Abades: Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip

Abades: Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip offers an accessible yet immersive chance to encounter marine life in the waters just off Tenerife. For about $63 per person, you’ll spend around 1.5 hours exploring the volcanic underwater landscape, swimming alongside green turtles and rays, under the guidance of knowledgeable marine biologists. You’ll meet at a convenient spot, either Abades Beach or Marina del Sur, depending on sea conditions, and venture out with a small group of fellow snorkelers.

What we love about this experience is how approachable it is — no previous snorkeling experience needed — and how much the guides’ enthusiasm and insights add to the journey. The chance to see turtles and rays so close, in their natural habitat, makes it a genuine highlight. Plus, the focus on education means you’ll come away with a better understanding of Tenerife’s marine environment.

A couple of points to consider: the ocean is unpredictable, so wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, and the tour doesn’t include transportation to the starting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own. Still, this trip suits travelers who value authentic encounters with nature and don’t mind a brief, relaxed outing. If you’re curious about marine life or looking for a memorable, reasonably priced activity, this snorkel trip might be just right.

Key Points

• Authentic marine experience with the chance to swim with turtles and rays.
• Expert guides provide educational commentary and ensure safety.
• Flexible meeting points depending on sea conditions, with options at Abades Beach or Marina del Sur.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for a more personal experience.
• No snorkeling experience necessary — beginner-friendly and accessible.
• Price provides good value considering the guided approach and equipment included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip

A Compact but Rich Underwater Adventure
This snorkeling tour offers a quick, yet deeply engaging way to connect with the sea. For 1.5 hours, you’ll be immersed in the volcanic underwater terrain that characterizes Tenerife’s coastal waters. The guides take care to select spots where marine life is often seen, and that focus on green turtles and rays makes it stand out from more generic snorkeling excursions.

We loved the way the guides, such as Paco, attentively explained the basics to beginners, making sure everyone felt comfortable in the water. One reviewer mentioned, “He explained everything in a beginner-friendly way,” which is a big plus if you’re new to snorkeling. You’ll also learn interesting facts about the island and its marine ecosystem, making the trip both fun and educational.

Meeting Point and Accessibility
Depending on sea conditions, the tour departs either from Abades Beach or Marina del Sur near Puerto de Las Galletas. This flexibility helps ensure the best possible experience when weather might affect visibility or safety. The meeting point is straightforward — in front of the Magilu bar — and the activity ends back at the same spot, simplifying logistics.

What’s Included and What’s Not
You’ll get snorkeling equipment and a marine biologist guide, which adds a lot of value for such an affordable price. Just remember, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, so plan your transport accordingly. Bring swimwear and a towel, and you’re ready to go.

The Experience in Action
Once in the water, the guides lead you to areas where marine life is most likely to be seen. While there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll spot turtles or rays, the guides do their best to find them. The anticipation of seeing these creatures up close is part of what makes snorkeling so rewarding.

Authentic Encounters and Limited Crowds
The small group size (up to 10 people) means you’ll get more personal attention from your guide. This is especially helpful if you’re nervous or unfamiliar with snorkeling. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one traveler saying, “Our guide Paco was super attentive and explained everything in a beginner-friendly way,” making the experience accessible for all.

The Experience Itself: What You Can Expect

Preparation and Briefing
Once you meet at the designated spot, the guide will give a quick safety briefing and show you how to use the equipment. Since many participants might be new to snorkeling, this step is critical for your confidence in the water.

In the Water
The actual snorkeling lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, with the guide leading you over volcanic reefs and sandy patches. You’ll be floating above some of Tenerife’s most unique underwater features, with clear water often revealing the rugged terrain below.

Wildlife Watching
While there’s no guarantee of spotting turtles or rays, the tour’s focus is on increasing your chances by visiting known habitats. We loved how the guides shared interesting facts, like how “sea turtles are gentle visitors” and the importance of rays in the ecosystem — turning what could be a simple swim into a learning experience.

Post-activity
After your swim, you’ll return to the meeting point, feeling refreshed and perhaps a bit more connected to Tenerife’s sea life. Many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which enriches the overall experience.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This tour is ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a relaxed, educational introduction to snorkeling. It’s perfect for families with children over 4 years old, as the activity requires basic swimming ability but no prior experience. If you’re someone who appreciates small group settings, or if you’re traveling on a tight schedule but still want a meaningful adventure, this trip ticks those boxes.

Those hoping to see rare wildlife should keep in mind that sightings depend on sea conditions, but the guides’ local knowledge maximizes your chances. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a shorter activity that fits into a busy Tenerife itinerary without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience

If you’re eager to see Tenerife’s marine life in a natural setting, with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable biologists, this snorkeling trip is a fantastic choice. Its affordability and small-group setting make it accessible for most travelers, especially those new to snorkeling or looking for a family-friendly adventure.

The chance to swim with turtles and rays creates a memorable highlight of your trip, especially with guides who are passionate about sharing their local environment. The focus on education and safety makes it suitable for all skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water.

However, keep in mind that wildlife sightings are always subject to ocean conditions, so patience and flexibility are key. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic encounter with Tenerife’s underwater world, this trip offers excellent value — a meaningful, fun, and safe way to explore the coast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need snorkeling experience?
No, beginners are very welcome. The guides, like Paco, explain everything in a beginner-friendly way, making it comfortable for first-timers.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including briefing and water time, offering a quick yet fulfilling experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, but older children and teenagers are generally welcome.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you don’t need to worry about gear.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point.

What if I don’t see turtles or rays?
Wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed because animals are free to move. The guides do their best to find them, but it’s part of the adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Spanish, catering to a broad range of travelers.

Overall, Abades’s snorkeling trip is a well-balanced choice for those looking to enjoy Tenerife’s marine environment without complex arrangements or long outings. It offers genuine encounters, professional guidance, and a taste of the underwater wonders that make the coast so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: