Destinations
Bahía San Gabriel on Espíritu Santo Island: a private-boat guide
On the southern side of Espíritu Santo Island lies a wide, sheltered cove that many visitors sail right past: Bahía San Gabriel. Its shallow, calm water makes it one of the most enjoyable stops on a day of boating from La Paz, especially for families and groups looking for peace rather than crowds.
Quick answer
Bahía San Gabriel is visited by private boat from La Paz as part of Avante Charters' 8-hour experience. The cove sits on Espíritu Santo Island and is combined on the same route with other stops such as San Rafaelito or Balandra, depending on sea conditions. The experience costs $16,000 MXN per boat and includes a captain, food, drinks, snorkeling gear and a paddle board.
What makes Bahía San Gabriel special
It is a cove sheltered from the wind, with shallow turquoise water that invites you to stay for hours. Being on Espíritu Santo Island, the backdrop includes the island's rock formations and hills.
Unlike the busier beaches, here your group sets the pace: swim, float, walk the shoreline or simply rest on board with the bay in front of you.
- Shallow, calm water — great for swimming and for kids.
- A sheltered cove on Espíritu Santo Island.
- Private atmosphere: the boat is exclusive to your group.
How to get there from La Paz
Bahía San Gabriel is only reachable by sea. Departure is from La Paz at the time confirmed when you book, and the cruise to Espíritu Santo Island is part of the experience: coastline, mountains and, with luck, dolphins or mobula rays along the way.
The captain, with 20 years of experience in these waters, chooses the order of the stops based on the day's wind and visibility.
What to do in the bay
Snorkeling gear and a paddle board are already on board, so there's nothing to rent. Food and drinks are served on the boat, with shade, tables and chairs for an unhurried lunch facing the beach.
- Snorkeling along the rocky edges of the cove.
- Paddle boarding in shallow, wave-free water.
- Lunch on board included — no need to go ashore.
- Free time to swim, walk the beach or rest.
Which other stops to combine it with
Bahía San Gabriel works beautifully as part of a full-day route. Depending on conditions, the same trip can include snorkeling with sea lions at San Rafaelito or a stop at Balandra on the way back to La Paz.
When you book, tell us which spots interest you and we confirm the route; the exact order is adjusted on the day of departure according to the sea.
Rules and conditions
Espíritu Santo Island is a protected natural area. Destinations and itineraries are confirmed based on the experience selected, sea conditions, availability and the current regulations of the protected areas.
If sea or weather conditions do not allow safe boating, the date is rescheduled or the payment is fully refunded.
How to book
The 8-hour private experience costs $16,000 MXN per boat, not per person, and includes the captain, food, drinks, snorkeling gear and a paddle board.
To book, send us your date and group size over WhatsApp or through the booking form. We confirm availability and the boarding point.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Bahía San Gabriel?
Bahía San Gabriel is a cove on Espíritu Santo Island, off La Paz, Baja California Sur. It can only be reached by sea, on a boat.
How much does it cost to visit Bahía San Gabriel by private boat?
The 8-hour private experience costs $16,000 MXN per boat, not per person, with a maximum capacity of 7 guests. It includes the captain, food, drinks, snorkeling gear and a paddle board.
Is Bahía San Gabriel good for kids?
Yes. Its shallow, sheltered water makes it one of the calmest stops on the route, ideal for families. The captain adjusts the stops to the day's conditions.
Can Bahía San Gabriel be combined with Balandra on the same day?
Yes, depending on sea conditions and the confirmed route. When you book, tell us which spots interest you and the captain sets the order of the stops on the day of departure.
