Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour to see Dolphins and Marine Life

This boat tour from Puerto Angelito Beach offers an exciting look at the vibrant marine environment off Mexico’s Oaxaca coast. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, memorable adventure—perfect for those who love wildlife encounters, scenic ocean views, and relaxed group outings.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat feels genuinely special. Second, the snorkeling opportunity adds an interactive element that takes the adventure beyond just watching from the boat. Lastly, the friendly guides and good value make it accessible and enjoyable for all ages. One thing to consider? Seasickness might be an issue for some travelers, given the open water and occasional rough waves. This tour seems best suited for nature lovers, families, and anyone keen on marine wildlife.

Good To Know

• Wildlife encounters are front and center, with dolphins, turtles, and even whales in season.
• Snorkeling adds an interactive element, allowing swimmers to get close to marine animals.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, bilingual communication, and friendly demeanor.
• Flexibility in booking and cancellation offers peace of mind for spontaneous plans.
• Value for money, with many reviewers highlighting the affordability compared to the experience.
• Group size is small, making the tour intimate and personalized.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Puerto Escondido Marine Tour

Starting Point and How You Meet Your Guide

The adventure begins at Puerto Angelito Beach, a lively, scenic spot with calm waters and a relaxed vibe. When you arrive, ask for Mike or the boat named ‘Fanny’ at the main parking lot—this straightforward meeting point simplifies the process. The tour is typically around 2.5 to 3 hours long, fitting neatly into a morning or early afternoon schedule.

Many reviewers mention how friendly and approachable the guides are—Mike, Hector, and others go out of their way to make sure everyone feels comfortable, bilingual guides ensure clear communication, and they often check in with guests during the trip. Plus, with options for small groups or private tours, you get a more personalized experience, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Marine Wildlife Watching and Dolphin Spotting

The main highlight of this trip is definitely dolphin watching—an activity that surprises many visitors with just how close and playful these creatures can be. The boat departs from Puerto Angelito, heading out into the open waters where dolphins like Pinto, White Belly, Whitenose, Bottle, and Screw are often seen.

Reviewers consistently mention how the guides are diligent, often coordinating with other boats to ensure the best viewing spots. One guest noted, “Hector was constantly checking with other boats to make sure we saw dolphins & whales,” which shows the level of effort to maximize sightings.

While the dolphins are in their natural environment and tend to be shy at times, many swimmers report being lucky enough to jump in and swim alongside them, just as a few reviewers did. Sometimes they are quick to swim away if disturbed, but the guides try to get guests close whenever possible. As one visitor said, “We swam with dolphins and even saw a big pod of them jumping around us.”

Swimming with Turtles and Snorkeling

Snorkeling is another major component. The boat stops near the reef, where you can put on provided masks and fins to observe colorful fish, corals, and often come close to turtles. Multiple reviewers describe the thrill of swimming with sea turtles or dolphins, with some even mentioning encounters with small sharks—safety is a priority, and guides are attentive to the conditions.

One guest shared, “We swam with turtles, and they gave us quite a show, too, with their acrobatic jumps,” highlighting the memorable experiences snorkeling can provide. Others appreciated the opportunity to capture photos underwater, making the trip a visual feast.

Whale Watching (November to March)

During the winter months, from November to March, the tour offers a chance to see humpback whales—an added bonus that elevates this trip from a dolphin cruise to a true marine safari. Several reviews recount sightings of whales from afar and close enough to get a good look. One famous quote: “We managed to find a few humpbacks and even saw a baby jump 30 meters in front of us—twice!”

Additional Activities and Comforts

Listening to Your Music

A thoughtful touch is the Bluetooth stereo system, allowing guests to connect their own playlists. Many reviews mention how playing personal music adds a layer of fun and relaxation to the trip, making it feel less like a tour and more like a floating party.

Food and Drinks

Guests are encouraged to bring their own drinks and snacks, which can be stored in the cooler supplied on board. Some reviewers mention enjoying cold beverages while lounging on the boat’s beds or sunbathing, turning the trip into a laid-back, social outing.

Relaxing and Photos

The boat features comfortable beds, perfect for relaxing under the sun, and ample space for photos. Many travelers say they captured incredible shots of dolphins, whales, turtles, and the stunning coastline.

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The Real Value of This Tour

At $44 per person, this experience offers excellent value—especially considering the number of marine animals that appear and the chance to swim with them. The reviews mention the professionalism of guides like Hector, Mike, and others, who are attentive, knowledgeable, and fluent in both Spanish and English.

The fact that the tour can be customized—whether in private or small group settings—adds to its appeal. It’s also flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, which is perfect for spontaneous travelers or those hesitant about weather conditions.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Seasickness: Some reviews hint that the boat ride can be bumpy, especially if the waves are strong. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions beforehand.
• Timing: Morning trips are typically available, but some reviewers suggest doing the tour in the afternoon, as dolphins tend to be more curious after eating.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water are essential. Don’t forget your camera or phone for photos and videos.
• Snorkeling Gear: While masks are provided, bringing your own snorkel could make the experience more comfortable.
• Group Size: Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciated for better wildlife encounters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a genuine chance to see dolphins, whales, and turtles up close. Families with kids will enjoy the relaxed pace and interactive swimming opportunities, and the bilingual guides make it accessible for international travelers. If you’re keen on taking photos or just soaking up ocean views with some chill music, this is an ideal, affordable choice.

However, if seasickness is a concern or you have mobility issues, you might want to prepare accordingly or discuss options with the operator beforehand.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Puerto Escondido offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife watching. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and a focus on respecting marine life, it provides genuine value for the price. Whether you’re swimming alongside dolphins, snapping photos of whales, or simply soaking up the sun on the boat, it’s an experience likely to stay with you long after the trip ends.

Best suited for nature lovers, families, and those eager to get away from crowded tourist spots, this tour promises authentic encounters in a stunning setting. For anyone who loves marine life or wants to add a splash of adventure to their Oaxaca trip, it’s a highly recommended addition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially since some reviews highlight swimming opportunities and a relaxed pace. Just consider your kids’ comfort with open water and seasickness.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel masks are provided, but bringing your own snorkel can enhance comfort, especially if you plan to snorkel multiple times.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear light, waterproof clothing, bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and waterproof shoes if you plan to stay on deck. Don’t forget your camera and some snacks or drinks for the ride.

Can I expect to see whales?
Whale sightings are seasonal, available from November to March. Many guests report seeing humpback whales during their trips in these months.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled or rescheduled with 24 hours’ notice. Check the weather forecast and communicate with your guide if you have concerns.

Is there any food included?
No, guests should bring their own drinks and snacks, which are stored in the cooler on board.

This tour offers a lively, authentic chance to connect with Mexico’s rich marine ecosystem—all while enjoying the relaxed pace of a small-group boat outing. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: