Whale sharks and hidden beaches of Balandra Bay

Whale sharks are the true “gentle giants” of the oceans. The largest fish on the planet, these gentle beasts return yearly to the coast just off La Paz. We meet early in the morning for the short boat ride to the observation zone where the whale sharks come to feed. Along the way, your bilingual naturalist guide will brief you on whale shark ecology as well as regulations for snorkeling in the observation zone. If you are lucky and feeling adventurous, grab your snorkel and mask and, accompanied by your guide, get in the water to see the whale sharks up close.

The trip continues to Balandra Bay, a natural protected area and home to pristine beaches, mangroves, and stunning scenery. Here we’ll have a tasty lunch (dietary restrictions taken into account), explore the nature trails, snorkel in the crystal water and relax and unwind before heading back to La Paz.

La Paz is unique as a whale shark destination for its proximity to the observation zone and efforts undertaken by tour operators, regulatory agencies and civil society to responsibly manage this extraordinary experience. During peak holidays when boat activity increases, we may flip the itinerary and explore Balandra Bay and the surrounding area before entering into the whale shark observation zone.

Private and shared departures available.
Availability: October-April

For shorter trips or to accompany a whale shark research team contact us for more information.

Enquiries & private trips

Private departures start at:

USD$ 530

Shared departures:

USD 105 *

*per person (enquire for availability)

Category: Day trips Tag: whale sharks and hidden beaches

Trip details

TRIP DETAILS

Trip departs at 8:45 from the tourist pier in downtown La Paz. Departures from RED marina and Costa Baja marina available. Enquire for special departure times and hotel pick-ups.
Trip typically lasts 5-6 hours. During peak visitation, trip may last longer.
All trips staffed by bilingual naturalist guide with WFR certification and a licensed captain.
Boats are outboard skiffs with full shade, seat cushions, and dry storage space.
Beginner/first time snorkelers are welcome, but must be able to swim to participate in snorkeling portion of trip.
Whale shark season runs October – April.
Whale sharks are an endangered species and passengers will be briefed on regulations for snorkeling in the observation zone. Passengers not complying with regulations (eg. touching or grabbing whale sharks) may be returned to shore and referred to proper authorities.
Upon receipt of payment, RED will request specific passenger information and will provide departure specific information and packing list.
Please contact us with any questions.

TRIP INCLUDES

Marine transportation to whale shark observation zone and Balandra Bay.
Lunch and drinks (including beer).
Snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits).
Whale shark conservation fee.
Park entrance fee for Balandra Bay.
Taxes and insurance.
Bilingual naturalist guide.

NOT INCLUDES

Gratuities.
Services not included in trip description.
Ground transportation (additional).

RED’s impact

Promoting sustainable tourism

RED’s nonprofit arm works with SEMARNAT and local service providers to train captains, guides and hoteliers on regulations and responsible practices for whale shark tourism.

Traveling Roots – Raising awareness with local youth

We can’t appreciate what we haven’t experienced. RED provides scholarships to underserved local youth to visit RED’s sea turtle research camp and learn about the importance of protecting our natural treasures