Best Places and Times of Year to Swim with Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are the biggest fish species in the world and around the world there are lots of special ways you can interact with them by going sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling and also scuba diving. This really is a unique experience and the trip of a lifetime.

You might want to plan your next break away to a destination where you might get to see whale sharks and below we have put together a guide to the best countries and times of year to see them.

On our website you can contact travel operators who offer excursions to see whale sharks whilst there are also lots of local operators based in the destinations below who you can arrange this with direct.

Please note times can change depending on climate and migration. Also try to be a responsible tourist, you will be given guiance on safety details on arrival but remember don't get too close or even try to touch the whale sharks. Did you also know you can spend time volunteering with whale sharks.

1. Utila, Honduras

Best Time: All Year-Round (spottings are usually every month)

We highly recommend Utila Dive Centre who are a well respected scuba diving resort in Honduras. They offer adventure excursions where you can either learn to scuba dive or join a trip out to go scuba diving with whale sharks. The best thing about this region is there are sightings all year round with the most popular period being around March to May.

2. Atoll, Maldives

Best Time: All Year-Round

If you really would like an experience to remember why not check out our Maldives accommodation section where you can eat breakfast, lunch or dinner at Conrad Underwater Restaurant - spectacular. This has to be seen to be believed. We have some incredibe volunteer programs in Maldives where you can even help whale sharks.

3. Gladden Spit, Belize

Best Time: April to May

Search top rated dive centers in Belize or volunteer programs in Belize.

4. Tofo Beach, Mozambique

Best Time: November through to February

Search dive centers in Mozambique or volunteer programs in Mozambique.

5. Donsol, Philippines

Best Time: November to May

Search dive centers in Philippines or volunteer programs in Philippines.

6. Koh Tao, Thailand

Best Time: April to June

This tiny island is many peoples favourite places to visit in the Land of Smiles and its easy to see why. Beautiful beaches, nature and also wildlife spotting boat tours. This is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Thailand whilst also lots of tours in Thailand feature whale watching excursions.

7. Western Australia

Best Time: March to July

WA is a spectacular area of Australia to visit and you might not know it bit the Ningaloo Reef is the biggest coral reef in the region. There are excursions from places like Exmouth.

Search dive centers in Australia or volunteer programs in Australia.