Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta

With the tail end of the season approaching, guests who want to witness whale watching in Puerto Vallarta, these spectacular sea creatures in their natural habitat are encouraged to act swiftly. Considered one of the area’s best water excursions, visitors can catch humpback whales as they make their annual 16,000-mile reproductive migration starting in December. But, hurry, because they start heading north again in March.

Weighing up to 90,000 lbs., humpback whales are easily identified by their black dorsal fin and the hump on their backs for which they are named. It’s quite a thrill to see these magnificent mammals playing, feeding, and breaching just a few feet away. By January, the females begin to give birth, so watch for calves swimming alongside their mothers.

Newborn whales are small, but they are remarkable. They often mimic their mothers and learn about the ocean. Watching these interactions reveals the nurturing and social behaviors of humpback whales.

During this season, the ocean becomes a stage for their playful antics. Whale watchers gather, hoping to see dramatic breaches and tail slaps. These moments are spectacular. They also serve important biological and social purposes. Whales communicate and may even remove parasites this way.

The migration of humpback whales is fascinating. They travel thousands of miles between feeding grounds in cold waters and mating areas in tropical seas. This is one of the longest migrations of any mammal. Protecting these majestic creatures and their habitats ensures future generations can enjoy their beauty.

There are several professional whale-watching tour operators. Ask our concierge for additional information on whale watching in Puerto Vallarta. 

No time for an excursion? During migration season, humpback whales are plentiful in the Banderas Bay and often visible through the bell tower at Hacienda San Angel, so be sure to take a peek!