Whale Watching on Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Various species of whales move north to south during the winter months to give birth, passing along the Pacific coast of Mexico. From Baja California down to Jalisco, you can see these gentle giants of the sea from around December to March each year. One popular spot for whale watching is Loreto in Baja California, where locals offer whale-watching trips in small launches.

Further south near Puerto Vallarta, the Bahia de Banderas is known as a great spot for whale watching. Boat trips are available from Punta Mita, Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta, and you can also visit the magical Islas Marietas on the same trip.

Humpback whales are commonly spotted here when they come to give birth, which, in turn, attracts orcas that try to separate the young from their mothers. In amongst them, playful groups of dolphin swoop and dive among the waves, adding to the magic.

Mexico is an affordable place to go whale watching, and the chances of seeing them are high in season. There are cheap flights from across North America to the holiday hub of Puerto Vallarta, and the city makes a great place to relax in the sun for a few days before heading off to sea.