Snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions in La Paz

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Free cancellationTravelers' pick

1/12

Duration6h

GroupUp to 9

LanguagesEN · ES

Mobile ticketAccepted

You can snorkel with the same whale shark more than once.

Snorkel with whale sharks and sea lions in La Paz on a six-hour activity with a professional guide, federal permits, full gear and meals included. Groups max out at nine people per boat, and the guide rotates through smaller groups of two to four in the water so you decide how many times you enter. The day ends at Balandra beach with lunch and time to walk or rest on the sand.

The Experience

The boat leaves Marina de La Paz at the meeting point on Topete and Miguel de Legaspy streets—arriving on time matters because the group departs as scheduled. Once aboard, the crew fits you with mask, snorkel, fins and a 3mm shortie wetsuit, then heads to the whale shark zone. When a whale shark appears, you don't get one shot: the guide takes small groups of two to four into the water in rotation, which means you can swim as many times as you want instead of the single or double entry most tours allow. How many times you go in is up to you.

Between water sessions, the boat moves to San Rafaelito islet to snorkel the coral reef and sea lion colony around it. Depending on the season (August through November), you may also see La Gaviota Island, where blue-footed boobies and other endemic birds nest. The underwater life shifts with each stop—fish, rays, and the reef itself change what you see.

By early afternoon the boat reaches Balandra, one of Mexico's most photographed beaches, where lunch is served. Fish ceviche, burritos with beans and cheese or shredded meat, fruit and soft drinks are included. You have time to eat, swim from the beach or take a short walk around the sand. The guide records the day on GoPro and sends the footage in two to three days. Bring a towel and warm clothes (essential November through March) and biodegradable sunscreen; the crew provides all snorkel gear and wetsuits.

What’s included

Professional guide in English or Spanish.
federal permits and a donation to whale shark conservation.
snorkel mask, fins, snorkel and 3mm shortie wetsuit.
traveler's insurance.
fish ceviche, burritos, fruit and soft drinks at Balandra.
GoPro photos and videos of the day.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by MeXplore

Is this one for you?The activity runs six hours with multiple water entries on your terms, so it suits snorkelers who want time in the water rather than a quick dip. Moderate fitness and comfort in the ocean are needed; the ride can be choppy on windy days, and the boat rocks during the approach to whale sharks.