5 Cabo San Lucas Snorkeling Locations + Best Guided Tours
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Looking for snorkeling spots in Cabo San Lucas?
You found the right page. Located along the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Luca is where the boisterous waves of the Pacific Ocean meet the gentle tide of the Sea of Cortez. Cabo is a beloved spot for snorkeling, as its waters are home to a wide array of marine life from small tropical fish to turtles and whale sharks.
You might be surprised to hear that many beaches in Cabo are not suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches along the Pacific Coast have strong waves that can hammer you down and rip currents, making them too dangerous for swimming, but even along the Sea of Cortez, you can’t swim everywhere.
✅ Do I need a passport to travel to Cabo?
In this article, I will look at the best beaches for snorkeling in Cabo, so you can see Baja’s incredible marine world. The renowned French naturalist Jacques Yves Cousteau nicknamed the Sea of Cortez “The Aquarium of the World” because of its diverse wildlife. Snorkeling in Cabo offers a unique chance to experience one of the most biodiverse places in Mexico, and in some places, you can do it for free.
So, if you want to find out about the best snorkeling spots in Cabo, keep reading. This article will guide you through the best Cabo beaches along the Sea of Cortez where you can safely get in the water and swim alongside fish and other marine animals.
Do I need a car to visit snorkeling beaches in Cabo?
It depends. If you stay at a hotel near Playa Chileno or Playa Santa Maria, you can just walk to the beach. But if you stay further away, and want to explore the best snorkeling locations in the area without Uber, a car rental 🚗 is a great idea, as you would have more freedom to plan your trips however you like and take day trips to Todos Santos or La Paz.
Is the water in Cabo warm for snorkeling?
While Cabo is a great place to snorkel, its waters can be chilly depending on the time of the year. Winter which is the peak time in Cabo, has the coldest water ranging from low 60’s to mid 70’s degrees Fahrenheit. October and November are shoulder months in Cabo after the hurricane season is over, when you can enjoy the warmest water temps between 77 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
Best Cabo San Lucas Snorkeling Locations: Overview
🐠 1. Playa Santa Maria
Located along Santa Maria Bay, Playa Santa Maria is a crescent-shaped bay with calm, waters protected from strong waves. The beach sits along the Cabo corridor, a 20-mile street between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo, and can be reached by car rental 🚗 or quick Uber ride.
If you want to enjoy snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach without renting a car, or relying on Uber book a stay at Montage Los Cabos 🏨 a stunning hotel on Santa Maria Beach that has a spa and on-site restaurants 🌮
Santa Maria is quieter than other Cabo beaches, as it’s tucked away from the highway, and has no amenities. It’s perfect for snorkeling as you can spot a variety of marine animals including angelfish, rays, sea urchins, and even sea turtles in the waters of the Sea of Cortez. The swimming area is protected by buoys, so you will have plenty of space to snorkel and enjoy your time here.
If you want to have this beach to yourself, arrive early morning. As you exit the highway, you will arrive at a big parking lot, where you can park your car for free and walk down to the beach along the boardwalk. There are also free public restrooms near the parking lot.
Best Santa Maria Bay snorkeling tours
🐟 2. Playa Chileno (also known as Chileno Bay)
Chileno Bay is one of the most popular places for snorkeling in Cabo because of its easy access and a variety of amenities and services like paddle boards and kayak rentals. Many snorkeling tours also stop near the beach, and it’s not hard to see why: the area has gentle waves and plenty of space for snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
If you are not joining a guided tour to Chilean Bay, bring your snorkeling gear 🤿 because it’s a fantastic place to see marine life. Get your snorkeling goggles on and get in the water where you can spot eels, an octopus, turtles, a scorpion fish, and lots more.
Arrive early because this beach gets busy. Many tourists and local families come down here to enjoy this popular stretch along the southern Baja coast. The beach is located along the Cabo tourist corridor and is easily accessible by rental car 🚗 and Uber from Cabo.
Playa Chileno has lifeguards, restrooms, kayak and paddle board rentals. Food vendors also sell snacks and water on this beach, but you need to bring cash 💰 because not all of them accept credit cards.
It’s also one of the best beaches to watch the sunset in Cabo 🌅 So, grab a cozy blanket, some snacks and come here to see the colorful show as the sun dips below the horizon.
Best snorkeling tours on Chileno Bay in Cabo San Lucas
3. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor)
Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) is one of the best spots for snorkeling in the area accessible by boat from Cabo Marina. You can book a guided snorkeling tour or catch a water taxi from Cabo Marina, and ask to leave you at the beach for an hour or so before your boat will come back to pick you up.
