Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching season showcases a breathtaking natural display when about 26,000 humpback whales begin their 12,500-mile round trip experience from Arctic waters. These magnificent creatures measure 46-56 feet in length and weigh around 35 tons. They travel to the welcoming waters of Banderas Bay.

Visitors can observe these majestic whales during their yearly migration from December 8 to March 23. January and February provide the best viewing opportunities. The Bay of Banderas is a vital sanctuary where 500-700 humpback whales gather. They mate and give birth in its protected waters. Female whales return to these same waters after an 11-month gestation period, which makes Puerto Vallarta one of the most dependable destinations for whale watching enthusiasts.

Puerto Vallarta’s Whale Watching Season

Hundreds of cetaceans turn Banderas Bay’s warm waters into a marine sanctuary during their winter retreat. Around 300 to 500 humpback whales make this bay their temporary home, making it one of North America’s best spots to watch whales.

Peak months and migration patterns

The whale watching season runs from December 8 to March 23, and peaks during January and February. These amazing creatures swim about 80 miles each day, moving day and night to finish their trip from Arctic waters. First-time mothers get help from ‘nurse’ whales that stay with them for 5 to 6 months until they head back.

Types of whales you can spot

Banderas Bay is home to many impressive marine mammals. You might see these main species:

• Humpback Whales: These are the most common ones, reaching 40 feet in length and weighing 40 tons
• Blue Whales: Earth’s largest mammals that can make sounds up to 188 decibels
• Gray Whales: They’re a bit shorter than humpbacks but just as heavy
• Bryde’s Whales: They’re as big as humpbacks but harder to spot

Orcas also show up sometimes, and they hunt in packs instead of following regular migration patterns.

Best viewing conditions and weather factors

You’ll get the best whale-watching experience early in the morning. The sea stays calmer then, which means smoother sailing and better chances to spot these marine giants. Morning tours give you more opportunities to see spectacular moves like breaching and tail slapping.

The sub-tropical climate creates perfect viewing conditions throughout the season. You should still be ready for different weather patterns. Winter months bring clear skies and nice temperatures, but morning trips might need light jackets to protect against occasional wind or rain.

Month-by-Month Whale Activity Guide

Humpback whales grace Banderas Bay with their presence from early December through late March. This monthly breakdown will help you plan the perfect time to see these magnificent creatures.

December: Early season behaviors

The whale watching season kicks off on December 8th when the first pods arrive. We spotted pregnant females leading the migration as they search for warm waters to give birth. Whale activity picks up through mid-December, and tour operators guarantee sightings from December 20th onwards.

January-February: Peak activity period

Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching reaches its peak during these two months. You’ll find 300 to 500 humpbacks swimming in the bay. The experience becomes special because:

• Whales are most active on the surface during morning hours
• New calves enter the world
• Male whales put on spectacular courtship displays
• The water stays calm and clear

March: End-of-season opportunities

March brings its own special moments as the season comes to a close. Mother whales teach their newborns vital survival skills in early March. Tours continue until March 23rd, though the number of whales drops as they prepare to swim north.

Morning tours starting at 8:30 AM provide the best viewing conditions throughout the season. The early hours bring calmer waters and better visibility – perfect conditions to photograph these gentle giants. People who get seasick usually find morning trips more comfortable thanks to smoother seas.

The bay welcomes different whale species all season long. While humpbacks steal the show, you might spot Bryde’s whales and even orcas. Tour operators between January and February are so confident you’ll see whales that they offer money-back guarantees if you don’t spot any. This natural spectacle rarely disappoints visitors.

Choosing Your Perfect Whale Watching Experience

The best whale watching experience in Puerto Vallarta depends on the tour options you’ll find throughout Banderas Bay. Each vessel type, from small speedboats to large catamarans, gives you a different way to get close to these amazing marine mammals.

Boat tour types and comparisons

Every vessel meets different priorities and comfort needs. Zodiac boats and pangas give you quick, exciting rides that photographers love because they get you closer to the action. These smaller boats take 10-14 passengers, so marine biologists can give everyone personal attention.

Large vessels and catamarans create a laid-back atmosphere with restrooms, shade, and food service. These boats work best for families with kids or anyone who wants extra comfort during their whale watching trip.

Land-based viewing locations

You don’t always need a boat to see whales in Puerto Vallarta. The Malecón boardwalk lets you spot whales right from the shore. Oceanfront hotels and resorts, especially those near Destiladeras Beach and Nuevo Vallarta, give you chances to watch these magnificent creatures from balconies or infinity pools.

Cost considerations and booking tips

Adult tour prices range from USD 62.00 to USD 89.00. Here’s what major operators charge:

• Vallarta Adventures: USD 62.00 for adults, USD 43.00 for children (6-11)
• Wildlife Connection: USD 72.00 for adults, USD 48.00 for children (4-11)
• Eco Explorer Vallarta: USD 89.00 for adults, USD 79.00 for children (6-11)

Licensed operators follow strict rules, so booking with them is vital. Tours usually include hydrophones to hear whale songs, expert guides, and refreshments. Many operators support whale conservation by donating part of their ticket sales.

Morning tours give you calmer seas and better visibility. You should try to book early-morning trips whenever possible. Most tours last 3 to 4.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

If you’d like to book a whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta, click here and send us a message and we will try and get you the best deal!

Essential Tips for Successful Whale Watching

You’ll need good preparation and the right equipment to make your whale watching trip in Puerto Vallarta a success. These amazing marine mammals create unforgettable moments you’ll want to capture perfectly.

Photography and equipment recommendations

The right camera gear and settings make all the difference when you’re trying to capture whales. A telephoto lens between 70 to 200mm works best to get professional-quality shots. Your shutter speed should be at 1/1000 of a second to freeze those action shots. A circular polarizer filter helps you see through water reflections and improves the whale’s visibility in your photos.

Don’t worry if you’re using a phone camera. You can still get great shots by using photo bursts or iPhone’s Live mode when whales breach unexpectedly. Just remember to protect your gear from water splashes with the right protective equipment.

Weather preparation and clothing

The right clothes will keep you comfortable throughout your whale watching trip. Layer your clothing based on Puerto Vallarta’s winter weather. Start with a light base layer, add a warm fleece mid-layer, and top it off with a waterproof outer layer.

You’ll want to bring these essential items:

• A waterproof windbreaker or light jacket
• A safari hat with neck strap (regular caps blow away quickly)
• Closed-toe shoes that won’t slip
• Clothes that block the sun and high-SPF sunscreen

Motion sickness prevention

The right preparation will cut your risk of seasickness by a lot. Take motion sickness medicine 30-60 minutes before you leave. Stay hydrated but skip the coffee and alcohol to avoid feeling sick.

Ginger products work well as natural remedies – try tea, candies, or supplements. Pick a spot near the boat’s middle on the lower level where there’s less motion. Looking at the horizon or distant landmarks helps your balance and reduces nausea.

Book a morning tour if you get seasick easily, as the sea stays calmer in early hours. A good night’s rest and a light breakfast of toast or yogurt will set you up for an amazing experience.

Conservation and Research Initiatives

Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching industry thrives thanks to dedicated organizations that protect these magnificent marine mammals. Their conservation efforts continue to shape whale watching experiences in this Mexican paradise.

Local protection programs

Puerto Vallarta’s premier whale protection organization, Ecology and Conservation of Whales (ECOBAC), started its journey in 1996. This non-profit group runs four major action plans: research initiatives, environmental education, conservation projects, and sustainable ecotourism development.

The Entangled Whale Assistance Network (RABEN) has become a vital force in whale protection. The network operates along Mexico’s Pacific Coast and rescues whales trapped in fishing equipment. RABEN also trains and educates people to prevent future entanglements.

These organizations run extensive research programs that include the Banderas Bay Humpback Whale Photo-identification Catalog. They work with North Pacific international catalogs. Their active conservation work features programs like the “I Do Care for Whales Campaign” and the BALLENARTE Conservation Festival.

How tourists can contribute

Puerto Vallarta offers many ways for visitors to support whale conservation. Tour operators collect marine life conservation fees between 65 and 85 pesos per person. Local protection programs and research initiatives receive direct support from these funds.

