Whale Season in the Caribbean + Mexico
and our two favorite places to spot them
Ocama
As winter approaches, warm tropical waters in the Caribbean and Mexico’s Pacific Coast turn into sanctuary grounds for North Atlantic Humpback and Pacific Gray Whales
Samaná Peninsula, Dominican Republic
While the Samaná Peninsula might still be under-the-radar, it’s a hot spot for North Atlantic Humpback Whales. From January to March, the whales arrive in Samaná Bay on the island’s northeast coast by the thousands. This is considered the best place in the Caribbean - and one of the most important in the world - to see humpback whales breeding and calving. The Samaná Marine Mammal Sanctuary is the primary mating and birthing ground for North Atlantic Humpback Whales, garnering the largest gathering of the species at around 5,000-7,000 whales annually. Onlookers can catch a glimpse of breeding activity, including male competition with breaching and tail slapping, and the unparalleled opportunity of seeing newborn calves with their mothers.
Established in 1986, the Samaná Marine Mammal Sanctuary was the first of its kind in the Atlantic Ocean and has since been expanded to protect the crucial mating waters north of Hispaniola, which host up to 85% of the North Atlantic Humpback Whale population during the winter season.
Where to stay:
Ocama (opened in 2025) on the Samaná Peninsula overlooks Rincón Bay and its eight villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, all have open views of the sea, private pools, concierge service, and full kitchens. The property can arrange private whale watching tours, plus add-on visits to beautiful, remote beaches. Ocama provides the autonomy of villa living (full kitchens, private pools) complemented by ultra-personalized hotel amenities, including 24/7 concierge service and options for private chef dining and in-villa spa treatments. With ocean views from every villa, guests even have the chance to spot breaching humpbacks right from their private plunge pools.
La Paz, Mexico
La Paz in January offers a front-row seat to one of Baja’s most extraordinary natural spectacles. Each winter, gray whales return to the warm Pacific waters of Baja California Sur to give birth and nurture their calves, making January an exceptional time for an intimate encounter with these magnificent creatures. Jaunt Mexico can arrange private boat excursions to see mothers and calves at remarkably close range.
Where to stay:
Hotel Indigo La Paz has a prime location between La Paz Bay and the Sea of Cortez and is known for having Mexico’s only Gary Player-designed golf course and a private marina. January marks the official start of the Pacific gray whale season, making the resort an ideal base for booking single-day eco-tours to nearby calving hotspots like Bahía Magdalena.