Top Picks for Swimming with Whale Sharks in 2024: A Diver's Dream
Top 6Exceptional Destinations to Enc counter Gigantic Whale Sharks for Swimming and Diving Experience
Swimming alongside a whale shark is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many scuba divers. We've scoured the globe to bring you the six best places to make this dream a reality in 2024. Get ready to dive into some unforgettable ocean adventures with these majestic creatures:
- The Galapagos Islands - Grab Your Scuba Gear!
- Why it's a must-visit: Picture-perfect underwater landscapes and the opportunity to explore new dive sites with the Galapagos Whale Shark Project.
- Don't forget: The cooler weather and blooming plankton from June to November attract whale sharks to feed.
- Socorro Islands, Mexico - Mexico's Little Galapagos
- Why it's a must-visit: A divers' paradise boasting a wide variety of large pelagic species, including whale sharks, giant mantas, and humpback whales.
- Exciting facts: Whale sharks can be seen in these waters from May to December.
- Isla Mujeres, Mexico - Perfect for Snorkelers and Swimmers
- Why it's a must-visit: Two popular areas around Isla Mujeres offer outstanding opportunities for snorkeling and swimming with whale sharks during peak season.
- A tip: Although a snorkel-only destination, the abundance of whale sharks in July and August makes for a nearly guaranteed encounter.
- La Paz, Mexico - Dive and Discover
- Why it's a must-visit: Reliable spot for swimming with whale sharks, with clear waters and easy access from both Los Angeles and Mexico City.
- Insider tip: Visit in October and November for warmer waters and the opportunity to see grey and humpback whales.
- Oslob, Philippines - Adventure for All Ages
- Why it's a must-visit: Close encounters with whale sharks in a lively destination that offers both diving, snorkeling, and swimming experiences.
- Local knowledge: Local fishermen feed the whale sharks daily, guaranteeing regular sightings year-round.
- Bahia de Los Angeles, Mexico - Embrace the Wild
- Why it's a must-visit: Shallow, clear waters in the Sea of Cortez offer snorkeling opportunities with up to 220 whale sharks during peak season.
- Expert tip: Make the most of your trip by joining a liveaboard to explore more of this stunning area.
Discover amazing marine life encounters with these top destinations for swimming with whale sharks. Dive or snorkel with these gentle giants and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the ocean. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
Pro Tips
- Book your trip with specialist dive teams or local experts for the best, most responsible whale shark encounters.
- The Mexico sites offer much more than just whale shark encounters: explore lively marine life, tasty local cuisine, and friendly hospitality.
- Don't forget to bring your camera—make your whale shark swimming experience a photo opportunity you'll treasure forever.
[1] Bluewater Travel (2023). Top 6 Best Places to Swim & Dive with Whale Sharks in 2024. Retrieved from [https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/blog/best-places-to-swim-dive-with-whale-sharks-in-2024]
[2] Underwater Photography Guide (2023). Whale Sharks in La Paz: A Predictable but Wild Experience. Retrieved from [https://www.uwpg.com/articles/whale-sharks-in-la-paz-a-predictable-but-wild-experience]
[3] Katie Yonker (2023). May 2026 Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead, Manta, Mola, and Marine Iguana Trip Blog. Retrieved from [https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/galapagos-trip-reports/may-2026-galapagos-spectacular-hammerhead-manta-mola-iguanas]
[4] Mark Hatter (2023). August 2023 Socorro Trip Blog. Retrieved from [https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/galapagos-trip-reports/august-2023-socorro-trip]
[5] Shark Dives Philippines (2023). Swimming with Whale Sharks in Sumbawa, Indonesia. Retrieved from [https://sharkdives.ph/swimming-with-whale-sharks-in-sumbawa-indonesia/]
- For an extraordinary underwater adventure, consider embarking on a liveaboard trip to the remote Socorro Islands, where divers can encounter not only whale sharks but also giant mantas and humpback whales.
- The Galapagos Islands offer a unique opportunity to explore new dive sites alongside whale sharks, thanks to the Galapagos Whale Shark Project. It's essential to plan a visit during the cooler months (June to November) as this is when the seasonal plankton bloom attracts these majestic creatures.
- Travelers seeking a more leisurely aquatic encounter might prefer Isla Mujeres, a destination perfect for both snorkelers and swimmers. Whale sharks can be spotted in the area's two popular areas during peak season (July and August).
- La Paz, Mexico, is another reputable spot for whale shark encounters, with clear waters and reliable sightings. October and November are ideal months to visit, as the waters are warmer, and there's a chance to see grey and humpback whales as well.
- Oslob, Philippines, offers close encounters with whale sharks in a lively destination that also allows for diving, snorkeling, and swimming experiences. It's worth noting that local fishermen feed the whale sharks daily, ensuring regular sightings year-round.
- Bahia de Los Angeles, Mexico, offers an unspoiled opportunity to swim with whale sharks in the tranquil waters of the Sea of Cortez during peak season. To fully experience this unique region, join a liveaboard expedition for a comprehensive exploration of the area's breathtaking marine life.
