Once called “The World’s Aquarium” by Jacque Cousteau because of its great biodiversity, the Sea of Cortez is the most biologically diverse body of water on Earth. To explain, it supports over 900 varieties of fish. And, it supports more than 2,000 species of marine invertebrates. Also, It’s home to many endemic species, which are creatures that only exist there, and nowhere else on Earth.
You’ll find many sea creatures, the largest of which are the migratory whales. And, these whales include humpbacks, California grays, and even orcas or killer whales. Then, you’ll find giant whale sharks peacefully feeding on plankton. Swimming next to these gentle creatures is an experience of a lifetime.
Next, find smaller sea creatures in the Sea of Cortez like dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, tuna, sea bass, grouper, yellowtail, shark, marlin, scallops, lobster, snapper, shrimp and more. Wow, that was quite a list. These underwater creatures make snorkeling very exciting indeed.
Brief history about the Sea of Cortez
Did you know that the northern part of the Sea of Cortez almost became a United States sea port back in the 19th century?
This is what happened…
After the Mexican-American War (1846 to 1848), when negotiations were underway with then Mexican President, Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana, the land at the northern part of The Sea of Cortez was up for grabs. And, before the Gadsden Purchase in 1854, which gave the U.S. the southern portions of Arizona and New Mexico, President Antonio Lopez fought hard to keep the land that separated mainland Mexico from the Baja California peninsula. In the end, the U.S. allowed Mexico to keep this land bridge, which included the bustling metropolis of Mexicali.
Boating adventures on the Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez is the home to many exciting water activities. And, one of the most popular activities for visitors is a charter cruise. You’ll find a great variety of boats available for hire, each offering their own unique experience. There are intimate sail boats available along with grand yachts to cruise on. Check out Cabo Sailing to see some great sail boat and yacht charter options in Cabo San Lucas.
Whale watching during migration
While traveling by boat along the Sea of Cortez, catch a glimpse of a whales while they’re migrating to or from the Pacific. The migration of humpback and gray whales can be seen from December through April. And, what a site to see. To assist your desired adventure, you can find a host of whale-watching tours running from sunrise to sunset. These tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see both whales and the many other sea creatures that live in the Sea of Cortez.
Snorkeling in the Sea of Cortez
The right site makes all the difference. You need to find reefs that provide food, habitat, and cover for all of the beautiful sea creatures. And, there are two locations that meet this criteria in Los Cabos. Knowing where to go is the key to success.
To uncover the secret snorkeling and diving spots in Los Cabos, check out Snorkeling Cabo San Lucas: The secret diving spots are finally EXPOSED!
Famous deep-sea fishing
Before tourism exploded in Los Cabos, the southern tip of Baja California Sur was dotted with tiny fishing villages. That’s due to the rich waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This is home to great quantities of black and blue marlin, tuna, dorado, wahoo, and many more species.
Bisbee’s Los Cabos fishing tournaments have been taking place for over 30 years. Started back in 1981 by Bob Bisbee Sr., the Bisbee’s Black and Blue tournament has grown from six teams, with winnings of around $10,000, to more than 150 teams, with millions of dollars up for grabs. Then, in 2006, Bisbee’s Black and Blue tournament had its largest total cash payout ever – $4,165,960. And, that event still holds the record as the largest payout in all of sports-fishing history.
Los Cabos real estate
Many Americans, Canadians, and people from other countries choose to make Los Cabos, Mexico, their home or vacation home. So, discover how to purchase your dream home in Los Cabos, Mexico by inquiring with the top Real Estate broker in Los Cabos: Nick Fong, who’s been featured twice on HGTV’s Beachfront Bargain Hunt.
Come visit soon
Thank you for reading Sea of Cortez: Discover the most biologically diverse body of water on Earth, written by Greg Hixon. Be sure to read other posts about Los Cabos on the Los Cabos Agent blog. There, learn about the many wonderful aspects of Los Cabos, Mexico, from blog posts like this.