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How To Go Whale Watching In Los Cabos Without Paying For A Tour 

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With the 2022 whale watching season underway, many Cabo tourists are likely looking for tours that will take them to areas where they can see these majestic creatures.  But pricey tours are not the only option for being able to see gray, humpback, and other species of whales in Cabo.  In this article, we’ll tell you how to go whale watching in Los Cabos without paying for a tour.   

Whale Near the Beach in Cabo with hills and sand in the background.

Why You May Want To Skip Out On A Whale-Watching Tour

There is no doubt that whale-watching tours can be fun and a great way to see gray and humpback whales in their natural habitat.  But they are pricey, and there is no guarantee that you will see them.

There are numerous whale-watching tours available in Los Cabos, but many of them cost between $60 and $100 per person or more.  And while some offer a guarantee that you will actually see whales or they will provide you with a second whale-watching trip the next day, the majority of them do not.  This means you could essentially end up paying for a boat tour rather than a whale-watching tour, but you can see whales without having to go out on a boat at all. 

Whale in the Water in Cabo with the beach and buildings in the background.

There are places throughout Los Cabos that provide a fantastic vantage point for seeing these creatures without ever having to leave the land.  Not only are these options typically free for the most part, but you can go anytime of the day and with as many people as you want.  This is a great option for visitors traveling with children, as the cost of a whale-watching tour for multiple people quickly adds up, and it is also a great option for those that don’t really enjoy being on a boat.

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Two Whales Swimming in Cabo near the shore and hills in the background.

Whale Watching From The Beach 

It’s no secret that Cabo San Lucas has some pretty amazing beaches, and not only are they good for spending a day in the sun, but some of them are also great for seeing whales.  Gray whales are known for nesting closer to the shore, so these will be the species you’ll most likely be able to see from the beach, but due to the size and activity level of humpback whales, they can sometimes be seen from the shore too.  Both Santa Maria Beach and Chileno Beach are two of the best beaches for snorkeling because they’re filled with marine life, which can also include whales, so they are great spots to keep your eye out for them.  

Whale in Cabo San Lucas that can be seen from the beach.

Whale Watching at Bars and Restaurants 

There are also some bars and restaurants in Cabo San Lucas with great vantage points for trying to see whales.  Really any place that has a raised deck for outdoor seating that puts you above the water will provide an opportunity to see these creatures in action.  Some suggestions are The Bistro located on the Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach resort property and the Whale Watcher Bar at Sandos Finisterra.   

Restaurant in Los Cabos overlooking the ocean

Resorts With Whale Watching Spots 

Last but not least, the hotel or resort you choose to stay in when visiting Cabo San Lucas can be a fantastic place to whale watch as well.  In a place known for luxurious oceanfront resort properties, the options are endless, but some are better than others.  A few great options are the Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort & Spa, Solaz Luxury Collection Resort, Hotel RIU Palace, and the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal.   

Los Cabos beach aerial view with tourists enjoying the sand and sun

Cabo San Lucas is one of the best places in the world to see whales.  They migrate from the north and end up in the area around mid-December and stick around as late as April.  Seeing these massive creatures is an unbelievable experience that will leave lasting memories.

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