{"id":13969,"date":"2024-07-12T11:29:54","date_gmt":"2024-07-12T11:29:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kooxdiving.com\/en\/?page_id=13969"},"modified":"2024-07-12T12:48:07","modified_gmt":"2024-07-12T12:48:07","slug":"swimming-with-sea-lions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.kooxdiving.com\/en\/baja-california\/swimming-with-sea-lions\/","title":{"rendered":"Swimming with Sea Lions in La Paz"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

Swimming with Sea Lions in Espiritu Santo – La Paz<\/h1>\n

One of the few places where you can swim with sea lions, is namely La Paz, Baja California Sur! This is a must-do experience while vacationing there. You can also get lucky and see humpback whales and dolphins all in one day in the Sea of Cortez.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Not a certified diver? No problem! You can still enjoy the incredible experience of meeting sea lions up close by snorkeling in La Paz\u2019s crystal-clear waters. For those who are certified, scuba diving with sea lions<\/a> offers an even more immersive adventure, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world of Espiritu Santo National Park.<\/p>\n

What to Expect from Your Sea Lions Snorkel Tour<\/h2>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Our adventure starts with a scenic boat ride from Pichilingue.\u00a0 Depending on the weather conditions we will head towards one of the 2 main spots for snorkeling with sea lions near La Paz.<\/p>\n

San Rafaelito<\/strong>, a tiny island near Balandra, just north of La Paz. A friendly sea lion colony and a small coral reef make for a great visit, especially early in the day when you might have the island to yourself. While the visibility isn’t as clear as at Isla Esp\u00edritu Santo due to nutrient-rich waters, you can still enjoy excellent views of the sea lions.<\/p>\n

Los Islotes<\/strong>, off the northern tip of Isla Esp\u00edritu Santo, is about an hour by boat from La Paz. This UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and National Park is known for its playful and curious sea lion pups – it has the largest sea lion colony in the Sea of Cortez. The crystal-clear waters offer incredible visibility, showcasing vibrant coral reefs where you can see also parrotfish, angelfish, trumpetfish, and more.<\/p>\n

Under the guidance of our certified experts, you can interact with curious sea lion pups as play in the crystal-clear waters. Ready? Let’s Go! Ko’ox!<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

Join Us for Day of Swimming with Sea Lions in La Paz<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n
Snorkel with Sea Lions – La Paz<\/strong><\/th>\nPrice<\/th>\nDuration<\/th>\nGet this tour<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\u00a0Day Snorkeling Tour<\/td>\n199USD<\/strong><\/td>\n8am \u2013 1:30pm<\/td>\nBook Now<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
<\/div>\n

Get a Quote <\/a> View All Tours<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

6-8 people in a group \u2013 every day<\/small>
\nFor private tours, please contact us, so we can provide an exclusive offer for you.<\/small>
\nPrices include:<\/b>
\nRoundtrip from our dive shop in La Paz<\/a>, boat ride to the swimming spots and back<\/small>
\nEntrance fees to the dive spots<\/small>
\nFull gear rental: snorkel, mask, wetsuits, safety jackets<\/small>
\nGuide<\/small>
\nWater to refill your own bottle<\/small>
\nHealthy snacks<\/small>
\nPrices are fixed, regardless of the number of people in the group.<\/small><\/p>\n

Good to know<\/h2>\n

\"\"
\nIs it safe to swim with sea lions?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Yes, swimming with sea lions is generally safe when done responsibly and with trained guides<\/strong>. Your tour guide will provide clear instructions how to safely interact with them. Always follow the guides’ instructions, especially to avoid touching the sea lions, as they use their mouths to explore. To ensure a safe experience, keep your hands close to your body when not actively swimming, as sea lions can be curious and may nibble if they think you’re trying to touch them. Sea lions are playful, often approaching swimmers closely, making for an exciting experience under expert supervision.<\/p>\n

Do you need a tour guide to swim with sea lions in La Paz:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Yes, you must join a guided tour to swim with sea lions in La Paz as the island and the sea lion colonies are protected<\/strong>. These tours are essential to help preserve the island and its wildlife, ensuring a safe and respectful experience. Your guides will accompany you in the water to monitor the behavior of the sea lions and to make sure everyone is safe and enjoying the experience. Our guides also make the best ceviche for lunch.<\/p>\n

Are there any rules to follow for responsible swimming with sea lions?<\/strong><\/p>\n

When swimming with sea lions at Los Islotes in La Paz, it’s important to follow these rules: do not touch the animals, keep a safe distance of up to 10 meters from Lobera rock when swimming, and do not touch them<\/strong> for their and your safety. Boats should also stay at least 40 meters away from Lobera rock. During the breeding summer season, swimming and diving activities are not allowed. Check Los Islotes CONANP and SEMARNAT guidelines<\/a> and governmental info on the Espiritu Santo National Park<\/a><\/p>\n

When can you swim with sea lions in La Paz?<\/strong><\/p>\n

The season to swim with sea lions is from fall to spring (October to May)<\/strong>. During these months, the water is warmer, visibility is better, and sea lions are more active. Please mind that in summer (June to August) interactions might be restricted due to the breeding season<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

What should I bring for a sea lion tour?<\/strong>
\nBring sunscreen or sun-protecting clothing, a hat, a towel, a water bottle to refill, and a camera for underwater photos with the cute sea lions. It might be useful to bring a buff for your neck and face, too. Bring some extra clothing to put on during the boat ride as it might be chilly on the way back after the swim.<\/p>\n

Where to find us in La Paz?<\/h2>\n

We are located at Manzana F Lote 1 Puerto De, Av. Pichilingue, 23208 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico<\/strong>, really close to where the Baja Ferries are – close to Club Cantamar Dive & Snorkel Center. Check all of our Baja California tours<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udcde Contact us at +52 984 141 5502<\/strong>
\nor \"Contact<\/a><\/p>\n