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Magdalena Bay offers an unforgettable adventure with its breathtaking Sardine Run, where thousands of sardines attract whales, dolphins, sharks, sea lions and seabirds. Perfect for wildlife lovers, divers, and nature enthusiasts! 

Discover the Wonders of Magdalena Bay, Baja California Sur

Off the coast of Baja California Sur lies Magdalena Island, a picturesque gem paired with its southern counterpart, Santa Margarita Island. Together, these sister islands form a natural barrier between the vast Pacific Ocean and the mainland, creating the serene and biodiverse sanctuary of Magdalena Bay (Bahía Magdalena). This serene destination is full of natural beauty, offering a great experience for wildlife enthusiasts, snorkellers, and scuba divers.   

Magdalena Island features stunning landscapes, from its coastal waters and mangroves to sandy dunes. The island is home to diverse flora and fauna, including unique plants and wildlife like bald eagles and coyotes. Visitors can explore its beauty and enjoy the tranquillity of its remote setting. 

Marine Life & the Mexican Sardine Run

The waters surrounding Magdalena Island are teeming with life, and the annual Sardine Run brings an incredible variety of marine species. Large predators like striped marlins, sharks, dolphins, and sea lions hunt in these rich waters, creating a mesmerising spectacle of nature and thrilling underwater action for snorkellers and scuba divers. Migrating whales, including grey whales during calving season, frequently visit to feed on the dense bait balls of sardines. Although rare, humpback whales, blue whales, and even sperm whales may also make an appearance here, making every visit a potential once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

For those seeking the ultimate way to explore Magdalena Bay and witness the pelagic action, scuba diving liveaboards departing from Cabo San Lucas are undoubtedly the best option. Liveaboards eliminate the need for daily travel to and from the mainland, maximising time spent at dive sites and allowing for a fully immersive experience. Additionally, these vessels provide expert dive guides, delicious food, and comfortable living spaces, creating the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With the ability to follow marine life, liveaboards truly offer an unmatched way to experience the natural wonders of Magdalena Bay. 

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Magdalena and Santa Margarita Islands are home to a wide array of seabirds and migratory species. Birdwatchers can spot magnificent frigate birds, common loons, white pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, and more. The nearby mangroves and dunes also provide habitats for rare species like the American oystercatcher and tricoloured heron. 

A Unique & Untouched Ecosystem

Rich in history and biodiversity, Magdalena Bay offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in one of the most vibrant and untouched ecosystems in Baja California Sur. Whether you’re marvelling at the marine life, birdwatching along the shore, or exploring the island’s dunes and mangroves, Magdalena Bay is a destination that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders. 

View suggested itinerary

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: California sea lion, silky shark, humpback whale, bottlenose dolphin, striped marlin, Pacific sardine

Dive trips

This dive location is featured in the following itinerary:

Magdalena Bay Sardine Run

Witness the magic of Magdalena Bay, where shimmering sardine bait balls draw marine predators in a breathtaking ocean spectacle. A must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! Find Out More about Magdalena Bay Sardine Run

  • Duration inc. flights: 11 days
  • Price inc. flights: From £3,995 pp
  • Trip type: Liveaboard trip
Suggested liveaboards are shown below. Please contact us for further recommendations.

Solmar V

Operating itineraries to Socorro and Guadalupe islands, this 34 metre luxury liveaboard offers divers unmatched service and comfort, plenty of adventure and possibly the best big fish diving on Earth! Find Out More about Solmar V