La Paz literally mean "peace" in Spanish, and even with almost 200,000 residents, La Paz is aptly named, exuding a very peaceful atmosphere indeed. Since a hurricane virtually destroyed Loreto in 1829, La Paz has been the capital of Baja California Sur, and it is the state’s largest settlement.

The waterfront promenade at La Paz - called the malecon - is considered to be one of Mexico's prettiest. Strolling along the malecon is a destination in itself, as the malecon is a social center for the locals, as well as a tourist zone for visitors, complete with park areas adjacent to the sand to watch the beautiful sunsets in the evenings. At the western end of the malecon you can visit Marina La Paz, which is a new development of homes and condos with cafes along the walkways. You may catch musicians performing at the gazebo in the Malecon Plaza, located at Calle 16 de Septiembre, which leads away from the water into the city. Just a few blocks in you’ll find the Museo de Antropologia, which includes exhibits on the culture and heritage of La Paz, including re-creations of Indian villages, and reprints of Cortes’ writings when he first came to La Paz. At the eastern end of the malecon, spend some time at the former governor’s mansion, which has been converted into an aquarium, complete with ponds and fountains decorating the grounds.

Many years ago, the waters off Pichilingue – just 10 miles north of La Paz – teemed with oysters bearing black pearls, and La Paz was a major center for the pearling industry. A disease wipes out the oysters in 1940, and today, most visitors come to see a much larger animal – the grey whales that swim here from the waters off Alaska each year to give birth to their calves. From December through March whale watching vessels accommodate visitors who wish to see these giant mammals – just another interesting attraction in a port with a wide variety of things to do and see.