Every winter, humpback whales travel thousands of miles to the warm waters of Cabo San Lucas. Our experienced captains will take you to meet them in the Sea of Cortez, where you can watch mothers swim with their calves and witness these giants breach into the sky. These close encounters with nature's most magnificent creatures create memories that last a lifetime.
Our most popular whale watching adventures, loved by travelers eager to witness humpback and gray whales breaching in Cabo's pristine waters.
Set sail on an unforgettable 2-hour whale watching adventure aboard a catamaran from Los Cabos, cruising into the Pacific to observe the magnificent annual migration of gray, humpback, and blue whales as they journey to tropical waters to give birth, listening to their beautiful songs through hydrophones while watching mothers with calves as the knowledgeable crew helps identify different species and behaviors, sailing past Cabo's iconic landmarks including Lover's Beach, the Arch, and Land's End for stunning photo opportunities, all with hotel pickup and drop-off, light breakfast or lunch, open bar with domestic drinks, and expert crew included.
Sail a luxurious crew-staffed catamaran through the Sea of Cortez on this 2-hour whale watching tour, gliding past the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Lovers' Beach, and dramatic rock formations while searching for majestic humpback and gray whales during migration season (December 15-April 15) as the crew expertly navigates toward safe whale encounters, all in an intimate group limited to 16 travelers with open bar, air-conditioned hotel transfers, and dock fee included.
Join Cabo's premier marine biologist-led whale watching tour on small eco-friendly boats for an intimate 2.5-hour adventure, sailing past Pelican Rock, Lovers Beach, and the iconic Arch before searching for humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and mobula rays, listening to humpback songs through a hydrophone when conditions allow, receiving free professional photos, and enjoying a 100% whale sighting guarantee—no whales, come again free (December 15-April 15)—led by expert biologists with 14 years of experience in small-group tours limited to 10 participants.
Luxury private tours designed for ultimate whale encounters, featuring smaller vessels, expert commentary, and undivided attention from your crew.
Skip crowded group tours and watch magnificent whales from the peace and comfort of a private yacht during Cabo's mating season (December-April) when thousands migrate to Baja's warm waters, sailing past the iconic Arch while learning about whale behavior from your knowledgeable guide, snorkeling at Pelican Beach, paddleboarding, and exploring local beaches and caves, all while sipping complimentary soda and water and using included water toys like floating mats, with options to upgrade for extended length and food, accommodating up to 18 guests with private transportation and meeting at IGY Marina Dock C included.
Sail Cabo's stunning coastline aboard the luxurious 42-foot Sea-Ray 400 "Freestyle" on this private 3-hour charter, visiting the famous Arch, Lover's Beach, and sea lion colony while watching whales during migration season, snorkeling at spectacular Santa Maria or Chileno bays with brand new gear, paddleboarding in azure waters, and relaxing on the shaded cockpit or sundeck enjoying light lunch and unlimited open bar, all with professional bilingual crew, transportation, and top-notch amenities including clean towels and onboard toilet.
Cruise Los Cabos in luxury aboard a stunning 45-foot Sundancer yacht on this private 3-hour charter, sailing past the famous Arch, Lover's Beach, and sea lion colony with winter whale watching, snorkeling pristine Santa Maria or Chileno bays and paddleboarding crystal-clear waters, savoring complimentary light lunch and unlimited premium cocktails in the spacious shaded cockpit while catching breathtaking Pacific sunsets, all with professional bilingual crew, high-end amenities, fresh towels, and onboard toilet included.
Family-focused whale tours designed with children in mind, featuring engaging guides, safe boats, and exciting educational experiences that make marine life come alive for young explorers.
Join Cabo's marine biologist-led whale watching tour on this 2.5-hour small-group adventure, sailing past The Arch, Lovers Beach, and Pelican Rock before heading into the Sea of Cortez or Pacific to encounter humpback whales, gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, and turtles, listening to whale songs through a hydrophone when possible, receiving free professional photos, and enjoying a whale sightings guarantee (December 15-April 15)—no whales, free second tour—all in an intimate group limited to 12 participants with expert biologist guide, onboard restroom, and water included.
