The Giant with Starry-Sky Skin.
- Jul 23, 2025
- 5 min read
There are moments in life when the ocean speaks to you with it's silence. Moments when you feel that everything you are is connected to something much greater than yourself. Thats's what it feels like to swim with the whale shark in Bahía de los Ángeles... an encounter that transforms you, that caresses your soul, and leaves you with the certainty that nature is pure magic.
I've always felt a deep fascination for sharks. Since I was a child, I've believed they are natures perfect design, creatures that sustain the balance of the oceans, yet so often we fail to give them the importance they deserve in the circle of life.
The first time I saw a whale shark up close, I felt something I can't fully put in to words. It was as if time had stopped. There he was, a gentle giant of about 10 meters, slowly swimming toward me. I was mesmerized. His presence reminded me how small and fragile we really are. And yet, I wasn't afraid... all I felt was admiration, love and respect.
Underwater, his skin looked like a starry sky on a summer night at a remote beach, far from any city lights. It shimmered as if it carried it's own light. I swam alongside him, in silence, losing all sense of space and time. It felt like being with one of those friends with whom you don't need to talk to feel at peace. When I finally lifted my head, the boat was far away... so far away that I hadn't realized how much I had swum.
Since then, I've understood that every encounter with these gentle, majestic guardians of the sea is a gift. And the best part is that everyone experiences it in their own unique way.
After that first encounter, I knew I had to share this experience—my way. I've been lucky enough to share it with many visitors: families, friends... I even brought my son Santiago, who was only 8 years old. I thought he might be scared because he is a cautious child, but the moment he saw the shark, he didn't hesitate for even a second. He jumped in to the water beside, and I watched in awe as two souls recognized each other. To this day, he still asks me when he can go back.
I also remember a young man who was hesitant at first. He peeked into the water a few times, took a deep breath, and finally decided to jump in. The moment he did, his face completely changed. And afterwards, it was almost impossible to get him out of the water. That's how it is...no one comes back the same. When they climb back onto the boat, the sit in silence, gazing at the horizon, as if silently saying goodbye to a new friend.
But this experience goes far beyond the encounter with the whale sharks. Bahía de los Ángeles is a place that breathes tranquility in to your soul.
The road to get there hides it's wonders, and just before entering the town, you climb a hill and suddenly the islands appear...the deep blue water, calm beaches, and a small seaside community with sunsets that look hand painted.
At night, the starry sky is so clear you can see the milky way while sitting on the beach. And if you step into the water, the bioluminescence lights up with every movement, as if you yourself were creating trails of light with your hands.
One of the things that makes this place so special is that people love and protect their home. Bahía is part of a protected natural area, and the community takes pride in caring for every corner of it. They patrol the coasts, record wildlife, and educate those of us who visit. Everything is done with respect, from the rules for approaching the sharks, to the tours around the islands. Each trip not only supports the local economy, but also contributes to the conservation of this paradise.
That's why, before each expedition, I like to sit with the group at Liz’s Restaurant Bar, a small local spot run by a dear friend, a woman of the sea, an artist, and an incredible chef. We share stories and expectations, and I explain that we're not just here to swim with a giant. We're here to connect with something much greater than ourselves, to understand that we all have a place in the universe and that we can care for our world from the heart.
Because yes, we all know we should protect nature. But when you experience it up close, when it silently touches your soul... a love is born that changes you from within. And from that love, true commitment is born.
All that being said, I'll take a moment to share a little personal promotion! Here are 5 reasons to live this adventure with me this season:
1️⃣ Because it’s a short and unique season
The whale shark only visits Bahía de los Ángeles from July to November. If you don’t do it now, you’ll have to wait an entire year for another chance.
2️⃣ Because here, encounters are authentic
No crowds, no packed boats. Everything is intimate, responsible, and guided by locals who know every corner of the sea.
3️⃣ Because Bahía de los Ángeles is pure magic
It’s not just about swimming with the largest fish on the planet. It’s about discovering a place where the sea, the islands, the sunsets, the birds, dolphins, whales, sea lions, bioluminescence, and the people leave you speechless.
4️⃣ Because you help conservation and the community
Every booking supports local families and helps protect this fragile ecosystem. Your visit has a positive impact when done the right way!
5️⃣ Because it’s an experience that transforms you
You come out of the water different—more connected, more aware, with memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Experiencing this isn't just tourism... it's a moment that stays in your soul forever.
I have a special discount code for those of you who message me privately, ready to reserve your dates for this season. It's my way of thanking you for taking a step and trusting this experience, which was created with so much love.
📩 Send me a message and I’ll share the code so you can book directly on our WeTravel page:
Remember, spots are limited to keep groups small and responsible, so don't wait too long. The code is only valid for the first 15 people who book!
The giant with starry sky skin is waiting for you! 🐋💙
With salt on my skin and my heart touched by a starry giant,
Sirena 🐚✨
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