Baja California, Mexico
La Ventana, Mexico
I’ve always been drawn to places that offer something different; raw beauty, adventure, and experiences that push you out of your comfort zone. My first time in La Ventana was special. I went for 5 days and was on the boat almost every day, doing long expeditions and swimming with the wild life. The second time I went, I went to a nearby island that you can only access via boat and camped for 5 days. It was definitely an incredible experience that I learned so much from.
Getting to La Ventana
You can fly into Cabo San Lucas which is 2 and a half hours away or La Paz which is a much closer, about 45 minutes. I suggest renting a car as its needed to get around this small town.
Ventusbay: The Perfect Base
For five days, I stayed at Ventusbay, a beautiful, beachfront spot that felt like the perfect mix of luxury and laid-back Baja vibes. Waking up to the sound of the waves, drinking coffee with the ocean right in front of me, it set the tone for the entire trip.
Swimming with Whale Sharks, Sea Lions & Dolphins
Every day was packed with adventure, but one of the biggest highlights was swimming with whale sharks and pilot whales. Being in the water next to these massive, gentle creatures was surreal. Then there were the sea lions, curious, playful, and way too fast for me to keep up with. At one point, dolphins even showed up, making it feel like something straight out of a nature documentary. I went with Baja Raw Tours, which is run by Aidan. He is an incredible expert on wild life and I really appreciate how much he cares for them as well. He doesn’t partake in anything invasive and if he feels it’s not right to stay or search, we keep it moving. It’s important to have ethical guides like this, especially when it comes to wild life.
Free Diving
I had never free-dived before this trip, and I didn’t know what to expect. But once I got the hang of it, I was hooked. There’s something incredible about diving down, holding your breath, and feeling completely weightless under the water. No tanks, no distractions, just you and the ocean. Definitely one of the most epic experiences I’ve ever had. If you’re new to free diving and want to learn more, I highly suggest Salty Souls. Emily is the owner and is based in Baja, Mexico. Whether you’re looking to join one of her expeditions or get certified, she’s an amazing resource; especially if it’s your first time. Her focus on safety and breathwork makes it perfect for beginners.