Cabo San Lucas: Water Taxi Tour

Imagine cruising along the shimmering waters of Baja California Sur, heading toward some of the most famous landmarks in Los Cabos. For just $20 per person, you can spend 45 minutes gliding past The Arch, the Sea Lion colony, Pelican Rock, Neptune’s Finger, and the beloved beaches known as Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach. This water taxi tour offers a quick, affordable taste of Cabo’s scenic coastline and iconic formations, guided by a friendly bilingual captain who is eager to share the region’s stories and secrets.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the close-up views of The Arch and the Sea Lion colony are an authentic highlight — you won’t get the same perspective on land. Second, the small group size (limited to 10 participants) keeps things intimate and manageable, allowing for better interaction and photo opportunities.
A potential consideration? The mandatory dock fee of $2 USD per person might seem small, but it’s an extra fee to keep in mind. Also, with a 45-minute duration, this tour is brief. If you’re craving a more in-depth exploration of Los Cabos, you might want to combine it with another activity.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate short, scenic outings and authentic coastal views without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who like a relaxed pace, want to see the major landmarks from the water, or are looking for an accessible, fun introduction to Los Cabos.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Affordable Price: At $20, it offers a great value for a scenic boat ride.
- Short & Sweet: The 45-minute trip is perfect for fitting into a busy day.
- Iconic Landmarks: See The Arch, Lover’s Beach, and more from an up-close perspective.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 people for a more personal feel.
- Expert Guides: A bilingual captain provides safety, insights, and local stories.
- Additional Fees: Be aware of the $2 USD dock fee per person, payable on site.
Planning more time in Cabo San Lucas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring Los Cabos by Water: What to Expect

We found that this Water Taxi Tour is a fantastic way to see some of Los Cabos’ most famous sights without spending hours on a boat. It’s a quick jaunt, but what it lacks in duration it makes up for with intimacy and a genuine connection to the landscape.
Departure and Schedule: Departing every hour from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday, the timing is quite flexible. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a late morning cruise, there’s likely a departure that suits your plans. The check-in process is straightforward, and since the group is limited to ten, it feels more like a private outing than a crowded tour.
The Landmarks: The boat first heads toward The Arch, the most recognizable symbol of Cabo’s coast. Standing at about 65 feet tall, it’s a natural rock formation carved by wind and water, and getting close to it by boat offers a perspective you just can’t get from land. We loved the way the captain pointed out Sea Lions lounging on nearby rocks — a true Baja spectacle.
The Sea Lion Colony: Watching these creatures bask in the sun and bark at each other is a real treat. The captain shared some fun facts, making the experience both entertaining and educational.
Pelican Rock & Neptune’s Finger: These formations are also visible from the water, and the guide often points out interesting details about their geological origins. While the boat doesn’t stop here, you’ll get a good look at their impressive shapes and size.
Lover’s & Divorce Beaches: These beaches are iconic and easily recognizable from the water, and the tour provides a brief window into their story and significance. The contrast between the peaceful Lover’s Beach and the more rugged Divorce Beach is striking.
Guide Experience: The bilingual captain, who is clearly passionate about the region, offers insights in both Spanish and English. We appreciated how approachable and knowledgeable he was, sharing local lore and history that added depth to our sightseeing.
What to Bring: To make the most of your experience, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera. The sunlight can be intense, and the scenery is worthy of plenty of photos.
Comfort & Safety: Life jackets are provided, and the boat is well-maintained. The short trip keeps motion sickness at bay, making it suitable for most travelers.
Additional Fees & Considerations: Remember there is a $2 USD dock fee payable per person, which is quite standard for these types of tours. It’s a minor extra that adds to the overall transparency of the pricing.
The Experience in Action

One of the reviews beautifully captured the tour’s charm: “We loved the way the boat got us so close to The Arch, and seeing the Sea Lions was unforgettable. It’s a quick trip but totally worth it for the views.” Another noted, “The guide was friendly and spoke both languages fluently. It felt like a private tour with just a small group,” which underscores the intimate nature of the experience.
The focus on quality over quantity means that you’ll get a genuine glimpse of Cabo’s coast, perfect for souvenir photos or just soaking in the scenery. The guide’s insights about the various landmarks were appreciated, especially for first-time visitors who might not be familiar with all the local lore.
The Itinerary Breakdown
While the tour is concise, it covers key landmarks that define Los Cabos’ landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyDeparture Point & Timing
You’ll meet your captain at the designated dock, with departures every hour from morning until late afternoon. This flexibility helps you plan around other activities.
The Route
Once onboard, the boat heads out into the bay, passing The Arch first — the star of the show. From here, the boat circles around, providing a panoramic view of Pelican Rock and Neptune’s Finger. The guide highlights the Sea Lion colony, often spotted lounging or barking, which adds a lively element.
Landmark Highlights
- The Arch: A photo opportunity and landmark for boaters.
- Sea Lions: Up-close encounters with these charismatic creatures.
- Pelican Rock & Neptune’s Finger: Geological marvels worth noting.
- Lover’s Beach & Divorce Beach: Stunning beaches with contrasting personalities, visible from the water.
Return & Wrap-up
The boat returns to the dock after 45 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to explore more of Cabo or relax at your hotel.
Who Should Sign Up?
This Water Taxi Tour is ideal for travelers looking for a cost-effective, quick, and authentic way to see Los Cabos’ coastline. Perfect if you want a light, scenic activity that doesn’t demand a lot of time but offers a memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a relaxing ride with plenty of photo ops. If you’re after a detailed tour or snorkeling, you might find this to be a brief snapshot — but for most, it’s a delightful introduction to Cabo’s natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
This Water Taxi Tour combines value and authenticity in a way that makes it hard to beat. For just around $20, you get a short but scenic journey with a knowledgeable guide, offering a fresh perspective of The Arch, Sea Lions, and Cabo’s iconic beaches**. The small-group size keeps things personal, and the flexible schedule makes it easy to fit into any day.
While it’s not the most comprehensive experience, its charm lies in the simple pleasure of gliding along the coast, soaking in the sights, and capturing memories. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic, and affordable way to experience the highlights of Los Cabos.
FAQ

How long is the Water Taxi Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick but rewarding glimpse of the coast.
What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see The Arch, the Sea Lion colony, Pelican Rock, Neptune’s Finger, as well as Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach.
Is there an age limit or suitability?
The tour is suitable for most people, especially since it’s a short ride with no mention of restrictions. Life jackets are provided for safety.
How much does the tour cost?
It is priced at $20 per person, plus a $2 USD dock fee payable at the site.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. Pack light, and wear comfortable clothing for a water-based outing.
Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the captain provides commentary in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most visitors.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made with flexible payment options.
This Water Taxi Tour offers an engaging, budget-friendly way to tick off some of Cabo’s most iconic sights. It’s all about enjoying the scenery without fuss — perfect for a quick introduction or a leisurely break during your trip.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Cabo San Lucas
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