Los Cabos is not only Mexico's premier tourist destination, but also the region where an outdoor activity like whale watching has become very popular. These colossal but gentle ocean creatures are found in significant numbers along this coast.

On whale watching cruises from Los Cabos, you will enjoy the sight of these giants, while you marvel at iconic landmarks such as The Arch.

Here's all you need to know about whale watching, one of the most fantastic outdoor activities in Los Cabos.

What are the best whale watching cruises from Los Cabos?

Fast boat whale watching tour from Los Cabos

On this whale watching tour from Los Cabos, you will scout the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez for humpback whales and dolphins. With your camera on the ready, you can capture some great photos of these enormous mammals of the deep.

Cruise along in a secure high-speed inflatable boat and listen to your guide sharing interesting facts about the humpbacks and their natural domain.

You will also be able to listen to the whales communicating with each other underwater through the boat’s hydrophone equipment.

The tour includes a professional guide who will provide interesting facts about the whales and the sights.

Cabo San Lucas humpback whale watching cruise

When visiting the popular Mexican tourist city Cabo San Lucas, make sure you join this exciting boat cruise to see the humpback whales and other ocean life. You can choose from several times of departure, but bear in mind the seas are calmer in the morning.

The tour has a limit of 10 passengers to ensure personalized attention, but you can upgrade to a private tour of a maximum of eight people.

Your first visit will be to Cabo San Lucas’ most iconic natural phenomena, El Arco (The Arch) and the sea lion colony. Souvenir snapshots of these will be available to purchase.

Depending on the weather and directions from the boat captain and guide, you will sail either to the Sea of Cortez or the Pacific from here.

Along the way, you will gain fascinating information about Cabo San Lucas marine life from the marine biologist on board.

Whale watching cruise with brunch or dinner

Join this whale watching cruise from Los Cabos with brunch or dinner and see the whales on their yearly migration from Alaska to Baja, California. Depart from one of the world’s best whale watching venues and catch them on their journey.

At the same time, enjoy the views of El Arco, the sea lions and the popular Lover’s Beach, which is only accessible by boat. Your crew will point out whales and sometimes dolphins, with humpbacks and gray whales the more likely to be seen.

While marveling at the lovely landscapes and abundant marine life, you will enjoy lunch or dinner onboard, with unlimited drinks from the open bar to boot.

How much do whale watching cruises tours in Los Cabos cost?

The fast boat whale watching tour from Los Cabos costs US$90 per person. The Cabo San Lucas humpback whale watching cruise costs about US$100 per person for a group of 10 people, or about US$680 per person for a group of two people.

The whale watching cruise with brunch or dinner costs about US$100 per person, excluding hotel transfer, and about US$120, including hotel transfer.

What is included?

Most whale watching cruises in Los Cabos include marine biologist or professional guide, marine park fees, and use of snorkeling equipment and life jacket.

They also usually provide hotel pickup and drop-off, meals and open bar, as well as souvenir photos (available to purchase).

Where does it start?

The meeting point for the whale watching cruises from Los Cabos is usually at the Marina Cabo San Lucas, which is the hub for vacationers looking for whale watching tours.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of the whale watching cruises from Cabo San Lucas is about 2 to 2.5 hours.

When is the best time for a whale watching cruise in Los Cabos?

The best time for a whale watching cruise in Los Cabos is from December to April when the whales migrate southwards from Alaska’s Bering Strait.

Are there any combos available with whale watching cruises in Los Cabos?

Whale watching and snorkel combo

On this whale watching cruise from Los Cabos, you can watch the migration of the humpback whales and go snorkeling on secluded reefs in Los Cabos.

This unique combo tour led by an expert tour guide is ideal for families and couples, and marine enthusiasts. If you leave early morning, you will be snorkeling around lunchtime with the sun sitting high.

If you find the water is too chilly, you will be provided with a wetsuit for free.

You will spend 2 hours watching the humpback whales breaching the ocean surface. Your guide will then seek secluded reefs for an hour of snorkeling among hundreds of beautiful tropical fish.

The guide is an expert in the region’s marine life and will take photographs and videos at the snorkel location.

Which other water activities can be done in Los Cabos?

Travel tips

Book your whale watching tour from Los Cabos in advance.
Choose early morning tours for calmer seas.
Always be aware of your surroundings.
Carry cash in local currency.
Consider having a travel insurance.
You can get around with ridesharing.

Whale watching cruises from Los Cabos