Swim with the Whale Sharks

People are just fascinated with whale sharks, the enormous 20-ton friendly fish that travelers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers are getting up close and personal with. Tours are offered all over the world to swim with these impressive creatures from boho chic Holbox Island, Mexico, to off-the-beaten-path Thailand, a little-known island off of Honduras, and the even glamorous Seychelles Islands….

Below are hot hotel picks for each destination… now travelers know where to swim and where to stay to experience this unique and adventures getaway.

CasaSandra, Holbox Island, Mexico - A chic 20-suite beachfront located on the remote yet accessible fishing village of Holbox Island (just two hours and a ferry ride from Cancun) where whale sharks travel each year from May to October. The hotel even offers a “Swim with the Whale Sharks” package, taking care of all excursion details. Think crystal blue water and white sand beaches with the best restaurant on-island according to The New York Times. CasaSandra is the perfect spot to explore Holbox, situated just a few step from the center of town where guests will find chic boutiques, casual and fine dining restaurants, art galleries and more. Rates start at $320 USD per night/ double occupancy.

The Hadd Tien Beach Resort, Koh Tao, Thailand - Between February and April, divers on whale shark watch at Chumphon Pinnacle can stay in The Haad Tien Beach Resort in near-by Koh Tao. The resort features a private beach strewn with intimate villas, all in classic Thai style. Rates start at $133 USD per night/ double occupancy.

Utopia Dive Village on Utila Island, Honduras -The island of Utila features two seasons for whale sharks March to May as well as August to October. With their own diving staff and facilities, the village makes planning for whale shark excursions effortless. Rates start at $199 USD per night/ double occupancy.

Le Duc de Praslin on Praslin Island, The Seychelles Islands - Whale shark excursions can be arranged by the hotel between August and October. Tours leave directly from the hotel beach and journey through many of the 115 Seychelles islands, making the tour both an island hopping adventure and an astonishing marine encounter. Rates begin at: $332 USD per night/ double occupancy.