Los Cabos: Arch Boat Tour & Snorkeling at Pelican Beach

Summary

Boat ride to the Arch, sea lions & snorkeling Pelican Beach

You’ll ride a small boat from Cabo San Lucas marina out to the famous Arch, snap photos with sea lions nearby, then snorkel at Pelican Beach with help from your local guide. Expect cold drinks on deck, colorful fish below the surface, and plenty of time to relax after swimming—plus those little moments you’ll remember long after you towel off.

What’s the experience like?

We hopped onto the little water taxi right from Cabo San Lucas marina, sun already bouncing off the water. Our guide—Miguel, born and raised here—grinned as he handed out life jackets and pointed out the pelicans fighting over scraps near the dock. I barely had time to settle in before we were skimming past Lover’s Beach and these wild rock formations that honestly look like something from a movie. The Arch itself is bigger than I expected, with sea lions barking so loud you almost have to laugh. Miguel tossed us a couple of cold beers (included, which felt pretty great in that heat) while everyone took turns snapping photos. He told us about pirates hiding out here ages ago; I’m not sure if he was joking or not but it made me look twice at those caves.

The boat slowed down by Pelican Beach, which is where we got our snorkeling gear sorted—Miguel double-checked everyone’s mask straps and gave me some tips since I always seem to fog mine up. The water was cooler than I thought but super clear, and right away there were these flashes of yellow angelfish and starfish clinging to rocks below. Someone shouted about a stingray gliding under us—honestly kind of magical, even if my fins kept bumping into someone else’s (sorry to whoever that was). Didn’t expect how salty everything tasted or how quiet it got underwater except for my own breathing. There was this moment where a sea lion zipped by just far enough away that it felt like a secret between us—I still think about that.

Afterwards we just floated around for a bit, drying off on the warm rocks while Miguel passed around bottled water. Nobody seemed in any rush to leave; you could smell sunscreen and salt in the air, hear people laughing about their first attempts at snorkeling. We headed back toward the marina with hair tangled from salt and wind—Miguel waved at another boat full of locals fishing for dinner. It all felt easy and kind of real, not forced or fancy. If you’re looking for something polished or super private, maybe this isn’t it—but honestly? That’s what made it good.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Arch and snorkeling

• Meet at Cabo San Lucas marina
• Take boat to the Arch and rock formations
• Stop for photos and drinks
• Continue to Pelican Beach snorkeling spot
• Snorkel with guide assistance
• Observe marine life and sea lions
• Return to marina

Top questions

How long does the Los Cabos arch tour last?

The tour lasts about 30 to 40 minutes at the snorkeling spot plus boat time between locations.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for all participants.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at Cabo San Lucas marina where you board the boat.

Can beginners join this Los Cabos snorkeling tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and your guide helps with equipment.

Are drinks included during the boat ride?

Bottled water and beers are included on board.

Will we see sea lions during this arch tour?

You’ll visit a sea lion colony near the Arch—sightings are very likely.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; meet directly at Cabo San Lucas marina.

What marine life might I see while snorkeling?

You might spot starfish, angelfish, moorish idol fish, seals, or even schools of stingrays.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water and beers on board, use of life jackets and full snorkeling equipment at Pelican Beach—with your local guide helping every step—and ends back at Cabo San Lucas marina after plenty of time in the water.