La Paz’s whale watching ranks among Mexico’s top wildlife experiences. Marine biologists lead intimate boat tours (4-12 people) to three prime spots in the Sea of Cortez. The best encounters happen between December and March, when gray whales arrive in the bay.
We’re impressed with the small-group tours that combine whale watching with snorkeling opportunities. Our favorite outings start early morning, include naturalist guides, and offer both whale shark encounters and sea lion visits – all in one efficient trip.
Browse these carefully selected tours for your perfect whale watching adventure:
Good To Know
- Whale shark tours offer personalized small-group experiences led by marine biologists, with opportunities to see whale sharks, manta rays, and other marine life.
- Gray whale watching tours provide intimate group sizes and expert insights from marine biologists, with fees supporting conservation efforts.
- Combo tours combine snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions, along with visits to scenic beaches, and include a fresh ceviche lunch.
- Marine biologist-guided tours offer in-depth knowledge of the local marine ecosystem in small group settings.
- Tour accessibility and weather conditions should be considered when booking, with early reservations recommended during peak seasons.
Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour in a Reduced Group With Local Marine Biologist
Although the whale shark is the largest known species of fish, snorkeling with these gentle giants is a breathtaking and thrilling experience.
A top-rated whale shark snorkeling tour in La Paz, Mexico, offers a small group setting with a maximum of 9 travelers, led by knowledgeable local marine biologists. With a 99% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides complimentary equipment, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins, ensuring comfort and safety during the guided swims with the whale sharks.
Light refreshments are also included, and transportation to and from the meeting point is provided. Guests have praised the personalized attention and thorough briefings on regulations and safety.
While some have noted occasional noise from other guests, the overall experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, with opportunities to encounter not only whale sharks but also manta rays and dolphins.
Priced from $147.99 per person, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable encounter with the ocean’s largest fish.
Read our full review: Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour in a Reduced Group With Local Marine Biologist Review
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Small Group Whale Shark Snorkeling in La Paz BCS MX
Travelers seeking an up-close encounter with the world’s largest fish can embark on a small group whale shark snorkeling tour in the waters off La Paz, Mexico. This half-day excursion allows a maximum of 10 participants to interact with whale sharks in their natural habitat.
The tour is highly rated, with 365 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation. Included in the experience are all necessary snorkeling equipment, snacks, and bottled water. Wetsuits, underwater photos, and videos are also available.
The tour departs from the Marina de La Paz, with a recommended arrival at least 15 minutes prior to the 9:00 am start time.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or individuals with serious medical conditions.
Most travelers can participate and enjoy this unique, seasonal opportunity to observe whale sharks up close.
Read our full review: Small Group Whale Shark Snorkeling in La Paz BCS MX Review
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Reduced Group Whale Shark Tour
For those seeking a more intimate whale shark encounter in La Paz, the Reduced Group Whale Shark Tour offers a unique opportunity. Limited to just six snorkelers, this small-group tour provides a personalized experience and a better guest-to-guide ratio.
Guests can expect to spend more time in the water compared to larger tours, maximizing their interaction with the gentle giants.
The tour includes all the necessary equipment, as well as snacks, drinks, and biodegradable sunscreen. Sustainability is a priority, with no single-use plastics and the use of old-fashioned glasses and purified water.
Guides capture photos and videos, which are included in the tour price, ensuring guests can cherish their memorable experience.
The tour departs from Marina La Paz, with guides meeting guests at the entrance. After the tour, guests return to the same meeting point.
With a weight limit of 260 lbs and an age range of 5 to 80 years, the tour caters to a wide range of participants.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, respect for wildlife, and the unforgettable opportunity to swim with whale sharks.
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Whales Tour From La Paz
La Paz offers whale watching tours that provide up-close encounters with the majestic grey whales. The tour includes restaurant meals, bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, a whale watching boat ride, and tips for guides and restaurants.
Departing between 8-8:30 am, the tour starts at 9 am and accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Masks are required, though compliance issues have been reported.
Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, and the included meals, especially the fresh fish, are noted for their quality.
Reviewers enthusiastically describe close encounters with whales, including seeing them breach and swim near the boat. The emotional impact of witnessing these majestic creatures is a highlight.
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Snorkel Tour With Whale Shark in La Paz
Although located in the same destination as the whale watching tours, the Snorkel Tour with Whale Shark in La Paz offers a distinctly different and immersive experience.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per tour, this intimate snorkeling adventure provides the unique opportunity to swim alongside the massive but gentle whale sharks. The tour is highly recommended, boasting a 94% approval rating from 36 reviews.
