I find it crazy to think that we are going on 4 months here in Todos Santos. And although I am far on being an expert on this place, with two kids to keep entertained we have come up with a pretty extensive list of “things to do with kids” in and around town.

I have even found myself informing “locals” on some of the fun, free things that are around!

Being the budget-minded person that I am, most of our activities are on the cheap, if not free side. I mean, that is part of how we afford to travel the way we do, don’t excessively spend on extras.

If you are considering heading this way, have already booked your tickets, or are already TS, here are some family friendly things that you may want to add to your must-do list:

 

Beaches

 

There seems to be beaches down every side road here, but not all are safe for swimming. The only one that we feel safe letting our girls swim around in is Cerritos beach, but we also love to play knee-deep in the shallow water of Las Palmas beach.

Cerritos beach is a great spot to spend an afternoon. There are chairs, beach umbrellas, and surf boards/boogie boards to rent. Also, there’s tons of people are available to teach you to surf if that’s what you are looking for. These are friends of ours that offer both adult and kids classes. There are a few bars and restaurants that line the beach, but you are also welcome to pack your own cooler full of goodies.

HEADS UP

– The girls call this place “black sand beach”. Because that is what it is, and that black sand will get into the weave of your swimsuits and stay there, so I don’t suggest light coloured swimwear!   

– Keep an eye on your kids, the riptide can be strong here. LIKE EVERY BEACH AROUND HERE.

 

 

Las Palmas beach is much quieter than Cerritos. Last time we went there were only three groups on the beach. The walk in is beautifully palm covered. Please keep in mind that this is private property, and the owner allows people to use the path to the beach, so be respectful.

HEADS UP

– Again, big rip current. We only went knee deep into the water and played at jumping over the waves. Stay safe.

– There are no amenities on this beach, so pack whatever you will be wanting to eat and drink.

For the other beaches that are not as “swimmer friendly”, they are still beautiful areas to check out. Go for a walk and enjoy watching the waves crash in. Go try to spot some whales offshore. Or go release some baby turtles!

 

Turtle Release

 

There are two conservation groups (that I know of) on either side of town, that protect sea turtle nests and release the hatchlings back into the ocean. This is a seasonal thing. But if you are around during the right time it is definitely worth checking out.

For a small “donation” you will be handed an emptied-out coconut shell with a tiny, baby turtle in it. Then everyone lines up on the beach and releases these little guys, cheering them on as they make their trek towards the ocean. 

 

Pools

 

It may seem funny to go swimming in a pool when there is ocean all around, but sometimes it’s nice to relax in the water without having to worry about waves and riptide. There are a few spots that we have gone to check out the pool. Some charge to use it, some only ask that you eat or drink in their establishment.

Two that we have enjoyed are: La Bohemia’s and Free Souls Restaurant (in Cerritos). We liked La Bohemia’s because, although the pool is small, it’s big enough for kids, and their lounge area has a great boho feel. And Free Souls is a great HEATED infinity pool where you can watch the sun set over the ocean. Quite magical.

 

Play Parks

 

There are three play parks that we gravitate towards.

The Plaza Park, which is right in town. There you will find a big play structure, sand, a small skate ramp, and a half-pipe. There is always someone there to play with.

Gallo Azul is a pizzeria in town that has a play structure with swings, a bocce ball court, and “corn hole” to play with in their back patio. They also have a good happy hour and yummy pizza to keep you busy while the kids run around.

La Esquina is a cafe/restaurant on the “otro lado”. They have a small play structure with some swings, again, to keep the little people happy while you hang out.

I have heard good things about Jungle Pescadero but have yet to check them out. But they are on my list. They have a large space for kids to run and play, and a petting zoo!

 

 

Library

The Palapa Society has opened up an adult and children’s library. It’s a great little nook to go hang out with your kids, read some books, and let them play with some of the puzzles that are set out.

Right now they are also offering Story and Art time every Saturday morning at 11. Bring the kiddos for a story followed by an at project that has to do with the book that was just read to them. It last about an hour, and it’s free!

 

 

Classes

 

 

If you are around long enough there are several classes that you can enrol your kids in. Our are in:

Kids’ Exercise Classes. They happen Mon-Fri at 4pm at Aldo’s Gym. They last about 45 min. It is a great way to run some energy out of your kids!

Dance. Our girls have Hawaiian dance class every Friday at Cuatro Vientos. Check out their website for a schedule of all the yoga, dance, and other classes they offer. I have also heard about ballet classes, as well as Traditional Mexican dance classes that are available, but we have not tried them, so I have no personal experience with them. But they do exist.

Art Classes. The Palapa Society offers a number of classes, and one of them is art classes for kids 6 and up. The class is free, but there is a waitlist. Drop-by the Palapa to see if they have anything for you little ones.

Other. The girls have taken cooking classes with Hablando Mexicano, who offer a number of different kids classes. And I have also heard about martial arts classes for kids.

 

Live Music

We recently went to Super Mini Munchies for their Tuesday night open mike night. They serve a small menu of healthy foods, have HUGE ice cream sandwiches, and are family friendly.

Every Sunday at Baja Beans cafe there is live music, local vendors selling everything from jewellery to food, and best of all, coffee!!! It’s a fun spot to go sit and let your kids roam around while you sip on a latte and listen to some music.

 

 

Go For A Walk/Hike

If your kids enjoy walking there are plenty of options around here. You can go for a stroll along the beach. Go window/souvenir shopping through town, using the ice cream shops as perfect bribery spots, enticing your kids to do a “paleta” tour of town. Or try out some of the walking trails that take off near here. All are great options to stretch out your legs.

 

 

Eating Out

This is a whole other post in itself. Todos Santos is a foodie’s dream. Here you can find everything from farm-to-table, to fine dining, to street side vendors with delicious goodies. There are spots where your kids can roam free like the wildlings that they are, and other spots that make your children feel like royalty. In any case, there is something for everyone’s tastebuds and budget. Do not be shy, try it all…we’re VERY slowly working our way through the restaurants in town!

 

 

Sources of Information

– If you are coming this way, sign up for the Baja Western Onion. It is a bi-weekly newsletter that will be emailed to you with all the upcoming events and chatter of TS. Also “follow” their Facebook page as well at the Todos Santos Newsfeed.

– The Journal Del Pacifico has been my go-to magazine since moving here. They have maps with all the restaurants, stores, and bars in town and neighbouring towns. They show where all the local beaches are. And they have a listing of all the Happy Hours in town!!!

 

There’s Always US

Still looking for something to do in town? Well we’re here! Send me a message and we can totally meet up for a playdate at one of the above places, or anywhere really!