The warm waters of Mexico’s Pacific coast are home to a wide range of marine life, from tropical fish to bottlenose dolphins. If we look specifically at the Sea of Cortez – also known as the Gulf of California – it sits at the crossroads between the California and Equatorial currents, creating a rich environment that’s ideal for the aquatic explorer.
Whale Migration
During the autumn months, a spectacular phenomenon unfolds in the Sea of Cortez. Thousands of blue, grey, and humpback whales migrate from the cold Alaskan waters to the tropical azure waters of Mexico.
They make the 6,000-mile journey to the area to reproduce and mate, as the Sea of Cortez serves as a safe sanctuary for these gentle giants. For marine biology enthusiasts, it’s a great opportunity to see these majestic animals up close and personal. Though it’s prohibited to physically touch the whales, many adventurers love to snorkel alongside these massive creatures.
Tropical Oasis
Los Cabos sits at the end of the Baja California peninsula at the mouth of the Sea of Cortez. Due to its optimal location, the waters host nearly 900 species of tropical fish including striped marlin, dorado, and yellowfin tuna, which attract professional fishermen from around the globe.
But if you’re not in the mood to catch a fish, you can always explore the marine life by grabbing your snorkeling gear and heading to Chileno Beach. At this location, you’ll discover a sprawling coral reef that hosts giant manta rays, moray eels, sea turtles, and several species of sharks.
This includes the largest species in the world called the whale shark, which can grow to up to 40 feet and weigh up to 28,000 lbs. These animals are not carnivorous and feed only on plankton, krill, and fish eggs, which means you can swim alongside these giants.
There are also thousands of different types of coral, living organisms that feed off of plankton and other tiny sea creatures. The coral comes in a range of different shapes, sizes, and colors so make sure to bring your underwater camera. For the best visibility in the water, we recommend visiting Los Cabos from June to October.
Rugged Landscapes
If you’re seeking an adventure, head to the sand falls, a series of underwater crevasses and ravines that run parallel to the rocky shore. Sounds scary right? Well, the ravines are about 80 feet deep and it’s a great place to scuba dive and explore the marine creatures that live beneath the surface!
Divers often report seeing hammerhead sharks and lionfish during the descent down to the dark depths, but these animals rarely injure humans. This trek should only be undertaken by seasoned scuba divers, as the strong current can cause disorientation in a novice diver.
On the rocky shoreline, you’ll find one of the largest colonies of sea lions in the region. While it’s advised not to get too close to these large mammals, it’s still fascinating to watch them sunbathe from a leisurely distance. The beach is also home to brown pelicans and fisher eagles, which often fish and hunt right before your eyes
If you’re thinking about a scuba diving or snorkeling adventure in the Sea of Cortez, don’t stay in your typical hotel or resort. Opt to stay in a gorgeous luxury villa courtesy of Elegant Mexico! All of our properties are near Los Cabos and are the first choice for glamorous celebrities and wealthy business tycoons.
For more information, check out our website or give us a call at 1-800-474-1629