Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour to see Dolphins and Marine Life

If you’re heading to Puerto Escondido and craving a close encounter with the sea’s most fascinating creatures, this boat tour offers a chance to see dolphins, turtles, whales, and more—all in their natural habitat. It’s a well-loved activity, with a solid 4.8-star rating from over 300 reviews, and for good reason.

What we really like about this tour is its hands-on approach—you get to swim with dolphins and turtles, not just watch them from a distance. Plus, the flexible, small-group format means you’re less likely to feel like just another face in a crowd.

On the downside, this experience is dependent on weather and wildlife activity—if the dolphins are shy or the seas are rough, you might not get as many sightings or swimming opportunities. Still, most travelers seem more than satisfied with what they see.

This tour suits adventurous families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a genuine ocean experience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who love marine life, snorkeling, and a relaxed vibe on the water.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with dolphins, see turtles, and even spot whales during winter.
• Snorkeling Included: Explore coral reefs and colorful fish in calm, protected waters.
• Flexible Experience: Play your own music via Bluetooth, relax on boat beds, and bring your drinks.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides (Spanish/English) ensure you’re informed and comfortable.
• Good Value: At $44 per person, this offers a full, engaging experience that many reviews praise for its affordability.
• Seasonal Highlights: Whale watching is a key feature from November to March.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour

Starting at Puerto Angelito, a charming, easily accessible beach, the tour lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive adventure. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, and the bilingual guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making it easier for non-Spanish speakers to enjoy the trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

1. Departure from Puerto Angelito:
You’ll meet your guide—often Mike or Hector—at the main parking lot. From here, the journey begins with a quick boat ride out into the open water. The boats are motorized but small enough to give that cozy feeling, which many reviews mention as part of the charm.

2. Wildlife Spotting and Dolphin Watching:
The core of this trip is finding dolphins of various species—including Pinto, White Belly, and Whitenose. Many travelers report spectacular sightings, with some quoting that they saw “about one hundred dolphins swimming next to the boat.” Dolphins are generally curious and playful, often jumping and surfacing near the boat, as some reviews highlight.

3. Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities:
For those eager to get closer, snorkel masks are provided. You can dip into the water to swim near dolphins, turtles, or coral reefs. Many reviews underscore the thrill of swimming alongside these animals—sometimes even with dolphins circling nearby or turtles swimming lazily beneath you. Hearing the dolphins’ clicks and sonar sounds underwater makes the experience even more special.

4. Marine Life and Bird Watching:
Beyond dolphins, expect to see Turtles, Flying Fish, Manta Rays, and even whales during whale season (November-March). Some travelers mention encountering mating turtles or stingrays jumping out of the water. The guides do a good job pointing out these creatures, and many reviews praise Hector and Mike for their knowledge and attentive service.

5. Relaxation and Music:
The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth stereo, allowing passengers to play their favorite tunes—an appreciated touch that adds to the casual, fun atmosphere. Bring your drinks, kept cool in the supplied cooler, and relax on the boat’s beds or deck chairs. It’s a laid-back way to soak in the views and the sounds of the ocean.

6. Returning to Puerto Angelito:
After a couple of hours exploring, swimming, and wildlife spotting, the boat heads back. Many guests say they enjoyed the beautiful coastline vistas on the return leg, often taking photos of the setting sun or the shoreline.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small group size and personalized attention are frequently praised, making the experience feel authentic rather than commercialized. Reviewers consistently mention the friendly, helpful guides who go the extra mile to find wildlife and educate about the animals. One reviewer noted, “Hector was very nice and I would definitely book a tour with them again.”

Another key strength is the value for money. At $44, most find it an affordable way to spend half a day immersed in the ocean’s wonders. Many reviews highlight the generous opportunities to swim and the good quality snorkeling gear provided.

Seasonal and Practical Considerations

Whale watching is typically available from November through March. During this season, you might see humpback whales, which some reviews describe as breathtaking. Outside this period, the focus remains on dolphins, turtles, and other marine life.

Travelers should be prepared for seasickness if sensitive to motion, especially in choppier waters. The tour is not suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues, as getting in and out of the boat can be challenging. Also, remember that food and drinks aren’t included—you can bring your own, but this means packing accordingly.

Weather can also influence the experience. If the waves are strong, snorkeling opportunities may be limited, and some wildlife sightings might be elusive.

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The Experience That Reviews Recommend

Many passengers describe the tour as “incredible,” with some saying they saw “about one hundred dolphins” or swam close to sea turtles and whales. One noted, “Our guide Hector was excellent—friendly, knowledgeable, and always checking with other boats to ensure we didn’t miss anything.”

Others remark on how respectful and cautious the guides are with marine life, emphasizing safety and conservation. This approach allows for a more genuine experience, where animals are observed rather than disturbed.

Final Thoughts on the Value

At $44, this experience offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure—especially for those who love marine life and snorkeling. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to swim make it stand out from larger, busier tours.

It’s a tour that shines with its authenticity and flexibility. Whether it’s your first time swimming with dolphins or you’re a seasoned snorkeler, you’ll find plenty to love in this marine encounter.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging day at sea. It’s perfect if you’re interested in wildlife viewing and snorkeling but don’t want a long, time-consuming excursion. If you’re eager to see dolphins and turtles up close and enjoy a bit of sun and surf, this is a very solid choice.

Note: If you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility concerns, you might want to prepare accordingly. The tour is weather-dependent, so flexibility is helpful. Also, bring your own drinks and a good camera—many reviews rave about the photo opportunities.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, giving you ample time to see marine life and enjoy swimming without feeling rushed.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price. You can use it to swim near dolphins, turtles, and coral reefs.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. There’s a cooler on the boat where you can store your drinks, which you’re encouraged to bring along.

Is whale watching available year-round?
Whale watching is specifically available from November to March, when humpback whales are more likely to be seen.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Guides are bilingual in Spanish and English, and reviews consistently mention how helpful and clear the guides are, making it easy for non-Spanish speakers to follow along.

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
While many reviews include families with children, the trip involves small boats and some sea conditions—so it’s best suited for children who are comfortable on boats and can handle a short trip at sea.

What should I wear?
Swimwear under a cover-up or light clothing is best. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour does not allow pets, baby strollers, large bags, bikes, or explosive substances onboard. Seasickness or back problems might also be considerations for some travelers.

Final Words

This boat tour from Puerto Angelito promises more than just a ride on the water—it’s a chance to connect with marine creatures in their environment, often in ways that leave guests feeling inspired and grateful. The combination of wildlife sightings, snorkeling, and relaxed vibes make it a standout activity, especially in the context of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

For travelers who love adventure, wildlife, and authentic experiences at a fair price, this tour ticks all the boxes. The guides’ knowledge, the variety of marine life, and the opportunity to swim with dolphins and turtles mean you’re not just watching from a distance—you’re participating.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time marine explorer, you’ll find this tour offers a great balance of excitement, education, and relaxation. Just be sure to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of the ocean.

Enjoy your trip—and keep your eyes peeled for those jumping dolphins!

You can check availability for your dates here: