Whale Watching in San Juan del Sur: Humpback Migration Tours

Search for whales on the open water during their peak migration season.

A whale watching tour from San Juan del Sur during humpback migration season (September through March) takes you by boat to where whales have been spotted that day, with expert guides narrating the breaches, tail slaps and songs. Water and snacks are included. The boat is wheelchair accessible and suits all fitness levels.

The experience

The tour starts once everyone boards and settles in. From there, you head out into the bay toward the areas where humpback whales have been spotted that morning or day, guided by someone who knows where to look and what you're seeing. Male whales sing underwater. Females and calves breach and slap their tails against the surface. The boat carries water and snacks for the three-hour outing, so you stay hydrated while you watch.

Humpback whales migrate along the Nicaraguan coast from September through March, which is the window when these tours run. The guides speak English or Spanish depending on the departure you book. Families bring children in strollers if needed. The boat accommodates wheelchairs. There's no fitness requirement. You sit on the boat and watch the ocean.

What’s included

• Bottled water and snacks throughout the three-hour outing.
• expert guide narrating whale behavior and migration patterns.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPublic transport nearby

Operated by Ocean Surf & Sport

Is this one for you?Book this tour during the September-to-March migration window if you want to see humpback whales breaching and singing along the coast. Outside those months, the whales have moved on and the tour does not run.

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

When is the best time to see humpback whales in San Juan del Sur?

Humpback whales migrate along the coast from September through March, and the tour runs during those months when sightings are most likely.

What should I bring on the whale watching boat?

Bring sunscreen and a camera. Water and snacks are provided on board for the three-hour trip.

Can I take my young children or a stroller on the whale watching tour?

Yes. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the boat is wheelchair accessible, so it accommodates families and travelers with mobility needs.

How long does the whale watching tour last?

The tour runs for three hours from the time you board until you return to port.