Snorkeling in Los Cabos: What to Know

Most snorkeling tours in Los Cabos follow the same basic formula: a boat leaves from the marina in Cabo San Lucas, stops at the Arch for photos, then heads to one or two bays on the Sea of Cortez side. Expect 30-45 minutes actually in the water at spots like Chileno Bay or Santa Maria, where you’ll see colorful tropical fish, small rays, and occasional sea lions. The water is usually clear but can get crowded with multiple boats at the same sites. Tours last 3-4 hours total including travel time. It’s a solid half-day activity if you want easy access to snorkeling without arranging anything yourself.

The best time is May through October when the water is warmest (75-85°F) and visibility is generally better. December to April brings cooler water (around 65-72°F) and more wind, which can make the boat ride choppy and reduce visibility. Expect to pay around $60-110 per person depending on boat size, whether gear and lunch are included, and if it’s a smaller group or a packed catamaran. Private tours or ones with fewer people cost more.

Pick a tour that visits Chileno or Santa Maria and limits the number of snorkelers; skip anything that also tries to cram in too many activities like banana boats or long beach stops. Bring your own snorkel mask if you have one that fits well—rental gear is often well-used. If you get seasick easily, take something beforehand because the Pacific-to-Cortez transition can get bumpy.