Whale shark season is officially underway in Bahía de los Ángeles, giving visitors the chance to observe (and, when conditions allow, swim alongside) the world’s largest fish in one of Baja California’s premier ecotourism destinations.
The authorized season runs from June 1 through Dec. 15, with most sightings involving juvenile whale sharks measuring between 8 and 26 feet (2.5 to 8 meters). Fully grown whale sharks can reach lengths of up to 65 feet (20 meters).
Where to see whale sharks
Most tours take place in the southern portion of Bahía de los Ángeles, within the Whale Shark Public Use Zone of the Bahía de los Ángeles, Ballenas Canal and Salsipuedes Canal Biosphere Reserve.
To help protect the species, tours may only be operated by authorized tour providers holding permits issued by Mexico’s environmental authorities.
Although the whale shark season extends through mid-December, swimming with the animals is not guaranteed throughout the season.
Under the area’s management plan, when five or fewer whale sharks are present, visitors may only observe them from the boat. Swimming is permitted only when conditions meet conservation guidelines.
Rules for responsible wildlife viewing
When swimming is allowed, groups are limited to four swimmers per whale shark, accompanied at all times by a certified guide.
Visitors must remain at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) from the animal’s head and sides and 3 meters (10 feet) from its tail. Each in-water encounter is limited to 30 minutes.
To minimize disturbance, visitors are prohibited from touching or riding the whale sharks, blocking their movement or altering their natural behavior.
The use of drones, pets, selfie sticks, flash photography and swimming propulsion devices is also prohibited. Authorities recommend using only biodegradable sunscreen to help protect the marine ecosystem.
A protected species
The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is listed as a protected species under Mexican environmental regulations, meaning tourism activities are limited to non-extractive experiences such as guided observation and regulated swimming.
Local Tourism Secretariat officials say following these rules helps protect the species while ensuring visitors can continue enjoying one of Baja California’s most iconic wildlife experiences for years to come.
Located along the Gulf of California, across from the Midriff Islands, Bahía de los Ángeles is part of one of Mexico’s most important protected natural areas. Its warm waters and rich marine biodiversity attract dozens of juvenile whale sharks every year, making it one of the country’s top destinations for responsibly observing the species.
