Explore
The Magdalena Bay complex covers 1,700 square kilometers of protected marine environments. Barrier islands and mangroves shelter wildlife from the open Pacific Ocean.
These interconnected habitats form part of a larger 300-kilometer coastal lagoon system. The dense desert mangroves here store up to five times more carbon than terrestrial tropical forests.
You can explore these distinct geographic zones during guided panga boat tours. The calm waters provide crucial nurseries for marine life year-round.
2-3 hoursDune hiking
This massive barrier island shields the bay from the turbulent Pacific Ocean. It features towering sand dunes and remains completely undeveloped. Ask your panga captain to include a brief stop so you can hike the dunes. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like coyotes during your walk.
1-2 hoursKayaking & birding
These shallow estuarine canals spread out north of the main bay. The water averages about 3.5 meters in depth. These dense forests serve as vital nurseries for fish, shrimp, and sea turtles. The protected waters are excellent for kayaking and spotting frigatebirds.
Half dayLess boat traffic
This southern sector of the lagoon complex is named for its historical abundance of clams. It features slightly deeper water and connects to the Pacific Ocean at the southern end. It is often much less crowded than the main bay. Head here if you want to avoid heavy boat traffic during peak season.
