Quick answer: Whale watching season in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo runs from December 15, 2026 to April 30, 2027, according to SEMARNAT’s official notice. Pharmacy in Cabo can deliver sunscreen, motion sickness products and other over-the-counter essentials to your hotel or villa in Los Cabos before your tour.
Every winter, humpback whales gather in the warm waters off Los Cabos, and a whale watching tour is one of the most popular things to do between December and April. Tours are usually a few hours on an open boat, so a little preparation makes the trip more comfortable. This guide covers the official season dates, what to pack and how to get any missing essentials delivered before you head to the marina.
Whale watching season dates for 2026-2027
Mexico’s environment ministry (SEMARNAT) publishes the whale watching season every year in the Diario Oficial de la Federación. For the 2026-2027 season, whale watching activities are authorized in the Cabo San Lucas protected area and San José del Cabo from December 15, 2026 to April 30, 2027. Some areas near the Cabo San Lucas arch and port are restricted because of heavy boat traffic, and licensed operators follow these rules.
Whales do not follow a calendar, so sightings vary during the season. Many tour operators run their own schedule within these dates; ask yours about recent sightings when you book.
Where tours leave from
Most tours depart from the marina in Cabo San Lucas. Some operators leave from Puerto Los Cabos marina in San José del Cabo. If you are staying on the Tourist Corridor, allow time for traffic on the way to the marina. Read our guide to pharmacy options in the Cabo marina area.
What to bring on your tour
- Sun protection: sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses and a hat with a strap. Browse our sun care products and read what to look for in a reef-friendly sunscreen.
- A light layer: early morning boats can feel cool and windy, even when the day is warm.
- Motion sickness products you already use: for example Dramamine Original Formula. Read the label and follow its timing and directions.
- Water and hydration: bring water, and consider an electrolyte drink if you will be out in the sun for hours.
- Small first aid items: a few waterproof bandages and wipes in a zip bag.
- A dry bag or zip bags for your phone, cards and lip balm.
If you get seasick easily
Ocean conditions change from day to day. If you know you are prone to motion sickness, talk with a pharmacist or your doctor before the trip about an over-the-counter option that suits you, and follow the label. Some products need to be taken before you board, so plan ahead. On the boat, many people feel better with fresh air and their eyes on the horizon.
Whale watching with kids
If you are bringing children, pack a children’s sunscreen, a hat and snacks, and check any product’s label for the right age range. See our baby essentials guide and baby and kids products.
Get your tour essentials delivered
Order the day before an early tour and we deliver to your hotel, villa or condo in Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo or the Tourist Corridor. Heading out on a private charter? See our guide to pharmacy delivery for yachts and boat days.
- WhatsApp: +52 624 409 5065
- Phone: +52 624 409 5065
- Email: help@pharmacyincabo.com
- Online: browse the Pharmacy in Cabo shop
Frequently Asked Questions
When is whale watching season in Los Cabos?
For 2026-2027, Mexico’s environment ministry (SEMARNAT) authorizes whale watching tours in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo from December 15, 2026 to April 30, 2027. Whale sightings vary during the season, so the dates do not guarantee a sighting on every tour.
Which whales can I see in Cabo?
Humpback whales are the species most visitors see on tours in Los Cabos, and some tours also report gray whales. Your tour operator can tell you what has been seen recently.
Where do whale watching tours leave from?
Most tours leave from the marina in Cabo San Lucas, and some leave from Puerto Los Cabos marina in San José del Cabo. Check the meeting point with your operator the day before.
What should I bring on a whale watching tour?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat that will not blow away, a light layer for the wind, water and any motion sickness product you already use. A small dry bag helps keep your phone and essentials dry.
What can I do if I get seasick easily?
Talk to a pharmacist or your doctor before the trip about an over-the-counter option and follow the timing on the label. Many people also choose a seat with fresh air and keep their eyes on the horizon.
Do I need sunscreen on a winter boat tour?
Yes. The sun in Los Cabos is strong all year, and the reflection off the water adds to it. Apply before you board and reapply as the label directs.
Can I get these items delivered before an early tour?
Yes. Order the day before and we can deliver to your hotel, villa or condo, or leave the order with the front desk. We confirm items and delivery details before dispatch.
Can you leave my order with the hotel or villa staff?
Yes. If you are out, we can leave your order with your hotel concierge, front desk or villa staff. Just tell us when you order.
How long will delivery take?
It depends on your location, traffic and order volume. We give you an estimate for your exact location when we confirm your order.
Do you deliver prescription medications?
No. Pharmacy in Cabo delivers over-the-counter (OTC) wellness and personal care products only. For prescription medications, please see a licensed doctor and a local pharmacy in person.
Need sunscreen or motion sickness products at your stay before an early tour? See essentials delivery to your hotel or villa and our Delivery & Shipping page.
Related
- Yacht, Marina and Boat Day Pharmacy Delivery in Cabo San Lucas
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen in Cabo San Lucas
- Pharmacy Delivery Areas in Los Cabos
- Delivery & Shipping
- Essentials Delivery to Your Hotel or Villa in Los Cabos
Source for season dates: SEMARNAT notice for the 2026-2027 whale watching season, Diario Oficial de la Federación.
Note: Pharmacy in Cabo delivers over-the-counter wellness and personal care products only. This article is general information, not medical advice. For health questions, please consult a licensed healthcare professional, and in an emergency call 911.