At $98.61 per person, the price includes all fees, taxes, snorkeling equipment, and transportation from the hotel. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Travelers can enjoy snacks and purified water on board, as well as towels and WiFi. The knowledgeable and friendly guides receive praise for their personalized attention.
However, some reports of overbooking and communication issues have been noted. This snorkel tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the majestic whale sharks in the stunning waters of La Paz.
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Gray Whale Watching Tour With Marine Biologist and Small Group
Travelers seeking a captivating and educational whale watching experience in La Paz should consider the Gray Whale Watching Tour with Marine Biologist. This full-day tour offers a unique opportunity to observe gray whales in their natural habitat along the Baja California coast during their winter migration.
With a maximum of 6 people, the intimate group size ensures a personalized experience. The tour is led by a knowledgeable marine biologist who provides insightful commentary throughout the 3-hour boat cruise.
Travelers will have the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close while learning about their behavior and ecology. The eco-conscious approach ensures no forced interactions with the whales, prioritizing their wellbeing.
Included in the tour are roundtrip transportation, a fresh seafood lunch, snacks, and beverages. The tour fee also supports MAREA’s marine conservation efforts.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this Gray Whale Watching Tour is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting La Paz.
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Small Group Snorkeling and Swim With Whale Sharks & Sea Lions in La Paz
For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with marine life, the Small Group Snorkeling and Swim With Whale Sharks & Sea Lions in La Paz delivers an exceptional experience.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 59 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence for its small-group approach and personalized service.
Departing from La Paz, the tour takes participants to two snorkel spots – San Rafaelito and Balandra Beach – where they can swim alongside wild whale sharks and sea lions.
Equipped with provided snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and underwater photo/video services, guests can fully enjoy this unique opportunity. A fresh ceviche lunch at Balandra Beach rounds out the experience.
Catering to a maximum of 10 participants, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate adventure.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can enjoy this exceptional activity that features excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and unparalleled wildlife encounters.
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Sea of Cortez Combo: Whale Sharks, Sea Lions & Balandra Beach
Offering an unparalleled opportunity to encounter the captivating marine life of the Sea of Cortez, the Sea of Cortez Combo: Whale Sharks, Sea Lions & Balandra Beach tour provides an unforgettable full-day experience.
Departing from La Paz, this private sightseeing tour features up-close encounters with the world’s largest fish, whale sharks, as well as playful sea lions. After snorkeling with these incredible creatures, guests will enjoy a relaxing visit to the stunning Balandra Beach.
The tour includes a delicious lunch of fish ceviche, sandwiches, and refreshments. Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and all necessary permits are provided, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free adventure.
With a maximum group size of 12, travelers can expect personalized attention from the certified guide, who’ll also document the tour through photos and videos. Rated 5 stars by previous guests, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an exceptional way to explore the natural wonders of the Sea of Cortez.
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Whale Shark 3-Hours Tour in La Paz
The Whale Shark 3-Hours Tour in La Paz provides an unparalleled opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures up close. Recommended by 95% of travelers, this 4-hour tour led by marine biologists offers a thrilling and educational experience.
Participants can expect to see multiple encounters with whale sharks ranging from 6 to 8 meters long, with 3-5 jumps per tour. The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, a wetsuit, and biodegradable sunblock, ensuring a comfortable and environmentally-conscious experience.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and professional guides, who ensure the safety and respect of the marine life. While a moderate level of fitness is required, the tour may involve swimming quickly to keep up with the whale sharks.
Travelers should also note that the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain health conditions. The Whale Shark 3-Hours Tour in La Paz promises an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants of the sea.
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Whale Shark Adventure With a Marine Biologist
Travelers seeking an unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of the sea can embark on the Whale Shark Adventure with a Marine Biologist in La Paz, Mexico. Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 69 reviews, this 3-hour tour offers a Badge of Excellence and a 99% traveler recommendation.
Led by knowledgeable and patient guides, the small group experience (maximum 10 travelers) allows for respectful interactions with the whale sharks while ensuring a memorable encounter.
The adventure departs from the Playa SN-C RESTAURANT BAR LA COSTA in the Zona Central of La Paz. Included amenities such as snacks, soda, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and wetsuits ensure a comfortable journey. Lunch is also provided.
While not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions, a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is an excellent choice for those eager to witness the majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat.
