PLAYA DEL CARMEN
The Riviera Maya’s best days out.
The 8 most popular whale shark tours around Playa del Carmen. The ones worth booking ahead, with prices, run times and who runs them.
Swim with gentle whale sharks plus Isla Mujeres beach time, breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling gear on a small-group full-day tour from Riviera Maya.
Most Popular“Jane was excellent and knowledgeable tour guide. There were plenty of whale sharks around at the time we went - it was a remarkable experience!”
Private whale shark swim from Playa del Carmen with expert guides, Isla Mujeres snorkeling, and Playa Norte picnic plus roundtrip transport.
“This was the best excursion we have ever done. Lots of activity. Vanessa and the boat crew were very professional and made it a great experience. We will definitely go again. It isn't a zoo, you may or may not see any sharks. Even if we did not see any sharks, the scuba and boat…”
Private whale shark swim from Playa del Carmen with round-trip pickup, snorkeling gear, and time in Isla Mujeres.
“An unforgettable private whale shark tour! 🌊 From the moment our guide Abraham and Armando picked us up in Playa del Carmen to the smooth return ride, everything was perfect. Captain Antonio and Steven made us feel safe, cared for, and made sure our sons (3 & 8) had an amazing time—whether swimming with whale…”
Snorkel with gentle whale sharks from Playa del Carmen, then enjoy lunch at Isla Mujeres Playa Norte on a 7-hour small-group tour.
“We had the best time with Carlos doing the whale shark tour. A bucket list moment and will defo be doing it again if we return to Mexico!!”
Half-day whale shark tour from Playa del Carmen with hotel pickup, Punta Sam and Isla Contoy swims, and Isla Mujeres lunch. $185.
“IT WAS SUCH AN AMAZING, INCREDIBLE TOUR!! Highly recommend! It was such a pleasure to see and swim with this beautiful gorgeous creatures! So much fun and adrenaline! Whale sharks are absolutely lovely and docile creatures so there is nothing to be scared about! YOU HAVE TO TRY IT! It’s recommended to go in the…”
Swim with whale sharks near Cancun on a small-group tour from Playa del Carmen, with pickup, snorkeling gear, and an Isla Mujeres food stop.
“Our driver was excellent. Pickup from hotel is very convenient. 45+ minute drive from playa to Cancun. Comfortable passenger van. Our captain did excellent job in giving everyone an opportunity to see and experience the whale shark. Was able to get in twice. Fresh ceviche & guacamole in the waters at Isla Mujeres was fun…”
10-hour Isla Contoy whale shark snorkel from Playa del Carmen with breakfast, lunch, and Playa Norte beach time if weather allows.
“We went to Mexico in July shortly after it reopened due to COVID. We loved loved loved this adventure. Swimming with the whale sharks can not be replaced. Also I was very pleasantly surprised to see how careful and the high tech investments that they made for social distancing, screening, and sterilizing.”
Private whale shark snorkeling from Playa del Carmen with hotel pickup, lunch, and expert guides, with sightings up to 50 whale sharks.
“The best experience! This is one of our favourite activities whilst travelling for 6 months. Riaz and the team were so friendly and accommodating. The whale sharks were insane to swim with and the ceviche lunch at the end was so fresh and tasty. We also had an added bonus of seeing dolphins!”
The cenotes, the ruins, the reef — and every road out along the Riviera Maya.
