Whale Watching in Puerto Rico 2024-2025

Every winter, humpback whales stay in the waters between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic to mate, grow their calves, and get some rest before returning to their feeding grounds up north. Thus the whale watching season in Puerto Rico lasts from January through March, with February being the best month for spotting whales. The success rate of whale-watching tours in Puerto Rico is about 90%. Whale sightings are most frequent in the waters along the northwest and west coast. Their largest numbers can be spotted in the Mona Passage that separates Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

Best places for whale watching

The most popular whale-watching area in Puerto Rico is Rincon, located on the western coast. Such popular surf beaches as Tres Palmas, Sandy Beach, and Domes are also good for whale watching. The prime whale-watching spot is the historic El Faro Lighthouse, thanks to its vantage position. Punta Higüero lighthouse is another good location in Rincon to observe whales from the shore. More lookouts suitable for whale watching are located along Route 115, connecting Añasco and Aguadilla.

To the north of Rincon, Aguadilla and Isabela are boasting frequent whale sightings as well. In the southwestern part of the island, Joyuda Beach at Cabo Rojo is a good whale-watching option with boat tours available.

Whale-watching tours

Only a few operators offer whale-watching in Puerto Rico, and they are only available from January through March. West Coast Charters, Katarina Sail Charter, and Oceans Unlimited offer sunset cruises with the possibility of whale-watching Rincon. Taino Divers operates out of the Black Eagle Marina and offers sunset cruises to spot sea mammals along the western coast. Expect to pay from $75 to $95 per person. However, whale sightings are not guaranteed.

Whale-watching tips

It's easiest to spot whales when the ocean waters are calm so morning is a good time for whale-watching. Sunset tours are a good option due to good light conditions that will help you make better pictures. Make sure to take a camera with a powerful zoom or a telephoto lens. Binoculars will also come in handy during a whale-watching excursion.

What to wear

Even when it's hot on the beach, it might be colder and windier at the sea so take a windbreaker or a sweater. Closed-toed shoes with rubber soles and a sunhat are a must during boat tours. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and pack some water as well as motion-sickness medicine if you need any.

Where to stay

Rincon has become a surfers' Mecca in 1968 after it hosted World Amateur Surfing Competition. So it offers plenty of accommodation, starting from campsites and hostels with bunk beds and ending with luxurious resorts. Horned Dorset Primavera by Relais & Chateaux Property is undoubtedly the most upscale lodging in Rincon.