From Cabo: Snorkel with Whale Sharks in La Paz

La Paz Whale Shark Snorkeling from Cabo San Lucas

Full-day whale shark snorkeling tour from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz: luxury boat swim with gentle giants + dolphins and rays, wetsuit + snorkel gear provided, stroll La Paz boardwalk and Baja tacos lunch, continental breakfast, photographer, small group max 10 with round-trip transport included.

4.7
$ 259 per person
10 hours
192 + bookings
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Overview

Embark on a full-day escape from Cabo San Lucas to the serene Sea of Cortés, where you’ll swim alongside the gentle giants of the ocean: massive yet harmless whale sharks.

Your expert guide and crew take you by luxury boat to prime feeding areas, where these filter-feeding behemoths glide slowly through the water, often so close you can see their spotted patterns and wide mouths filtering plankton.

Spend time snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, stingrays, and occasional dolphins, then relax on deck with continental breakfast and cold drinks. After the swim, enjoy a quick stroll along La Paz’s scenic boardwalk (Malecón) and savor a delicious Baja-style taco lunch before the return drive through the desert.

This 10-hour adventure includes round-trip air-conditioned transport, all snorkel gear, lifejackets, wet suits, towels, breakfast, lunch, and a photographer to capture the moments.

Real talk: whale shark sightings are highly likely in season (October–May) but never 100% guaranteed—guides maximize your chances.

Small groups max 10 for a personal, eco-conscious experience; book early for peak months.

What's Included

  • Round-trip air-conditioned transport from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz and back.
  • Luxury boat cruise in the Sea of Cortés.
  • Expert guide and crew.
  • Continental breakfast onboard.
  • Baja-style taco lunch with soft drinks.
  • All snorkeling equipment (masks, fins, snorkels, lifejackets, wet suits).
  • Towels and lockers.
  • Photographer (photos provided).
  • Gratuities for crew (optional but appreciated).
  • Optional purchases in La Paz (souvenirs, extra drinks).
  • Optional CD of photos (if offered).

Itinerary

  1. Hotel pickup in Cabo San Lucas (early morning, time confirmed after booking).
  2. Scenic drive (~2.5 hours) through the California desert to La Paz.
  3. Arrive in La Paz and board the luxury boat.
  4. Sail into the Sea of Cortés to prime whale shark feeding areas.
  5. Spend ~3 hours snorkeling/swimming with whale sharks, stingrays, and other marine life.
  6. Relax on deck or enjoy the scenery.
  7. Return to La Paz for a short stroll along the Malecón boardwalk.
  8. Enjoy a Baja-style taco lunch with soft drinks.
  9. Drive back to Cabo San Lucas with hotel drop-off (total ~10 hours).

What to Expect from the Tour

Here's practical advice to help your whale shark adventure go well, based on common experiences with seas, sightings, and comfort. We've pulled this from what past guests told us after their trips.

  • Gear essentials. Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera/phone aren't optional. Several guests said the sun reflects off water—strong SPF is a must. One packed a light rash guard for sun protection while snorkeling.
  • Whale shark encounters. October–May peak season—guests reported frequent close swims with these gentle giants (up to 40 feet). Crew maximizes time in feeding areas; sightings are highly likely but not guaranteed.
  • Boat comfort. Luxury boat with shaded areas and open deck. Guests loved the stability and space for relaxing between swims.
  • Food and drinks. Continental breakfast and Baja-style taco lunch with soft drinks. People said portions were generous and tasty.
  • Group setup. Max 10 feels intimate with plenty of deck space. Past visitors said it beat larger boats for personal attention and better photo ops.
  • Best time to visit. October to May for whale shark season. Guests early 2026 noted January–March offered calm seas and frequent sightings.
Month/Season Upsides Downsides Recommended Start Time
Oct-May (Season) Frequent whale shark sightings Colder mornings Early morning
Jun-Sep Calmer seas, fewer crowds No whale sharks N/A (seasonal)

Common issues. Seas can be wavy—guests prone to motion sickness took meds. Not wheelchair accessible—steps to decks. Weather rarely cancels; dress in layers.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whale sharks?

High likelihood October–May, but no guarantee. Crew chases active areas. Past guests swam with multiple sharks most trips—gentle and unforgettable.

How rough is the boat ride?

Sea of Cortés can be choppy—stable luxury boat but motion possible. Guests recommended meds if prone; shaded areas help.

Suitable for kids?

Yes for children 8+ who handle boat motion and water. Families said kids loved snorkeling with whale sharks, but supervise closely.

Vegetarian food options?

Limited—breakfast and lunch usually include fruit and snacks. Notify early for adjustments. Guests found options sufficient.

Best photos from the boat?

Open deck gives great angles—bring a good zoom lens or phone with stabilizer. Crew helps with shots during whale shark encounters.

Why this whale shark tour?

Luxury boat, small group (10 max), breakfast/lunch, and high sighting rate. Past guests preferred the comfort and intimate feel over larger or noisier boats.

Book it today with Cabo Whale Tours or simply following this link.

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