Sail aboard the iconic Buccaneer Queen pirate ship on this whale watching cruise from Cabo San Lucas, cruising past Lover's Beach, the Arch, and sea lion colony before heading into the Pacific and Sea of Cortez to spot majestic humpback and gray whales during breeding migration, learning about whale behaviors from your knowledgeable guide while enjoying complimentary breakfast and unlimited open bar with beer, vodka, tequila, and sodas, all with round-trip hotel transfers included.
Witness humpback and gray whales in Mar de Cortez and the Pacific aboard a spacious twin-level power catamaran on this 2-hour adventure, cruising past Cabo's famous Arch while enjoying a hearty Mexican breakfast buffet with fresh fruit, burritos, chilaquiles, eggs, pancakes, and bacon, sipping from the open bar with mimosas, bloody marys, beer, and margaritas, and learning fascinating insights from an experienced marine biologist who shares whale behaviors throughout, all from a company strictly adhering to responsible whale watching guidelines.
All-day whale experiences that maximize your chances of incredible encounters while including snorkeling, lunch, and visits to multiple prime viewing locations.
Join this intimate small-group full-day gray whale watching adventure from La Paz to Puerto Chale, boarding a panga boat through mangroves for two hours of respectful whale observation while spotting birds and dolphins, accompanied by a marine biologist sharing up-to-date whale behaviors and conservation information, followed by delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to La Paz, all with hotel pickup, bottled water, soda, coffee, alcoholic beverages, and air-conditioned transport included.
Embark on a full-day Sea of Cortés adventure from Cabo San Lucas, traveling through the Californian desert to La Paz where you'll board a luxury boat and swim alongside majestic whale sharks—the ocean's "gentle giants"—along with dolphins, stingrays, and other marine life, suiting up in provided snorkel gear and wetsuits for an unforgettable underwater encounter, then strolling La Paz's beautiful boardwalk and enjoying delicious Baja-style tacos before returning, all with continental breakfast, expert guide, photographer, equipment, and small-group limited to 10 participants included.
Join this 2.5-hour sunrise whale watching cruise in Los Cabos to witness Humpback Whales breaching and tail-slapping during their annual migration, marveling at breathtaking seascapes and the famous Cabo Arch beautifully illuminated at sunrise for stunning photos, all led by expert marine biologists or naturalists sharing fascinating whale behaviors, research projects, and conservation programs as long-standing Los Cabos whale watching community members.
Cabo San Lucas sits at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating one of the world's premier whale watching destinations. Every winter, thousands of gray whales migrate from Alaska to these warm waters to give birth and raise their calves. Humpback whales breach dramatically, while blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, glide through the deep channels offshore. The experience of seeing a 40-ton whale surface just meters from your boat is unforgettable. Local captains who've spent their lives on these waters know where to find the whales and how to approach them respectfully. Cabo's consistent sightings and dramatic coastal backdrop make it an exceptional place to connect with marine life.
Witness gray whales and their calves in the warm waters where they migrate each winter to give birth and nurture their young.
Experience the power and grace of humpback whales as they breach, tail slap, and perform acrobatic displays.
Encounter the largest animals on Earth as blue whales glide through the deep Pacific waters off the Baja coast.
Join experienced local captains who know these waters intimately and ensure respectful, unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Our expert team has been helping travelers from the US and Canada discover and book Cabo whale watching tours for over a decade, ensuring your ocean adventure is seamless with everything arranged before you arrive.
With deep knowledge of Baja's marine life, partnerships with the most experienced local boat captains, and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, we're committed to making your whale watching journey truly extraordinary. From your first inquiry to your last sighting, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Honored by travelers and ocean conservation organizations
Travelers' Choice Award
2024
Guest Satisfaction Excellence
2023
Best Whale Watching Operator Mexico
Outstanding Maritime Service
Baja Marine Tourism Award
Cabo's rich waters host several whale species during migration season. Humpback whales are the most frequently seen, known for dramatic breaching, tail slapping, and complex vocalizations. Gray whales occasionally pass along the southern coastline after completing their epic 12,000-mile migration to Baja's northern lagoons. Blue whales (Earth's largest animals) are rarely spotted near Loreto in the Sea of Cortez. Orcas (killer whales) appear occasionally in small pods with their striking black-and-white coloration. You may also see fin whales, sperm whales, and Bryde's whales depending on conditions, plus whale sharks (though not true whales) near La Paz.
