Los Cabos is renowned for the diversity of sights and activities it offers to international travelers and local residents alike. From gnarly surf beaches and extreme adventure activities (think ziplining and ATV rides) to exquisite spa days and farm-to-table dining, first-time travelers and repeat visitors are met with an array of opportunities to enjoy everything Los Cabos has to offer. At the top of our list? Whale watching! Our vacation rentals offer quick and easy access to the area’s best tour providers, so read on for all you need to know about whale-watching season in Los Cabos!
The Background
The Baja Peninsula divides the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, with the two joining forces in sunny Los Cabos, providing the perfect conditions for whale activity. Each year around December, various species of these spectacular creatures migrate south from their Arctic feeding grounds to the warm and plentiful waters of Los Cabos to mate, play and give birth.
When to Book
While specific dates are defined annually by the governing body SEMARNAT (the Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources for Mexico), locals consider the season to span December through April, with the chances of sightings increasing to over 90% from January through March.
Vacation rentals in the area are booked quickly by tourists planning their yearly vacations around this beautiful, seasonal experience. At our luxury villa Los Cabos, Casa Bellamar, our vacation experts are available to provide information prior to booking to increase your chances of whale sightings during your stay.
Where to Stay
There is no shortage of accommodation options in Mexico’s most coveted tourist destination. From private vacation rentals and resort hotels to luxury vacation villas Los Cabos has options to accommodate all tastes and budgets. You can book online, utilize your travel agent, or, even better, treat yourself to a stay at our luxury villa Los Cabos, Casa Bellamar.
What Will I See
Early in the season migration begins, with males exploring neighboring pods to find females with which to mate. With the arrival of more males, activity increases as they compete for female attention, upping your chances of sighting more of these spectacular mammals. From late January through early February, babies are born, and the later in the season you travel the higher your chances of seeing the little ones play as they grow stronger.
The massive Humpback Whale is the most commonly sighted in Los Cabos. Adults range in length from 14 to 17 meters and weigh up to 44 metric tons. Sperm whales migrate through the area en route to other destinations, so sightings are fewer but not unheard of. Even rarer are Orcas, Blue Whales, and Fin Whales, so count yourself lucky if you happen upon a pod! Those looking to get up close and personal should hit up La Paz, where snorkeling with the plankton-eating, overly-friendly Whale Shark is one of the city’s most coveted experiences.
Whale Related Activities
Local tour companies offer a range of whale-related activities. As we mentioned, snorkeling tends to happen in La Paz. Los Cabos-based businesses such as Cabo Expeditions and Cabo Adventures provide private group or shared boat tours with experienced guides who will explain migration patterns and provide fun facts as you watch these spectacular creatures breach the surface. Keep in mind that most tours won’t accept children under 5 and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. On a side note, life jackets are mandatory!
Whatever the reason for your trip to paradise, whale-watching is an experience to be treasured for a lifetime. Check in with your travel expert for the best vacation villas Los Cabos has to offer and enjoy this incredible experience with your family. We guarantee you will be returning!
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