22 reasons to visit Baja California
If you’re looking for an unforgettable ocean experience, Baja California is the place to be! Year-round you will be able to spot amazing wildlife and live incredible encounters. The landscape will also leave you amazed. Exploring Baja above and below water should be on your to-do list.
Humpbacks
Humpback whale season officially begins in December but it’s common to see these gentle giants from mid November through April. They migrate to Cabo every winter to mate and calf as well as socialize. It's not uncommon to see these incredible animals breaching even from the boat. However, the best way to see them is out on the ocean with a whale watching tour or Marine Safari (https://www.latitudeencounters.com/one-day-adventures-1).
2. Whale Sharks
The largest fish in the sea can be spotted in the Sea of Cortez from October to May. Staying in La Paz is the closest if you want to go looking for these gentle giants and remember to always interact in a respectful manner with them. The best time to spot them in La Paz is November to March.
3. Swimming with Sea lions
The puppies of the sea! These friendly and curious mammals can be seen very often in Cabo San Lucas and interacting with them is never a bore. A stop by the arch is mandatory in all Ocean-Safaris which means you’ll definitely get a picture of one of these sunbathing on the rocks.
4. 200 islands in the Sea of Cortez
There’s actually 244 islands in this incredibly diverse and rich marine ecosystem. Some of the most known islands are the Isla del Espiritu Santo, Isla Partida, Isla Coronados and Isla Angel de la Guarda. You can spot wildlife, go on adventure hikes or chill by the beautiful beaches that these islands have to offer. Hot tip: Isla Cerralvo is the perfect setting for a summer safari searching for Mobulas
5. Cabo Pulmo
This protected national park is a must see! In 1995 it became a National Marine Park, in 2005 a UNSECO World Heritage site and in 2008 a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. In the 20 years scientists have investigated the area, fish biomass has increased over 400%. One of the highlights is the opportunity to scuba or freedive with the respected Bull Sharks and observe the giant tornados of schooling jacks.
6. Mobula rays
A group of mobulas is called a fever and you’ll have a fever high when you encounter these beautiful animals. Mobula expeditions occur in May and June but may extend throughout the summer.
7. Gray whales
From January to early April, Gray whales come to San Ignacio, Ojo de Liebre and Magdalena Bay to breed and feed before continuing their journey to colder waters. What makes the encounters with these whales extra special is how many of them actively look for human contact, coming up close to the boats to be petted.
8. Silky shark aggregation
The silky sharks love tropical water and migrate through the warm summer waters of los Cabos, traveling long distances to find the abundant waters of Baja. The silky sharks are incredible and curious creatures with large eyes and mesmerising skin. These incredible sharks are often seen in large schools during the summer. During a summer Shark Safari (https://www.latitudeencounters.com/swim-with-sharks) you swim between a school of sharks
9. Orcas 🤞🏼
The queens of the ocean! Having an orca encounter is a true blessing from the ocean. Throughout the year, rare orca sightings occur along the southern coast of Baja California. So if you happen to be out on an expedition or safari and an orca sighting comes in, cross your fingers and get ready for a wild encounter!
10. Kitesurfing
When you want to stick your head out of the water for a while, make your way to La Ventana or Barriles where you can enjoy incredible kitesurfing November through April. Barriles offers a much wider stretch of beach but more waves while La Ventana is a smaller beach but due to it’s location protected in a bay you will find less waves.
11. Hikes
Baja is not only beaches, there are incredible mountains. Sierra de la Laguna is one of the least explored places in the peninsula. This mountain can be accessed from both the east and west side. This magnificent place has a lot to offer to someone who wants to hike off the beaten path with hundreds of endemic plants and its own micro climate, waterfalls and a maximum elevation of 2,161m. You will see Baja from a completely different perspective.
12. Guadalupe Island Scuba Diving Liveaboard
If you’re a scuba diver, Guadalupe is a place you won’t want to miss. This volcanic island is located 241 kilometers (130 nautical miles) off the west coast of Baja California where you can come face to face with the mighty Great White Shark. Getting to the island is a 20h journey and you can find a variety of liveaboard companies.Visit Nautilus Liveaboards (https://nautilusliveaboards.com/guadalupe-island-shark-cage-diving) or Liveaboards.com (https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/mexico/guadalupe) to find the best option for you.
13. Freediving
Freediving is one of the most beautiful and freeing adventures you can embark on. Freediving in Baja means you might encounter some amazing animals above and below the surface. You might even hear a whale symphony on your way down. Freediving with wildlife is by far our favorite way to encounter them. You can contact Freefall Academy or Amancay Freediving for courses.
14. SpearFishing
The most sustainable way to enjoy seafood -spearfishing- is allowed in Baja California. However, there are marine protected areas and local regulations that need to be followed. If you’re a spearo visiting, make sure to educate yourself first and always respect the local rules.
15. Cactus
Yes, we’re including plants here…but hear me out. There are 120 different species of cactus in the Baja California peninsula, and the most impressive is certainly the Elephant Cactus which can grow up to 20 meters and weigh up to 10 tons! With such long roads between ocean adventures, you’ll be mesmerized by the cacti all around.
16. 27 species of cetaceans
Although Humpback, Grey and Blue whales take the spotlight. It is also possible to spot Sperm Whales, Fin Whales, Minkes, Bryde’s, pilot whales and so much more! You never know if it will be your lucky day in these waters, on an Ocean Safari (https://www.latitudeencounters.com/one-day-adventures-1)
17. Marlin season
Every year sardines gather in the coastal waters of Bahia Magdalena attracting the Marlins and creating a unique opportunity to observe them as they hunt on the sardine bait balls. The Marlin Expeditions (https://www.latitudeencounters.com/marlin-expedition) promise intense unique encounters where you will not only see the *striped Marlin but several other species hunting for their fishy meal. dolphins, whales and sea lions like to get in on the action as well
by Luke Coley
18. Sailing
With the pacific ocean and the Sea of Cortez, Baja California is all about the ocean. Sailing this biodiverse region is bound to be an incredible adventure with the most breathtaking scenery.
19. Vineyards
Valle de Guadalupe is located in the northern region of Baja California and 90% of Mexican wine is produced in this region. In the past years tourism has been growing in the region and it's definitely one of those spots you’ll want to explore before they become popular.
20. Shark Diving with Makos
While there are sharks in the area all year round, the spring months of February to April is when the fastest shark in the world -the Mako- make their appearance in Baja California waters. These sharks have a spectacular torpedo shaped body which allows them to burst up to 80km/h. They are not often encountered by humans and are usually pretty curious of us. It is very special to be able to swim with these awe-inspiring creatures.
21. Sunsets
Desert sunsets are known to be gorgeous…but desert sunsets with an ocean drop are a whole other level. If you’re in Cabo there are some easy hikes you can do for incredible sunsets you won’t forget.
22. Beautiful beaches
If you’re done exploring the underwater world or want a nice spot to relax after diving, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular include Balandra near La Paz and Zacatitos near Cabo San Lucas and San Jose. One of the best things about baja is exploring the coast and finding an empty beach to enjoy.
