Cabo San Lucas: boat tour around the peninsula and stay at the beach

Cabo San Lucas: Boat Tour Around the Peninsula and Stay at the Beach
Location: Baja California Sur, Mexico
Price: $27 per person
Duration: 45 minutes
Supplier: Paseos al arco los cabos

A Quick Snapshot of the Experience
This 45-minute boat tour offers a lively introduction to Cabo San Lucas’s most iconic sights. Starting at the marina, you’ll cruise past the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, dip into the natural aquarium, and visit Lovers Beach—a perfect spot to relax or snorkel. Guided by friendly local experts, your journey also includes stops at the Sea Lion Colony, the Finger of Neptune, and the Face of the Witch, each packed with character and photo-worthy moments.

What we especially appreciate is how flexible the tour is—there are both shared and private options, and after the cruise, you can hop off at one of the nearby beaches to soak up the sun longer. The price is attractive, making this a budget-friendly way to see many highlights without feeling rushed. However, keep in mind transportation to the dock isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want a short, affordable, yet visually rich experience. If you’re after a quick overview of Cabo’s most famous spots and some memorable photo ops, this is a solid choice. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy learning from local guides and appreciate a relaxed pace with options to linger.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: Just 45 minutes at $27, making it accessible for most budgets.
• Rich in sights: Covers the Cabo Arch, Lovers Beach, Sea Lion Colony, and more—each with its own story.
• Flexible options: Private and shared tours available, plus the chance to stay at a beach afterward.
• Guided by locals: Knowledgeable guides share stories and fun facts, enriching the experience.
• Respectful of nature: The tour emphasizes responsible tourism, ensuring minimal impact.
• Good for quick visits: Perfect for those with limited time but wanting a memorable, scenic outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Real Deal: An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

Starting Point and Accessibility

Your journey begins in front of the Marina Market at Paseos al Arco Los Cabos, a lively spot where boats are docked and guides are ready to help. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great for travelers with mobility concerns. No transportation is included, so plan to arrive on your own—an easy walk if you’re already near the marina.

The Boat and Duration

The boat itself resembles the sturdy vessel shown in the photos, not the transparent kind, although a glass-bottom boat is available for a higher fee. The 45-minute trip runs daily from 10 am to 7 pm, with departures every hour. This flexible schedule makes it easy to fit into your day, whether you’re an early riser or prefer late afternoon.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour hits many of Cabo’s famed spots, each offering unique visual or experiential value:

Natural Aquarium:
We loved the way the guide explained this vibrant little ecosystem, teeming with colorful fish visible from the boat or when snorkelling (snorkel equipment is extra at $10). It’s a lively splash of nature within reach.

Pelican Beach:
Known for snorkeling, this beach offers calm waters and plenty of fish, making it a favorite for water lovers. You’re given the chance to stay here after the cruise, which many reviews mention as a highlight—”a perfect spot for relaxing and snorkeling.”

The Cave of San Andres:
This small but interesting cave adds a hint of intrigue and history to the cruise, providing a lovely photo stop.

Lover’s Beach & Divorce Beach:
These adjacent beaches give contrasting vibes—Lover’s Beach is tranquil and scenic, perfect for relaxing, while Divorce Beach offers a more rugged, windswept feel. You can hop off here to explore or sunbathe at no extra charge, though you’ll need to re-join the boat to continue.

The Iconic Cabo Arch:
An absolute must-see, the Arch of Cabo San Lucas dominates the skyline. Every boat tour seems to stop here for a traditional photo op. Guides often share stories about its formation and significance, adding a layer of context that enhances the visual experience.

Sea Lion Colony & the Face of the Witch:
These quirky formations and colonies provide fun photo opportunities. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide pointed out the Sea Lions lounging on the rocks—such a quintessential Cabo moment.”

The Finger of Neptune & the Map of the Lowlands:
These natural rock formations add character to the scenery and are perfect for pictures or just marveling at nature’s artistry.

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The Experience and Guide Interaction

Guides, like Areli (mentioned as a friendly point of contact), are local experts who share stories, fun facts, and tips. The tours aim for a respectful, environmentally conscious approach, ensuring that your enjoyment doesn’t come at the expense of nature.

Post-Tour Flexibility

After the main tour, you can get off at a beach for as long as you like—snack, swim, or just soak in the sun. The boat will come back for you later, giving you the freedom to customize your experience. Many travelers mention that this flexibility is a real bonus, allowing for a relaxed afternoon.

Optional Extras and Considerations

Snorkel gear is available for rent, which many find worthwhile if they want to explore underwater. The more expensive transparent boat option offers a different perspective but at a higher cost. Transportation isn’t included, so arrive prepared, especially if staying farther from the marina.

The Overall Value

At $27, the tour offers excellent value considering the number of sights covered. It’s a short, cost-effective way to get a broad sense of Cabo’s geography, natural beauty, and iconic landmarks. Plus, the option to stay longer at a beach makes it versatile for different travel styles.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see Cabo’s most famous sights. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a laid-back, scenic outing. If you love quick, picturesque trips with a knowledgeable guide and the flexibility to linger, this tour fits well.

Those seeking an all-day adventure or extensive snorkeling may want to consider other options, but for a balanced taste of Cabo’s highlights, it’s hard to beat this tour’s simplicity and charm.

The Sum Up

This boat tour around Cabo San Lucas offers a straightforward yet charming way to see many of the area’s most photogenic spots. It’s an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on scenic views or interesting stops, making it appealing for travelers who want a snapshot of Cabo’s natural beauty without a hefty price tag.

The guided nature of the trip adds value, especially as guides share stories and facts that bring each site to life. The flexibility to stay at a beach afterward means you can really make the most of your time, whether you’re snapping photos, relaxing, or snorkelling.

If you’re after a light, scenic, and affordable introduction to Cabo’s highlights, this tour provides a memorable experience balanced with good value. Its emphasis on respecting nature and local knowledge makes it a responsible choice, too.

For those seeking a short, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and optional relaxation, this boat tour at Paseos al Arco Los Cabos is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation to the dock included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrive at the Marina Market where the boats depart.

How long does the tour last?
The actual boat ride is 45 minutes long, with departures every hour from 10 am to 7 pm.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit the Cabo Arch, Lovers Beach, the Sea Lion Colony, the Cave of San Andres, and other notable rock formations like the Face of the Witch and the Map of the Lowlands.

Can I stay at the beach after the tour?
Yes, you can disembark at a beach to relax or snorkel and then rejoin the boat later at no extra charge.

Is snorkeling equipment available?
Yes, snorkel gear can be rented for $10 per set, allowing you to enjoy the natural aquarium and Pelican Beach more closely.

Are private tours available?
Yes, private options exist, along with shared tours, offering flexibility depending on your group size and preferences.

What language is the guide?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the tour accessible to most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, drinks, chairs, or coolers if you like. The boats are sturdy, and you’re encouraged to bring whatever makes your experience comfortable.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sights.

What’s the main benefit of this tour?
It’s a quick, budget-friendly way to experience Cabo’s most iconic landmarks with expert guidance and the flexibility to relax afterward.

This boat tour around Cabo San Lucas offers a perfect blend of scenery, cultural sights, and relaxed fun—ideal for those wanting a memorable glimpse of this famed destination without overcommitting.

You can check availability for your dates here: