Two-Tank Scuba in the Sea of Cortez: Close Encounters with Sea Lions, Rays and Whale Sharks

LA PAZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Two-Tank Scuba in the Sea of Cortez: Close Encounters with Sea Lions, Rays and Whale Sharks

A guided 6–7 hour, two-tank dive with La Paz Divers that takes certified divers to world-class sites around La Paz for abundant marine encounters and practical planning info for booking and gear.

Two-Tank Scuba in the Sea of Cortez: Close Encounters with Sea Lions, Rays and Whale Sharks.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
La Paz
Operator
La Paz Divers
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Join La Paz Divers for a two‑tank scuba outing in the Sea of Cortez, a biodiverse marine realm where playful California sea lions, mobula and manta rays, sea turtles, and even whale sharks can appear depending on the season; the trip is aimed at certified divers seeking up-close wildlife encounters beneath clear blue water.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

A Menagerie Below the Surface

Seasonal concentrations of large animals and rich macro life mean dives here can range from playful sea lions and mobulas to whale sharks, mantas and an array of small critters such as nudibranchs and tiny blennies.

THE SITES

Diverse Dive Sites Around La Paz

Operators run two‑tank trips to nearby sites including Espíritu Santo National Park, San Lorenzo Channel and La Paz Bay, with further options at El Bajo and La Reina that can involve a different rate—each site offers distinct terrain and marine assemblages.

THE EXPERIENCE

A Focused, Wildlife‑Oriented Day at Sea

The tour is structured as a focused two‑tank adventure designed to maximize time underwater across one outing, delivering concentrated opportunities for close animal encounters under the guidance of La Paz Divers.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

Expect a full 6–7 hour outing that places certified divers on two dives at select Sea of Cortez sites; the rhythm is practical and wildlife‑focused—boats deploy at dive sites, divers complete two descents, and the crew manages gear and briefings so you can concentrate on the animals and the reef.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this tour suits—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Certified Recreational DiversIdeal: the tour requires certification and is tailored to certified divers seeking wildlife encounters in the Sea of Cortez.
2
Solo DiversPossible with advance notice: the minimum is two divers, so solo guests should contact the operator to be added to an existing trip.
3
Families with MinorsAllowed only if minors are accompanied by an adult; check certification status for any minor wishing to dive.
4
Uncertified or Beginner DiversNot suitable: participants must hold a valid diving certification prior to the trip.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring proof of diving certification before the day of the trip; personal dive log/cards and any required medical notes are recommended.

Equipment & Rental

Base price does not include scuba equipment—add gear rental to your reservation if needed; confirm rentals when booking.

Health & Certification

All divers must be certified and provide proof in advance; minors must dive with an accompanying adult.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Two Tank Dive Tour?

The tour runs approximately 6–7 hours.

Do I need a diving certification to join?

Yes — all divers must have a valid diving certification and must send proof before the day of the trip.

Is equipment included in the price?

No — the base price does not include equipment; add gear rental to your reservation if you require it.

What are the prices and is there a private option?

Standard rate is listed at $175 USD per person; private tour is $800 USD (includes 3 people, $175 for each additional guest up to 6); note that prices are converted to Pesos at checkout and some sites (El Bajo, La Reina) carry a higher rate ($215 USD).

Can I join solo or are there minimum group sizes?

The minimum number of divers required is two; solo guests should contact the operator to see if they can be added to an existing dive trip.

Are minors allowed to dive?

Minors may participate but must be accompanied by an adult.