Humpback Whale Breaching on Pacific Ocean, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

What To Know Before
Whale Watching In Cabo San Lucas On The Baja Peninsula

By Eben Diskin | Published on January 14, 2022

When you hear "whale watching," it might evoke the memory of an elementary school field trip onboard an unsteady charter boat in the chilly North Atlantic wind. However, whale watching in Cabo San Lucas redefines the experience in the best way. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and watersports — paddle boarding, kayaking, or diving, anyone? — Cabo San Lucas is also one of Mexico's premier whale-watching destinations.

Things To Do In Cabo San Lucas

Take A Cruise To Baja Peninsula For Whale Watching

The capital of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas sits at the junction of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, waters that serve as migratory stops and breeding areas for humpback and gray whales. With Mexico cruises from Los Angeles you can spend the perfect day in Cabo on a whale watching excursion in the tropical breeze, on the Mexican coast's sun-drenched waters.

When To Go Whale Watching In Cabo San Lucas

Drone View of the Villa Group of Hotels on Medano Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The key to successful whale watching? Visiting at the right time. Whales don't plan their migration patterns around our vacations, so prospective whale watchers need to be aware of when whale activity is highest.

Humpback Whales Pacific Ocean, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Whales travel 3,000 miles from their feeding grounds in Alaska and Siberia to their home on the Mexican coast each year to mate, reproduce, nurse their calves and socialize. The whale-watching season in Cabo extends from December through April, though most activity in Cabo San Lucas usually takes place January through March when the females start calving (which means it's also the best time to see baby whales). December to January also registers high activity, when males travel from pod to pod looking for females.

Humpbacks make up the majority of Cabo's whale population, identifiable by their dark hue and playful nature.

The time of day you hit the water also plays a role in what whales you might see. Whales are most active in the afternoon and early evening due to high tides and increased winds. Whales in Cabo have also been observed to be active in two-to-three day cycles before taking a few days to rest. It's important to be aware of these cycles when planning your trip.

Humpback Whale Jumping out of Water, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Additional Tips On Whale Migration Patterns In Cabo

So, what whales can you actually expect to see? Whale watching means getting up close and personal with some of the ocean's most awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world. Humpbacks make up the majority of Cabo's whale population, identifiable by their dark hue and playful nature. They migrate to Cabo San Lucas from November through April, spending the entire season there.

Gray whales are another frequent visitor off the coast of Cabo San Lucas, especially near Magdalena Bay from early January through mid-April. They travel in small groups and are often spotted close to shore — you might even be able to catch a glimpse of them from land.

Grey Whale Breach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

You can also expect to see many whale sharks between October and late April. Considered the world's largest fish, growing up to 39 feet long, whale sharks can be recognized by their gray-brown skin with white spots and horizontal stripes. But don't worry, they only eat plankton and pose no harm to humans.

Whale Shark Underwater, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

These aren't the only marine mammals you'll see in Cabo, either. It's not unheard-of to catch a glimpse of orcas, blue whales, sperm whales and fin whales, though they often pass through the area quickly without lingering long.

Killer Whale Jumping Out of the Ocean, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The best location for whale watching often depends on the species itself. Gray whale calves, for example, tend to remain in protected lagoons and coves to develop their hunting and survival skills, while humpback whale calves are more likely to venture into open waters and hunt for food close to shore. Luckily, you won't have to worry too much about chasing whales up and down the coast, as your whale-watching tour operators will be experts on the subject.

Essential Tips For Whale Watching

Your level of preparation can either make or break your whale-watching experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you go.

Pack Smart

Just because you're under the Mexico sun, doesn't mean you're immune to the chilly ocean wind. It's always colder on the water than it is on land, so make sure to pack layers to stay warm. That includes sweatshirts, gloves, hats that cover your ears, and even a blanket. Waterproof clothing like jackets and shoes are also smart, as you might not stay as dry as you'd think.

Wear Sunscreen

You might be spending the day out on the water, cooled by the sea breeze and occasional ocean spray, but the sun's just as strong on the boat as it is on the beach. In Cabo, the sun shines year-round — don't let it be your downfall. Nothing ruins a vacation more than a nasty sunburn, so don't skip the sunscreen before your whale-watching excursion.

Put The Camera Down

There'll be plenty of time to take photos, so don't forget to unplug and soak in the moment. In the age of smartphones, "bring a camera" is advice no one needs to hear. Of course you'll have a camera on hand to capture every majestic whale-watching moment; the real trick is knowing when to put the phone down. You're in Cabo. You're with friends or family. You're surrounded by some of the most beautiful creatures on the planet.

After all, the only thing better than watching a humpback whale leap out of the water through your iPhone lens is watching it with your own eyes.

Manage Your Expectations

Watching whales doesn't come with any guarantees. You shouldn't expect to board the ship, take out your camera, and immediately see dozens of whales leap out of the water on cue. Whales aren't enlisted actors performing on a stage for our amusement — they're simply living their lives down there. Whale watching in Cabo San Lucas means observing whales in their natural habitat, so patience is key.

Whales in Pacific Ocean near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Luckily, Cabo's whale population during breeding season is quite high, and it's extremely likely you'll see plenty of whale activity. Just remember that it might take a while to see your first whale during a whale watch, and that whale might not be doing somersaults and backflips.

Gear up for the adventure of a lifetime on the stunning waters of the Baja Peninsula, home to some of the most majestic creatures our world has to offer. You won't want to miss this unique whale-watching experience.

Written By
Eben Diskin

Eben Diskin is a travel writer, amateur pizza connoisseur, avid Indoorsman, and the Senior Staff Writer at Matador Network. While traveling, he pretends to enjoy activities like hiking, camping, fine dining, and museums, when all he really wants to do is drink Jack and Cokes at the hotel bar. He has a degree in History from Wheaton College and a definitely-not-useless Master's in Fiction Writing from the University of Edinburgh.

Get Royal Deals, Sign Up Today

First Name

Missing First Name

Last Name

Missing Last Name

Email Address

mail_outline

Missing Email Address Invalid Email Address

Sign Up

There was an error processing your request. Please try again.

Thank you for signing up!

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy.