Ultimate Guide to Marine Life in Los Cabos: What to See and When
Los Cabos is one of the world’s premier destinations for ocean lovers. Situated where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, the waters around Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo serve as a vital corridor for some of the most impressive creatures on the planet. This guide breaks down what you can see, when to visit, and how to prepare for your adventure.
What Marine Animals Can You See in Los Cabos?
The variety of life in the water depends heavily on the season. While some animals live here year-round, others are just passing through on long migrations.
Humpback Whales are the stars of the winter season from December through April. These massive whales come to the warm waters of Los Cabos to mate and give birth. You will often see them from a boat as they breach, tail-slap, and play in the bay. If you stay at a property with an ocean view, you are very likely to see whales right from your balcony. It is an incredible feeling to watch them breach while you are having your morning coffee. We also frequently see them at my favorite beach, Playa Monumentos, during our destination Cabo photo sessions. While they do not usually come close enough to be in the pictures, witnessing them is still amazing and is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Orcas, also known as Killer Whales, have become a frequent and exciting sight in recent years, especially between January and May. They are often spotted hunting near the Arch or along the coastline. Because they move quickly, they are best seen from high-speed boat tours or dedicated ocean safaris.
Mobula Rays are famous for their acrobatic jumps. In late spring, from May to July, and again in late autumn, they gather in schools of thousands. Snorkeling with these gentle rays is a highlight of the Cabo summer.
California Sea Lions are the permanent residents of the area. A large colony lives at the rocks near the Arch at Land’s End. You can see them from any boat leaving the marina, or you can get into the water to snorkel or dive with them at Pelican Rock.
Humpback Whales are the stars of the winter season from December through April. These massive whales come to the warm waters of Los Cabos to mate and give birth. You will often see them from a boat as they breach, tail-slap, and play in the bay. If you stay at a property with an ocean view, you are very likely to see whales right from your balcony. It is an incredible feeling to watch them breach while you are having your morning coffee. We also frequently see them at my favorite beach, Playa Monumentos, during our destination Cabo photo sessions. While they do not usually come close enough to be in the pictures, witnessing them is still amazing and is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Orcas, also known as Killer Whales, have become a frequent and exciting sight in recent years, especially between January and May. They are often spotted hunting near the Arch or along the coastline. Because they move quickly, they are best seen from high-speed boat tours or dedicated ocean safaris.
Mobula Rays are famous for their acrobatic jumps. In late spring, from May to July, and again in late autumn, they gather in schools of thousands. Snorkeling with these gentle rays is a highlight of the Cabo summer.
California Sea Lions are the permanent residents of the area. A large colony lives at the rocks near the Arch at Land’s End. You can see them from any boat leaving the marina, or you can get into the water to snorkel or dive with them at Pelican Rock.
Humpback whale breaching ocean surface
Planning Your Cabo Boat or Snorkel Tour
To have the best experience, you need to know where the tours depart and the best time of day to be on the water.
Most tours depart from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, which is the main hub for whale watching and snorkeling. If you prefer a quieter experience, some boats depart from Puerto Los Cabos in San Jose del Cabo. This location is ideal for those staying in the East Cape area or those heading out to the famous Gordo Banks for diving.
The best time of day for a tour is usually early in the morning, around 8:00 AM. This is when the winds are calmest and the water is smoothest, which is perfect for snorkeling and spotting animal fins on the horizon. Mid-day tours are often great for whale watching because captains have already located the pods. Late afternoon tours offer beautiful sunsets, but the Pacific side of the Arch can become quite windy and choppy at this time.
Most tours depart from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, which is the main hub for whale watching and snorkeling. If you prefer a quieter experience, some boats depart from Puerto Los Cabos in San Jose del Cabo. This location is ideal for those staying in the East Cape area or those heading out to the famous Gordo Banks for diving.
The best time of day for a tour is usually early in the morning, around 8:00 AM. This is when the winds are calmest and the water is smoothest, which is perfect for snorkeling and spotting animal fins on the horizon. Mid-day tours are often great for whale watching because captains have already located the pods. Late afternoon tours offer beautiful sunsets, but the Pacific side of the Arch can become quite windy and choppy at this time.
Mobula rays migration
Important Tips for Your Marine Adventure
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip is comfortable and safe.
Seasickness can affect anyone, even on a seemingly calm day. The swells where the two oceans meet can be unpredictable. It is highly recommended to take motion sickness medication at least 30 minutes before your boat leaves the dock.
Sun protection is essential because the sun reflects off the water and increases your exposure. Please use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment, or wear a long-sleeve rash guard to avoid using lotions entirely.
Respecting the wildlife is a legal requirement in Mexico. It is illegal to touch or harrass sea lions, whales, or turtles. Always follow the instructions of your captain and guide, who are trained to keep a safe and respectful distance from the animals.
Safety should always come first. Even if you are an expert swimmer, you should always wear the provided life jacket or snorkel vest. The currents in Los Cabos can be strong, and a vest ensures you stay visible to boat traffic and can float effortlessly while watching the marine life below.
Seasickness can affect anyone, even on a seemingly calm day. The swells where the two oceans meet can be unpredictable. It is highly recommended to take motion sickness medication at least 30 minutes before your boat leaves the dock.
Sun protection is essential because the sun reflects off the water and increases your exposure. Please use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment, or wear a long-sleeve rash guard to avoid using lotions entirely.
Respecting the wildlife is a legal requirement in Mexico. It is illegal to touch or harrass sea lions, whales, or turtles. Always follow the instructions of your captain and guide, who are trained to keep a safe and respectful distance from the animals.
Safety should always come first. Even if you are an expert swimmer, you should always wear the provided life jacket or snorkel vest. The currents in Los Cabos can be strong, and a vest ensures you stay visible to boat traffic and can float effortlessly while watching the marine life below.
Published on the 31 of January 2026
© All Right Reserved by Alice Nerr Photography 2012-2026
e-mail: hello@alicenerr.com
e-mail: hello@alicenerr.com