Whale Watching in Bahía Ballena (Whale & Dolphin Tour)

Set out from Bahía Ballena to witness migrating humpback whales and playful dolphins in Marino Ballena National Park. During whale-season months, this boat tour offers a thrilling chance to swim, snorkel, and explore coastal cliffs, seabird rookeries, and caves in one of Costa Rica’s most iconic marine preserves.

Experience Whale & Dolphin Migration in Bahia Ballena

The whale watching Bahia Ballena tour takes travelers into the heart of Marino Ballena National Park during its spectacular whale-migration seasons. From mid-July through October, Southern Hemisphere humpback whales journey here to breed and calve, while a second season from mid-December to February brings Northern Hemisphere whales migrating from the Pacific Northwest. Your experience aboard a comfortable boat offers hopeful, respectful sightings of breaching whales, graceful dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. If ocean conditions allow, there’s a chance to stop and snorkel or swim, turning the journey into a refreshing marine encounter. Meanwhile, the coastline reveals its secrets: sea birds gliding overhead, dramatic rock formations, and coastal caves along Playa Ventanas. This tour is a celebration of nature — an unforgettable reminder of the wanderers of the deep and the rhythms that carry them across oceans. Book your whale-watching adventure during the peak season and witness one of nature’s greatest migrations.

Key Highlights

  • Witness humpback whales migrating through Ballena National Park
  • Swim or snorkel (weather permitting) in the open ocean
  • Spot Pacific spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles
  • Cruise by Whale Island and see seabirds like booby birds and frigates
  • Visit the coastal cliffs and caves at Playa Ventanas

FAQs

  • Is transportation included? Transportation is not included by default, but it can be easily arranged upon request for a smooth, door-to-dock experience.
  • When is the best time to join this tour? The main whale seasons are mid-July to October (Southern-hemisphere humpbacks) and mid-December to late February (Northern-hemisphere humpbacks).
  • What swimming skill level is required? No advanced swimming skills are needed. Guests only need to move a few meters with a life jacket to comfortably reach the boat during the snorkeling portion.
  • Are meals included? Guests enjoy snacks before departure at the office: complimentary coffee, homemade banana bread, fresh fruit, cereal, natural juice, and tea. And, refreshments on the boat: fresh fruit, juice, and mineral water for refilling
  • Is it possible to swim or snorkel on the tour? Yes. Swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience when ocean conditions allow, giving guests the chance to enjoy the marine environment safely.
  • Will we see sea caves? Yes. The tour typically navigates along the coast toward Playa Ventanas, known for its impressive sea caves that open toward the ocean.

Duration:

3.5 hours approx. (Approx. 3 hours in the ocean)
AgesPrice *
Cancellations:
11 days in advance for a refund

Tour includes

Some includes in this tour experience

Your travel list

Don’t forget to bring

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Binoculars
Bottle to refill water
Camera
Change of clothes
Comfortable clothes
Dry bag
Insect repellent
Non-slip flip-flops
Passport copy or digital photo
Quick-dry clothing
Reusable bottle of water
Shorts
Sunscreen
Essential for sun protection—apply before leaving and reapply often during long outdoor tours.
Swimsuit
Many tours include hot springs, rivers, or waterfalls—having a swimsuit means you won’t miss out.
T-shirt
Towel
A small towel comes in handy after swimming or to wipe off sweat during active adventures.
Water shoes
Protect your feet on rocky riverbeds, waterfalls, or boat rides with sturdy and quick-drying water shoes.

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