✅ Check: Is Cabo San Lucas safe?
While the beach is easy to access, it has little shade besides the rocky outcrops, so if bring an umbrella 🏖️ a hat 👒 and plenty of reef-safe sunscreen 🪸 Another caveat is that you need to watch out for waves and the boats that drop people off.
Lover’s Beach is adjacent to Divorce Beach, a dramatic stretch of Cabo’s coastline with powerful waves and strong currents. While Divorce Beach is not safe for swimming, it’s a fantastic place to take photos, so bring your camera 📸
Best snorkeling tours at Playa Del Amor in Cabo
🌊 4. Pelican Rock (near Land’s End)
Pelican Rock is one of the best places for snorkeling in Cabo if you want a guaranteed chance to swim among the incredible wildlife. Many snorkeling tours stop here, so it can be busy depending on the time of the day when you visit.
I haven’t snorkeled at Pelican Rock yet but heard many travelers say that the fish count is much that of Playa Santa Maria or Chileno Bay, with hundreds of different types of fish swimming around you.
Here you can spot schools of fish, puffers, octopuses, sea lions nearby, and dramatic underwater rock structures.
✅ Book this guided tour to Pelican Rock in Cabo
If you want to stay in the area, and enjoy grand views of the ocean, check out Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort & Spa, along one of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo. It’s a gorgeous resort, with incredible views and top-notch amenities like infinity pools, fitness center, airport shuttle and delicious breakfast.
How do I get to Pelican Rock in Cabo?
The only way to get to Pelican Rock is by boat, either by booking a tour online or catching a boat from Cabo Marina or Medano Beach. If you can, book a glass-bottom boat, as it will allow you to see all the cool fish, while you are enjoying the ride. It’s better to visit in the morning, when waters are calm and there’s fewer people.
Best snorkeling tours of Pelican Rock in Cabo
🦑 4. Neptune’s Finger
Named after the prominent rock formation that resembles a finger, this area is a popular dive site, that can be reached by a quick boat ride from Cabo Marina. However, some snorkeling tours also bring people here.
It’s a perfect spot for advanced snorkelers or divers thanks to stunning underwater visibility, and some interesting features like a rock wall, which makes for great underwater shots. ⚠️ Keep in mind that currents can be strong here, so it’s best to wear a vest and closely follow the directions of your tour guide.
🐢 5. Cabo Pulmo National Park (2-hour drive from Cabo)
My favorite place for snorkeling in the Cabo area, Cabo Pulmo is a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to a mind-blowing array of biodiversity. Although the area is only 60 miles from Cabo San Lucas, it takes at least 1.5 hours to get here because of the rough road which requires a 4X4 car.
If you don’t feel like navigating the bumpy desert roads on your own, book a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour from Cabo San Lucas. This snorkeling tour offers a fun intro to the best snorkeling beaches in Cabo Pulmo and gives you a nice overview of the area. A private jeep tour is a perfect alternative if you don’t have a lot of time, and want to see Cabo Pulmo, without having to plan your entire trip and worry about getting gas, finding food, and other logistics.
If you are more flexible, renting a 4X4 and heading on a little adventure to Cabo Pulmo is an amazing idea. You can take as much time as you want, snorkel, hike, and enjoy clear dark skies at night because the area has no light pollution.
✅ Check out the best guided tours in Cabo Pulmo National Park
Here you can spot coral reefs, sea turtles, rays, giant groupers, and whale sharks. Although you can snorkel on some of the beaches, you will need a guide if you want to go further in the water because no solo snorkeling is allowed to protect the reef.
Best guided tours of Cabo Pulmo National Park
6. Tequila Cove Beach
Also known as Playa Bledito, Tequila Cove is a hidden gem of Cabo. This wide beach with rocky outcrops sits in front of the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort and is adjacent to Playa Cabo Real.
But even if you aren’t staying at the resort, you can still access this pristine street of sand. The beach has no amenities but has a warier of water sports like snorkeling, jet skiing and kayaking. There’s a paid parking, restrooms, but no amenities, so bring your umbrella, water and snacks. The beach is also 5 minutes away by walking from Marquis Los Cabos.
Best snorkeling tours in Cabo San Lucas
1. Private boat snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas
🌟 5 stars – 182 reviews ⌚️ duration – 3,5 hours ✔️ free cancellation
If you are craving a break from Cabo’s party scene, book this private 3-hour snorkeling tour to enjoy the relaxing scenery as you cruise along the Sea of Cortez on a private boat.
The tour also includes experienced guides who know the best snorkeling spots and can provide information about the marine life you’ll encounter.
