Puerto Vallarta Guide

Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Tours

See humpback whales, dolphins, and marine life in Banderas Bay!

68+ tours
From $75
3-5 hours
Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Tours

Experience Puerto Vallarta's incredible whale watching - December through March spectacle! Whale tours explore Banderas Bay where 300+ humpback whales migrate annually for breeding and calving. Watch mothers with calves, breaching whales (jumping!), tail slapping, and hear whale songs via hydrophone. Tours include dolphin sightings (spinner, bottlenose!), manta rays, sea turtles, and diverse marine life. Cruise on boats with expert naturalist guides explaining whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts. Tours range from large boats to intimate pangas (small boats - closer encounters!). It's nature's greatest show!

Featured Whale Watching Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for whale watching tours in Puerto Vallarta

Whale Watching Guaranteed Experience in Puerto Vallarta
From $99
Free Cancellation

We will take you to some of the best sea-level spots in Puerto Vallarta, where you are going to be able to get a closer look and take incredible photographs from this perspective hard to catch in the natural world. Whale watching season starts from December until March. Migrating from the arctic, traveling over 16,000 miles to tropical waters to breed and give birth. This is a one-time opportunity that you will not want to miss on your upcoming trip to Puerto Vallarta

4.9(134)
3h
View Details
Whale Watching Cruise In Puerto Vallarta & Nuevo Vallarta
From $99
Free Cancellation

From November to April the humpback whales visit the Bay to give birth and nurse their calves. On this sightseeing cruise, you will sail in the sea to watch them. Your tour also includes drinks and lunch.

4.8(375)
4h
View Details
Small-Group Half-Day Whale-Watching Tour in Puerto Vallarta
From $110
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy a small-group marine eco-activity where you'll be able to witness the power and gentleness of magnificent animals: Humpback whales. You will be guided into the wonders of whales, by a specialized guide ( biologist, ecologist or naturalist). The boats are small and have a bathroom. The tour will follow the regulations for the activity, so you will enjoy it as much as possible, without disturbing the whales. Join in and meet these amazing and graceful giants and become a responsible whale watcher!

5.0(308)
3h 30m
View Details
Whale watching 3 hours in Puerto Vallarta
From $48
Free Cancellation

This experience is the only one in Puerto Vallarta, this only happens once a year and our team is ready to take you on the adventure, an extraordinary experience.

3.5(14)
3h
View Details
Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
From $99
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Designed for those who want to enjoy whale watching from the comfort of a steady and ample catamaran with all facilities on board. Spend a day in Puerto Vallarta, marveling over the most exciting migration of the ocean. To close out on a high note, our Whale Watching Adventure includes open bar service and a Deli-style buffet on board. You might even be lucky enough to spot whales while having lunch! Book it now; you deserve it! This is the most comfortable way to enjoy a Whale Watching experience in Puerto Vallarta!

4.7(46)
3h
View Details
3 Hours of Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
From $55
Free Cancellation

Puerto Vallarta has a large bay where these beautiful mammals come to visit every year, which come to give birth to their babies and mate. We have been dedicating ourselves to whale watching for years, we would like to be able to show you an extraordinary experience, come and enjoy in company. Of your family.

3.9(14)
3h
View Details
Ultimate Whale Watching Experience All-Inclusive
💸Special Offer
$95From $88
Free Cancellation

Witness one of nature's finest spectacles from the comfort of one of our stable yachts as you cruise through the stunning Bay of Banderas. Humpback whale season runs from December to April, when these magnificent creatures choose this area as their winter home, seeking warmth and safety to breed, give birth, and raise their young. Alongside the humpbacks, you may also encounter sea turtles, rays, and playful dolphins, seabirds and our beautiful coastline. This daytime tour delivers an effortless in all-inclusive environment to witness one of nature's finest shows. We offer an open premium bar, delicious guacamole and chips, and authentic Mexican ceviche made with fresh, local fish. Our expert guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of these majestic animals while providing exceptional service, ensuring your whale watching adventure is nothing short of unforgettable! A perfect combination of luxury, adventure and our famous “Chica Locca Service”.

