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Isla Espiritu Santo near La Paz.
Isla Pardito is a unique fishing village perched high on one of the
rock islands with an incredible view of the sea. Five generations of
families have lived there. There is no camping but beer goes a long
way in exchange for fish.
Isla San Francisco, just south of Isla Pardito, has a stunning white
sand beach. At the far north end is a cave that, at times, is used by
the navy at night to camp. If a navy boat sits in the cove, move on
to the next cove to avoid any questions. The officers are polite but
they may approach you with weapons and inquiries. They are just
doing their job, looking for drugs or guns. By contrast, ruthless nosee-ums
terrorize this beach in the warmer months, so wear the
hardiest bug spray possible.
ISLA ESPIRITU SANTO
From startling fissured and striated cliffs on the east, to spectacular
pristine beaches and protected lagoons on the west, Espiritu
Santo is a ruggedly beautiful, semi-exotic island. No wonder this
island is the most popular with kayak tours.
From Playa Tecolote, just north of La Paz, you can either rent a
panga or paddle the 4.5 mile crossing. With at least twenty stunning
beaches suitable for camping, you should be able to find an
uninhabited site. Since the island is only thirty-five miles around, it
is easily circumnavigated in a few days. To truly experience its secrets,
you should stay a week.
Have you ever swum with sea lions? At the northern tip of the
island is Los Islotes, two guano-frosted rock islets, one with a large
sea lion colony. On the rocky ledges lie hundreds of California
Brown sea lions and one wayward Elephant Seal who has taken up
residence. A natural arch brimming with sea life is formed in the
other islet, through which you can snorkel and dive.
LPW KAYAK POWER SYSTEMS
Ph: 775-882-2535 www.LightPerformanceWorks.com
Barbara Spencer photo
The law prohibits landing on Los Islotes. It is also dangerous as
the bulls patrol and fiercely protect their territory. A precautionary
measure while swimming is to remain about 100 feet from the
rocks and let the sea lion pups approach you. The pups, curious
and eager, will splash into the water to greet you, swimming upside
down, as they swerve and roll their flexible bodies.
Intriguing hikes are found in the volcanic arroyos where wild fig
and ironwood trees grow. Trek the high ridges for a stunning panoramic
view of towering red-hued volcanic escarpments piercing
the azure waters below.
Beachcombing, shell collecting, sea arches, deep hidden coves,
fresh water wells (unsuitable for drinking), mangroves, and remnants
from the pearling era make each day a new adventure.
When is the best kayaking? October to June. Fall trips in October
and November offer warmer water temperatures (25°C). The magic
of these islands is enhanced in March and April as surrounding
waters come alive with the migrating whales. Grey, Blue, Fin, Pilot,
Humpback and Sperm have all been observed. Pods of dolphins
are seen all year long. At 45°C from July to October, the air
temperature is suffocating. Even the lizards know enough to stay
home during the daytime. It makes sense that this is the land of
siesta. Bring sunscreen, sunhat and shades.
For the enthusiastic kayaker seeking peace, nature and even romance,
Baja has it all. When you want a quick getaway from the
dreary northern winter months, what better way to experience a hit
of sun, sand and sombreros than aboard your kayak.
FOR BAJA KAYAK TOURS, RENTALS
• Baja Expeditions: www.bajaex.com
• Baja Outdoors Adventures: www.kayactivities.com
• Gabriola Cycle & Kayak: www.gck.ca
• Nahanni Wilderness Adventures: www.nahanniwild.com
• Pacific Rim Paddling Company: www.PacificRimPaddling.com
• Paddling South: www.tourbaja.com
www.klepper.com
amscgyca@cadvision.com
➞
2000 E. Clearview Dr. Carson City, NV 89701 Fax: 775-882-2760
October/November 2002 www.WaveLengthMagazine.com
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