Sail along the rugged coast while enjoying the view of landmarks like Pelican Rock, Lover’s Beach, and Cabo Arch. You also stop at Santa Maria Beach, where you can snorkel, paddleboard, kayak, or chill on a floating water mat.
What’s included:
- Snorkel
- Paddleboard
- Kayak
- Floating water mat
- Unlimited open bar
- Lunch VIP service
What’s not included:
- Port tax fee of 20 Pesos per person
- Gratuities
- Transportation
The Cabo Blue experience was great! The crew is well organized, good communication, very responsive and attentive.
PAUL K
2. Los Cabos luxury sailing, snorkel, and lunch cruise – best value 💰
🌟 5 stars – 2,777 reviews ⌚️ duration – 4 hours ✔️ free cancellation
A luxury sailing tour in Cabo is a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself to a fun getaway. As you sail across the sun-drenched Cabo coast, you will have a chance to sip on hand-craft cocktails and sparkling wine from the open bar and enjoy the stunning views.
The tour offers options for snorkeling, swimming and paddle boarding. And the adventure on the water is followed by a gourmet lunch which includes Mexican and international food. The tour is limited to 16 people.
What’s included:
- Lunch
- Unlimited drinks (open bar)
- Snorkeling equipment
- Paddleboards
What’s not included:
- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- $10 per person round-trip transportation fee
Food and drinks were good. Atmosphere was amazing. Got to see whales and swim with fish! Would highly recommend.
Kathleen C
3. Land’s End luxury sail and snorkel cruise
🌟 5 stars – 755 reviews ⌚️ duration – 3 hours ✔️ free cancellation
What if I told you that you can sail a luxury yacht while enjoying cocktails for just over $100? This awesome day cruise offers a perfect break from the crowds and enjoy a tranquil setting as you have the entire yacht to yourself.
The cruise includes a snorkeling session where you can swim near the iconic El Arco. Then, feast on a delicious lunch and grab a drink from an open bar while admiring views of Lovers Beach. It’s a perfect adventure for couples and families who want to enjoy a personable approach from and learn more about the area.
What’s included:
- National Park fees
- Lunch and snacks
- Unlimited drinks (open bar)
What’s not included:
- Gratuities
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
We had an amazing day today. Gabriel and Roberto were so kind and knowledgeable. They gave us a choice to stop and snorkel or go find whales and we chose to find the whales. Which we did! Plus we had delicious guac, salsa, chips, sandwiches and drinks. Great experience.
Kelsey J
4. Cabo and Santa Maria Bay snorkeling cruise – best budget option
🌟 5 stars – 548 reviews ⌚️ duration – 3,5 hours ✔️ free cancellation
This shared snorkeling cruise offers a perfect opportunity to soak up Cabo San Lucas’s stunning coastal scenery for budget-conscious travelers who want to check out some of the most spectacular Cabo landmarks off their bucket list.
The half-day tour includes photo stops at Cabo’s Arch and Santa Maria Beach, where you can enjoy water activities. Choose from snorkeling gear or paddle boards and enjoy a fun adventure on the water.
When you get hot, grab a refreshing drink from an open bar and a homemade lunch, and snap as many photos as you like – which is why bringing your phone is so important.
What’s included:
- Open bar (alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages)
- Lunch
- Snorkeling equipment
- Stand-up paddle boards
- Floating water mat
What’s not included:
- Port tax fee of 20 pesos per person (cash only)
- Gratuities
Nice boat, great staff. Very generous with food and drinks. Saw a lot of different fish. Overall great experience!!!
Andrew S
5. A snorkeling tour on a private luxury yacht – best rated 💎
🌟 5 stars – 121 reviews ⌚️ duration – 3 hours ✔️ free cancellation
Spend a day sailing in Los Cabos on the 42-foot private yacht, as you take in the views of the Sea of Cortez.
Enjoy a light lunch of fresh foods and cocktails from an open bar as you cruise along the coastline, then swim and snorkel near Pelican Rock or Chileno Bay, one of the most popular spots for snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas known for its gentle waves and colorful fish.
Your captain can also customize your itinerary, and stop at places that you would like to see. If you are looking for a memorable experience in Cabo San Lucas, you can’t miss this tour.
What’s included:
- All taxes and fees
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks
- Snorkeling equipment
What’s not included:
- Gratuities
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Captain Gary and First Mate Pedro were wonderful! The sail boat, Synergy, was awesome. Our trip was fun, exciting and beautiful! Booking the trip was easy and all directions were clear and precise. We would definitely recommend this trip and would love to take it again one day.
robert H
Safety tips for snorkeling in Cabo
1. Only snorkel where it’s safe
Always make sure it’s safe to swim before getting in the water. If the water looks choppy, and there’s no lifeguard on duty, go somewhere else.
