Preparing for an UnCruise Baja Adventure is as exciting as the journey itself. One great way to enrich your trip is by diving into stories, films, and documentaries about Baja California’s wildlife, landscapes, history, and culture. Below is a curated selection of English-language books, movies, and TV episodes to help you get to know this extraordinary region before you even board your ship.
🎬 Must-Watch Movies & Documentaries
Baja: The Other California
This award-winning documentary explores the unique geography, wildlife, and rugged beauty of the Baja California peninsula. It’s an excellent primer on the region’s rich ecosystems and dramatic landscapes.
Watch or rent on Fandango at Home
Ocean Oasis (IMAX)
A visually stunning journey through Mexico’s Sea of Cortés and the Baja California desert, showcasing manta rays, migrating whales, desert wildlife, and underwater scenes filmed in giant-screen IMAX format.
Learn more via the San Diego Natural History Museum
Sea of Shadows
This gripping National Geographic documentary follows conservationists racing to save the critically endangered vaquita porpoise from illegal fishing in the Sea of Cortez. It’s dramatic, eye-opening, and deeply connected to the region’s marine conservation story.
Pati’s Mexican Table – “La Paz: The Heart of Baja Sur”
Chef Pati Jinich explores the beaches, food, culture, and whale-shark experiences of La Paz in this warm, engaging episode of her PBS show. It’s a great introduction to the local flavor and laid-back charm of Baja Sur.
Watch Pati’s Baja road trip episodes on YouTube
📚 Captivating Books About Baja
The Log from the Sea of Cortez – John Steinbeck
A classic blend of science, travel, philosophy, and adventure as Steinbeck recounts his 1940 marine expedition through the Gulf of California. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves natural history and thoughtful exploration.
Publisher page (Penguin Random House)
Baja Legends – Greg Niemann
An engaging look at Baja’s history, folklore, colorful characters, and major events. Niemann shares stories that bring the peninsula’s past and present to life, making this a fun companion for curious travelers.
Miraculous Air – C.M. Mayo
A beautifully written travel memoir chronicling a 1,000-mile journey through Baja California. Mayo captures the region’s spirit, culture, remote towns, and sweeping vistas with warmth and insight.
Learn more from the publisher (Milkweed Editions)
The Pearl – John Steinbeck
A powerful novella set in La Paz, telling the story of a pearl diver whose life changes after discovering a legendary pearl. Themes of hope, greed, and the human spirit echo through Baja’s historic roots.
Publisher page (Penguin Random House)
The Girl of the Sea of Cortez – Peter Benchley
A warm, eco-adventure novel from the author of Jaws. Featuring a young heroine and her bond with the sea and its creatures, the story paints a vivid picture of the marine world of the Sea of Cortez.
Publisher page (Penguin Random House)
Theo Forgotten Peninsula – Joseph Wood Krutch
A naturalist’s poetic exploration of Baja’s flora, fauna, and wild beauty. This classic work offers thoughtful reflections on the peninsula’s landscapes and ecosystems.
Publisher page (University of Arizona Press)
🌅 Your Adventure Begins Before You Board
Whether you’re inspired by marine documentaries, intrigued by Baja’s history, or captivated by its natural beauty, these films and books will enhance your understanding of this extraordinary region. Dive into a story, watch a stunning documentary, or curl up with a Baja-inspired novel—and let the adventure begin before you even step aboard your UnCruise journey.
