Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas 2024-2025

Every year, thousands of humpback whales leave their feeding grounds in Alaska and British Columbia in favor of warm Baja California Sur, Mexico. They spend nearly two months on their journey, crossing almost 6,000 miles (9,660 km) to come to Cabo San Lucas, where they mate and give birth.

Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching Season

Whales are observed in the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean between December and March or April. The season varies from year to year but typically starts in mid-December and lasts through early April. Choose January–March as your safe bet. The best time to experience whale watching in Cabo must be later in the season when calves turn the waters of Los Cabos into their playground.

Whales in Cabo San Lucas

Humpback Whales

Humpback whales are the most frequently spotted around Los Cabos, making it highly likely to witness one during peak season. Humpback whales undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, covering vast distances each year. Some populations travel as far as 6,000 miles, moving from tropical breeding grounds to colder, nutrient-rich feeding areas. Their diet consists of krill and small fish, which they consume by filtering large amounts of ocean water through their baleen plates, functioning like a sieve. These whales are known for their playful displays, often seen with calves engaging in acrobatic behaviors like breaching and tail slapping. Humpback sightings are common from December to April around Cabo San Lucas.

Gray Whales

Gray whales are another frequently sighted species in Magdalena Bay, near Los Cabos. These whales often stay close to shore, offering a chance to spot them without venturing onto the water, though whale watching from a boat is the most rewarding experience. Known for their curiosity and friendly nature, gray whales can grow up to 49 feet (14.9 m) long as adults. Interactions with these magnificent creatures are possible from January to April.

Other Species

Less commonly spotted whales in the Cabo area include orcas (killer whales), blue whales, and fin whales. These marine mammals are typically just passing through during their migration in search of food, rather than residing in the region. Sperm whales, particularly females and their calves are occasionally seen offshore in Cabo waters as well.

Whale Watching Tours in Cabo San Lucas

You'll find plenty of operators in Cabo San Lucas offering whale-watching tours. The time of day matters: morning trips are suitable for people with motion sickness or families with kids, as the water is usually calmer during early hours, and the ride will be smoother. There will be some morning activities, such as feeding. However, the whales tend to be more active in the afternoon and by the evening when the waves get rougher.

Whale Watch Cabo is Cabo San Lucas's very first premier guaranteed whale sighting company. Between December and April, the chances of seeing whales are 95% or better, but if you don't see any of them, the operator will invite you back on complimentary tours until you witness whales with your own eyes. Every boat has onboard hydrophones, so you can listen to the whales sing.

More About Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, boasts ideal conditions for whale watching, situated where the waters of the Sea of Cortez meet the Pacific Ocean. Beyond the whales, Cabo's stunning beaches, clear waters, and captivating desert landscapes create a serene retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Note that whale watching in Cabo coincides with the high tourist season so the prices will be above average. Yet, taking a vacation during this time of year promises to become an everlasting memory.