Snorkel with mobula rays and the marlin-fuelled sardine run at Magdalena Bay on Baja California's Pacific coast. From mid-November mobula rays sweep through on their winter passage, leaping and cartwheeling at dawn, while striped marlin, sea lions and whales tear into bait balls just below the surface. The action runs from October to January, best from November to December.

Devil Ray in Magdalena Bay (Baja California Sur, Mexico)

expeditionHardSnorkelingWatching

About This Spot

Snorkel with mobula rays and the marlin-fuelled sardine run at Magdalena Bay on Baja California's Pacific coast. From mid-November mobula rays sweep through on their winter passage, leaping and cartwheeling at dawn, while striped marlin, sea lions and whales tear into bait balls just below the surface. The action runs from October to January, best from November to December.

Best Months to Visit

Up to 78% sighting chance in Magdalena Bay (Baja California Sur, Mexico). Best months: December, November, January.

  • December: 78%
  • November: 74%
  • January: 72%
  • October: 60%

Practical Information

  • Location: Magdalena Bay (Baja California Sur, Mexico)
  • Country: Mexico
  • Coordinates: 24.6200, -112.0700
  • Effort: expedition
  • Accessibility: Hard
  • Observation mode: Snorkeling, Watching

Frequently Asked Questions

When can you see mobula rays at Magdalena Bay?

From about mid-November into January during their winter passage, best seen leaping at the surface in the early morning.

What else happens at Magdalena Bay then?

The famous sardine run, from October to December, with striped marlin, sea lions, dolphins and whales hunting bait balls near the surface.

Is it snorkelling?

Yes, guests launch from pangas and snorkel or freedive at the surface, so it suits non-divers.

How do you get there?

By boat from the fishing town of Puerto San Carlos on Baja California Sur's Pacific coast, usually on multi-day trips.

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