately $450-$750 round trip. Add approximately $150 for the additional cost from San Francisco.

I’ve never kayaked before – can I do this trip?

This trip is fine for beginners. Our guides are experienced kayak instructors in the off season, and they will enjoy teaching and sharing with you all of the skills and safety techniques that you will need and want to know. Many clients tell us that the time spent with them in the afternoons often is the richest part of their trip, with many folks advancing several levels during the course of their week with us!

That said, participants should be in reasonable physical shape and be ready to paddle for multiple (2-3) hours each day. More importantly, you should enjoy the experience of camping and “roughing it” outdoors. Signing up for a Baja trip lets you take our Intro to Sea Kayaking Class in Sausalito for half price.

How much do we paddle each day?

This varies depending on the trip. On the Classic Islands or Whale watching trips our longest stretch is approximately 6-7 miles when we move camp. Family Base Camp we paddle and use the panga depending on the age and energy level of the kids.

The mileage listed is when we move as a group. Often afternoons are free for those who want more paddling time or you are welcome to take a boat out early and greet the sunrise. It’s the best seat in the house!

What’s the weather like?

Baja is mostly sunny and the temperature is generally in the 70-80s during the day. At night it can cool down into the 50s in February and early March. We offer trips October through early May.

Can I drink the water in Baja?

Loreto has a water treatment facility and the town’s water is drinkable, but to be extra safe, we recommend drinking bottled water when in town. Our hotel provides bottled water. Water provided on the kayak trip comes directly from a water purification plant.

What’s the food like?

Delicious and healthy backcountry cuisine is our specialty, and clients are consistently amazed by the variety and quality of our meals. After hors d’oeuvres and a cold beverage for happy hour, you will be treated nightly to original Mexican platters, seafood, local vegetables and fruits, and dessert. A nice hot drink like coffee and Kahlua (or perhaps herbal tea) is perfect for watching the nightly star show!

Breakfasts and lunches are likewise healthy and tasty, with local fare alongside familiar foods from the States. If you ever want a snack, energy bars, fruit juices, cold mineral waters, and local nuts and fruits are always on hand. Of course, the local tortillas, fresh handmade ceviche, and guacamole and chips with a Pacifico chaser are the most requested items on any trip, and you will never forget them!

Vegetarian and gluten free diets can be accommodated, with delicious and fulfilling meals for you at every turn being our goal and mission.

What sort of clothes do I need?

This is Baja, so a few changes of beach wear, some warmer extra layers for evenings and early mornings, some town clothes, and a sun protective long sleeve shirt and pant are all that you will need in the clothing department. For footwear, you will want water oriented sport sandals or booties that protect the bottom and sides of your feet for paddling, tide pooling and general water time. A light pair of walking or running type shoe is very good to have for your non water time on the islands. Heavier hiking shoes are overkill for the terrain we encounter on our route.

A shade hat is indispensable, along with a visor or baseball type hat for wearing while paddling on breezier days. Most folks enjoy the cultural interaction of going out in town on their first afternoon in Loreto and purchasing one of the beautiful and inexpensive handmade straw sombreros.

We’ll send you a thorough clothing and personal item list when you sign up.

What is the bathing situation?

Our standard protocol is to wash off in the sea with a biodegradable salt water soap such as Camp Suds, which leaves no salty sticky feeling afterwards. We bring a large amount of purified drinking water along. You’re welcome to use some of this in your water bottle to give your face a fresh water rinse off.

There are always two sanitary hand washing stations in separate locations in camp for maintaining general hygiene, cleanliness and personal comfort.

What is the toilet setup on these trips?

Every year our clients compliment us on the comfort, vistas and ingenuity associated with our toilet arrangements. We are proud to be camping in a pristine wilderness environment, on islands with almost no permanent structures of any kind. We remove all wastes that we generate, and leave no footprint or impact for those that follow us.

The panga carries our portable toilet system. Our staff sets up the bathroom in a designated site that is private and we have a system for communicating when it is occupied or available. The toilets are emptied and cleaned frequently, and there is a sanitary hand washing station nearby with disinfectant soap that everyone uses. Plenty of toilet paper is provided.

What are the campsites like?

We reserve all our campsites in advance with the National Park so they are exclusively ours for the time we are there. They are all beautiful and remote with plenty of flat space for tents. They all have excellent waterfront views, with stunning snorkeling right in front of each spot.

Should I tip my guide?

If you would like to express your appreciation to the guides through a gratuity, please know that such recognition would be enthusiastically received. The industry standard for tipping is approximately 10-20 percent of the trip cost. All tips received will be collected and equally disbursed amongst your guides by the trip leader.

