Snorkeling or Swimming with Sharks in Cabo San Lucas

When you think of Cabo San Lucas, images of sun-drenched beaches, iconic rock formations, and vibrant marine life probably come to mind. But for those seeking an adventure that’s truly out of the ordinary, the opportunity to swim or snorkel with sharks in the Sea of Cortez offers a rare thrill. For $215 per person, you get a roughly 4-hour excursion with expert guides, a boat ride to prime shark habitat, and plenty of chances to observe these fascinating predators up close—all in a safe, controlled environment.

Two things we love about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guides who are PADI certified and genuinely passionate about sharks and the ocean. Their expertise makes all the difference in feeling confident and secure while in the water. Second, the stunning scenery—you’ll get views of Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and the sea lion colony, making the trip visually memorable even if sharks aren’t quite cooperating on the day of your visit.

A potential drawback? Since sharks are wild animals, sightings aren’t guaranteed every day, so patience and a sense of adventure are key. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on boats, in good physical condition, and eager to learn about marine life—especially those with an interest in sharks or marine ecology.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone who’s always dreamed of a close encounter with sharks, but it’s not a good fit if you’re primarily seeking guaranteed sightings or prefer a more relaxed, leisurely day.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Experience: Swim or snorkel with pelagic sharks in the Sea of Cortez, accompanied by expert guides.
• Educational and Respectful: Guides focus on teaching respect and understanding of sharks and their environment.
• Scenic Views: Includes visits to Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and the sea lion colony, enriching your marine adventure.
• Photo Opportunity: Underwater photos captured by guides help preserve your memories.
• Variable Shark Sightings: Wild animals, so sightings can vary; guides provide honest expectations.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Cabo Shark Dive, just a short boat ride from the marina, about 30 minutes from the shore.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Cabo Shark Dive dock, conveniently located next to Captain Tony’s restaurant, close to Tesoro Resort in Cabo San Lucas. This central location makes it easy to find, and most travelers won’t need to worry about complicated transportation. Once aboard, you’ll have the chance to admire the views of the Lover’s Beach and the Arch as you set out—these iconic sights serve as a stunning backdrop for your marine journey.

The tour lasts about 4 hours, which includes the boat ride, briefing, water time, and return. Since it’s a small group (max 12 travelers), you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

The Boat Ride and Scenic Stops

The 30-minute boat ride to the shark sites is a highlight in itself. You’ll get a chance to take in the breathtaking scenery of the coast and maybe spot some whale breaching during season. Guides provide an informative briefing on sharks, marine ecology, and safety procedures—crucial for anyone nervous about the water.

During the way out, guides often point out seabird colonies and other marine life, making this part of the trip educational and beautiful. The boat is equipped with snorkel gear, life jackets, and refreshments, ensuring comfort during the voyage.

Shark Encounters and Marine Life

Once at the site, the guides will help you suit up with masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets. The goal is to have a respectful and safe interaction with the pelagic sharks, like blue, silky, mako, and smooth hammerheads. The guides’ professionalism is evident—they’re trained instructors with years of experience, dedicated to both ensuring safety and fostering a fascination for sharks.

Authentic and close-up encounters are the biggest draw. Many reviewers, such as Natalie and Caroline, describe their experiences as “the trip of a lifetime,” emphasizing how safe and well-guided they felt. You might see sharks swimming just a few feet away, and guides often take underwater photos for you, so you can relive the experience.

Variability in Shark Sightings

It’s important to note that shark sightings depend on conditions—sharks are wild animals that move with the currents, feed, and rest unpredictably. Some days, you might see multiple sharks and even get in the water; other days, sightings could be sparse. Several reviewers, like Anita and Camille, mention their disappointment when no sharks appeared or only a few were seen.

The guides are upfront about this, and they do their best to optimize your chances. Sometimes, if sharks are not present, the crew offers alternative activities like snorkeling with other marine life or simply enjoying the scenery. This honesty about unpredictability helps set realistic expectations.

In-Water Experience and Safety

Once in the water, the guides are attentive, offering safety instructions and support. Many guests comment on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are—making nervous travelers feel more at ease. The underwater photos they share are a lovely bonus, capturing moments with sharks, whales, or sea lions.

Several reviews highlight the calm and professional demeanor of the crew, which is reassuring when swimming with large predators. The overall atmosphere is one of education, respect, and awe—sharks aren’t portrayed as monsters but as fascinating animals deserving admiration.

Additional Highlights

• Visit to the Sea Lion Colony: After shark interactions, the boat often visits the nearby sea lion colony, providing more chances for wildlife viewing.
• Whale Watching (Seasonal): During whale season, you may also see breaching whales, adding another layer of excitement.
• Refreshments & Photos: Snacks, bottled water, and underwater photography make the trip both nourishing and memorable.

The Value of the Tour

While $215 per person might seem a bit steep, consider what you’re getting: expert guides, a scenic boat ride, marine wildlife encounters, and stunning photographs—all in just four hours. This isn’t a typical snorkeling trip; it’s an adventure that combines education, wildlife, and scenery, making it well worth the price for those interested in marine life and unique experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for adventurous travelers who are open to the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and enjoy being on the water. Kids aged 12 and up, in good physical shape, comfortable with swimming, and with a genuine interest in marine animals will find it rewarding. If you’re comfortable with boats and eager to understand sharks beyond Hollywood stereotypes, you’ll appreciate the guides’ insights and dedication.

Who Might Want to Think Twice?

If your main goal is to see sharks guaranteed or dislike being on a boat for extended periods, this might not be ideal. Some reviews mention long waits or no sharks on certain days, which can be disappointing. But even then, many guests still enjoy the scenic ride and the chance to see other marine life.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and scenery. The guides’ professionalism and knowledge shine through, making even nervous travelers feel safe. The opportunity to swim or snorkel with sharks—even with the inherent unpredictability—feels like a genuine encounter with nature, not a staged attraction.

If you’re a wildlife lover or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, this experience delivers a memorable day on the water. The scenic views, combined with the thrill of sharing the ocean with these misunderstood creatures, make it a standout activity in Cabo San Lucas.

Ultimately, this tour suits those who value authentic marine encounters and are willing to embrace the adventure, surprises included. With honest expectations and an open mind, you’ll likely leave with stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s incredible life forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, participants must be at least 12 years old to join this tour.

Do I need to have a certification to snorkel or free dive?
No certification is required. Basic swimming skills are enough, and the guides are experienced in supporting all levels.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, and avoid shiny jewelry, white, yellow, or red clothing to prevent attracting sharks or causing distraction. The tour provides snorkel gear, so just bring your enthusiasm.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off is not included. The meeting point is at Cabo Shark Dive, near the marina.

What if I don’t see sharks?
Sightings depend on ocean conditions, and the trip’s success can vary. Guides are upfront about this and have contingency plans, such as exploring other marine life or scenery.

How long do the sharks stay around?
The time in the water depends on how long the sharks linger, which is unpredictable. Guides do their best to maximize your viewing and interaction opportunity.

Are refreshments provided?
Yes, bottled water and snacks are included to keep you hydrated and energized.

Can I participate if I’m prone to seasickness?
Yes, but it’s recommended to take motion sickness medication like Dramamine in advance since the boat can be rough, especially in windy conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather-related cancellations are also fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Embarking on this adventure is about embracing the unpredictability of the ocean and respecting its wild inhabitants. Whether you see sharks or simply enjoy the scenic trip, it’s sure to be a memorable experience that keeps your love for marine life alive long after you return home.