Catalina Islands: Snorkeling Tour & North Island Boat Trip

Summary

Snorkel with rays and colorful fish at Catalina Islands by boat

You’ll start your day early in Playa Flamingo with a local guide, then head by boat to two snorkeling sites around Catalina Islands. Expect close-up views of rays, angelfish, starfish and schools of fish as you drift over volcanic rock formations. Fresh fruit and cookies on deck give everyone time to swap stories before heading back salty and sun-warmed.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat to feel so alive that early — pelicans flapping around the pier, our guide Marco joking about how he always forgets his sunglasses. We met at the dive shop in Playa Flamingo just after sunrise, filled out a few forms (I always mess up my birthdate for some reason), then tried on fins that felt way too big until Marco showed me how to tighten them. The Pacific air was salty and warm, but not heavy yet — you know that feeling before it gets properly hot?

The ride out to Catalina Islands took maybe half an hour, but I lost track. There was this mix of nervous chatter and quiet — someone’s phone played salsa for a bit, then we just listened to the water slap against the hull. When we anchored near North Island, Marco pointed out where we’d likely see rays. He said something about “bailarines del mar” (sea dancers), which made me laugh because I pictured stingrays in tutus. I slid into the water and it was colder than I thought; my mask fogged up instantly but cleared when I dunked my face under. It smelled like seaweed and sunscreen.

We snorkeled two different spots around Catalina Islands — both times drifting over these rocky ledges covered in starfish and those spiky purple urchins. At one point, a whole school of tiny silver fish darted past my hand so close I could feel the ripple. Someone shouted they’d seen a white-tipped reef shark below (I missed it, honestly kind of relieved). Afterward, back on the boat, Marco passed around pineapple slices and cookies while everyone compared what they’d seen. There was this easy feeling between us all — maybe from being salty and tired together or just happy not to be checking emails.

I still think about floating there, just watching sunlight flicker through green water while everything slowed down for a second. If you’re looking for a day trip from Tamarindo or Playa Flamingo that isn’t just another beach afternoon, this snorkeling tour is worth it — especially if you like sharing fruit with strangers who don’t care what your hair looks like after saltwater.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling at Catalina Islands

• Meet at dive shop at 7:30 am
• Fill out paperwork and test equipment
• Go out to boat
• Snorkel at first Catalina Island location
• Snorkel at second Catalina Island location
• Explore rock formations and marine life

Top questions

How long is the Catalina Islands snorkeling tour?

The tour starts at 7:30 am and includes two 40-minute snorkeling dives plus boat travel time.

Is hotel pickup included in the snorkeling tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from selected areas.

Are snacks provided during the Catalina Islands snorkeling trip?

Yes, water, iced tea, seasonal fruits and cookies are served onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

All necessary snorkeling equipment is included in the tour price.

Can beginners join this Catalina Islands snorkeling day trip?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; beginners are welcome.

Is the Catalina Islands snorkeling tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What marine life can you see while snorkeling at Catalina Islands?

You may see sharks, rays, angelfish, balloon fish varieties, starfish and sea urchins.

Are service animals allowed on this snorkeling excursion?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from selected areas around Playa Flamingo or Tamarindo, all use of snorkeling equipment (so no need to pack your own), guidance from a friendly local crew who’ll help with gear or nerves if needed, plus snacks like fresh fruit, cookies and cold drinks between dives before returning you safely back to shore.