In short
- Late September to November offers the warmest water and best visibility.
- December to April is peak season for whales and bull sharks.
- Winter diving requires advance booking to secure spots for shark encounters.
In this article
Planning your trip to this marine sanctuary requires matching the season to your goals. Autumn brings the best conditions for seeing the coral reef, while winter attracts large marine life to the Gulf of California.
When is the water warmest and clearest?
Late September through November provides the warmest water and the highest visibility.
During autumn, visibility can sometimes exceed 100 feet. This is the optimal time to clearly see the 800 species of marine life and the 20,000-year-old hard coral reef.
| Season | Months | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | Late Sep - Nov | Warmest water, best visibility |
| Winter | Dec - Apr | Whales and bull sharks |
When is the best time to dive with bull sharks in Cabo Pulmo?
Winter, from December to April, is the peak season for bull sharks.
Bull sharks congregate around the El Vencedor shipwreck site during these cooler months. Because this is a highly popular dive, advance booking is essential in the winter. Spots fill up quickly.
When can you see whales in Cabo Pulmo?
Whale watching peaks from December through April.
As the water cools in the winter, migratory whales pass by the Baja California Peninsula. You can often spot them from the boat while traveling to snorkel or dive sites.
Is there a specific season for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is excellent year-round, but autumn offers the most comfortable conditions.
If you visit in late September through November, the warm water means you likely will not need a wetsuit. During the cooler winter and spring months, you will want a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit to stay warm.
How does the season change what I need to pack?
Winter requires thermal protection in and out of the water.
- Autumn: Bring a UPF rash guard to protect from the sun instead of sunscreen.
- Winter: Pack a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit, plus a windbreaker or light jacket for the boat ride back.
- Year-round: Bring cash for the roughly 125 MXN park fee, a reusable water bottle, and a dry bag.
Do tours operate all year?
Yes, guided snorkeling and diving tours run daily throughout the year.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Most tours take 6 to 8 hours round-trip from Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. Since weather can cause cancellations, book early in your trip.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need a wetsuit to snorkel in Cabo Pulmo?
You will want a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit if you visit during the cooler winter and spring months. In the autumn, the water is warm enough for just a swimsuit and a long-sleeve UPF rash guard.
What marine life can you see in Cabo Pulmo?
The park supports over 800 species. You can see massive schools of fish, sea lions, turtles, and seasonal bull sharks. You might also spot golden groupers, moray eels, and passing manta rays.
Can you see whales in Cabo Pulmo?
Yes, winter from December to April is the peak season for spotting whales in the waters around the marine park.