4.8(207)
3h
View Details
Whale Watching Adventure – Led by a Marine Biologist
From $120
Free Cancellation

What an incredible opportunity! This whale-watching adventure offers an immersive and educational experience led by a marine biologist. Observing humpback whales in their natural habitat while learning about their behavior, biology, and conservation makes this tour unforgettable. Plus, your participation supports research and contributes to marine protection efforts. Highlights: • Authorized motorboat for safety and optimal viewing • Guided by professional biologists • Educational video/lecture about humpback whales • Hydrophone system to hear whale songs • Small groups for a personalized experience • “Responsible Whale Watcher” sticker • Main sponsor of Ecology and Conservation of Whales, showing strong commitment to marine preservation

5.0(165)
3h 30m
View Details
Whale Watching Experience
From $89
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Witness majestic Humpback Whales in Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. Each winter, the humpbacks migrate from the arctic to breed and rear their young in the sheltered coasts of Banderas Bay. Join a specialized 3-hour speedboat ride led by a marine mammal expert and take the most striking photography from this unique, sea-level vantage point - a perspective that is a rare privilege in the natural world.

4.7(181)
3h
View Details
Whale watching with Snorkeling and beach Colomitos
From $57
Free Cancellation

Live the magic of Puerto vallarta we will transfer you to see whales followed by an adventure of one of the most incredible places which are only accessible by sea, surrounded by mountains and only jungle without hotels buildings or cars we do not have even streets is only the beach, The arches of mismaloya together with colomitos are the 2 main points to know live this extraordinary experience

5.0(1)
4h 15m
View Details
Whale Watching and Los Arcos 5 Islands Adventure
From $79
Free CancellationNew

Your experience begins with comfortable round-trip transportation from Puerto Vallarta in our private company vehicles. At Playa Mismaloya, you’ll check in at our office, meet your guide, and receive a short briefing before heading out on the water. We then cruise into the Bay of Banderas, one of the top whale-watching destinations in the world. Whale sightings are guaranteed, and often times humpback whales breach, slap their tails, and swim alongside their calves. Along the way, you may also encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and rays. Next, we’ll visit the Los Arcos Marine Sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel in waters filled with colorful tropical fish and vibrant marine life. This iconic site, with its dramatic arches and caves, is also home to a variety of seabirds, adding to its magic. With small groups, expert local guides, whale encounters, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this tour is one of the most unforgettable adventures in Puerto Vallarta.

4.9(25)
4h
View Details
Whale Watching with Biologist and Hydrophone in Puerto Vallarta
From $103.01
Free CancellationNew

This whale watching tour offers a truly immersive experience by combining expert guidance with unique onboard features. Travelers are accompanied by a marine biologist who shares in-depth knowledge about humpback whale behavior, migration, and conservation, making the experience both educational and unforgettable. A key highlight is the onboard hydrophone, which allows guests to listen to live whale songs underwater—a rare feature not included in most whale watching tours. The tour is conducted in a respectful, family-friendly environment, with plenty of time for observation and photography, plus the comfort of a well-equipped boat and included food and drinks. This combination of education, comfort, and rare wildlife interaction makes it one of the most complete whale watching experiences in Puerto Vallarta.

4h
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Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Tour
From $67.33
Free CancellationNew

On this tour, we will take you in a boat equipped especially for sighting, with ample spaces to enjoy from any angle and a hydrophone to hear the song of whales underwater. Our adventure begins in the navy, from where we set out in search of these majestic creatures. We sail through different points of the bay, in contact with other boats and attentive to signs such as the blow when going out to breathe or the movement of their tails and fins. Once located, we respect the distance recommended by environmental authorities so as not to alter their natural behavior, but we are close enough for you to admire its size, elegance and beauty. The whole tour is guided by a marine biologist, who will share with you fascinating facts about the behavior, migration and social life of humpback whales. A magical, educational and exciting experience that you will remember all your life.

4h
View Details
Whale Watching The Best Of Puerto Vallarta
From $99
Free Cancellation

Definitely one of the best and more popular tours in Puerto Vallarta in ths quick and very handy 3 1/2 hr. trip to go watch one of the greatest creatures on Earth: the humpback whales.

4.2(5)
3h 30m
View Details
4-Hour Private Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
From $621.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Live the experience of witnessing the migration phenomenon of the most majestic being on the Planet: The Whale. Enjoy the journey with all the comfort and personalized attention for groups of no more than 12 people. We have sports boats with cushioned seats and shade, with which it is possible to travel a greater distance. We will have the opportunity to see the mating phenomena, where it is possible to witness 7-8 males seeking to show their physical superiority to be the one chosen by the female, It is also common to observe the mother with her calf, where the females prepare them for the long and difficult migration journey of 3,000 km that they will make in the month of April or May. The whale calves spend a lot of time on the surface, since they are still learning to hold their breath, which allows us to carry out sightings with their mothers. It is common to be able to hear their song, which can travel up to 3 thousand km through the water.

5.0(1)
3h 30m
View Details

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Why Choose Whale Watching Tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Humpback Migration

300+ whales visit Dec-March - breeding and calving season!

Banderas Bay

Protected bay perfect for whale watching - calm waters!

