We arrange holidays to Baja California all year round but one of the major highlights for those visiting this Mexican Peninsula are the grey whales that migrate here in spring. You wouldn’t want to miss it! To witness these giants of the sea, you need to visit in January, February, March, or April.
Best time to go whale watching in Baja California
The opportunity to see grey whales up close is one you shouldn’t miss. They migrate to the shallow lagoons on the Pacific side of the peninsula to birth and nurse their young between mid-January and March. The grey whales are the stars of the marine world in Baja California because of their incredibly friendly behaviour. They commonly approach visiting boats and like to be stroked and splashed. Though many of the grey whales will have started their migration north to Arctic waters by April, the calves migrate a little later, so April is an excellent time to witness their playful water antics.
February through to March is the peak time to see humpback and blue whales at the southern tip of the peninsula and in the Sea of Cortez, which separates the Baja peninsula from mainland Mexico. Whilst you can enjoy close-up encounters with the grey whales, the blue and humpback whales will be putting on quite a show, breaching and tail-slapping.
April to May for clear, calm seas
April through to May is a good time to be heading out snorkelling and kayaking. Though this activity may not have taken centre-stage on previous holidays, it certainly will in Baja California! The seas are calm and clear during this time of year, and you’ll discover an underwater paradise of dolphins, turtles, sea lions, and tropical fish. There is nowhere in the world that feels more alive than Baja California, and the snorkelling and kayaking excursions around La Paz and Loreto Bay are simply incredible.
It’s hot hot hot between June and October
The hottest months in Baja California are between June and October. It’s warm and humid, and you’re likely to experience a few tropical storms. This is low-season in Baja. If you can handle the heat, you can enjoy whale sharks, mobula rays, and sea lions. And the beaches are simply incredible, so you have plenty of opportunity to cool off in those beautiful, turquoise seas.
November to February for whale sharks
In November and December, the weather becomes pleasantly cool, the crowds thin out, and whale sharks begin returning to the bays around La Paz. December to February is when you’ll get the largest number of whale sharks and Baja is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever.
Summary of best time to visit Baja California
In summary, the best time to visit Baja Peninsula depends on what experiences you want to enjoy whilst there. Peak season for grey whales is mid-January to March. April through to May is a good time to head onto the water, snorkelling and kayaking. December through to February is the peak time to swim with whale sharks.
Most of our holidays are tailor-made itineraries for individuals, couples, friends, and family groups. However, Ian Coates has put together a group whale-watching holiday that is designed to include the very best marine life experiences, coupled with some inland exploration. You will be accompanied throughout by our very lovely and knowledgeable guide, Orloff, who specialises in grey whale experiences. He is also an expert guide on land and will take you on a journey through the landscape, exploring historical rock paintings and the incredibly resilient flora and fauna.
If you would like to have a chat about Baja California, drop Ian or Max and message: team@archipelagochoice.com
