Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour from Los Cabos & La Paz

Summary

Guided Whale Shark Swim Experience in Baja California

This is your chance to swim with whale sharks in La Paz, cruise past Cabo San Lucas Bay’s famous arch, and maybe even spot playful dolphins or rays. With all gear provided and a local guide leading small groups, you’ll get close to these gentle giants in comfort and safety—a memory you won’t soon forget.

What’s the experience like?

Our driver pulled up before sunrise, and I was still rubbing sleep from my eyes as we set off toward La Paz. The highway was empty except for a few trucks, and the desert air felt cool through the window. By the time we reached the marina, the sun was already bouncing off the water, and our guide—Miguel—handed out snorkel gear while joking about how whale sharks are just “giant puppies” of the sea.

Out on the boat, the salty breeze mixed with sunscreen and a faint whiff of diesel from nearby fishing boats. I could hear pelicans squabbling over scraps at the dock. Miguel explained how to spot the whale sharks’ shadowy shapes gliding under the surface. When it was finally our turn, slipping into the water felt both thrilling and a little nerve-wracking—these fish are huge, but they move so gently you almost forget their size.

We spent nearly two hours swimming alongside them, sometimes catching glimpses of rays darting below or dolphins leaping in the distance. The water was cooler than I expected, but I barely noticed once I started following a whale shark’s slow tail sweep. Back on board, everyone swapped stories about who got closest or who saw the biggest one. On the way back to Cabo San Lucas, I couldn’t stop replaying that feeling of floating next to something so peaceful and wild.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale Shark Snorkeling Adventure

• You will be picked up and taken out on a boat
• Breakfast served on board
• Snorkel with mobula rays and reef
• Visit The Arch of Cabo San Lucas and the bay
• See the seafront of La Paz, the bay, and whale sharks
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long do we spend swimming with whale sharks?

You’ll have about two hours in the water with the whale sharks, giving plenty of time for everyone to take turns snorkeling alongside them.

Is snorkel equipment included in this tour?

Yes, all necessary snorkel gear is provided for you as part of the experience—just bring your swimsuit and towel.

Are there chances to see other marine life besides whale sharks?

Definitely! Rays and dolphins are often spotted in the area during the tour, especially when conditions are right.

Is hotel pickup available from anywhere in Los Cabos?

Hotel pickup is included for most locations around Los Cabos. If you’re staying outside central areas, check ahead for possible arrangements.

What’s included

Your day comes with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle plus all your snorkel equipment ready to go. Bottled water is provided throughout, and your local guide will be with you every step—from spotting whale sharks to sharing tips on swimming safely. When it’s time to head back, transportation returns you right to your hotel so you can relax after an unforgettable day on the water.