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The 16 Best Snorkeling Experiences in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is famous for its dramatic rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It’s a place where snorkeling is not just a pastime but a way to really see what makes this coast special. Whether you’re after a quick, family-friendly excursion with lunch and unlimited drinks, or a luxury private charter with personalized service, Cabo has a lot to offer. We particularly like the Cabo Blue Snorkeling Cruise for its lively atmosphere and included amenities, and the La Paz Balandra tour for its world-class scenery and encounters with sea lions.
If you want a taste of everything, the Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay cruise offers iconic sights plus excellent snorkeling. For those seeking exclusivity, a private yacht trip is an unbeatable way to enjoy the waters with your own crew and itinerary. Keep reading for a detailed look at each of our top picks and what makes them stand out.
1. Cabo Blue Snorkeling Cruise, Open Bar and Lunch in Cabo San Lucas
This tour combines a short, lively cruise with plenty of activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and enjoying top sights like Land’s End and the Arch. For just about 3.5 hours, you’ll explore Cabo’s natural wonders without feeling rushed. Lunch and an unlimited open bar keep the vibe relaxed and social, making it perfect for families or travelers with limited time. Reviewers love the attentive staff and fabulous scenery, even if the fish are sometimes shy. One guest called it a “blessing,” highlighting the crew’s extra effort and good food.
This experience is great for those wanting a fun, all-in-one outing with easy access to Cabo’s best landmarks, plus a chance to paddle or snorkel in tropical waters. For around $80, you get a high-energy trip with excellent reviews and a very friendly crew.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a quick, fun day on the water with good food and drinks.
2. Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay Snorkeling Sightseeing Cruise
This 3.5-hour cruise takes you to the iconic Arch and Land’s End before dropping anchor at Santa Maria Beach. It’s a balanced tour mixing sightseeing with snorkeling, and includes paddleboards and all gear. The open bar and lunch are included, making it an easy way to enjoy Cabo’s rugged coastline while staying refreshed. Passengers mention the crew’s attentiveness and the fun of spotting sea turtles and snorkeling amid vibrant fish.
The highlight is the photo-worthy Arch, and the snorkeling at Santa Maria is well-protected, ideal for beginners or families. The tour operates from the main marina, with a friendly crew that’s ready to help you make the most of the trip.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting iconic Cabo sights combined with calm snorkeling waters and good food.
3. La Paz World Class Snorkeling in Balandra Hidden Beaches
This full-day tour offers a luxurious experience on a French Catamaran exploring Balandra, one of the world’s top beaches. It’s about 8 hours of swimming, kayaking, and relaxing in crystal-blue waters. Along the way, you’ll encounter sea lions, starfish, and explore secret coves while enjoying a Mexican lunch and an open bar. The drive from Cabo to La Paz along the coast is scenic, and the guide shares insight on local wildlife and geology.
Guests rave about the staff’s friendliness and the experience, noting the secluded beaches and vibrant sea life. This trip suits travelers who want a luxury day out with wildlife encounters and pristine scenery. It’s a splurge but worth it for the quality and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day, high-end adventure with wildlife, snorkeling, and stunning beaches.
4. Los Cabos Snorkeling Tour to Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Cove
This 3-hour tour is designed for intimate, guided snorkeling at two of Los Cabos’ best sites. Starting from Santa Maria Cove, you’ll snorkel amid coral formations and tropical fish, then move to Chileno Bay, famous for sea turtles and manta rays. The tour includes all gear and offers options for morning or afternoon departures. Reviewers mention the friendly, attentive crew and how even children had a blast.
It’s a great choice for those seeking calm, shallow waters perfect for learning or relaxing, plus the convenience of hotel pickup. The tour is priced at $95 per person, making it competitive for quality snorkeling with expert guides.
Bottom Line: Great for families and snorkelers who want an easy, guided experience at top reefs with minimal fuss.
5. Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive Private Catamaran Snorkeling Cruise
For a truly personalized experience, rent this private catamaran for about 3 hours. It’s perfect for groups up to 14, offering unlimited drinks, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a delicious lunch. You can customize your itinerary to include landmarks like Lover’s Beach or Pelican Rock or just relax in style. The crew is praised for their friendly service and ability to create a festive atmosphere.