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Swim With Whale Shark From La Paz
For those eager to get up close with the majestic whale sharks, the Swim With Whale Shark From La Paz experience offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Located in the stunning La Paz, Mexico, this activity allows visitors to don snorkeling gear and swim alongside these gentle giants. With an average rating of 3.9/5 from 7 reviews, the experience costs $150 per person and includes essential amenities like snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fresh fruit, and even ceviche.
The tour departs at 12:00 PM from the corner of the Seven Crown hotel, and participants can expect to return to the same meeting point.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
Reviewers have noted some issues with the tour, such as mislabeled descriptions and changes to the itinerary, but the host has acknowledged these concerns and pledged to improve the experience based on customer feedback.
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Full Day Gray Whale Watching Experience
Although gray whales are often overshadowed by their more charismatic counterparts, the Full Day Gray Whale Watching Experience in La Paz, Mexico, offers an exceptional opportunity to witness these majestic marine giants up close.
The tour, which runs from 8 AM to the meeting point, takes small groups of up to 8 travelers on a journey to see gray whales in their natural habitat. With a 100% recommendation rate from 17 previous travelers, this experience is a must-do for anyone visiting La Paz.
The tour includes transportation, bottled water, soda, and a delicious lunch, as well as the services of knowledgeable guides who are passionate about whale conservation.
Participants can expect close encounters with the whales, as well as the chance to support the local community through sustainable tourism practices.
However, it’s important to note that the tour is subject to weather conditions, and cancellations may result in rescheduling or refunds.
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Full Day Snorkel and Swim With Sea Lions & Whale Sharks in La Paz
The Full Day Snorkel and Swim with Sea Lions & Whale Sharks in La Paz, Mexico, provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the vibrant marine life of the region.
For $170.19 per person, travelers can embark on a full-day adventure, snorkeling with sea lions and whale sharks. With a maximum group size of 10, the tour offers an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides.
The tour starts at 7:00 am from Mutualismo 342 in La Paz and includes snorkeling equipment, a ceviche lunch, and soda. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and suitable for moderately fit travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
Reviewers praise the professionalism and attentiveness of the guides, who share their expertise about the marine ecosystem.
Highlights include close encounters with curious sea lions, sightings of vibrant marine life, and the opportunity to observe whale sharks.
Travelers recommend wearing warm clothing due to the chilly water conditions, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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Whale Sharks Sea Lions Nature – Espiritu Santo Archipelago
Situated within the stunning Espiritu Santo Archipelago off the coast of La Paz, Mexico, this whale shark and sea lion snorkeling experience offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s vibrant marine life.
Boasting an impressive 4.5-star rating based on over 12 reviews, the tour includes top-notch equipment, a knowledgeable marine biologist guide, and a customized lunch and beverages to suit dietary needs.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the intimate group size ensures personalized attention. Snorkelers will encounter magnificent whale sharks and playful sea lions, while also learning about the local ecosystem from the expert guide.
The tour’s convenient meeting point and return to the same location make for a seamless experience. At $246.66 per person, this excursion provides excellent value and is sure to delight nature enthusiasts.
Early booking is recommended, as this tour is likely to sell out quickly.
Read our full review: Whale Sharks Sea Lions Nature – Espiritu Santo Archipelago Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Equipment?
You can bring your own snorkel equipment, but it’s typically not necessary. Most whale watching tours provide the necessary snorkel gear, allowing you to focus on the experience without the hassle of bringing your own.
Are There Any Height or Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t have any strict height or age restrictions, but they may recommend certain tours based on the participant’s age and physical ability. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider for their policies.
What Should I Bring for the Whale Shark Encounters?
When going on a whale shark encounter, be sure to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, towel, water, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring an underwater camera to capture the magical moment of swimming with these gentle giants.
Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Tours?
Yes, you can take pictures and videos during the whale shark tours. Most operators encourage this to capture the incredible experience. Just be sure to follow their guidelines and not get too close to the animals.
Are the Tours Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tours are generally accessible for people with disabilities, though accommodations may vary. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure the specific needs of the individual can be met.
The Sum Up
La Paz offers an array of exceptional whale watching experiences. From snorkeling with whale sharks to observing majestic gray whales, visitors can enjoy the region’s marine life. These tours provide the opportunity to engage with local experts, explore the Espiritu Santo Archipelago, and swim alongside sea lions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an unforgettable adventure, La Paz has the perfect whale watching experience to suit your interests.