A once-in-a-lifetime experience, a whale shark swim at La Paz, Baja California Sur, should definitely be on your to do list if you are vacationing in the region.

Separated from the mainland Mexico by the Sea of Cortez or Gulf of California, the Bahia de la Paz, found on the south of the Baja California peninsula, boasts enticing turquoise waters.

This natural bay is one of the few places in the world where you can have the unreal experience of swimming with one of the ocean’s largest fish – the Whale Shark.

Here is everything you need to know about whale shark swimming, one of the breathtaking outdoor activities in La Paz, Baja California Sur.

What are the best whale shark swim tours in La Paz, Baja California Sur?

Only accredited operators are permitted to approach and enter the waters where whale sharks swim and there are limits on how long operators can remain in the area, so you are guaranteed to have an experience without crowds or chaos.

Here are some of the whale shark swim excursions that you are able to choose between.

Small group whale shark snorkeling tours

With a group of no more than six people, you will sail on a catamaran and head towards the whale shark refuge.

First, you will learn about this enormous fish and other marine life from your expert marine guide. Then, you'll get the chance to slip into the water and observe the whale sharks in their natural habitat.

You may not swim below the whale sharks or too close to them, so you will have to float on the surface and view these gentle giants from a short distance away.

After spending about 50 minutes in the vicinity of the whale sharks, your boat will leave the refuge to allow the next group of visitors their turn.

A whale shark swim is often combined with snorkeling or water-based activities.

Whale shark swim plus Balandra Beach tours

On this combo tour, you will swim with whale sharks in the Bay of La Paz before heading to Balandra Beach and its famous Mushroom -shaped rock.

If you want some more time in the water, there is an opportunity to snorkel with sea lions near San Rafaelito islet.

Boat tours to Espiritu Santo Island with whale shark swim

After a morning sailing on the Sea of Cortez and a swim with the gentle whale sharks, this boat tour in La Paz heads to the island of Espiritu Santo Island.

It has a coastline of about 20 kilometers, where you can spend time snorkeling or lazing on a stretch of pristine beach.

Private whale shark snorkeling expedition

On a private whale shark expedition that lasts as long as five hours, you will have the exclusive use of your boat and the services of a marine biologist as your guide.

As you have the boat to yourself, you can plan your time according to your own interests and along with observing whale sharks can opt to snorkel at other sites, or spend some time relaxing on the open water.

How much do whale shark swim tours in La Paz, Baja California Sur, cost?

A small group whale shark swimming tour costs from US$80 per person for a 2-hour excursion. A longer 4-hour trip will cost in the region of US$140 per person.

Children who join this type of tour will pay around US$60, but will only be allowed into the water if they are over 8 years of age, a good swimmer and accompanied by an adult.

Whale shark swim plus Balandra Beach tours cost about US$100 per person.

Boat tours to Espiritu Santo Island with whale shark swim cost about US$130 per person for a group of at least four people.

A private whale shark snorkeling expedition will cost from US$1,300 for a group of up to six people. This includes the use of the boat, an expert marine biologist as a guide, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks onboard.

What is included?

Most tours are guided by a qualified marine biologist who will make sure that you observe the whale sharks in a safe way.

You will be given the necessary snorkeling equipment including a short wetsuit and life vest and may be provided with biodegradable sunscreen to use.

Bottled water and snacks are often also included in the tour price.

Where does it start?

Whale shark swim tours typically depart from Marina La Paz and guides will usually wait near the main entrance to the marina or outside The Dock Café.

How long does it last?

Whale shark swimming excursions in La Paz, Baja California Sur, usually last between 2 and 4 hours. Each participant has some time to enter the water and swim close to the whale sharks.

The times allocated to each operator are decided by the national authority and there may be a wait of an hour or more before your tour boat is allowed into the refuge.

When is the best time for a whale shark swim tour in La Paz, Baja California Sur?

There are whale shark sightings throughout the year in La Paz, Baja California Sur, but peak whale shark season falls between October and February.

Because the area is a protected refuge and operators have strict rules about entering the space, there is no overcrowding and each vessel gets a chance to enter the zone.

Is it safe?

While a whale shark swim is generally considered safe, it must be remembered that these are wild animals who can behave in unpredictable ways.

If you are pregnant or have heart, neck or breathing problems such as asthma, you will not be able to participate in this type of tour.

Are children allowed?

Children from four years of age can join a whale shark excursion but only children who are competent swimmers and over 8 years old will be permitted to enter the water with a parent or legal guardian.

Children and those who do not want to swim, can observe the whale sharks from the safety of the boat.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If bad weather or rough sea conditions prevent the tour from operating, you will have the chance to reschedule your tour or if this is not possible your operator may allow you to cancel and receive a refund.

Travel tips

Make sure you're using ocean-friendly sunscreens, moisturizers or hair products when swimming.
Wear a hat for sun protection during the boat ride.
No underwater flash photography permitted.
Do not try to touch the whale sharks.
Remain on the water’s surface while observing whale sharks.

Whale Shark Swim in La Paz, Baja California Sur