Golden Stingray Migration in Cancun 2024

The Gulf of Mexico glitters with gold as 10,000 stingrays move clockwise in their annual migration from the Yucatan Peninsula to the warmer waters of Florida and, half a year later—back home. This migration occurs in late spring and late autumn. Thousands of golden stingrays create an illusion of butterflies fluttering through the ocean waters—definitely, a sight to behold!

Why Stingrays Migrate

While stingrays are mainly known for being quite solitary, they gather in large schools during migration periods and breeding seasons. Golden stingrays, also known as golden cownose rays, are particularly gregarious and flock together in large groups called fevers. The reason for this behavior is uncertain, but some theories suggest that stingrays migrate due to fluctuations in water temperatures and sun orientation. When the temperatures drop below 22ºC (71.6°F), this might be a sign for stingrays to start their journey towards warmer waters.

Best Time to See Stingrays Migrating

The first wave of migration begins in late spring, with thousands of stingrays heading north to western Florida from the Yucatan Peninsula. The schools swim across the entire Gulf of Mexico at an approximate speed of 56 miles (90 km) per hour. These fascinating creatures can diver as deep as 72 feet (22 m). In late fall, even more rays come together and set off on a long journey back through the Gulf of Mexico to the Yucatan Peninsula.

Groups of golden stingrays in the Atlantic Ocean are said to migrate to the waters of New England in the last months of spring and return to southern Brazil in late fall, in search of warmer habitat.

Locations in Florida

Cownose stingrays can be seen along the coast of Gulf of Mexico and western Florida, although some locations are especially prone to stingray activity. In late spring, the waters near Anna-Maria island, Florida, are populated with large schools of rays. Some can even swim deeper near the land in the Tampa Bay. Egmont Key State Park, besides its rich wildlife and historic sights, also boasts annual stingray migration sights. The park is completely free to enter. Another location worth visiting is the coastline of Mexico Beach.

Locations Along Gulf of Mexico

In late fall, stingrays can be seen on the coastline of the Yucatan peninsula and nearby islands, including Isla Holbox, known for being both a nature preserve and a perfect place for a retreat. Other places include Natural San Felipe National Park and El Cuyo.

Safety & Precautions

Seasonal cruises promise a spectacle of incredible natural beauty. Yet, some people are not satisfied with merely observing; they need the thrill and venture into swimming with these nice-looking but deadly creatures, even though some stings can be fatal. In fact, the poison is supposed​ to protect stingrays from large marine ​predators like sharks, though generally, stingrays don't attack first unless they are disturbed. To avoid getting stung, perform a stingray shuffle by dragging your feet through the sand when entering the water. This way, you can bump the creature and avoid stepping on it.