The Arch of Los Cabos Glass-bottom boat tour

Discover the Beauty of Los Cabos with the Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas and looking for a way to enjoy its spectacular scenery without spending all day at the beach, the Arch of Los Cabos Glass-bottom boat tour offers a memorable experience. Priced at $62 per person and lasting roughly 6 to 7 hours, this tour takes you over calm waters to see the famous El Arco, visit stunning beaches, and enjoy a guided tour filled with wildlife sightings and local insights.

What we especially like about this tour is how it balances scenic views with education. The bilingual guide ensures everyone can follow along, and the included tequila tasting adds a local flavor to the experience. Another highlight is the flexible return time, allowing you to linger at sites like Playa del Amor or do some shopping in Cabo San Lucas without feeling rushed.

A small downside to consider is that the boat isn’t entirely transparent—it has limited clear sections—so don’t expect a fully see-through experience. Also, lunch and dock tax aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want a full day of indulgence. Still, this tour suits travelers who want a coastal adventure with expert guidance and the chance to see some iconic sights while enjoying some local treats.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, making logistics simpler.
• Guided by bilingual experts who point out wildlife, landmarks, and interesting facts.
• Visit the must-see El Arco, the iconic rock formation where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez.
• Flexible timing gives you the chance to explore at your own pace.
• Tequila tasting adds a fun, authentic touch.
• Limited transparency of the boat means some water views might be obstructed.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Love and Divorce Beaches

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo. Once aboard, you’ll cruise over the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean, heading towards the meeting point of the Sea of Cortez—a true natural marvel. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this junction; it’s a natural marvel where two oceans meet, and the calmness of the water makes for a smooth ride.

Exploring the Sea of Cortez

The first stop involves sailing over the Sea of Cortez, known for its diverse marine life. This stretch offers an excellent chance to spot sea lions and other wildlife that may be out and about. According to reviews, guides are quite knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the journey informative and enjoyable. One traveler noted, “The guides were very informative and pleasant,” which is crucial when you’re trying to learn about the local ecosystem.

Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach)

Next, the boat reaches Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), one of the most iconic beaches in Cabo. The tour usually allows for free time here when weather permits, giving you a chance to enjoy the soft sands and iconic views of the rocks towering above. This stop is especially popular, and travelers frequently remark on the breathtaking scenery—some mentioning how the views are truly spectacular. If the weather is clear, you’ll love the opportunity to relax or take photos against this stunning backdrop.

One review mentions, “The view was breathtaking,” highlighting just how photogenic and scenic this spot is. Keep in mind, the tour’s timing is flexible, so if you’re eager to spend more time here, you can.

Playa del Divorcio

The boat then passes Playa del Divorcio, another beautiful cove with a slightly wilder reputation. While most stops focus on the iconic sites, passing by this beach provides a sense of the area’s natural ruggedness, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

The Iconic El Arco

No trip to Cabo is complete without seeing the El Arco—a rock formation rising dramatically out of the sea at the tip of the Baja Peninsula. It’s the symbol of Cabo San Lucas for good reason. Here, the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating a stunning natural border. The boat typically spends about 20 minutes here, giving everyone a chance to snap photos, marvel at the scenery, and maybe spot some sea lions lounging on the rocks.

One reviewer shared, “The view was breathtaking,” which we agree captures the awe-inspiring nature of this landmark. Guides are usually on hand to point out wildlife and explain the geological formation, adding educational value to the visual spectacle.

Cabo San Lucas and Shopping Time

After the scenic coast, the tour includes about two hours in Cabo San Lucas for some free time. This is ideal for shopping, wandering the local boutiques, or just soaking up the lively atmosphere. The flexibility here is a big plus, as you can tailor your visit to your interests—whether that’s picking up souvenirs or relaxing at a local café.

Additional Highlights: Tequila Tasting

A feature that sets this tour apart is the tequila tasting session onboard. It’s a fun way to experience a taste of local culture and learn about the region’s famous spirit directly from the guide. This authentic touch adds flavor to the day without extra cost, making it a highlight for many travelers.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

The round-trip transportation from your hotel simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo. The group size is capped at 30, ensuring a more personalized experience. The price of $62 is quite reasonable considering the inclusions, but keep in mind that lunch and the dock tax ($2) are extra costs. Also, the boat isn’t fully transparent, so don’t expect perfect water views from every angle.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas. One review states, “All the guides were informative and very pleasant,” while another enthusiast mentions, “The water was beautiful and it was a great day to be on a boat.” However, not all feedback is glowing—one reviewer described their trip as “a hot mess,” indicating that sometimes organizational hiccups can occur. It’s worth keeping your expectations flexible and appreciating the guided experience.

Final Thoughts on Value

Given the price, the combination of scenic cruising, wildlife viewing, cultural tasting, and shopping makes this a good value. You’re getting a comprehensive experience that combines natural beauty with cultural insights, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a relaxed schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic day with an emphasis on natural landmarks like El Arco and Lover’s Beach. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided experiences with educational commentary, wildlife spotting, and local tastings. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a balance of sightseeing and culture will find it suits their interests well.

However, if you’re seeking an ultra-transparent boat ride or a gourmet lunch included, you might want to explore other options. Also, those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved in free time at Cabo San Lucas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time in Cabo San Lucas.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, round-trip transport from most hotels in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is included, making logistics straightforward.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $62 per person and includes guides, the glass-bottom boat ride, and tequila tasting. Lunch and dock tax are not included.

Is the boat fully transparent?
No, the boat has some small areas where you can see the water, but it isn’t completely clear throughout. Expect some opaque sections.

Can I spend extra time at the beaches?
Yes, when weather permits, you may get free time at Playa del Amor, and the tour’s flexible timing allows you to stay out longer if you wish.

What should I budget for extras?
Consider around $2 for the dock tax and additional costs if you want to buy food, drinks, or souvenirs in Cabo San Lucas.

In Closing

The Arch of Los Cabos Glass-bottom boat tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Mexico’s most striking coastal landscapes. With its knowledgeable guides, impressive scenic stops, and authentic tequila tasting, it provides real value for travelers eager to combine natural beauty with cultural flavor. While it’s not a completely transparent water experience, the views and wildlife encounters more than compensate. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, guided day with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.

Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with family, this tour offers a manageable, enjoyable way to experience Los Cabos’ iconic sights without feeling rushed. Just keep your camera ready, and be prepared to enjoy some of the best scenery Baja California Sur has to offer.

Note: The tour’s success depends on weather conditions and group organization, so approach with an open mind and a sense of adventure.