La Paz
The Malecon of La Paz, Baja California Sur. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.
The capital of Baja California Sur, stretched along a broad bay with a lively malecon of sculptures, cafes, and sunset crowds. It is the departure point for whale shark snorkeling in the bay and boat trips to Isla Espíritu Santo, a UNESCO-listed island of sea lions and turquoise coves. The pace is relaxed, with none of Los Cabos' flash.