Best Places to Swim With Whale Sharks: Top 12 Epic Spots
Photo by Beto Bormann
Swimming with Whale Sharks: The Ultimate Bucket List Experience with Gentle Giants
Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters next to a gentle giant, its massive body covered in white spots as it gracefully moves through the ocean. Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest fish on Earth, yet despite their size, they are harmless filter feeders, making it possible for divers and snorkelers to swim alongside them in some of the most breathtaking locations worldwide.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is crucial to understand sea conditions and have the necessary safety equipment, such as location beacons and inflatable safety sausages, especially when diving in currents.
But where can you swim with whale sharks? Whether you’re looking for a guided snorkeling tour or a full scuba diving whale sharks experience, we’ve got you covered with the 10 best places to swim with whale sharks around the world.
Why Swim with Whale Sharks?
Whale sharks are not only the largest fish in the sea but also one of the most docile. Despite their size, they feed primarily on plankton and small fish, posing no threat to humans. Swimming alongside these gentle giants is a humbling experience that connects you with the wonders of the ocean.
According to National Geographic, whale sharks are a vulnerable species, making responsible tourism crucial for their conservation. By choosing eco-friendly operators and following guidelines, you can help protect these magnificent creatures.
Are Whale Sharks Dangerous?
Short answer: No, whale sharks are not dangerous. Despite their shark status, these gentle filter feeders pose no threat to humans. They feed exclusively on plankton, krill, and tiny fish, using their enormous mouths to filter thousands of liters of water per hour.
So…. is a whale shark a whale or a shark? Spoiler, it’s 100% a shark! Despite the name, these gentle giants are fish, not mammals like whales. They’ve got gills, not blowholes, and they lay eggs (well, technically egg cases inside, viviparous style), unlike whales birthing live young. The “whale” part nods to their massive size, up to 12 m (40 feet) rivaling some whales. So when you swim with shark whale, you’re chilling with the ocean’s biggest fish.
That said, responsible tourism is key, these endangered giants need space and respect. Always follow ethical guidelines when swimming with them to protect both you and the whale shark.
Top 10 Best Places to Swim with Whale Sharks
1. Isla Mujeres, and Isla Holbox, Mexico – Caribbean Whale Shark Paradise
Mexico’s Isla Holbox is a laid-back island off the Yucatán Peninsula where whale sharks turn summer into a snorkeler’s dream. From June to September, these gentle giants swarm the turquoise waters, drawn by plankton blooms. The experience here is unlike any other, as dozens of whale sharks gather in one area, offering some of the highest sighting rates in the world, in 2009, 420 were spotted in one aerial survey. Also, the vibe’s chill, the water’s warm, and bioluminescent plankton light up night swims, talk about a where swim with whale sharks jackpot!
Where to Swim or Dive: Depart from Holbox Village docks; tours head 15–20 miles offshore to the aggregation zone near Isla Mujeres.
When to Visit: June to September; July and August see peak numbers—hundreds can gather on a good day!
Every year, from June to September, the waters around Isla Mujeres become one of the best places to swim with whale sharks as they migrate to feed in plankton-rich waters. Tours from Cancún and Isla Holbox make it easy to experience these gentle giants up close. Another prime location in Mexico for encountering whale sharks is Bahia de Los Angeles, located in the northern Sea of Cortez. It is known for its accessibility, rich marine life, and opportunities to see whale sharks during specific months.
Cristal clear waters on the Caribe is perfect to see Whale Sharks | Getty Images
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2. Ningaloo Reef, Australia – The Best Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks
Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage stunner and a best places to swim with whale sharks legend. From March to July, whale sharks cruise this coral-fringed coast, feasting post-coral spawning, sighting rates can hit up to 95%. Pair that with 500+ fish species, pristine waters and the opportunity to dive with Manta Rays (Ningaloo has some of the best manta encounters too), and it’s the best adventure you could have.
Where to Swim or Dive: Launch from Exmouth or Coral Bay; boats target the outer reef near Tantabiddi or Osprey Bay.
When to Visit: March to July; April and May align with coral spawning for max shark action.From March to July, these giants gather near Exmouth, making it one of the most ethical and awe-inspiring places for a diver and whale shark experience.