The Vallarta eco-store supports the Humpback Whale Research and Conservation program through its sales. Tourists can join research-focused tours led by professional biologists that combine education with conservation.

The “Swim for the Whales” event aims to raise one million pesos for six vital conservation projects. These projects include:

• Environmental education through “Mi Bahía y Yo”
• Coral reef protection and restoration
• Ghost net recovery
• Speed reduction campaigns in whale transit zones
• Beach cleaning and plastic waste reduction

Sustainable viewing practices

Mexican law NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010 sets clear guidelines for responsible whale watching. These practices ensure whale safety and give viewers the best experience.

Tour boats must stay 100 yards from large whales and 50 yards from dolphins. Viewing time has a 30-minute limit per whale or group to avoid stressing these marine mammals.

Sailboats make great vessels for whale watching. They have minimal environmental impact and offer excellent photo opportunities. All authorized boats follow strict rules: no sudden speed changes, proper distance maintenance, and no chasing or circling whales.

Expert biologists on these tours explain marine life conservation. They help visitors understand how to protect these magnificent creatures. Guests can listen to humpback whales’ songs through hydrophone technology while learning about their behaviors and migration patterns.

Whale watching in Puerto Vallarta stands among Mexico’s most spectacular natural experiences. These magnificent marine mammals reshape Banderas Bay into a living theater. Nature enthusiasts witness incredible displays of breaching, tail slapping, and maternal bonding.

Puerto Vallarta’s perfect viewing conditions, professional tour operators, and dedicated conservation initiatives make it an ideal destination to encounter these gentle giants. Visitors can maximize their chances of memorable whale encounters with careful timing and preparation. They should book tours during peak months, choose appropriate vessels, and follow expert photography guidelines.

The whale watching experience in Puerto Vallarta goes beyond entertainment. Each visitor becomes part of a larger effort to protect these remarkable creatures through environmentally responsible practices and active conservation programs. These encounters create lasting memories from zodiac boats or beachfront balconies while supporting vital marine conservation efforts.

Here are some FAQs about the whale watching season Puerto Vallarta:

What are the best months for whale watching in Puerto Vallarta?

The best months for whale watching season Puerto Vallarta are from December to March. During this time, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. The Puerto Vallarta whale watching season 2024 promises incredible sightings of these majestic creatures.

Is whale watching worth it in Puerto Vallarta?

Whale watching is absolutely worth it in Puerto Vallarta, especially during the peak whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta. Visitors have the chance to witness humpback whales breaching, playing, and nursing their calves. Guided tours offer an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Are there killer whales in Puerto Vallarta?

Although not as common as humpback whales, killer whales, or orcas, can occasionally be spotted during the Puerto Vallarta whale watching season. These sightings are rare but thrilling for visitors fortunate enough to encounter them.

Can you see whales from shore in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, it is possible to see whales from the shore in Puerto Vallarta during the whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta. Locations such as Los Muertos Beach or the Malecon offer great vantage points to spot whales in the distance.

When can you see dolphins in Puerto Vallarta?

Dolphins are present year-round in Puerto Vallarta, but sightings are especially common during the Puerto Vallarta whale watching season 2024. Both bottlenose and spinner dolphins are often seen alongside whales during tours.

What time of day is best to go whale watching?

The early morning is the best time for whale watching season Puerto Vallarta. Calm seas and favorable lighting conditions make it easier to spot whales. Tours often start at dawn to maximize viewing opportunities.

Why do humpback whales come to Puerto Vallarta?

Humpback whales come to Puerto Vallarta during the whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta to mate and give birth. The warm, protected waters of Banderas Bay provide a safe environment for their calves to thrive.

What time of day is best for whale watching in Mexico?

In Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, the best time of day for whale watching is early morning. Calm waters and optimal lighting increase the chances of seeing active whales during the whale watching season Puerto Vallarta.

What kind of whales are in Puerto Vallarta right now?

During the Puerto Vallarta whale watching season 2024, humpback whales are the most commonly sighted species. Occasionally, visitors may also spot killer whales, Bryde’s whales, and pilot whales in the area.