San Juan: Turtle Snorkel Tour & Underwater Videos Included

Summary

Swim with sea turtles in San Juan’s clear waters with video keepsakes

You’ll slip into San Juan’s warm waters with a local guide, spot sea turtles in their natural habitat, and get underwater videos to relive those moments back home. All equipment is provided — just bring curiosity (and maybe your own favorite mask if you’re picky). The quiet underwater world stays with you long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was a little nervous about snorkeling in San Juan. Something about the idea of breathing through a tube while floating above who-knows-what made me hesitate. But our guide, Carla, had this calm way of explaining everything during the safety briefing that settled my nerves (she joked that even her abuela could do it, which helped). The sun was already warming up the sand when we got our gear fitted — nothing fancy, but it felt clean and snug. I could smell sunscreen and salt air, and I remember thinking how bright everything looked against the blue water.

Once we slipped into the marine sanctuary, it was quieter than I expected. You just hear your own breath and the muffled sound of other swimmers. Then Carla pointed — there, almost hidden by waving seagrass, was a sea turtle just drifting along. It moved so slowly it almost looked fake. I tried not to flail around (easier said than done) and just watched as it nibbled at something on a rock. There were flashes of yellow fish everywhere too. At one point my mask fogged up and I panicked for a second — Carla noticed right away and helped me clear it without making me feel dumb.

The best part? They filmed us underwater, so later we got these little video clips of ourselves floating next to turtles. My hair looks wild in them but honestly, who cares? Afterward we sat on the shore with bottled water, just talking about what we’d seen. Carla told us how the sanctuary works to protect these animals — she seemed genuinely proud of her city’s efforts. I still think about that turtle gliding past me; it felt like a secret moment you couldn’t plan for if you tried.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and turtle spotting adventure

• Attend safety briefing
• Get fitted with snorkeling gear
• Snorkel in San Juan Marine Sanctuary
• Swim with sea turtles and tropical fish
• Listen to guide's marine life insights
• Receive videos of your adventure

Top questions

Do I need snorkeling experience for this San Juan turtle tour?

No experience needed; guides help beginners and provide all instructions.

Are sea turtles guaranteed on every snorkel trip?

Sightings aren’t guaranteed but are common in the marine sanctuary area.

Is snorkeling equipment included in the tour?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is provided for participants.

How long does the San Juan turtle snorkel adventure last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect a half-day outing including briefing and water time.

Are underwater videos included with this tour?

Yes, you’ll receive videos of your snorkeling adventure afterward.

Is bottled water provided during the trip?

Bottled water is included for all guests on this tour.

Can children or infants join this snorkeling tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; suitable for most fitness levels.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

It’s not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment fitted by your guide, bottled water to keep you refreshed after swimming, and digital underwater videos from your adventure so you can share or replay those sea turtle moments anytime you want.