Whale Watching and Kayaking in Baja

This wonderful adventure combines two fabulous experiences of Baja: kayaking in the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez, with its isolated beaches and secluded coves, and one of the most incredible wildlife encounters on the planet: up-close whale watching in Magdalena Bay, the major breeding ground for California gray whales. We enjoy all Baja has to offer as we paddle among leaping dolphins and snorkel with sea lions amid a rainbow of tropical fish, and savor the thrill of seeing a 40-ton whale eye-to-eye—an unforgettable experience! Comfortable beach camps, yummy Mexican cuisine, ice-cold margaritas, luminous sunsets, and a terrific sky full of stars add up to an adventure that’s extraordinary in every way.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-4
La Paz / Espiritu Santo Island, Sea of Cortez / Sea Kayaking / Snorkeling with Sea Lions

After meeting in La Paz, we head to our base camp on a pristine beach on Espiritu Santo Island, where we experience the wonders of Baja while sea kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and beachcombing along the shores of this desert wilderness. The scenic backdrop could hardly be grander, from steep mountains glowing red in the morning light to cobalt lagoons fringed by powder-white beaches. This is one of the most biologically diverse marine areas in the world, now under the protection of The Nature Conservancy. Birdlife is spectacular, from magnificent frigatebirds soaring overhead to herons, egrets, and fantastic shorebirds along the shoreline. Our kayaks allow us to explore this remote and beautiful coastline, and as we paddle, we may see manta rays or schools of sleek dolphins leaping out of the water. Our other activities include skiff excursions to nearby snorkeling “hot spots,” including a sea lion rookery where we join these graceful creatures, swimming alongside them while enjoying their playful and curious nature. We return to La Paz in the afternoon of Day 4.

Days 5-9
Magdalena Bay / Whale Watching / La Paz

Traveling to Magdalena Bay on Baja California’s Pacific coast, we head out by motorized skiff for the wondrous experience of observing mother and baby California gray whales. Every year, these gentle giants complete one of the epic migrations on the planet, traveling 5,000 miles from the coastal waters of Alaska to Baja’s warm Pacific bays where they spend the winter courting, birthing, and rearing their young in calm lagoons—and we are here at the height of the season! Although we can’t guarantee it, we are sometimes treated to the phenomenon of “friendlies”—gray whales that gently approach our boats and allow themselves to be touched. These magnificent creatures were once hunted nearly to extinction, but their numbers are steadily increasing. We also have time to birdwatch and kayak in mangrove estuaries. After a final whale excursion, we head back to La Paz and depart on Day 9.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate. There is free time for relaxing, photography, extra paddling, and beachcombing. The journey is perfect for both beginner and experienced kayakers. Our kayaks are extremely stable and easy to use. Your Trip Leader will present each day’s route and distance. If the paddling is easier than you expected, you have the option of doing some extra kayaking or hiking in the afternoon.

Our fleet of kayaks will be approximately two-thirds double kayaks and one-third single kayaks. Most of the kayaks are fiberglass models made by SEDA. All are equipped with rudders. We do have a few plastic kayaks for variety as some people find them more comfortable. Based upon your kayak experience, size, and the composition of the group, the Trip Leader will help determine what kayak you will paddle. During the trip, we encourage people to rotate and use different kayaks so everyone has a chance to paddle in various kayaks. If you are over 6'2" in height or weigh over 200 pounds, let us know well in advance as we may have to arrange a special kayak for you.
 
On the Sea of Cortez: Camp is set up on a sand beach. At camp, a tent is set up by our staff and used for cooking. A shade tarp is also set up for taking breaks from the sun. Chairs are provided but not dining tables. Good quality four-person tents are provided for double occupancy. You can bathe in the sea using a biodegradable soap that lathers in salt water. Fresh water from a solar shower is available for a quick rinse to complete the process. The camp toilet is a porta-potty system placed in a secluded spot.

At Magdalena Bay: Our whale-watching camp faces the bay on the lee side of barrier islands nestled in sand dunes. The kitchen and dining area includes large-wall MASH tents complete with table and chairs for eating. Large (8'x10') walk-in canvas tents are provided for sleeping accommodations, each complete with two cots, sleeping pads, and tables. The larger tents are for double occupancy; smaller tents may be used for singles. Bathing and toilet systems are the same as our Sea of Cortez camp.

At both camps, our meals are a combination of the best of American and Mexican traditions prepared with fresh local ingredients. Barbecued chicken, fresh fish Vera Cruz style, grilled steak tacos with guacamole and a variety of Mexican salsas, plus fresh soups and salads are a few examples of our tasty menus. The skiffs allow us to bring large blocks of ice to store fresh produce and indulge in luxuries such as cold sodas, juice, and beer. Each evening we serve a cocktail and appetizer so you can enjoy the spectacular Baja sunset while sipping an ice cold margarita!

Explanation of Trip Levels