What Los Cabos Travelers Need To Know As Whale Watching Season Begins 

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Last Updated 10 months ago

The start of one of the most anticipated times of year for Los Cabos winter visitors is just a few days away.   

The 2023 – 2024 whale watching season officially begins on December 15th, though tourists have already spotted these majestic creatures in the waters surrounding the peninsula.   

As whale watching season begins in the destination, there are a few things that Los Cabos travelers need to know.   

The Whale Watching Season In Los Cabos 

As mentioned, the whale watching season in Los Cabos begins on December 15th.   

The season runs until around the middle of April, but the best time for whale sightings is between January and March.   

February or later, though, is the best time to catch a glimpse of baby humpback whales.   

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Where To Whale Watch In Los Cabos 

Throughout the Sea of Cortez in Los Cabos, there’s a chance you’ll spot whales during whale watching season, but some areas are better than others.   

In the area near the Cabo San Lucas Marina, for example, there are a lot of boat tours available that stay in the general area of the Arch, which is a great place to see whales.   

Santa Maria Bay, located along the famed Tourist Corridor, is also an excellent area for whale sightings.   

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Different Types Of Whale-Watching Tours 

There are several different types of whale-watching tours available, each offering a slightly different experience.   

One of the most popular types of whale-watching tours is aboard a luxury catamaran, many of which have open bars.   

Whale-watching sailing excursions are also very popular, as are zodiac boat tours, which allow tourists to see whales up a little bit closer. 

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Whale Watching Tour Price Estimates 

Whale-watching tours also range in price considerably, with both affordable and luxury options available.   

Part of what contributes to the price is the size of the group on a specific whale-watching tour, and another contributor to the price is what’s included.   

A private tour, for example, can cost between $200-$400, whereas a zodiac boat tour runs for around $100.   

Catamaran cruises run for about $120.   

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The Types Of Whales You Might See In Los Cabos 

There are three main types of whales that you might see when whale watching in Los Cabos.   

Those whales are humpback whales, gray whales, and orcas.   

The most common sightings, and the most fascinating, are of humpback whales, which are generally more playful and animated than the rest.   

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When To Book Your Whale Watching Tour 

Whale watching season in Los Cabos coincides with the busiest seasons in the destination, wintertime and spring break.   

During these times, everything in Los Cabos books up quickly, from luxury all-inclusive to tours and excursions.   

Travelers visiting the destination during this time will want to book whale watching tours early too, as it is one of the most popular types of tours for tourists visiting during the winter and spring months. 

Where To See Whales Without Booking A Tour 

While whale-watching tours are a great way to see these graceful animals in their natural habitat, they’re not the only way to see them.   

You don’t really have to book a tour at all if you don’t want to.   

You can often see whales from the shore, from waterfront restaurants, and even from your hotel room’s balcony.   

If you pay attention when you’re out and about during whale watching season in Los Cabos, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a sighting of these magnificent creatures.