When the whale season runs
Whale watching in Mexico is regulated by SEMARNAT, which publishes a notice each fall with the season dates. For 2025 to 2026 it set December 15 to April 30 for the Cabo San Lucas protected area. The 2026 to 2027 notice hadn't been published when we last checked, so we show the dates as TBA; in practice the season has opened on December 15 for years. We'll update this page when the notice is out.
The best stretch is January to March. December can be hit or miss while the whales are still arriving, and sightings thin out through April. Our full Cabo whale season guide covers the species, the distance rules and how to pick a responsible operator.
Seeing whales from Médano Beach
You don't need a boat. In peak months our guests regularly see spouts and breaches from the pool deck at Villa 1, looking across the bay toward Land's End. Early morning, when the water is flat, is the easiest time to spot them. Bring binoculars.
For a closer look, most tours leave from the Cabo San Lucas marina, a short walk along the beach from Hacienda Beach Club. Small pangas and inflatables get you low to the water and are quick; catamarans are steadier and better with kids or anyone who gets seasick. A sailing trip at dusk doubles as a sunset cruise.
- Book morning trips: calmer water, better light, fewer boats.
- Ask to see the operator's SEMARNAT permit before you board.
- Boats must stay 60 to 80 meters from whales, so a zoom lens helps.
Who it's for
Almost everyone. It's the rare Cabo activity that works for grandparents, toddlers and a bachelor group alike, and it overlaps with the driest, clearest weather of the year. The catch is demand: late December and spring break are busy, so reserve tours a few days ahead. After a morning on the water, lunch on the sand at Sur Beach House keeps you close to the villa.