READ SOME OF OUR REVIEWS

Curiosity60282304734
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Curiosity60282304734

Our kayaking camping trip from Loreto Mexico was an amazing nature experience. Sea Trek did a great job with answering all the pre-trip questions from my wife and I. The trip itself from Loreto to the islands of Danzante and Carmen was rich in marine and bird life and seeing the blue whales (again and again!) was life altering. The guides were truly experts and a pleasure to be with whether in the water or on a day hike. The meals were yummy, often including a fresh catch of the day. And then there is that celestial night sky…..We want to go back!

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

RudiDundas
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

RudiDundas

Seatrek provided a memorable experience! Joey Heusler, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable about whales and with the Seatrek staff, took us to Magdalena Bay, where we had two trips out to see the Gray whales with their calves, and then on to the Sea of Cortez for a four day kayaking and camping trip on the islands. We saw eight Blue Whales, including one passing right by our island camp! A first time for most of us. The food prepared by the staff was wonderful and everything was done for our safety and comfort. Could not recommend this trip more highly!

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Leeanne Ford
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Leeanne Ford

I did a sea trek meditation retreat in Baja this season. From the very start all communication was timely, friendly and organised. Once I arrived in Loreto they were very accommodating. The kayaks were good kayaks and the guides incomparable. Cannot recommend Sea Trek and Baja enough. Thank you for helping making this experience the trip of a life time for me.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Barbara Maher
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Barbara Maher

Three friends and I were dazzled by this group of professional, safety minded people. Advice is freely given by all and it is good advice. Amazing food – think fish caught and made into scrumptious meals like clams on the half shell and ceviche. Star gazing with stories about the constellations, going to sleep with the sounds of blue whales, jumping into the boats and racing to get in the middle of a school of dolphins who played in the wake. Kayak trips at different levels for those of us who are not as skilled but still want the adventure. It was all fabulous. I would recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys paddling, sleeping on the beach, and good company. As a group of over sixties, we felt well taken care of and safe. Keep up the good work, Sea Trek. You are a jewel.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Lisa W
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Lisa W

Words cannot express how wonderful this experience was. I went on the paddleboarding excursion with a friend in November. The weather was perfect! The paddling was amazing. The guides were helpful, knowledgeable professional and made sure that every camper got what they were expecting from the trip. We camped on the most beautiful beaches, snorkeled some beautiful spots, went fishing and diving and hiking. Such a full featured experience. I am changed forever. Can’t wIt to go back and do it again!!! Worth every penny!!!!

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Mark S
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Mark S

This was my 3rd trip with Sea Trek in Baja. My wife and I have gone twice and I went once by myself. I love this place. Beautiful water, desert mountains, cool wildlife and it is in Mexico, a warm and charming culture. Steve, the Baja Big Cheese, has a knack for picking awesome staff. These are the kind of people I wish I had here at home to hang out with. My only complaint is that the trip is too short.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Greg
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Greg

The Classic Island and Whale Watch tour was an incredible experience. The guides were pleasant, organized, knowledgeable, accommodating, and excellent chefs! Each individual in our group was asked what they were most interested in doing/seeing during the tour and our guides delivered. We have already recommended Sea Trek to friends and family.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

hhlleeo23
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

hhlleeo23

Excellent food, excellent guides, excellent experience, excellent gear, excellent camping, excellent snorkeling, excellent camaraderie — everything was wonderful!
I had a great time! I feel like a new person! The whale watching was great, we also saw dolphins, pelicans and a variety of other animals. I highly recommend Sea Trek Baja trips for solo, couples and families — you will be thrilled that you did it.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

bill3west
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

bill3west

We took the SUP option for paddling out to and around these beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez. I was very glad we did, as SUPing is what we’re used to when paddling at home, and it provides a great vantage down through the clear water, a full-body workout, and for me more comfort than sitting. We definitely weren’t slowing down the group, and several others wanted to try it out from camp. It was easy to hop on the SUPs just to get a little morning exercise, to find the best snorkeling, and for an absolutely amazing Bioluminescence paddle.
This was a wonderful trip. And a side benefit was how pretty, friendly and easy Loreto is.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Suzy W
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Suzy W

The guides were amazing; the scenery breathtaking; the food outstanding. Can’t say enough good things – I HIGHLY recommend it!!

/5stars

- Trip Advisor

Gringa D
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 customer reviews

Gringa D

Sea Trek makes you feel welcomed and cared for as soon as you arrive in Loretto. Actually, as soon as you call them months in advance to ask about trip details. The kayaking is beautiful, the sea life swimming beside and below you – whales, dolphins, eels…. The food fresh and tasty, changing each day. An incredible, experience; easy to make the trip what you want… adventurous or relaxing, you choose… they make it happen.

/5stars

- Trip Advisor