Whale Shark at Ningaloo Reef, Australia | Getty Images
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3. Oslob or Donsol Bay (More Ethical), Philippines – Controversial in Oslob but Guaranteed Sightings
Oslob offers year-round whale shark encounters, but it’s one of the most debated whale shark tourism sites due to hand-feeding practices that disrupt natural behavior. While ethically questionable, it remains one of the easiest places to see a whale shark up close. Local fishermen in Oslob and Donsol Bay play a significant role in facilitating encounters with whale sharks, taking tourists out to view and interact with these gentle giants. On the other hand, we would recommend Donsol Bay if you are looking for a more ethical alternative, where sightings are natural and seasonal (November – May). From November to May, whale sharks flood this plankton-packed bay, with no baiting.
For Donsol Bay:
Where to Swim or Dive: Launch from Donsol town, boats roam the bay’s shallow zones near Vitug Point, snorkel only.
When to Visit: November to May; February to April brings dozens daily with warm, clear waters.
For Oslob:
Where to Swim with Them: Oslob, Cebu
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Whale Shark at Oslob can be very controversial due to amount of tourists trying to swim with the whale sharks | Photo by Alex Punker
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4. Maldives – Luxury Whale Shark Diving in Pristine Waters
The Maldives offers year-round whale shark diving, especially in the South Ari Atoll, a protected marine sanctuary where encounters are frequent but sustainable. It’s one of the best spots for a luxury dive with whale sharks. Night snorkeling tours offer a surreal experience as plankton attract whale sharks near the surface.
Where to Swim or Dive: Depart Dhigurah or Maamigili; South Arill Atoll, Sun Island’s west side or Maamigili Channel.
When to Visit: Year-round; August to December peaks with southwest monsoon currents.
Maldives | Getty Images
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5. Djibouti – The Red Sea’s Best-Kept Secret
One of the least-known but best places to swim with whale sharks, Djibouti’s waters attract young whale sharks from November to February, drawn by plankton blooms near the Horn of Africa, offering calm conditions for an intimate experience with these gentle giants. It’s off-the-radar, intimate, and perfect for a swim with shark whale moment without the crowds, pure Red Sea magic! Go early in the season for fewer tourists and clearer water.
Where to Swim or Dive: Boats depart from Djibouti City to the Gulf of Tadjoura; Arta Beach and Ras Eiro are top snorkel zones.
When to Visit: November to February; December and January peak with clear waters and frequent sightings.
The Red Sea is one of the best Diving spots in the world | Photo by Rich Carey
6. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador – A Whale Shark Diver’s Dream
The Galápagos Islands are home to some of the largest whale sharks ever recorded (50 feet), with many pregnant females passing through from June to November around Darwin and Wolf Islands. The northernmost islands, Darwin and Wolf, are ideal locations to see whale sharks due to their warmer waters. This is a scuba dive whale sharks paradise, but conditions can be challenging for beginners.
But Galapagos it’s also a hammerheads and eagle rays hotspot! Advanced divers should book a liveaboard trip for the best chances of multiple encounters with different animals.
Where to Swim or Dive: Liveaboards from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno hit Darwin Arch and Wolf Island’s outer reefs.
When to Visit: June to November; August and September bring the biggest females and clearest seas.
Tip: Knowing the water temperature, which typically ranges from 24–26ºC but can drop to around 20ºC due to cooler currents, is important for choosing appropriate wetsuit thickness to ensure comfort while diving.
Conditions can be challenging for beginners in Galapagos | Getty Images
7. Tofo Beach, Mozambique – Africa’s Whale Shark Hotspot
Mozambique’s Tofo Beach is an off-the-beaten-path where swim with whale sharks treasure. From October to March, the Indian Ocean here teems with whale sharks, often joined by manta rays and humpback whales. The tropical waters of Tofo Beach are ideal for whale shark encounters. The warm, wild waters and laid-back surf vibe make it a whale sharks diving haven, Africa’s best-kept secret. Combine your trip with a safari in Kruger National Park, best of both worlds!
Where to Swim or Dive: Launch from Tofo Beach; boats hit the coastal stretch between Tofo and Barra—snorkel or dive!
When to Visit: October to March; November to January brings consistent sightings and calm seas.
Manta rays and humpback whales can also bee seen at Tofo Beach while swimming with whale sharks | Photo by Coral Brunner
8. Koh Tao, Thailand – A Budget-Friendly Whale Shark Spot
Thailand might not be the first place you think of for whale sharks, but Koh Tao offers surprise sightings year-round, making it a great option for budget travelers. Koh Tao in Thailand’s Gulf is a budget-friendly best places to swim with whale sharks star. March to May and September to October bring whale sharks to its pinnacles. Pair scuba diving whale sharks with coral dives, turtles and barracuda usually crash the party as well.
Having high-quality snorkel gear is essential for the best experience in Koh Tao.
Where to Swim or Dive: Dive from Mae Haad to Chumphon Pinnacle or Southwest Pinnacle
When to Visit: March to May and September to October; April’s warm and sharky.
Aerial Photo from a juvenile Whale Shark | Getty Images
9. La Paz, Baja California (Baja C. Sur too), Mexico – Migrating Giants in the Pacific
Baja California Sur is home to one of the most thrilling whale shark migrations, especially around La Paz and the Sea of Cortez. These nutrient-rich waters attract large groups of juvenile whale sharks from October to April (10–20 feet), often just yards from shore. The Sea of Cortez’s calm, nutrient-rich vibe makes it a snorkeler’s playground with curious sharks eyeballing you back! Sea turtles are commonly seen alongside whale sharks in the waters around La Paz. You should look for conservation-friendly operators that limit human interaction.
Where to Swim or Dive: Boats leave La Paz marina for Bahía de La Paz; snorkel near El Mogote or dive Los Islotes for bonus sea lions. Cabo San Lucas is another popular destination.
When to Visit: October to May; November offers top visibility and playful juvies.
Scuba Dicing in Baja California Sur | Canva
Whale Sharks Experiences in Baja California
10. Mafia Island, Tanzania – A Hidden Gem for Whale Sharks
Mafia Island remains one of the most underrated whale shark destinations. Located off the coast of Tanzania, this uncrowded paradise offers sustainable tourism, warm waters, and highly predictable sightings. Year-round residents peak from October to March, drawn by coastal upwellings. Fewer crowds and unspoiled reefs makes it one of the few places where swimming with whale sharks is non-invasive, perfect for ethical travelers.
Where to Swim or Dive: Boats from Kilindoni hit the western shores near Bwejuu; snorkel or dive Mafia Channel.
When to Visit: October to March; November’s calm seas and shark crowds shine.
Snorkeller swimming with a whale shark | Photo by Leonardo Lamas
11. Utila, Honduras – Caribbean Whale Shark Chill
Utila, off Honduras’ coast, is a laid-back best places to swim with whale sharks surprise. Year-round sightings spike March to May and August to October, tied to tuna spawning. The island’s dive culture means diver and whale shark moments sneak into coral trips.
Where to Swim or Dive: North-side boat trips from Utila Town; Pumpkin Hill or Blackish Point are hot zones.
When to Visit: Year-round; March to May sees tuna-driven shark booms.
Whale Shark in Utile, Honduras | Getty Images
12. Gladden Spit, Belize – Snapper Spawn Spectacle
Belize’s Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve is a whale sharks diving unicorn. From March to June, whale sharks chase snapper eggs 10–14 days post-full moon—a global oddity, per National Geographic. It’s a wild, fleeting swim with shark whale show you won’t forget!
Where to Swim or Dive: Boats from Placencia target Gladden Spit’s outer reef; dive or snorkel the drop-off.
When to Visit: March to June; April to May syncs with full moons for egg-chasing chaos.
Swimming with whale sharks | Photo by Emma Li
Answering Your Whale Shark Questions
Where Can I See a Whale Shark?
Isla Holbox, Mexico, tops the list—hundreds swarm in summer, per Plos One. Ningaloo’s 95% odds and Djibouti’s secret stash tie for epic where can I see a whale shark vibes—pick your flavor!
Are Whale Sharks Dangerous?
Not even a little! They’re plankton-gobblers—humans are off the menu. Diver and whale shark swims are chill, with a 12-foot buffer mandated by NOAA—safe as a puppy cuddle!
When’s the Best Time to Swim with Whale Sharks?
Varies by spot! June to September rocks Holbox and the Galapagos; October to March hits Tofo and Djibouti. Year-round options like Maldives peak seasonally—check local where swim with whale sharks calendars!
Whale shark swimming is a popular activity in various destinations like Oslob, Philippines, and Mexico.
Final Thoughts: Where Can I See a Whale Shark?
If swimming alongside a 30-foot gentle giant is on your bucket list, these destinations offer the best places to swim with whale sharks in the world. Whether you're a diver or snorkeler, ethical encounters with these endangered species create unforgettable memories while promoting marine conservation.
Which of these whale shark hotspots is calling your name? 🌊 Let’s chat in the comments!
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