Dolphins & Turtles

See spinner dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays too!

Breaching Whales

Watch 40-ton whales leap from water - spectacular!

Types of Whale Watching Tours in Puerto Vallarta

Classic Whale Tour

Large boat with naturalist guide.

3-4 hoursLarge boatStableNaturalistMost popular

Panga Whale Tour

Small boat for closer encounters.

3 hoursSmall boatClose encountersIntimateExciting

Whale + Snorkel Combo

Whale watching plus snorkeling at Los Arcos.

5-6 hoursWhales + snorkelComprehensiveFull experienceValue

Photography Tour

Focus on capturing whales with pro photographer.

4 hoursPhoto-focusedExpert tipsEquipmentMemorable

What to Expect on Your Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Tours

Duration

Tours: 3-4 hours on water. With transport: 4-5 hours total.

Humpback Whales

See mothers with calves, breaching, tail slapping - 40 tons of marine mammal!

Dolphins

Spinner dolphins often accompany boats - playful and acrobatic!

Whale Songs

Hear whale songs via hydrophone - hauntingly beautiful!

Breaching

Whales jumping out of water - thrilling and unpredictable!

Conservation Education

Learn about whale migration, behavior, and protection efforts.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Whale season: December-March (peak January-February) - plan accordingly!

2

Morning tours (8-9 AM) better light for photos and whale activity.

3

Panga boats closer encounters but bumpier ride - not for seasickness-prone!

4

Large boats more stable - better for families and those prone to seasickness.

5

Bring Dramamine if prone to motion sickness (Pacific can be choppy).

6

Sightings 95%+ guaranteed in season - whales are everywhere!

7

Dress in layers - cool on water, bring windbreaker.

8

Book ahead in peak season (January-February) - tours sell out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:When can you see whales in Puerto Vallarta?

A: December through March! Peak: January-February (most whales, best calving). 300+ humpback whales migrate to Banderas Bay for breeding/calving. 95%+ sighting rate in season. Outside season: No whales. Plan December-March for whale watching!

Q:Are whale sightings guaranteed?

A: 95%+ success rate in season (Dec-March)! Banderas Bay has 300+ whales - they're everywhere. Rare to not see whales. Most tours see multiple whales. If no sightings, many operators offer free return tour. Practically guaranteed!

Q:How close do you get to whales?

A: Legal minimum: 100 feet. However, whales often approach boats closer (curious!)! Panga tours sometimes have closer encounters. Breaching happens unpredictably - thrilling! Respectful distance protects whales while allowing amazing views. Binoculars help!

Q:How much do whale tours cost?

A: Standard tours: $75-120 (3-4 hours). Private panga: $150-250. Whale + snorkel combos: $100-150. Photography tours: $140-200. Good value for 3-4 hours on water with expert guides. Book reputable operators!

Q:Will I get seasick?

A: Banderas Bay generally calm but Pacific can be choppy! Large boats more stable. Panga boats bumpier. Take Dramamine 1 hour before. Sit middle of boat. Focus on horizon. Most handle fine but prepare if prone to motion sickness.

Q:Can kids go whale watching?

A: Yes! Family-friendly activity. Minimum age usually 3-5 years. Large boats better for young kids (more stable, bathrooms!). Pangas for older kids/teens. Educational and exciting! 3-4 hours manageable for most kids. Bring snacks!

Q:What else do you see besides whales?

A: Spinner dolphins (often swim with boats!), bottlenose dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, seabirds! Banderas Bay rich with marine life. Even without whales, tours see dolphins usually. Incredible biodiversity!

Q:Should I book whale tour in advance?

A: YES for January-February (peak season) - tours sell out! December and March: Book few days ahead. Popular tours fill up. Morning tours most sought-after. Book reputable operators online for best boats and guides. Worth planning ahead!

Don't Miss the Perfect Puerto Vallarta Experience

Book your whale watching tours today - 68+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Puerto Vallarta?

Historic Malecon boardwalk with sculptures

Charming Old Town with colonial architecture

Beautiful Pacific beaches and sunsets

Authentic Mexican cuisine and culture

Rich artistic heritage and galleries

Perfect blend of romance and adventure

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Puerto Vallarta enjoys a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and warm, dry winters. Average temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer.

Best Months

November to April offers the best weather with warm temperatures, low humidity, and perfect conditions for all activities.

Peak Season

December to April brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

May to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with hot, humid weather and hurricane season.

Plan Your Puerto Vallarta Trip

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the Malecon and Old Town. Public buses connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.

Car Rental Deals in Puerto Vallarta

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Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Puerto Vallarta adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Puerto Vallarta

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