Magdalena Bay Striped Marlin Sardine Run 2026
Join Bluewater Travel for one of the most thrilling big-animal experiences in the Pacific—encountering striped marlin hunting bait balls during the sardine run in Magdalena Bay.
Pelagic Encounters
Group Trip
Great for Non-divers
Why Join This Trip
Get the unique opportunity to witness striped marlin hunting sardine bait balls in shallow, clear waters
Get the chance to encounter sea lions, dolphins, mobula rays, and seabirds during peak sardine run season
Receive expert in-water guidance from our partners at Latitude Encounters
Fully refundable deposit until 12 months from departure
25% discount on rental photo gear from Bluewater Photo
Trip overview
Trip Overview
Magdalena Bay, on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, transforms each fall into one of the world’s most exciting marine arenas. During the sardine run, massive bait balls attract striped marlin, sea lions, dolphins, and mobula rays, all hunting in a synchronized frenzy. The bay’s remote location, shallow depth, and typically clear water create ideal conditions for surface encounters and stunning wildlife photography.Â
Snorkeling here is fast-paced and thrilling. Guests launch from small pangas and enter the water quickly to observe marlin streaking through the bait balls, their fins glowing with vibrant colors. With no tanks or deep dives required, the action unfolds just below the surface—offering rare, intimate access to one of nature’s great migrations.
Snorkeling Conditions In November
Water temperature will be around 25-27C (77-79F).
Trip Inclusions
7 nights accommodation at Hotel Alcatraz, double occupancy
Daily breakfast
Lunch, snacks, water, and soft drinks on the boat
Additional snacks
Round-trip airport transfers from SJD or LAP (group transfers only, see 'How to Get There')
Transport between accommodation and jetty each day
6 days on the water looking for the sardine run
Experienced local guide
Trip Exclusions
Evening meals are not included. However, a group meal will be arranged each day for the group to enjoy a range of local cuisines
Airfare
Gratuity
Personal expenses
Insurance - ask us about our preferred partner plan
Accommodation
About The Hotel Alcatraz
Located right in the charming fishing village of Puerto San Carlos on Magdalena Bay, Hotel Alcatraz offers a relaxed, beachfront setting ideal for nature and marine-focused travelers. Guests appreciate its laid-back atmosphere, proximity to local restaurants and the boat ramp, and easy access to the bay—perfect for morning departures and evening returns after snorkeling or fishing .Â
The hotel features simple but clean, comfortable rooms—complete with air conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi‑Fi—with a reputation for friendly, attentive staff and an included American-style breakfast. It is also praised for its value and excellent location right by the sea .
Trip Price
Trip starts from $3,750 per person.
Payment Schedule
- Deposit: $800 to book your spot
- Payment 1: $1,000 due 1 January 2026Â
- Balance: due1 June 2026
Extend your trip
Magdalena Bay Striped Marlin Sardine Run 2026 Trip Extension
Want to extend your trip? We can help with that! See more of Mexico before or after your trip with Bluewater in Socorro. Flying all that way merits a multi-destination vacation! Here are some examples of packages we can add on to your trip reservation:

Trip Leader
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Tim Yeo
Tim grew up in tiny Singapore, where driving for more than an hour meant you would need a passport. Traveling was always his passion, but Tim became addicted to dive travel soon after he got scuba certified in Malaysia. As his diving addiction grew, Tim eventually became a Staff Instructor with PADI and an Instructor Trainer with SDI. After getting his instructor certification, Tim spent time teaching scuba in Malaysia and Vietnam.
Tim serves as General Manager and COO at Bluewater Travel and is the company's most seasoned trip leader. With a portfolio of leading over 30 group trips, his extensive expertise encompasses a variety of popular dive destinations such as the Galapagos, Raja Ampat, French Polynesia, Fiji, the Red Sea, Palau, Maldives, among others. His travels have taken him across all seven continents and allowed him to dive in all five oceans—the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, Arctic, and Antarctic.
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