Growing up in Southern California, Baja California (“Baja”) always held a sense of mystery and adventure for me. After several years of sea kayaking off the coast of Dana Point, I wanted to try sea kayaking in the Sea of Cortez (also Gulf of California) on the east coast of Baja. I embarked on a solo kayaking trip around Bahia de Los Angeles in the Sea of Cortez, where I spent an unforgettable week camping on the beaches and exploring the hidden coves and turquoise waters of this stunning region.
However, my short trip to Baja only made me want to do a truly long trip in Baja. I came across an awe-inspiring tale of a solo kayaker who had traversed the entire length of Baja’s eastern coast in the Sea of Cortez, and I thought that maybe I could do at least a part of that journey. As I approached my 60th birthday, I felt the ever-pressing weight of time on my shoulders. I knew that if I didn’t act soon, the opportunity for a truly epic adventure would slip through my fingers forever. I settled on what I thought could be a month-long trip from San Felipe in Baja California Norte to Santa Rosalia in Baja California Sur, a distance of approximately 340 miles along the most rugged section of Baja’s coastline.
Undertaking a challenging feat like sea kayaking along the rugged and unpredictable coast of Baja California would not be an easy task. With some planning and many trips out of Dana Point to build up my stamina and physical condition, I set out on an unforgettable solo kayak journey that would take me along the stunning and treacherous coast of Baja California.
Thankfully, I had kept a detailed diary of my incredible journey of sea kayaking in Baja. And now, years later, I’m excited to revisit the adventure of a lifetime.