No, swimming with humpback whales is illegal in Cabo and throughout Mexico. Marine mammal protection laws prohibit swimming with or touching whales to ensure both human safety and whale conservation. However, you can enjoy incredible whale watching tours where you'll see humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and displaying natural behaviors from a safe and legal distance aboard a boat. These tours offer spectacular photo opportunities and unforgettable encounters without disturbing the whales.
While swimming with whales is prohibited, Cabo offers other incredible marine encounters! You can swim and snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes, experience whale shark encounters (seasonal), enjoy world-class scuba diving and snorkeling to see tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles, or explore the vibrant underwater world at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park. These experiences allow safe, legal, and ethical interactions with Cabo's amazing marine life.
Morning tours (typically departing around 8-9 AM) offer calmer seas, better visibility, and are ideal for families or those prone to seasickness. Afternoon excursions often bring increased wind and tide activity, which can lead to more dynamic whale behaviors like breaching and pectoral slapping. Biologists note that whale activity follows a rhythm of 2-3 days of heightened activity followed by rest periods, so building flexibility into your itinerary increases your chances of witnessing spectacular displays regardless of the time you choose.
Yes! During peak season (January-March), whales can sometimes be spotted from shore breaching, spouting, or tail slapping in the distance. Good viewing spots include beaches, resorts, and elevated coastal viewpoints. However, for guaranteed sightings, closer encounters, and the best photographic opportunities, we strongly recommend booking a whale watching boat tour with experienced guides who know where whales are most active and can provide educational context about these magnificent creatures.
Yes, whale watching in Cabo is very safe. Licensed operators prioritize passenger safety and follow strict environmental protocols that minimize impact on marine life. Boats are equipped with safety equipment, experienced captains navigate carefully, and guides are trained in marine wildlife behavior. Most tours are family-friendly, especially calmer morning outings. If you're prone to seasickness, take preventative medication and consider booking a morning tour when seas are typically calmer.
Yes! Most whale watching tours in Cabo are family-friendly and create unforgettable experiences for children. Morning tours with calmer seas are especially suitable for families with young kids. Witnessing whales breaching and playing in their natural habitat is educational and awe-inspiring for all ages. However, it's best to confirm specific age guidelines and restrictions when booking, as some operators may have minimum age requirements. Bring sun protection, snacks, and entertainment for younger children during travel time between viewing spots.
Essential items include: sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and sun-protective clothing; high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen; layered clothing (mornings can be cool even on sunny days); camera with zoom lens or binoculars for distant sightings; seasickness medication if you're motion-sensitive; water and light snacks; and a waterproof bag for electronics. Listen to your guide's expertise—they provide valuable context that deepens the experience. Above all, bring patience and curiosity, as nature operates on its own rhythm and the unpredictability is part of the magic!
Yes, booking early is highly recommended! Whale watching tours fill quickly during peak season (January-March), and the best operators and preferred time slots sell out weeks in advance. Early booking ensures you secure your preferred date, time (morning tours are most popular), and boat type. It also allows you to plan the rest of your Cabo itinerary around this highlight experience. Last-minute bookings are sometimes available but offer limited choices and may disappoint during high-demand periods.
Most whale watching tours in Cabo last 2-3 hours, providing ample time to travel to prime viewing areas, observe whales, and learn from expert guides without feeling rushed or fatigued. This duration strikes the perfect balance between maximizing your chances of multiple whale sightings and maintaining comfort on the water. Some luxury sailing experiences may offer longer excursions with additional amenities for those wanting a more relaxed, panoramic encounter.
