Guides / Wildlife

Whale watching in Banderas Bay: season and what to expect

When to see humpback whales in Puerto Vallarta, what behaviors you'll see and how to choose a responsible whale-watching tour.

Banderas Bay · Updated October 2026

Fact sheet

Season: December to late March
Peak: January and February
Species: Humpback whale
Official dates: Published yearly by Semarnat

Every winter, hundreds of humpback whales arrive in Banderas Bay from the cold waters of the North Pacific to mate and give birth. Watching them breach a few meters away is one of Puerto Vallarta's most impressive experiences.

When is the season

The season runs roughly from December to late March, with the most whales in January and February. Mexico's environment agency (Semarnat) publishes the official dates each year; in 2025-2026 they were December 8 to March 23.

What you'll see

Full breaches, fin and tail slaps, blows and sometimes mothers with calves. Dolphins and seabirds are common too. No sighting can be guaranteed, since these are wild animals.

Responsible whale watching

Choose permitted operators and guides who respect the distances and times set by regulations: the boat must not chase or circle the whales. Mornings usually have calmer seas.