Isla Magdalena Dunes
Isla Magdalena
A long sand island separating the bay from the Pacific. Its dunes face calm bay waters on one side and Pacific surf on the other, making for a wild and empty beach.
Isla Magdalena is a sand island about 80 km long, stretching between Magdalena Bay and the Pacific Ocean. From Puerto López Mateos, a small boat takes about 10 minutes to reach the bay side of the island. Climb over the tall white dunes and you arrive at an empty beach on the Pacific side, where shells, sea urchin shells, and even whale bones often wash ashore. Many whale-watching boats offer a dune landing after the tour, for an extra fee, which should be arranged in advance. The island has no facilities at all. Waves and currents on the Pacific side are strong, so swimming is not advised. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Opening hours
Daytime, by boat
Nearby sights
- Gray Whale Watching at Puerto Adolfo López Mateos
- Magdalena Bay Mangrove Channels
- Whale Watching at Puerto San Carlos
- Isla Santa Margarita