Los Islotes and Isla San Francisco

Our last full day on board the National Geographic Sea Bird begins with dolphins at sunrise, followed soon after by a pair of fin whales with their towering blows and characteristic angular dorsal fin. This is Baja California at its best – and all before breakfast!

Anchoring off the islets known as Los Islotes, we explore the rocky shore, observing California sea lions, then take to the water with mask and snorkel for a closer look. As waves crash against the shore on the windward side of the island, curious pups swim circles around us. Do you know how hard it is to laugh through a snorkel?

The afternoon finds us anchored in the perfect cove at Isla San Francisco, called Half Moon Bay because of its long, curving white sandy beach. It’s the perfect place for a timeless walk beachcombing, or for a slow paddle around the bay while contemplating all we have seen and experienced during our week exploring Baja California.

But the day wasn’t complete without the perfect sunset over the Sierra de la Gigantas, the sculpted mountain range that forms the backbone of the Baja Peninsula – a fitting end to an amazing week making new friends and sharing experiences that will last a lifetime.