The Wild Wonder of Whale Watching Season

Spot humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, or spyhopping as they move through the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean. Known for their acrobatic displays, they are the ones most often photographed breaching and showing off their impressive pectoral fins. Watch as gray whales glide alongside your catamaran. These gentle giants are known for their curious demeanor and close encounters with boats, making them a favorite among whale watchers. Humpbacks and Grays are the most commonly seen, as the waters off Los Cabos are their traditional grounds for socializing, mating, and birthing their calves. If you’re lucky, you might get a glimpse of a blue, fin, or sperm whale. Even orcas have been spotted on occasion, and dolphins often make appearances in the cetacean traffic. Morning and late afternoon tours offer the calmest conditions and the best views, particularly in January and February when sightings customarily reach their peak.

Whale watching in Los Cabos is a world-class experience, and it’s one you can enjoy right from your resort. At the adults-only hotel-within-a-hotel, Towers at Pacifica, guests can catch a glimpse from the Whale Watching VIP Lounge. Enjoy made-to-order breakfast in the morning or sip an afternoon cocktail while having an assortment of light bites and scanning the horizon. At Quivira Golf Club, players can see breaching whales as they travel from hole to hole on the Jack Nicklaus Signature course. With a cliffside design made to maximize views of the natural landscape, it’s easy to see the whales and many other marine creatures in their natural environment from this vantage point. The wildlife show remains part of the backdrop at Quivira Steakhouse, where stopping for a post-round lunch or dinner is always a great idea.

Every villa at Montecristo Estates Luxury Villas features a private infinity pool with panoramic Pacific Ocean views, making your private terrace the ideal spot to look for signs of whale activity. And up on the bluff at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach, the two-tiered Sky Pool delivers whale sightings alongside poolside cocktails and sweeping scenery. Even the Lobby Bar’s open-air terrace offers a front-row view of the natural wonder.

A little farther south, whale watching in Mazatlán, Mexico, brings its own magic. The waters off the Golden Zone are visited by many of the same species annually, and guests at Pueblo Bonito’s beachfront resorts can witness it all with ease.

For those eager to learn more about what’s actually taking place out in the water, Mazatlán’s new Gran Acuario Mar de Cortés—the largest aquarium in Latin America—offers an in-depth look at the regional marine ecosystem. With its innovative architectural design and interactive educational exhibits, the aquarium offers an incredible, immersive experience that’s great for all ages, and tickets are part of Pueblo Bonito’s all-inclusive program.

Of course, you might want to get closer to the action, so just ask your resort concierge to help you book a guided whale-watching tour. Depart from the marina and head just off the shore as experienced guides help you track and observe these majestic animals from a safe distance.

Book your stay in time for the upcoming season and experience this bucket-list adventure for yourself.