Los Cabos: Private Paddleboarding and Snorkeling Tour

Exploring Los Cabos from a Stand-Up Paddleboard and Snorkel Perspective

If you’re looking to experience Los Cabos in a way that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury, the Private Paddleboarding and Snorkeling Tour is an excellent choice. For around $130 per person, this 2.5-hour journey takes you from the lively beaches of Cabo San Lucas out to the legendary Arch of Los Cabos—an iconic limestone formation that’s often the highlight of any trip here. Alongside the paddleboarding, you’ll also get a chance to snorkel around Pelican Rock and observe the lively underwater world that makes this region famous.

We love how this tour offers a private experience—meaning you set your own pace and enjoy the tour with your own group, not a big crowd. The guides are bilingual, providing helpful instruction and local insights that make the experience accessible whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a complete newbie. Another highlight is the combination of paddling and snorkeling, which allows you to see both the land’s grandeur and the underwater life, making the most of your time on the water.

A potential consideration? The best weather windows are in the early morning, as winds tend to pick up later in the day. This can limit some opportunities to reach the Arch when conditions aren’t ideal. Still, even if the weather isn’t perfect, you’ll have a memorable time exploring Pelican Rock’s vibrant marine environment. This tour suits adventurous travelers who value personalized attention, stunning scenery, and the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding in a protected, safe setting.

Key Points

• Private Group Experience: Enjoy a tailored tour with your own group, avoiding large crowds.
• Iconic Landmarks: Paddle up close to the famous Arch of Los Cabos, a must-see natural wonder.
• Underwater Exploration: Snorkel at Pelican Rock to see tropical fish and marine life.
• Expert Guidance: Bilingual instructors help you feel comfortable and well-informed.
• Flexible Schedule: Pick a time between 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. for ideal weather conditions.
• Value for Money: The combination of activities, personalized service, and scenic views makes this a good deal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Los Cabos Private Paddleboarding and Snorkeling Tour

This tour is built around the idea of giving you an active yet relaxed way to see Los Cabos, blending water sports with nature’s best sights. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup from a large selection of locations, including many major resorts, you’re transported to the beach in about 30 minutes. This time is well-spent, as it builds anticipation and allows you to settle into the experience before hitting the water.

The Preparation and Equipment

Once at the beach, the guides—who are bilingual in Spanish and English—help you get comfortable with the stand-up paddleboards, oars, wetsuits if needed, and safety gear like life jackets. This initial step is crucial, especially for beginners. We loved how the instructors are approachable and quick to assist, which helps diminish any initial nerves.

The equipment is well-maintained, and the paddleboards are stable enough for beginners to learn quickly. Whether you’ve tried paddleboarding before or it’s your first time, the guides’ tips make it accessible. The inclusion of snorkel gear and wetsuits means you’re well-equipped to handle the underwater portion comfortably, even if the water is slightly cool.

Paddling to the Arch of Los Cabos

The core of this journey is paddling out to the Arch, which is just a short distance from the beach. The guides will help you navigate the waters, keeping an eye on wind and wave conditions. We recommend the earliest tour starting at 7:30 a.m. because calmer waters and lighter winds make for easier paddling and a better chance to reach the Arch.

Once you approach the famous limestone formation, you’ll get to admire it from a close perspective—something that’s difficult without this kind of experience. It’s a rewarding feeling paddling your own way there, especially as the towering rocks come into view and you realize you’re part of a very special landscape. Several reviews highlight how feeling close to the Arch offers a sense of accomplishment, like one traveler said, “We paddled our way there and felt a real connection to this iconic spot.”

However, be aware that afternoon conditions can be windier, and sometimes the tour might only reach Pelican Rock if winds are strong, which some travelers find less ideal but still enjoyable. The guides are transparent about weather limitations and will modify plans accordingly.

Snorkeling at Pelican Rock

After the paddle, you’ll stop at Pelican Rock, a well-known snorkeling spot filled with colorful fish and fascinating marine creatures. The clear waters and sheltered environment make it suitable for all skill levels. The restrictions on this part are minimal—just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure.

The snorkeling itself is a highlight, with some reviewers noting “an array of fish and even some interesting marine creatures beneath the surface,” and others appreciating the ease of access. The snorkel gear is provided, and guides can assist if you’re new to snorkeling.

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Break and Relaxation

The tour includes a 30-minute break in Los Cabos itself, offering a chance to relax, hydrate, and soak in the scenery. While brief, this pause helps balance the active paddling and snorkeling with a moment to appreciate your surroundings and maybe snap some pictures. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who want a leisurely pace.

Return Journey

After snorkeling, you’ll head back to the starting point, completing your water adventure in just over 2.5 hours. The transportation is included, making the logistics smooth and straightforward. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a nearby location, allowing you to continue your day relaxed and satisfied.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits in beautiful settings. It’s suited for beginners and experienced paddlers alike because the guides are attentive and the equipment is user-friendly. Travelers who appreciate private groups will find the experience feels personalized and less rushed than larger tours.

It’s especially fitting for visitors who want to combine adventure with sightseeing—paddling close to the Arch is a memorable photo opportunity, and snorkeling adds an immersive element. Those with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to try something a little different will find this tour rewarding.

Value and Practical Tips

While $130 per person might seem a bit steep for a short activity, the private nature and inclusion of all equipment and transportation make it a good value. You’re getting a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, plus the chance to enjoy two fantastic water activities in one go—paddleboarding and snorkeling.

To maximize your enjoyment, we recommend selecting the earliest start time if possible, to avoid windier conditions that can limit access to the Arch. Remember to bring swimsuit, towel, sandals, and sunblock, and dress for water activities.

If the weather turns unfavorable, the tour provider offers the flexibility of rescheduling or refunds, which adds peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The Los Cabos Private Paddleboarding and Snorkeling Tour is a well-rounded, value-packed experience that lets you connect with some of the most scenic and lively parts of this coastal region. It balances adventure, learning, and relaxation in a way that appeals to travelers seeking a more personal and active way to explore Los Cabos.

It’s best suited for adventurous spirits, water lovers, and those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that don’t require advanced skills but still deliver a sense of achievement and fun. With flexible scheduling and friendly guides, this tour offers a memorable slice of Baja California Sur’s natural beauty—perfect for making lasting travel memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the equipment and guides are designed to help beginners feel comfortable on paddleboards and snorkeling gear, making it accessible even if it’s your first time.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2.5 hours, including pickup, paddling, snorkeling, and the break.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, you can select a time between 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., with the early morning preferred for calmer conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, beach sandals, and sunblock. All necessary snorkeling and paddleboarding gear are provided.

What if the weather isn’t ideal?
The tour provider will either reschedule your activity or issue a full refund if weather conditions aren’t safe or suitable for water activities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from selected hotel pickup points is included in the price.

Are there any age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 6 years old, making it suitable for families with older children.

Can I do this if I have medical issues or back problems?
This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those with serious medical conditions.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?
Alcoholic beverages are not included; the focus is on active water fun, so we recommend staying hydrated and sober during the activities.

Whether you’re seeking an active adventure, a scenic photo op, or a fun way to explore Los Cabos’ coast, this private paddleboarding and snorkeling tour offers a memorable way to experience Baja’s natural beauty—without the crowds and with plenty of personal attention.

You can check availability for your dates here: