3-Hour Stand up Paddle and Snorkel at Los Cabos

A Fresh Take on Water Adventures in Los Cabos

Imagine spending three hours in the crystal-clear waters of Los Cabos, paddleboarding in front of the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, followed by exploring vibrant coral reefs at Pelican Rock. Led by friendly bilingual instructors, this tour costs about $100 per person and is perfect for those seeking a mix of active fun and marine discovery. It’s a flexible experience, with morning or afternoon options, making it easy to fit into almost any travel schedule.

What we particularly love about this tour is how accessible it is — even if you’ve never tried stand-up paddleboarding before, the expert instructors ensure you learn the basics comfortably. Plus, the chance to capture photos in front of the famous Arch makes it a memorable keepsake. Another highlight is the combination of two activities in one, giving you a taste of both active water sports and underwater wildlife exploration, all in just three hours.

A possible consideration is the weather — as with any outdoor aquatic activity, wind and currents can affect your experience. The tour recommends morning outings for calmer conditions, and if the wind picks up, the guide will adapt the plan, possibly spending more time snorkeling rather than reaching the Arch. This flexibility is good, but if you’re set on snapping that perfect photo of the Arch from the water, morning is your best bet.

This tour suits adventurous travelers and water enthusiasts who want a well-rounded experience without straying far from Los Cabos’ most famous sights. Families with kids over six, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, active half-day will find plenty to enjoy here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Learn stand-up paddleboarding with professional guidance in a scenic bay.
• Snorkel at Pelican Rock, renowned for marine life and coral gardens.
• All equipment and refreshments included, making it a hassle-free activity.
• Flexible scheduling with options in the morning or afternoon.
• Ideal for beginners and kids over six, safe and enjoyable for all skill levels.
• Weather-dependent: wind can influence how far you can go, especially to the Arch.

Exploring the Details of the Tour

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour kicks off with a pickup from numerous convenient locations in Los Cabos, including popular spots like the Plaza Gali parking lot or the Santa Maria Bay. The 30-minute van ride sets the stage for the day’s excitement, providing a comfortable transition from land to water.

Once at the starting point, you’ll receive your stand-up paddleboard and oar. The lesson is led by bilingual instructors who are skilled at making beginners feel confident. We found that the instructors’ friendly approach helps demystify the activity, turning what might seem daunting into a fun challenge. They emphasize safety, providing life jackets and wetsuits if needed, so you can focus on enjoying the ride rather than worrying about equipment.

The paddleboarding itself takes place in a beautiful bay with a view of the Arch, a setting that’s hard to beat. We loved the way the instructors broke down the basics, making it easy for first-timers to get comfortable on the board. Photos of you paddling in front of the Arch — a globally recognized symbol of Los Cabos — are included, giving you a fantastic souvenir of your time.

After practicing your paddle skills, the tour shifts to snorkeling at Pelican Rock, famous for its coral gardens and marine life. Here, you’ll don snorkel gear and get an up-close look at the underwater world. Expect to see exotic marine creatures and colorful coral, making it a highlight for underwater photography.

The Scenic Route and Final Stop

Following the water activities, the group enjoys a break in Los Cabos, with scenic views along the way back. The tour concludes with a return to the pickup points, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of stories to tell.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

This experience stands out because it offers two activities in one compact package — paddleboarding and snorkeling — providing a well-rounded water adventure. You don’t need to be an expert, as the guides ensure everyone gets comfortable, making it accessible for families and first-timers alike.

The photos of you paddling against the backdrop of the Arch are a real bonus, especially since many travelers mention how memorable and photo-worthy these moments are. The inclusion of all necessary equipment and refreshments means there are no hidden costs or logistical worries — just show up and enjoy.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour is designed to be safe and fun, remember that weather plays a role. The guide notes that mornings tend to be calmer, with less wind, which increases your chances of reaching the Arch. If the wind is strong, the group might spend more time snorkeling or exploring closer to Pelican Rock instead of going all the way to the Arch.

The tour is suitable for kids over six, making it a family-friendly option. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with significant back problems, or mobility challenges, due to the physical nature of paddleboarding and snorkeling.

How Does It Value for Money?

At around $100, the tour offers a lot of activity for the price. The inclusion of equipment, professional instruction, snacks, and photos makes it a good value for travelers wanting a memorable, active experience that doesn’t break the bank. Considering the stunning scenery, the chance to learn something new, and the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant marine habitats, it’s an experience that feels both fun and worthwhile.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for water lovers of all ages who want an active, engaging way to see Los Cabos’ famous landmarks. It’s especially suitable if you’re a beginner looking for guided instruction or a family wanting a safe, supervised adventure. If you’re curious about the underwater world but unsure about diving, snorkeling at Pelican Rock is an excellent introduction.

Travelers who thrive on scenic views combined with physical activity will find this tour hits the spot. But, be prepared for possible weather changes — mornings tend to be calmer, and that’s when you’ll have the best chance to reach the Arch. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate an inclusive experience with all gear and snacks provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with activities scheduled to fit into a morning or afternoon.

Do I need to have previous experience?
No, the tour is designed for beginners. The instructors teach the basics of stand-up paddleboarding, making it accessible for all skill levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, beach towel, beach sandals, sunblock (preferably biodegradable), and sunglasses. Everything else — equipment and refreshments — is provided.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old can participate. It’s a family-friendly activity, but always check with the guides if you have younger kids.

What happens if the weather isn’t ideal?
If strong winds prevent reaching the Arch, the guides will modify the plan, possibly spending more time snorkeling at Pelican Rock. Partial refunds are not issued, but the guides will ensure you still enjoy a rewarding day.

Are alcohol or other beverages included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included, but refreshments and snacks are provided during the tour.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Pickup is available at multiple locations in Los Cabos, including the Plaza Gali parking lot or Santa Maria Bay. Cruise ship passengers can walk from the dock to the cruise terminal and cross to the meeting point. For other locations, a designated meeting point will be provided.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun, active way to see some of Los Cabos’ most iconic sights while enjoying the water, this 3-hour paddleboard and snorkel tour ticks many boxes. It offers professional guidance, stunning scenery, and memorable photos, all at a reasonable price. Perfect for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a little adventure without a full-day commitment.

While weather can influence how far you get toward the Arch, the combination of paddleboarding and snorkeling means you’ll still enjoy a fantastic experience. It’s a good choice for those who value authentic, hands-on activities and appreciate a well-organized, friendly guide.

Whether you want to learn a new skill, take beautiful photos, or explore underwater life, this tour offers a balanced taste of Los Cabos’ stunning marine environment — all in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: