Loreto Bay National Park & Blue Whale Watching
Parque Nacional Bahía de Loreto
A World Heritage marine park where small boats head out in winter and spring to look for the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale, often accompanied by dolphins and humpback whales.
Loreto Bay National Park covers about 2,000 square kilometres and includes five main islands. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California'. From about January to March each year, blue whales come into the bay to feed. It is one of the few places in the world where blue whales can be seen fairly reliably. Fin whales, humpback whales and large pods of common dolphins also appear. Whale-watching boats leave from the waterfront pier on the Malecón. A half-day trip lasts about 3-4 hours and costs roughly USD 80-120 per person. Book with a licensed operator and pay the park entry fee (wristband). Trips may be cancelled in strong winds, so it's wise to allow a spare day.
Opening hours
Whale-watching boats usually depart 07:00–12:00 (weather permitting)
Nearby sights
- Isla del Carmen
- Isla Danzante
- Playa Juncalito
- Tabor Canyon
- Malecón de Loreto
- Mission of Our Lady of Loreto
- Museum of the Jesuit Missions
- Isla Coronado