La Paz, Mexico
La Paz, Mexico is a vibrant port city renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and gateway to the UNESCO-listed Sea of Cortez.
Port Overview
La Paz is located on the eastern shore of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico and serves as the capital of Baja California Sur. While not among Mexico’s largest ports, it plays a strategic role as a maritime gateway for regional trade and tourism in the Gulf of California. The port handles approximately 12,000 TEUs annually and can accommodate vessels up to 100 meters in length. Its moderate cargo capacity and location make it important for connecting Baja California Sur with mainland Mexico and supporting local economic activity.
Facilities & Infrastructure
La Paz, Mexico’s main port facilities are centered at Pichilingue, featuring a dedicated cruise terminal and separate cargo operations. Key terminals include a general cargo terminal and a recently developed LNG terminal. Cargo facilities handle containers, bulk, and liquid cargo, with port cranes available for container and LNG handling. The port does not use automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and equipment is primarily conventional, including mobile and fixed cranes for loading and unloading.
Container Terminals
La Paz, Mexico’s container terminal is located at the Pichilingue port area and features 2 main berths for container and general cargo operations. The terminal has an annual capacity of approximately 12,000 TEU. Automation is minimal, with operations largely manual and reliant on traditional equipment. The major operator is Baja Ferries, which handles most containerized and Ro-Ro cargo between La Paz and mainland Mexico.
Port Services
La Paz, Mexico, primarily focuses on marina services rather than container handling or cargo operations. Key services include:
- Ship Services: Marina facilities offer fuel docks, repair services, and maintenance.
- Customs: Clearing into Mexico involves immigration and port captain procedures.
- Warehousing: Limited, with focus on marine supplies and chandleries.
- Other Services: Laundry, showers, and mail services are available at marinas.
Global Connectivity
La Paz, Mexico is connected to mainland ports Mazatlán and Topolobampo (Los Mochis) via regular ferry services across the Gulf of California. It serves the Baja California peninsula, facilitating cargo and passenger movement between Baja and northwest Mexico. Shipping routes from La Paz provide access to domestic markets and link to broader Pacific trade lanes, supporting regional commerce and tourism. The port is a key gateway for goods entering and leaving Baja California Sur.
Port Statistics
Port of La Paz, Mexico – Key Statistics (2025)
- TEU throughput: Not a major container port; container throughput data not reported.
- World ranking: Not ranked among the world’s top container ports.
- Number of berths: 0 dedicated container berths; primarily serves general cargo, ferries, and passenger vessels.
- Port area: Specific land area not published; operates as a regional port.
- Shipping lines: Mainly regional operators and ferry services; no major international container lines call regularly.
