Snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas: Arch, caves and Pelican Beach

Boat ride to four landmarks, then snorkel a protected reef with sea lions nearby

Snorkeling activity in Cabo San Lucas that starts with a water taxi from the marina to the Arch and other rock formations at land's end, then moves to Pelican Beach for a guided snorkel in a protected marine area. The guide assists with equipment and narrates the geology and history of the sites. Children from age 6 are welcome; the outing runs about two hours total.

The Experience

You board the water taxi at Cabo San Lucas marina and head straight to the Arch—the iconic rock formation where the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez meet. The boat stops at the sea lion colony and other formations nearby, giving you time to photograph and grab a drink before moving on. A pirate cave and lover's beach are part of the route, each one a quick stop to see the landscape and hear the guide explain what you're looking at.

The snorkeling happens at Pelican Beach, a protected marine area where the guide gets you into your gear and shows you where to look. Starfish, angelfish, moorish idol and schools of stingrays are common; if conditions align, you might swim near sea lions. The guide stays in the water with you for about 30 to 40 minutes, pointing out what moves through the reef. The boat returns to the same marina where you started.

Your guide is a local who speaks English or Spanish and knows the history of each stop—the geology of the Arch, the stories tied to the caves, what lives in the water you're about to enter. Life jackets, snorkel gear and bottled water are provided; soda is also on board. Infants sit on an adult's lap during the boat ride.

What’s included

• Snorkel gear, life jacket, bottled water and soda.
• a guide who speaks English or Spanish and knows the local history.
• boat access to the Arch, sea lion colony, pirate cave and lover's beach before the snorkel at Pelican Beach.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Baja Snorkel

Is this one for you?Book this if you want both sightseeing and snorkeling in one afternoon—the boat stops at the Arch and rock formations first, then takes you to a protected marine area where your guide helps with equipment.

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Top questions

What will I actually see when I snorkel at Pelican Beach?

Pelican Beach is a protected marine area where starfish, angelfish, moorish idol and schools of stingrays are regularly spotted. Sea lions sometimes appear in the same water, and the guide points out where to look and what to expect as you swim.

Is this snorkeling trip good for someone who has never snorkeled before?

Yes. The guide helps you with your equipment and stays in the water with you during the snorkel, showing you how to move and what to watch for. Children from age 6 can join, and the guide adjusts the pace to the group.

How long does the whole thing take from the marina?

The outing runs about two hours total—that includes the boat ride to the Arch and other stops, time at each location for photos and drinks, and the snorkel at Pelican Beach.

What's included in the price?

Snorkel gear, life jacket, bottled water and soda are included. The guide is also part of the package and speaks English or Spanish throughout the trip.

Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel here?

Comfort in the water is important. The activity is suitable for all fitness levels, but it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. The guide can advise on your readiness when you arrive.

Where do we start and end?

You board the water taxi at Cabo San Lucas marina in the morning and return to the same spot when the trip is done—no separate drop-off or pickup elsewhere.