Welcome to La Paz, Mexico, where unspoiled beauty, friendly locals and a slower pace of life greet you like Mexico of the 1960s and 70s. Unlike many of Mexico’s more well-known and flashier resort towns, La Paz has remained largely untouched by mega all-inclusive development. Days here are spent wandering in and out of locally owned shops searching for the perfect souvenirs, sampling local cuisines, strolling along the sculpture-filled Malecón or grabbing your drink of choice in a café that gives you a cozy feel like you have been here before from the very moment you arrive.
While La Paz doesn’t necessarily have the distinct queer nightlife scene found in places like Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, it more than makes up for the shortcomings with charm, authenticity and a relaxed, “undiscovered” vibe. This is a destination best sought out for those travelers seeking a more immersive and genuine Mexican experience.
Located in Baja California Sur, La Paz is welcoming and safe for LGBTQ visitors. Same-sex marriage is legal in the state. Many travelers fly into Cabo (about a two-hour drive) and transfer by car, though the local La Paz International Airport, just 25 minutes from the city center, is often the more convenient option.
Home to a population of approximately 300,000, La Paz, also the state capital, offers natural beauty rivaling Cabo — without the heavy commercialization. Desert landscapes collide with the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez, creating a setting that’s unique within the Baja region.
One of the city’s biggest draws is its seasonal whale shark population. From October to April (with peak sightings between December and March), these gentle giants feed in the bay surrounding La Paz. Tours give visitors the chance to swim and snorkel alongside whale sharks that can reach 40 to 60 feet in length and weigh thousands of pounds.
For LGBTQ visitors, La Paz continues to grow in visibility and inclusivity. The annual Pride celebration, Marcha LGBTQ+, is held in late June and features rainbow crosswalks, public art, drag performances, murals and a lively parade along the Malecón.
Outside of Pride, travelers will find safe and friendly spaces throughout the city. Popular venues like Baronesa Show Center and Casa Fandango host drag and tribute shows, while clubs like Black La Paz offer the trendy nightclub scene. According to guides such as Out in Mexico, most venues in the city are generally gay-friendly thanks to La Paz’s relaxed, tolerant atmosphere.
Local organizations like La Paz Es Diversa are working diligently while also making strides working within the community to promote awareness, education and legal support for LGBTQ residents, all of which contribute to building a more inclusive tourism market.
The Centro area near the Malecón, offers many of the most unique accommodations, ranging from boutique hotels to four-star resorts, along with a wide variety of short-term rentals. Prices are generally reasonable, and it’s likely you’ll find the perfect place to fit your budget.
Given its seaside location, many restaurants in La Paz feature the region’s fresh seafood, while traditional Mexican cuisine and international flavors are also represented at establishments throughout the Centro area. Coffee shops are scattered throughout the city and provide the perfect setting to relax, people-watch or check in with family back home.
Practical Travel Tips
- Transportation: Public transportation is limited compared to other destinations. While some local buses exist, most visitors rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber, local taxis or rental cars to get around.
- Climate: July and August are the hottest months, with daytime highs above 100°F. The rest of the year, expect pleasant temperatures in the upper 70s to low 90s.
- Beaches: La Paz is home to some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. Balandra Beach, often compared to the Caribbean, requires advance reservations and has strict visitor limits (450 people per time slot; about $6 USD per person via the CONANP website). Many other beaches closer to town offer equally warm, turquoise waters without the crowds.
La Paz may lack the glitz and the dedicated LGBTQ venues of larger resort towns, but its authenticity, natural beauty, wildlife and growing inclusivity make it an up-and-coming destination for LGBTQ travelers. From whale shark adventures to Pride celebrations, laid-back beach days to vibrant local dining, the city’s charm is undeniable. Check out the La Paz Tourism Board webpage at golapaz.com to get some added inspiration for your next trip.
One visit to La Paz, and you’ll be hooked. Just be prepared — when you return home raving about this gem, your friends will be pulling out their phones to plan their own getaway.
Cole Sjoholm
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