Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?

Yes. This experience is primarily designed for certified divers. Snorkeling may be possible if a dive group is already confirmed and space allows.

Is swimming with sea lions safe?

Yes. Sea lions are naturally curious and playful animals. Our guides supervise all interactions and follow wildlife regulations to ensure encounters remain safe and respectful for both guests and animals.

Do sea lions bite divers?

Sea lions are not aggressive toward divers. Young pups often approach divers out of curiosity and playfulness, darting around and spinning through the water. Our guides ensure all interactions remain calm and respectful.

How deep is the sea lion dive?

The dives are generally shallow, between 15 and 50 ft (5–15 meters), making them comfortable and enjoyable for most certified divers.

What marine life can we see besides sea lions?

During the trip it’s common to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, rays, and large schools of fish, and depending on the season even whales during the boat ride.

What happens if we cannot reach Los Islotes?

If sea conditions prevent us from reaching Los Islotes, we visit the San Rafaelito sea lion colony near La Paz, which offers calmer waters and excellent opportunities to observe sea lions.

When is the best time to dive with sea lions in La Paz?

Sea lions can be visited most of the year, but diving and snorkeling are not allowed from June to August due to their breeding season. The warmest water and best visibility typically occur from August to December.

Can I join the tour if I am already in La Paz?

Yes. While the tour normally departs from Cabo San Lucas, guests who are already in La Paz may be able to join directly at the marina. Please contact us in advance to check availability and adjusted rates.

Snorkeling and diving with sea lions at Espíritu Santo Island in La Paz, Baja California Sur

Dive with Sea Lions in La Paz

ESPIRITU SANTO ISLAND DIVING EXPERIENCE

Sea Lions at Espíritu Santo Island

Join us on our sea lion diving tour in La Paz, one of the most memorable wildlife encounters in Baja California Sur. At Los Islotes, near Espíritu Santo Island, you’ll enter the water with one of the ocean’s most playful animals—curious sea lions that glide effortlessly through the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez. Young pups are especially interactive, often approaching divers with spins, quick turns, and playful passes that make every dive feel dynamic and unpredictable.

Known as one of the best places for diving with sea lions in La Paz, Los Islotes offers remarkably close encounters in a stunning natural setting. With small groups and experienced guides, each trip is relaxed, personal, and focused on respectful wildlife interaction. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic islands and turquoise water, this experience combines world-class Sea of Cortez diving, spectacular scenery, and unforgettable moments with one of Baja’s most iconic marine species.

Price & What’s Included

Common Questions

The Sea Lion Experience at Los Islotes

Our day begins early with a scenic drive from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz, following the eastern coastline of the Baja peninsula as the desert landscape slowly opens toward the Sea of Cortez. At the marina we board the boat, review the plan for the day, and give a short briefing on how to move comfortably and respectfully in the water with sea lions. From there we head toward Espíritu Santo Island, a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve known for its volcanic landscapes, turquoise bays, and exceptional marine life.

About an hour and a half from La Paz lies La Lobera at Los Islotes, home to a colony of nearly 400 sea lions. Young pups are especially curious, often approaching divers to spin, dart, and play in the water while the adults glide effortlessly through the currents. The encounters are lively yet respectful, allowing you to observe their natural behavior in the clear waters surrounding the rocky islets. Between dives we relax on board with shade, drinks, and snacks, enjoying views of Espíritu Santo’s dramatic cliffs and desert islands. Later, we stop at a remote beach in the archipelago to stretch our legs, enjoy a picnic by the water, and take in the quiet beauty of this protected corner of Baja California Sur.

Sea lion pup playing with a rope at Espíritu Santo Island in La Paz, Baja California Sur

Conditions, Wildlife & Safety

The journey across the Sea of Cortez often brings additional wildlife encounters. Dolphins may appear riding the bow wave, sea turtles surface for air, and depending on the season whale blows can sometimes be spotted on the horizon. Meanwhile, Espíritu Santo Island’s copper cliffs, lava domes, and quiet coves provide some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Baja California Sur.

Because conditions in the Sea of Cortez can change quickly, we schedule sea lion tours based on updated weather forecasts to ensure the best possible experience. If winds or sea conditions prevent us from reaching Los Islotes, we visit the San Rafaelito sea lion colony near La Paz—smaller but equally charming, with calm waters that allow safe and memorable encounters with these playful marine residents.

Price