Sea lions that play with your fins, mobula rays by the thousand, desert islands in a turquoise sea — Baja California Sur is the wildest ocean experience in North America.
I run freedive expeditions here — the Sea of Cortez is «the world's aquarium» for a reason. Here's how to experience it right, and responsibly.
The sea lions are located next to La Ventana and are reachable by boat.
If you want a touring experience, go on a boat and explore a lot. You can also check out my expedition that I do every year under my Expeditions. We will be there for the manta rays.
When to go
For the mobula aggregation: late May to June. Sea lions are great year-round; October/November adds whale sharks near La Paz.
What to do
- Swim with sea lions — Los Islotes, morning light, 7mm optional.
- Mobula season — night bioluminescence swims if you’re lucky.
- Espíritu Santo camping — desert island nights under the Milky Way.
- Freedive training — the calm bays are perfect for a course.
- Tacos in La Paz — the malecón at sunset, fish tacos, repeat.
Photography tips
Underwater: shoot up against the surface light, and let the animals come to you — fins down, calm breathing. A dome port and 16–35mm covers everything.
Top-side, the desert-meets-sea contrast is the story: red rock, cardón cacti, turquoise shallows — fly the drone at sunrise before the wind.
