
La Paz, Baja California, Mexico — Oct 25 - Nov 1, 2026
Discover the Magic of Baja on a Transformational Sea Retreat for Women.
Baja Magica Espiritu – Life’s Ebb & Flow
“The awe-inspiring beauty of the ocean, the landscape, the brilliant sun, and vast starlit sky which was just the backdrop for 16 amazing women gathered together to talk, love and be loved. All of it felt "personal" - all of it was a highlight!"
- Baja Guest
Trip Overview
Discover the magic of Baja California Sur’s Espíritu Santo Island, a UNESCO-protected paradise of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and dramatic volcanic cliffs. Known as the “jewel of the Sea of Cortez,” this remote national park offers some of the best kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters in the world.
Swim alongside playful sea lions, watch dolphins leap beside your kayak, and snorkel above coral reefs alive with tropical fish. Each day brings opportunities to paddle quiet coves, hike desert canyons lined with giant cactus, and relax on pristine beaches.
Supported by our expert guides and skiffs that provide comfort and flexibility, we explore the beaches and preserves within this archipelago. Evenings bring star-filled skies, fresh Baja cuisine, and heartfelt connection as we reflect on the day’s adventures and dive into themes within our trip book, Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s classic women’s memoir, Gift from the Sea.
This is more than a trip to Baja — it’s a soulful women’s retreat where outdoor adventure meets inner clarity, sisterhood, and renewal.
Bask in Baja’s Best Season
October brings the Sea of Cortez to life — warm, crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking calm turquoise coves and snorkeling with playful sea lion pups. White-sand beaches and golden sunshine set the stage for soul-nourishing adventure.
Highlights
Transformational Travel for the Soul
Each day offers exploration: hike desert canyons and kayak along stunning cliffs, relax on the beach, or write quietly under the stars. Anchored by Gift from the Sea and guided by the themes of Peace, Freedom, Clarity, and Joy, this journey invites you to discover not only Baja’s beauty, but your own.
True Sisterhood, Unfiltered
This is an unplugged retreat in the wild, where laughter, reflection, and friendship flow as naturally as the tides. Together we create a circle of belonging that lasts long after campfires fade.

Read our Itinerary — Intentionally paced with time for self-reflection.
The Experience
Our Trip Book
Gift from the Sea is a 1955 non-fiction book by Anne Morrow Lindbergh — where she uses various seashells found on a beach to reflect on modern life, marriage, motherhood, and the need for simplicity, solitude, and balance. The book explores how women can find a space for contemplation and creativity amidst the demands of domestic and societal life, emphasizing self-care through solitude and the wisdom gained from embracing life's various stages and rhythms.
Trip Specific Info
Each morning begins with intention — whether it’s a gentle stretch on the beach, a canyon walk, or a simple reflection to carry with you throughout the day. In the afternoons or evenings when we’re not exploring, we gather in circles of sisterhood with guided journaling, and heartfelt conversation that flows naturally. You’ll never be put on the spot; instead, we create space for discovery at your own pace.
Cuisine
Meals are fresh, vibrant, and full of Baja flavor. Watch as our camp chefs prepare ceviche, handmade tamales, tacos, local dishes right on the beach. Fresh fruit, juices, and local specialties round out every meal. Dietary needs are happily accommodated — because nourishing food is part of the joy of this experience.
Packing Tips
A detailed packing list will be included in your planning guide. We provide all the camping and activity gear you’ll need — though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites. Think light and simple: quick-dry clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and a sarong (you’ll be surprised how many ways it comes in handy). With just the essentials, you’ll be free to relax and savor every moment of this Sea of Cortez adventure.
An Unpluging Journey
Unplugging in Baja means truly stepping away, leaving the to-do lists behind, setting your out-of-office message and putting your phone aside so you can sink into the rhythm of island life. With no distractions, you’ll find the rare freedom to be fully present with your own thoughts and the beauty around you. This is the gift of the Sea of Cortez — space for clarity, growth, and authentic connection that nourishes you long after the trip ends.
Activities
Our Baja journey is designed for women of all experience levels. Paddle stable double kayaks along turquoise coves, with guides always nearby to support you. Snorkel vibrant reefs straight from our skiffs — returning whenever you’re ready. Optional desert hikes reveal the island’s volcanic cliffs, cactus forests, and quiet canyons. Every activity is flexible, guided with care, and adapted to the group’s comfort and the day’s rhythm.
Accommodations
Camp on the beaches of Baja is both simple and beautiful. Our team sets up a kitchen and gathering space, with private camp toilets tucked away in scenic spots. Rinse off in the sea, then finish with a quick freshwater shower. You’ll sleep in your own spacious walk-in tent with a comfortable cot, pad and solar lantern — or under the stars with the sound of the waves as your lullaby. Wake to the glow of sunrise over the Sea of Cortez and the aroma of fresh coffee and breakfast. This trip also includes three nights at our partners’ charming hotel.
Weather
October is one of the best times to visit Baja. Days are warm and sunny, with highs in the 80s and comfortable evenings in the 60s. The Sea of Cortez is wonderfully swimmable this time of year — perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or simply floating in turquoise waters.
Your Trip Hosts
Trip Host - Baja
Kerste Helms
Trip Host - Baja
Monnie Brodbeck

What’s Included?
-
Three nights hotel in La Paz, double occupancy, breakfast included.
Camping gear: single tent with cot, sleeping bag or sheet, solar lantern and chair.
Activity gear: snorkel, mask, fins, wetsuit if desired, kayak with skirt
All transportation, guided activities and meals while camping
Farewell dinner and cooking class in La Paz
-
Airfare and ground transportation to and from La Paz, Mexico
Travel day meals
Trip Insurance
Gratuities
Baja Magica Espiritu – Life’s Ebb & Flow
Discover the Magic of Baja on a Transformational Sea Retreat for Women.
Book Your Spot
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
Prices include 3 nights in hotel, 6 nights beach camping (solo tent)
3,485 USD
3,710 USD
Deposit: 50%

FAQS
-
Reserve your spot through our website. We require a 50% deposit with full payment due 180 days prior to the departure date. We welcome payments via credit card, check, or Zelle (jen@honestheartjourneys.com). We're happy to work with you to establish a payment plan as well.
If you have ANY questions, we'd love to talk with you! Reach out any time through our Contact page. -
A 50% deposit is due at registration, and balances are due 180 days before departure. If a cancellation is made prior to 180 days before the trip date, the entire deposit will be refunded no less than a $500 per person service charge. Cancellations that are less than 179 days prior to the departure date will be charged in full. Payment plans are available upon request.
Itineraries are subject to change depending on weather, availability of activities, unforeseen circumstances, emergencies, etc. It is highly unlikely that we will cancel a trip, but we do reserve the right to cancel due to weather, natural disasters, emergencies or a lack of sufficient reservations. If we cancel a trip, a full refund of the trip deposit and any final payment will be given.
Notification of cancellation must be received in writing via email to info@honestheartjourneys.com.
-
HHJ requires that you obtain travel insurance in case of unexpected medical circumstances, or the need for evacuation. We want you to make a decision that meets your needs. We also highly recommend you obtain cancellation insurance. Though we do not recommend specific companies, travel industry colleagues have recommended the following companies: AIG Travel, Alliance, Seven Corners, Travelguard, and WorldNomads. We also have an HHJ "sister" with whom we often arrange trip insurance, so let us know if you'd like her information. You might also see what your credit card offers, and many airlines now offer travel insurance.
-
The planning guide that we provide all registered guests who are paid in full includes a full trip itinerary, packing list, supportive travel information, release forms for you to review/sign/return to us, information on our trip book, and other supporting materials. There is also a link to a guest survey that collects your important information.
-
TBA
-
TBA