When to go
The season runs from late October to April. The strongest months are usually November to February; at the start and end of the season there may be fewer sightings.
Keep two things in mind when planning. First, these are wild animals: a sighting is never guaranteed. Second, boat trips can be called off on very windy days. If you can, leave a spare day to reschedule.
Rules for swimming with them
Whale sharks are protected. These rules look after them and you:
- Go only with an operator permitted by CONANP (Mexico's protected areas commission). Ask to see the permit before you pay.
- In small groups with a guide, following their instructions in and out of the water.
- Do not touch them, including the tail and fins.
- Do not chase them or block their path: let the shark lead.
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel.
- A rash guard or long-sleeved shirt, so you need less sunscreen.
- If you use sunscreen, make it biodegradable, and ask your operator whether you may wear it in the water.
- Hat, sunglasses and water for the boat.
- Something warm for the ride back: in the winter months, wet and on a boat, it feels cool.
- Motion-sickness tablets if you get seasick.
- Ask your operator what gear is included (mask, snorkel, fins or wetsuit) and where the trip departs from.
Why stay at Sandy Shores
Sandy Shores is in downtown La Paz, 40 meters from the malecón and across from Parque Cuauhtémoc. That helps with an early start:
- Coffee maker, mini fridge and microwave in every room: coffee before you leave and cold water for the boat.
- We hold your luggage for free before check-in (4:00 p.m.) and after check-out (11:00 a.m.).
- Free private parking if you drive.
- Front desk open from 7:00 a.m.
- Back from the boat, walk to dinner downtown without moving the car.
We do not sell tours or packages. To see the rooms, read our guide to cabins in La Paz; if you are staying the whole season, read the one on long stays.