🐋 Los Cabos Whale Tours: 5 Things Travelers Need To Know For 2025

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We at The Cabo Sun are total suckers for a good whale-watching tour.

There’s just something magical about seeing a humpback breach in the wild—it’s like nature’s version of front-row concert seats, but with fewer crowds and way more tail splashes.

If you’re headed to Los Cabos in 2025 and whale encounters are on your bucket list (and let’s be honest, they should be), we’ve rounded up five things you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

Whether you’re all about the Instagrammable moment or just want to stare wide-eyed at the sea, we’ve got your back.

📅 1. Best Time to Go: December 15 – April 15

The whale migration season in Los Cabos runs from mid-December through mid-April, and trust us—this isn’t something you want to miss.

Peak viewing happens in January and February when the waters around Cabo turn into a whale superhighway. You’ll see humpbacks, gray whales, and even the occasional blue whale if you’re lucky. And yes, they love putting on a show with jumps, tail slaps, and fin waves.

During this season, tours run daily, but mornings usually offer calmer seas and better lighting for those camera-ready moments. So, early birds get the breach!

🛥️ 2. Types of Tours: From Splashy Speedboats to Chill Catamarans

There’s no one-size-fits-all whale tour in Cabo—your perfect ride depends on your vibe.

Want to get close and feel the spray? Go for a zodiac boat tour. Prefer to sip a margarita while scanning the horizon? Try a luxury catamaran.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Zodiac Boats: Small, fast, and great for thrill-seekers who want to get closer to the action. Just be ready for a bumpy ride.
• Catamarans & Yachts: Stable, spacious, and often come with food, drinks, and even hydrophones so you can listen to the whales sing.
• Private Charters: A splurge-worthy option for couples, families, or friend groups looking for privacy and flexibility.

Top-rated companies like Whale Watch Cabo and Cabo Adventures offer options in all categories.

💵 3. Costs & Booking Tips: Save Now, Splash Later

Whale tours in Cabo won’t break the bank, but prices do vary depending on your tour style. On average:

• Basic zodiac tours cost around $60–$90 for a 2-hour adventure.
• Mid-range catamaran experiences are in the $110–$130 range and usually include drinks and snacks.
• Private tours can start at $475 for small groups and go up depending on the size and amenities.

Book early—especially for peak season—because the good time slots sell out fast. And if you’re debating between morning or afternoon tours, go for the morning when the seas are calmer and sightings are more frequent. Some companies, like East Cape Explorers, even offer marine biologists as guides, which is a win for both education and bragging rights.

🎒 4. What to Bring: Pack Smart, Whale Smart

You don’t need to bring your whole suitcase on a whale tour, but a few essentials will seriously upgrade your experience:

• Layered clothing: Mornings can be chilly on the water, but the sun heats things up fast.
• Sun protection: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Trust us—ocean glare is no joke.
• Non-slip shoes: Boats + waves = unexpected slides.
• Camera or phone with zoom: Or a waterproof case if you’re living on the edge.
• Motion sickness pills or bands: Just in case. Better safe than queasy.

Most tour providers will offer water and life jackets, but check ahead so you’re not left high and dry.

🐬 5. Ethical Encounters: Why Orca Swims Might Be Taking a Back Seat

One of the newest trends in Baja is swimming with orcas, especially around La Ventana. Sounds amazing, right? But here’s the catch: it’s become a bit of a free-for-all. Boats crowd the whales, some companies promise guaranteed sightings, and marine experts are worried it’s stressing out these wild animals, especially mama orcas with babies trying to hunt in peace.

That’s why a team of scientists and local guides is pushing for a new species management plan to limit the number of boats and require operator training. The goal? Keep the magic alive, but make sure the orcas don’t get overwhelmed. Until then, if you’re considering an orca swim, be extra cautious and pick a tour company that puts the whales’ well-being first.

And hey, if you want a sure bet for a heart-pounding marine moment, a traditional whale-watching tour is still the GOAT.