Guests love the flexibility of this tour, especially for special occasions like birthdays or bachelorette parties. The price is higher at around $2,436 per group, but the privacy and tailored service make it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting exclusivity, flexibility, and a bespoke day on the water.
6. Los Cabos Three Hour Private Boat Snorkeling Tour
This private 3-hour tour offers a relaxed, all-inclusive ride along Cabo’s coast. It passes landmarks like Pelican Rock, Lover’s Beach, and the Arch, with a final stop at Santa Maria Beach for snorkeling or relaxing. The boat is fully equipped with water sports gear, and guests rave about the delicious lunch and unlimited drinks. You’ll cruise at your own pace, with a crew dedicated to your group’s needs.
Perfect for families or couples looking for a customized half-day experience, the tour is known for its attentive staff and scenic route. It’s a good value at $1,200 for up to 12 people.
Bottom Line: An excellent, flexible option for private groups who want a tailored cruise with plenty of water activities.
7. Cabo San Lucas Private 38 ft Sailing Tour with Snorkeling
This private 3-hour sailing tour combines luxury with adventure, offering snorkeling at Pelican Rock and sightseeing around Lovers’ Beach. It’s a perfect romantic or small-group experience, with the boat deck providing ample space for relaxing or sunbathing. The crew is praised for their friendly service and flexible schedule, with departure times available throughout the day.
Guests mention the easy, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to snorkel with tropical fish in clear waters. The tour costs about $750 for up to four people, making it ideal for couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: Best for couples or small groups seeking a private, upscale sailing experience with snorkeling.
8. Los Cabos Arch & Lover’s Beach Tour + Snorkeling Tour
This 2-hour tour is a quick but comprehensive trip to see the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and snorkel at Pelican Rock. The guide provides historical insights and helps you capture great photos. The tour uses water taxis for easy access to the best spots, and you can bring your own food and drinks onboard. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but wanting to experience the iconic Land’s End scenery and marine life.
Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the flexibility to stay longer at the beaches of your choice. It’s a budget-friendly way to see Cabo’s top sights with a focus on snorkeling and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a brief, flexible trip with photo opportunities and snorkeling.
9. Private Catamaran Snorkeling Cruise in Los Cabos
This private cruise offers 2-3 hours of fun on a luxurious catamaran, perfect for small groups up to 10. It’s fully customizable, allowing you to visit Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, and Santa Maria Bay, with stops for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just relaxing. The crew’s attentive service is a highlight, with snacks and unlimited drinks from the open bar included.
Guest reviews mention the personalized experience and the ability to tailor the trip to their preferences, which makes it a standout for special occasions. The trip costs around $950, making it a higher-end choice for those valuing privacy and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for families or groups seeking a tailored, private water adventure with all the comforts.
10. Guided by Divemaster, Cabo San Lucas Short Snorkeling Tour MANTA
This 2-hour tour is perfect for families and casual snorkelers. It takes place at Cabo San Lucas Marine Park, where you’ll see Land’s End, Lovers Beach, and the Sea Lions Colony. The guide, with diving experience, shares insights about the marine life while ensuring safety. Snorkel gear, refreshments, and boat transportation are included.
Guests appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the close encounters with tropical fish and sea lions. It’s an affordable, relaxed option at just $67 per person, ideal for a quick introduction to Cabo’s underwater world.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, family-friendly snorkeling tour with a knowledgeable guide and great scenery.
11. Snorkeling or Swimming with Sharks in Cabo San Lucas
For the brave, this 4-hour tour offers swimming or snorkeling with sharks, including blue sharks, silky sharks, and even mako. The guide ensures a safe and exciting experience, with underwater photos and boat transfers included. The adventure is intense but well-organized, with many reviewers calling it “absolutely incredible” and “a must-do.”
It’s suited for experienced snorkelers or divers who want a thrilling encounter beyond typical reef trips. The price of $215 reflects the exclusivity and adrenaline rush. Expect a more adventurous crowd and some potentially choppy conditions.
Bottom Line: Best for experienced snorkelers seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure with sharks in a safe environment.
12. Private Luxury 42ft Sailing with Snorkeling in Los Cabos
Offering a luxurious private sailing experience, this 3-hour tour accommodates up to 4 guests on a beautiful 42-foot yacht. Snorkel at Pelican Rock and cruise past El Arco and Lover’s Beach. The boat features unlimited drinks, lunch, and the option to customize your itinerary. Guests praise the staff’s attention to detail and the comfortable, elegant surroundings.
This is ideal for small groups or couples wanting privacy, style, and personalized service. The price is around $990, but many say the experience justifies the cost.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those celebrating special occasions or seeking a personalized, high-end day on the water.
13. Beach Hopper Small-Group Snorkeling Tour in Los Cabos
This small-group tour visits Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Bay, two of Cabo’s top snorkeling spots. Traveling by zodiac, you spend half an hour at each location, swimming with mantas, sea turtles, and colorful fish. The tour includes a light lunch and hotel pickup, making it a convenient choice.
Reviewers value the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see a variety of marine life in calm waters. It’s a well-organized, intimate experience for snorkelers who want to explore multiple reefs in one trip.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups, families, or couples wanting to see Cabo’s underwater diversity with guidance.
14. Private Yacht Cruise 4 Hours – Snorkeling & Paddle Boarding
This private 4-hour yacht tour is suited for larger groups and offers a semi-exclusive experience. Cruise past Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and Santa Maria Bay, then drop anchor for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. The boat is spacious, and the crew is praised for their friendly service. Snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are included, keeping everyone refreshed.
Guests enjoy the flexibility to relax or get active, with many noting the beautiful scenery and excellent crew. The cost is about $599 per person, making it a good choice for groups wanting a customizable, all-day experience.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups seeking a personalized, multi-activity adventure on a private yacht.
15. Private Snorkeling Tour in Cabo San Lucas
This up to 4-hour private tour is perfect for up to 8 people, focusing on snorkeling at marine reserves and the famous Land’s End. The captain customizes the route, often including Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay, with snorkel gear, snacks, and water provided. You might see dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more. Many reviewers praise the personalized service and the ability to see lots of marine life in a flexible itinerary.
It’s a premium experience for those wanting exclusivity, with the price around $399. The private nature makes it ideal for special occasions or families wanting a tailored adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for groups or families who want a bespoke snorkeling day with maximum flexibility.
16. Snorkeling on a Hidden Beach (Hike)
This tour combines a short hike with snorkeling at a secluded beach away from crowds. After a rocky walk, you’ll arrive at a quiet cove with excellent snorkeling among fish, rays, and sharks. The package includes lunch, drinks, snorkel gear, umbrellas, and beach chairs. A marine biologist shares insights about marine life, adding an educational touch. Reviews mention the outstanding guides and the unique, off-the-beaten-path setting.
Ideal for active travelers who want adventure and exclusivity — and don’t mind a little rocky terrain. It’s priced at $69.70, offering a value-packed alternative to busy tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active explorers who want a private, educational snorkeling experience in a pristine location.
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Experience in Cabo San Lucas
When selecting your ideal Cabo snorkeling tour, consider your budget, time, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a family-friendly day with food and drinks, the Cabo Blue Snorkeling Cruise is a top pick. Seeking luxury and privacy? The private yacht options or the Luxury 42ft Sailing might be best.
If you’re pressed for time but want a combination of iconic sights and snorkeling, the Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay cruise offers good value. For those interested in marine encounters, tours like the Shark snorkeling or Balandra trip provide memorable, adventurous moments.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons (winter for whales, summer for marine life). Check if your preferred time suits your schedule and make sure to consider your fitness level, especially for tours involving hiking or active water sports.
Final Thoughts
Cabo San Lucas offers an impressive variety of snorkeling tours, from quick guided trips to luxurious private charters. Whether you want to explore coral reefs, swim with sea lions, or just relax with a drink in hand on a private yacht, there are options that suit all interests and budgets. For families with young kids, guided tours with calm waters are ideal, while couples celebrating a special occasion might prefer the intimacy of a private sail.
Don’t forget: book early to secure your spot, especially during high season. Whichever experience you choose, you’ll find Cabo’s waters are teeming with life and full of unforgettable sights. Ready to explore? Dive in and enjoy the best snorkeling adventures in Cabo San Lucas.