Cabo San Lucas: Kayak to Arch, Lovers Beach & Snorkel Tour

Summary

Kayak sunrise to Cabo’s Arch, walk Lovers Beach, snorkel Pelican Rock reef

You’ll paddle out from Empacadora beach as dawn breaks, glide under Cabo’s famous Arch with sea lions nearby, then land on Lovers Beach for snacks before snorkeling at Pelican Rock reef with your local guide—small group vibes, salty air, sandy feet guaranteed.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever try paddling before sunrise?” That’s how our guide Luis greeted us at Empacadora beach — grinning, already barefoot in the sand. I was still rubbing sleep from my eyes when we slid the Hobie kayaks into the water. The air was cool and salty, but not cold. There was this hush except for pelicans flapping past and someone’s laugh echoing off the rocks. I didn’t expect the Arch of Cabo San Lucas to look so different in that early light — kind of ghostly, actually. Luis pointed out sea lions sprawled on the rocks like they owned the place (which, honestly, they do). He told us about storms that have changed the coastline over years. I tried to get a photo but mostly just stared.

Paddling back felt easier, maybe because I’d finally figured out my rhythm or maybe because we were headed for Lovers Beach and a snack break. The sand there is soft but gritty — sticks to everything. We wandered over to Divorce Beach (the names made me laugh), where you can feel the Pacific wind hit your face hard and watch waves crash so loud you almost have to shout. Luis handed out granola bars and bottled water; he showed us little shells shaped like tiny fans. Some local vendors were setting up nearby but it wasn’t crowded yet — just us and a few early birds.

After that, we paddled over to Pelican Rock for snorkeling. I’m not much of a swimmer but they gave us gear and checked everyone was okay before we jumped in. The water tasted salty-sweet (I always forget how strong it is here) and you could see schools of yellow fish darting below if you looked close enough. Luis dove down and waved at something — turned out it was a pufferfish hiding near some coral. My mask kept fogging up but honestly I didn’t mind; floating there with sunlight flickering through the water felt weirdly peaceful. We drifted back slowly after that, arms tired but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak to Arch, Beach, and Snorkel

• Start at Empacadora beach
• Kayak to Arch of Cabo San Lucas
• Observe sea lion colony and take photos
• Return and stop at Lovers Beach
• Take water and snack break
• Walk to view Pacific Ocean and Divorce Beach
• Kayak to Pelican Rock
• Snorkel at Pelican Rock reef
• Return to Empacadora beach

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Cabo kayak tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; the tour begins at Empacadora beach.

How long does it take to kayak from Empacadora beach to the Arch?

The paddle from Empacadora beach to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas takes around 30-40 minutes depending on conditions.

Are snorkeling gear and snacks provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment and granola bars are included along with bottled water.

Is this kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels; guides provide safety equipment and instruction.

What is the maximum weight limit per kayak?

The tandem kayak holds up to 193kg/425lbs total for two people.

Can children join this Cabo San Lucas kayak tour?

The tour is suitable for most ages but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

Will there be photos taken during the tour?

Yes, pictures in front of the Arch of Cabo San Lucas are included.

Where does this day trip start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Empacadora beach in Cabo San Lucas.

What’s included

Your day includes use of stable Hobie kayaks with all safety gear provided by your guide, bottled water and granola bar snacks along the way, snorkeling equipment at Pelican Rock reef, plus photos taken in front of Cabo’s iconic Arch before returning to Empacadora beach by air-conditioned vehicle if needed.