The state of Baja California Sur has the largest protected surface area in Mexico, amounting to approximately 2,813,914 ha (38.3% of the state area). Included are two biosphere reserves, a submarine refuge of flora and fauna, and several islands in the Gulf of California. These reserves and refuges provide legal protection for most of the ecosystems of the region. The state's protected areas are distinguished by the occurrence of a great number of marine mammals, several nesting and wintering sites for migratory and resident aquatic birds, several endemic and threatened species, and numerous archaeological sites. This paper describes the status of these reserves and refuges in terms of category of protection, legal status, biodiversity, and species statuses. In addition, we appraise the management of these protected areas and the importance of management to the conservation of the natural resources of the state, region, and country.