Isla Magdalena Beach
Puerto Magdalena, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Isla Magdalena is a long barrier island that shelters Bahia Magdalena on the Pacific side of Baja California Sur, Mexico, about 230 square km of sand and dunes. Its beaches are reached by boat from the mainland. A small settlement of fishing families lives here, and many work as whale watching guides in winter.
A wild barrier island beach with whales in winter, though it takes a boat trip and offers few services.
How we score beachesTime a visit for winter, when gray whales are in the bay, and book a licensed local guide for the boat. Bring water and sun protection.
No road access from the mainland. Reach the island by boat, usually with a local guide.
Arrival is by boat onto soft sand, with few facilities away from the small settlement.
Gray whales are in Bahia Magdalena in winter, roughly December through March or April. The Pacific stays cool, and hurricane season runs roughly June through November.
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