City in Baja California Sur, Mexico
La Paz
Relaxed Baja waterfront city with sea lions, whale sharks and a steady expat community, far calmer than Los Cabos. Summer heat, hurricanes and few direct flights are the trade-offs.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$1,430–2,200Comfortable, one person · MX$26,000–40,000Details
- Value for money55/100Better value than 54% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goFeb–Apr, Nov–DecWarmest: Aug, 35°CDetails
- Internet118 MbpsFixed broadband, Mexico medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink purified water; local tap supply can be salty or inconsistent.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Doctor's visit$22–49Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundUberWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMixed: cards and cashCards work in hotels, marinas and many restaurants; cash needed for markets, small eateries, taxis and tips.Details
Where to stay in La Paz
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Centro and the Malecón | Walkable base with restaurants, bars and sunset promenade |
| Zona Central south and El Centenario | Quieter residential streets and cheaper long stays |
| Las Garzas and the marina area | Expats, newer apartments and calm bay views |
| Playa El Tesoro and Pichilingue | Beach-adjacent stays; need a car or taxi |
Apps that work in La Paz
Ride-hailing
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Uber | Available in town, though with fewer drivers than big cities |
Food delivery
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Uber Eats | Coverage in the main city zones |
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Google Translate: Spanish menus and conversations
- Taxis: Taxis are fine if you agree the fare; use Uber for night trips. For remote beaches, rent a car or join a tour.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Mexico.
- Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in hotels, marinas and many restaurants; cash needed for markets, small eateries, taxis and tips.
- Currency: Peso (MXN). US$1 ≈ MX$18.21 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: Bank ATMs charge foreign cards roughly MXN 30–150 per withdrawal; always decline the ATM's currency conversion.
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants (check whether service is already added), MXN 10–20 for gas attendants and grocery baggers; app rides optional.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work at many card terminals in cities; local bank transfers need a Mexican account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Air arrivals get a digital FMM (QR code) at immigration; the visitor fee is already included in your airfare.
- Officers set your stay and may grant fewer than 180 days; carry a return ticket, accommodation details and proof of funds.
- Land arrivals going beyond the border zone need an FMM; the visitor fee applies for stays over seven days.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · Tourist police 078 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 127 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Telcel or AT&T SIMs at airports, OXXO stores and carrier shops, about MXN 100–300 with data. Bring your passport to register the line. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Mexico
Going to La Paz solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in La Paz meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.