Mazatlan is a fantastic destination for snorkeling, thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and proximity to several interesting islands. Whether you’re eager to see playful sea lions, explore vibrant reefs, or combine bird watching with underwater adventures, Mazatlan has a lot to offer. We’re particularly fond of the Sea Lions and Snorkeling tour, because of its unique combination of wildlife viewing and underwater exploration — plus, a boat ride that’s just the right length for a quick getaway.
If you want a more private experience, the Private All Inclusive Snorkeling Experience in Mazatlan offers a tailored day on the water with access to islands filled with birds and marine life. For a mix of island hopping, snorkeling, and bird watching, the Mazatlan 3 Islands Snorkeling and Bird Watching Tour provides a comprehensive experience, complete with dolphin sightings. And if you’re looking for a more in-depth, guided exploration with a focus on sea lions and local landmarks, the Private tour with sea lions and snorkeling is an excellent choice.
Below, we explore each of these options in detail, helping you choose the best fit for your Mazatlan adventure.
1. Mazatlan: Sea lions and snorkeling
At number 1 on our list, the Sea Lions and Snorkeling tour is a standout for wildlife lovers. This 3-hour adventure combines a boat ride with the chance to see sea lions up close and enjoy snorkeling on nearby islands. The tour is highly rated, earning a perfect 5/5 from one reviewer, and is priced at $408 per person.
The trip starts with a boat ride along the coast of Sinaloa, taking you to where the sea lions congregate at the lighthouse near Deer Island. The highlight is watching these playful mammals basking on rocks or swimming nearby. Afterward, the boat heads to snorkeling islands that are known for their clear waters and lively schools of fish. The small-group nature of the tour makes it intimate and ideal for photography and wildlife observation.
What makes this tour unique is the focus on wildlife encounters combined with accessible snorkeling sites. Since it’s a shorter, 3-hour trip, it works well if you’re short on time but still want a quality experience. The boat ride adds a relaxing element, and the guides are knowledgeable about the local marine life.
Bottom Line: If you’re keen on seeing sea lions in their natural habitat and enjoy straightforward snorkeling combined with a scenic boat ride, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.
$408 per person
2. Private All Inclusive Snorkeling Experience in Mazatlan
For a personalized experience, the Private All Inclusive Snorkeling Experience in Mazatlan provides a flexible, private day on the water. Priced at $345.00 per group (up to 4), this 4-hour tour is specially designed for those who prefer exclusivity. Though it has a slightly lower rating of 3/5 from five reviews, the tour offers a lot of value for groups seeking a tailored trip.
The tour takes you to Mazatlán’s islands, where you can observe various bird species and marine life in calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling. The itinerary includes a short boat ride on a small ponga to Deer Island, known for its clear beaches and gentle waves — ideal for water activities. The package includes snorkel gear, kayaks, shade, chairs, and soft drinks or beer, making it a hassle-free day.
Guests have praised the friendly staff and the opportunity to hold starfish, see stingrays, and snorkel in pristine conditions. It’s especially suited for families or small groups wanting a private, all-inclusive day with no crowds. The main drawback: the slightly lower rating indicates mixed experiences, but reviews highlight the attentive service.
Bottom Line: If privacy and convenience matter most, and you want to customize your day with options like kayaking or just relaxing on the beach, this tour fits the bill nicely.
$345.00 per group (up to 4)
3. Mazatlan 3 Islands Snorkeling and Bird Watching Tour
The Mazatlan 3 Islands Snorkeling and Bird Watching Tour offers a well-rounded adventure for about $408 per group (up to 6 people). This 3-hour tour combines snorkeling at three different islands with a bird watching component, making it perfect for nature lovers.
The tour includes dolphin sightings, which adds an exciting element, especially during the boat ride. Once at the islands, snorkelers will explore vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish, while bird watchers can enjoy spotting seabirds and other species that inhabit the islands. The boat tour also provides scenic views of the coastline and an opportunity to learn about the geography of the region.
While this trip doesn’t have a detailed review score, the combination of marine and birdlife makes it stand out. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time by seeing both underwater and avian worlds in one outing. The inclusion of dolphin-watching and multiple islands offers a sense of adventure beyond typical snorkel trips.
Bottom Line: For those interested in both marine life and bird watching, this tour provides a diverse experience that highlights the natural beauty of Mazatlan’s islands.
$408 per group up to 6
4. Private tour with sea lions and snorkeling
At number 4, the Private tour with sea lions and snorkeling is designed for travelers who want an in-depth, guided exploration. Costing $485 for groups up to 6, this 4-hour trip offers a comprehensive look at Mazatlan’s marine and coastal landmarks.
Your journey begins with a tour along the boardwalk to the Faro Mazatlan lighthouse, where you’ll seek out sea lions lounging on rocks or swimming near the lighthouse — a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, as they explain the significance of the cannon barracks along the coast. Afterward, the tour proceeds to Deer Island, where you will snorkel in calm, clear waters, with gear provided. This island is also a good spot for a short bird watching walk.
This tour excels in its detailed itinerary, balancing wildlife viewing with underwater activity and coastal scenery. While it has no reviews yet, the focused experience on sea lions and snorkeling makes it appealing for travelers seeking a more immersive adventure. The combination of sightseeing, wildlife, and snorkeling makes it suitable for those wanting variety within a half-day.
Bottom Line: If a more comprehensive, private outing with wildlife, island exploration, and snorkeling appeals to you, this tour offers a tailored, engaging experience.
$485.00 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your priorities: Are you after wildlife sightings like sea lions? Do you prefer a private, customizable day? Or perhaps a combination of island visits, bird watching, and snorkeling? For budget-conscious travelers, the Private All Inclusive Snorkeling Experience offers great value with added amenities. If marine life is your main goal, the Sea Lions and Snorkeling is hard to beat for its focus and simplicity.
Timing also matters: the best months for clear waters are during the dry season from November to April. Booking early is wise, especially for private tours, to secure your preferred date.
To sum it up, Mazatlan’s snorkeling options range from wildlife-focused adventures to private island escapes. If you love sea lions and want an authentic wildlife encounter, the first and last tours are your best bets. For a more flexible, private experience with extra amenities, go for the Private All Inclusive Snorkeling. And for those who want a bit of everything—marine life, bird watching, and dolphin sightings—the 3 Islands Tour is hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, book early and get ready to enjoy Mazatlan’s lively waters and abundant wildlife.