2. Watch out for red flag
A red flag on the beach indicates unsafe swimming and snorkeling conditions, which means you should stay out of the water.
3. Use reef-safe sunscreen
Get a reef-safe sunscreen that will keep you safe from sunburn and avoid bleaching corals. Bring an umbrella if you plan to stay at the beach for a couple of hours.
4. Bring a wetsuit
If you travel to Cabo in winter, consider bringing a wetsuit, because water can be chilly during this time of the year.
5. Bring your snorkeling gear
While guided tours provide all the necessary gear, if you want to snorkel on your own, you will need to bring your own snorkeling gear.
6. Join a guided tour
Guided tours often provide access to snorkeling spots that you can’t access on your own like Neptune”s Finger or Pelican Rock. Book your snorkeling tour ahead of time through Viator, my favorite platform for booking guided experiences online 📱
7. Choose the right season
June through October is a great time for warm water and the best visibility, but it also coincides with the rainy season, with August and September being the peak times. Always check the weather forecast if you visit Cabo during these months.
8. Snorkel in the morning
For the best experience, head out in the morning when the ocean is calm and less busy with boat traffic. Top spots to check out include Santa Maria Bay for gentle conditions, Chileno Bay for its crystal-clear water and abundant marine life, and Pelican Rock near the Arch, which is best reached by boat and offers an exciting underwater landscape.
9. Always lock your car
When you park your car near the beach, always lock your doors and don’t leave your valuables in plain sight to avoid break-ins.
10. Bring an umbrella
Not all beaches have amenities, so bring an umbrella for extra comfort. A hat and a pair of sunglasses will also help.
11. Watch out for boats
Many guided tours bring tourists to snorkeling beaches. Always watch out for boats as you swim around.
12. Carry cash for street vendors
Some snorkeling beaches in Cabo have vendors who sell drinks and food. Always carry Mexican Pesos, because they usually operate on cash.
Snorkeling in Cabo: FAQ’s
Where’s the best snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas?
The best snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas is in Cabo Pulmo National Park, the last undeveloped stretch of Baja’s southern coastline sheltered from the big waves by the coral reef that’s home to a stunning array of marine life.
Where to snorkel in Cabo San Lucas?
You can snorkel at Playa Santa Marina, Playa Chileno, and Playa del Amor in Cabo. Another great spot for snorkeling is Cabo Pulmo National Park, a protected area about 60 miles from Cabo San Lucas that you can reach by a guided tour or four-wheel drive.
Is Cabo San Lucas good for snorkeling?
Yes, Cabo San Lucas is an incredible sport for snorkeling. Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay are two popular spots with shallow calm waters, perfect for beginners. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, take a boat tour to Pelican Rock where you’ll snorkel among towering rock formations and deep underwater canyons full of life. The water there is deeper but incredibly rich with fish.
Why can’t you swim on the beaches in Cabo San Lucas?
Many Cabo beaches have strong waves and rip currents which create dangerous conditions for swimming. While the Pacific side of Cabo is not safe, there’s a handful of beaches along the Sea of Cortez where you can swim and enjoy other water activities.
How much does it cost to snorkel in Cabo?
Snorkeling is free if you decide to do it on your own, while guided tours could cost anywhere from $50 to hundreds of dollars depending on a boat size, a number of people in your group, activities included in the tour and the time of the year. Private snorkeling tours in Cabo San Lucas are the most expensive because you can customize your itinerary however you like.
What is the best time to snorkel in Cabo San Lucas?
The best time to snorkel in Cabo San Lucas is between May and October. During these months, the Sea of Cortez offers warm water temperatures ranging from 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C), clear visibility, and calm seas. July through September are especially great because of the most vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, and even sightings of whale sharks near La Paz.
Although you can snorkel in Cabo year-round, November to April has cooler water temps (around 65 to 74°F or 18 to 23°C) and choppy waters. It also coincides with whale-watching season in Cabo, so it’s a great time to see these incredible animals, even if snorkeling conditions aren’t at their best.
Snorkeling in Cabo: Final word
No matter if you’re a seasoned snorkeler or dipping your fins into the water for the first time, Cabo San Lucas offers an underwater paradise that’s hard to beat. From the picturesque Santa Maria Bay to the dramatic rock formations and marine life at Pelican Rock, each location has its draw. So grab your gear and dive into one of the most fun activities that Cabo has to offer.
