Sea of Cortez Combo: Whale Sharks, Sea Lions & Balandra Beach

There are few experiences in the world that match swimming alongside the largest fish in the ocean! Whale sharks are known as the "gentle giants of the sea" and can measure up to 40 feet (12 meters) in length. Whale sharks migrate to the Bay of La Paz in winter in search of food. Join us on this adventure from October to April!

Important: Whale shark area access is federally regulated. Your reservation does not guarantee access on a specific date or time.

Our guides will brief you on what to expect. Then head by boat to the whale shark area, where you'll snorkel alongside the world's largest fish!

After swimming with whale sharks, the adventure continues at San Rafaelito Reef, where you'll snorkel alongside a colony of sea lions and observe these incredible animals up close in their natural habitat.

Then we'll take you to one of the best beaches in the world: Balandra, where you'll enjoy paddleboarding, fresh ceviche and your favorite drink while you dip your toes in the crystal-clear turquoise water!

After an incredible day, enjoy the beautiful Baja coastline on the boat ride back to La Paz. Live this unbelievable experience with us and scratch it off your bucket list!

1. Balandra Beach

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Seasonal Tour: This tour is offered from October to April, during the seasonal presence of whale sharks in the Bay of La Paz. Exact season dates may vary each year based on whale shark migration and regulations established by Mexican federal authorities.
• Whale Shark Access & Entry Times: Access to the whale shark area is strictly controlled by Mexican federal authorities and operates through assigned entry times. Your tour reservation does not guarantee a specific entry time to the whale shark area. Entry is subject to authorization and availability for the day of your tour.
• Cruise Guests: If you are arriving by cruise ship, please provide your complete cruise ship name, arrival time and departure time when booking. Whale shark area entry times cannot be guaranteed in advance and may not always be compatible with your ship's time in port.
• Authorized Whale Shark Operation: Your captains and guides hold the required certifications and permits to legally operate in the whale shark area. Guests must follow all instructions provided by the crew and applicable wildlife regulations.
• Marine Life & Environmental Protection: Please respect all marine life and follow your guide's instructions at all times. Do not touch, chase, feed or disturb whale sharks, sea lions or other wildlife. Sunscreen, oils, lotions or other products that may enter the water and harm marine life should not be applied before swimming or snorkeling. Never approach or disturb wildlife for photos or videos.
• Minimum to Operate: This shared tour requires a minimum of 5 guests in total to operate. The minimum applies to the tour departure, not to each individual booking.
• Meeting Point & Transportation: Roundtrip transportation is not included. Please arrive at Restaurante Vid'ah Bistro on the La Paz Malecón at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
• Wildlife: Whale sharks, sea lions and other marine life are wild animals. Sightings, abundance and behavior cannot be guaranteed.
• What to Bring: Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat and sunglasses. A jacket or sweater is recommended during winter months. If bringing sunscreen, please follow your guide's instructions regarding when and where it may be used.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol is not included, but you're welcome to bring your own. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on board.
• Weather & Sea Conditions: The itinerary, snorkeling locations and access to certain areas may change due to weather, sea conditions, wildlife activity or restrictions from authorities.
• Port Closure: If the port is closed to navigation by local authorities and the tour cannot operate, you may reschedule your tour or receive a full refund.
• Cruise Guests – No Port, No Pay: If your cruise ship does not call at La Paz, you will receive a full refund.
• Late Arrivals / No-Shows: Guests who arrive late or fail to show up for their scheduled activity are not eligible for a refund.
• Guests must be able to independently board and exit a small boat. This tour may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Guests participating in water activities must be comfortable swimming in open water and able to safely use the provided snorkeling equipment and life jacket. Children must remain under adult supervision.