TOP WHALE WATCHING SPOTS IN LORETO, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR: WHERE TO SEE BLUE & GRAY WHALES
By Sharon K. Kurtz
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Travel writer Sharon K. Kurtz shares her whale watching adventures in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
To witness one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles, plan a trip to Loreto, Baja California Sur, during whale-watching season.
Drifting quietly on the waters of Loreto Bay with a small group of journalists, I witnessed a blue whale—the largest animal on Earth—surfacing, sending a misty plume skyward. This was just one of many awe-inspiring moments in Loreto, where the Sea of Cortez teems with marine life. Baja California Sur is a premier whale-watching destination, home to both the blue whales of Loreto Bay National Marine Park and the gray whale nursery of Magdalena Bay.
On a recent trip, I experienced both, guided by geologist Ivette Granados of Visit Baja California Sur, who shared valuable insights into the region’s conservation efforts and the whales’ unique behaviors.
Blue Whales in Loreto Bay National Marine Park
Our boat captain, a local with years of experience navigating these waters, had an uncanny ability to predict where the whales would appear. He cut the motor, and we floated in near silence, the only sounds being the gentle lapping of the waves and the occasional seabird call. Then, without warning, we heard the telltale explosion of her plume just yards from our boat. It was so startling that we all jumped. The whale exhaled a powerful spout before gracefully slipping beneath the surface again.
The sheer size of these creatures is staggering. Blue whales, the largest animals ever to have lived on Earth, can reach up to 100 feet in length and weigh as much as 200 tons. Yet, despite their enormity, they move with an almost poetic fluidity. Seeing them up close is both humbling and exhilarating—a reminder of how small we are in comparison to the vastness of the ocean.
Loreto’s waters are not just home to blue whales; during the season, you may also encounter humpback whales, fin whales, and even the occasional orca. The protected nature of Loreto Bay National Park ensures that these marine giants have a sanctuary where they can thrive. Local guides deeply respect the animals, adhering to strict regulations to minimize human impact. This responsible approach to tourism makes whale-watching here so special—it’s about observation, not intrusion.
Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay
The following day, we drove 2 ½ hours to Puerto Adolfo López Mateos on the Pacific side of Magdalena Bay. This area plays a crucial role in the gray whale migration, serving as a training ground for mothers to teach their calves how to navigate, breathe, and interact before embarking on their 10,000-mile journey to the Arctic’s nutrient-rich waters. Gray whales, which can grow up to 50 feet and weigh 40 tons, seek the warmth and shelter of Baja’s coastal lagoons during migration.
Our host, Ivette explained that gray whales are highly social, often pushing their calves toward boats as if to show them off. She also described their fascinating spy-hopping behavior, where males raise their heads above the water to scan their surroundings. Despite high winds making whale sightings challenging early in the season, we managed to catch a glimpse of a cautious juvenile. During peak season, gray whales are known for their curiosity, often approaching boats and engaging with visitors. Decades of protection have allowed their population to recover, marking a remarkable conservation success after centuries of hunting.
When, Where, and How to Experience Whale Watching in Loreto
From January to April, whales migrate to Loreto’s warm waters, making it prime whale-watching season. Loreto Bay National Marine Park offers sightings of blue, fin, and humpback whales, while Puerto Adolfo López Mateos in Magdalena Bay is ideal for observing gray whale mothers and calves. Magdalena Bay is a 2.5- to 3-hour drive from Loreto, though many tour operators offer round-trip excursions. Since ocean conditions can affect sightings, flexibility is key.
Loreto is Steeped in History and Charm
Loreto is more than just a whale-watching destination—it’s a town that embraces the season, with tour operators, hotels, and restaurants welcoming nature lovers. Famous for Jacques Cousteau’s praise, Loreto Bay Marine Park is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the Malecón, lined with marine life statues, I felt the town’s deep connection to the sea. Vibrant murals highlight Loreto’s rich indigenous and colonial history. As the first capital of the Californias, founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, this Pueblo Mágico blends natural beauty with cultural significance, making it an ideal spot for adventure and heritage seekers.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Loreto offers more than just whale watching. Kayaking through the secluded coves of Isla Coronado, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or hiking the Sierra de la Giganta mountains are just a few ways to experience the region’s beauty. With its unique mix of history, culture, and pristine landscapes, Loreto is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.
Plan your Loreto Visit at https://visitbajasur.travel/en/
Podcast and article images by Sharon K. Kurtz, and courtesy of Visit Baja Sur
Sharon Kurtz is an Austin-based freelance travel writer and award-winning photographer. She is passionate about exploring the world and sharing her experiences through captivating storytelling, and Big Blend Radio podcast, “Wander the World with Sharon.” She is an active member of The Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and The International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Follow her travels on https://sharonkkurtz.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/shar_kurtz
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