Watch humpback whales in Banderas Bay, one of Mexico's largest bays and a major Pacific breeding and nursing ground for humpbacks. Between 300 and 500 whales gather here each winter to mate, give birth and raise their calves in the warm, sheltered water off Puerto Vallarta, with breaching, tail slapping and singing males common close to shore. Morning boat tours run through the official season, best from January to February.
Watch humpback whales in Banderas Bay, one of Mexico's largest bays and a major Pacific breeding and nursing ground for humpbacks. Between 300 and 500 whales gather here each winter to mate, give birth and raise their calves in the warm, sheltered water off Puerto Vallarta, with breaching, tail slapping and singing males common close to shore. Morning boat tours run through the official season, best from January to February.
Up to 88% sighting chance in Pacific Mexico - Bahia de Banderas / Revillagigedo Archipelago. Best months: February, March, January.
The official season runs from about December 8 to March 23. January and February are the best months, when whales are most active. Mornings offer the calmest seas.
An estimated 300 to 500 humpbacks visit Banderas Bay each winter to breed and calve, so encounters are excellent throughout the season.
A 3 to 4 hour tour costs roughly 60 to 90 US dollars per adult (2026 prices) depending on the operator, with reduced rates for children.
Most whale watching trips last about 3 to 4 hours round trip and usually depart in the morning from Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta.
