San Juan: Snorkeling with Turtles & Free Underwater Videos

Summary

Swim beside turtles in san juan’s bay with expert guide and free video

You’ll slip into San Juan’s bay with a small group and an easygoing guide who knows every fish by name. Swim alongside green sea turtles, spot colorful reef life up close, and get a free underwater video as proof you really did it. The memory lingers long after your skin dries off.

What’s the experience like?

We were still laughing about my attempt at “tortuga” when we slid our fins on at the edge of San Juan’s bay — not a boat in sight, just the shore and that salty morning air. Our guide, Carla, handed out masks and double-checked everyone’s straps (“No leaks? Good!”). She had this way of making you feel like you’d known her for ages, even if you were just meeting her over sunscreen and nervous jokes. The water was cooler than I expected, but honestly, it woke me up better than coffee ever could.

I didn’t realize how much life buzzes under the surface here until Carla pointed out a blue tang darting past my elbow — she called it “Dory,” which got a laugh from the kids in our group. We drifted quietly for a while, watching yellow snappers flicker around rocks and then suddenly there it was: a green sea turtle gliding right below us. Its shell looked almost painted in the sunlight. I swear I forgot to breathe for a second (don’t worry, snorkel still worked). You could hear little gasps through everyone’s tubes — that weird chorus only happens when people are genuinely surprised together.

Carla kept us close and told stories about the turtles’ migration patterns while we floated. She pointed out fairy basslets hiding near coral and even spotted a tiny seahorse (I needed her eyes for that one). Sometimes I’d get distracted just watching bubbles rise or feeling the sand shift under my toes when we stopped to stand up. The whole thing felt unhurried — nobody rushing us back to shore or yelling instructions over waves. And yeah, I probably looked ridiculous trying to wave at a manatee that never showed up (maybe next time).

Afterward, Carla said she’d send us videos she took underwater — I’m not usually one for photos but seeing myself floating above that turtle made me grin days later. It’s funny how something so simple can stick with you. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to share space with sea turtles in San Juan — well, it’s quieter and more honest than I thought it would be.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling with turtles in San Juan

• Meet guide at shore
• Join small snorkeling group
• Explore vibrant marine life
• Observe green sea turtles
• Learn about endangered species
• Receive complimentary video

Top questions

Is snorkeling with turtles in San Juan suitable for beginners?

Yes, this snorkeling adventure is beginner-friendly and includes guidance from a certified instructor.

How many people are in each snorkeling group?

Groups are kept small with no more than 10 participants per guide for personal attention.

Are children allowed on this San Juan snorkeling tour?

This activity is suitable for ages 8 years and above.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, but public transportation options are available nearby the meeting point.

What marine life might I see besides turtles?

You may spot blue tangs, sergeant majors, fairy basslets, yellow snappers, squids, seahorses, rays, and sometimes manatees.

Is this snorkeling tour boat-based?

No boats are used; the adventure starts directly from the shore.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?

No, all necessary snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Are free videos included with the tour?

Yes, complimentary underwater videos are included so you can remember your experience.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health or those who suffer from panic attacks or anxiety.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkel equipment (mask, fins), guidance from a certified instructor who keeps groups small for safety and comfort, USCG approved life jacket if needed, plus complimentary underwater videos sent after your swim — so you don’t have to worry about missing anything while you’re busy spotting turtles.