Ocean Safaris in La Ventana: Mobula Rays, Whales and Cerralvo Island
When the wind drops in spring, the Sea of Cortez comes alive. A short guide to ocean safaris from La Ventana.
La Ventana is famous for wind, but when the wind calms down in spring a different season begins: the ocean safari season.
Mobula rays
From roughly March to June, large groups of mobula rays gather in the Sea of Cortez. They are known for leaping out of the water, and seeing them from a boat, or snorkeling with them with a licensed operator, is one of the highlights of living here.
Whales, orcas and dolphins
Winter is the season for larger whales passing through the Sea of Cortez. Orcas are sometimes seen in late spring, and dolphins can appear at almost any time of year.
Cerralvo Island
Cerralvo Island sits right across the bay. Its reefs and clear water are popular for snorkeling, diving and fishing trips, usually organized by local captains.
Respect the ocean
- Go with licensed, local operators who follow wildlife rules.
- Keep your distance from animals and never touch them.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen.
For homeowners, spring adds a second visitor season after kite season, which helps when renting out a home.