Los Cabos: Snorkel and Marine Life

Traveling to Los Cabos offers endless possibilities — from iconic landmarks to sun-soaked beaches. But for those curious about the underwater world, a snorkeling adventure exploring two vibrant marine sites can be a highlight. This tour, provided by Fortuna Los Cabos, promises a 2-hour voyage filled with colorful fish, dramatic rock formations, and the chance to see pelicans perched on majestic rocks.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authentic marine encounters and the personalized nature of the private tour option. Plus, the clear waters around El Balconcito and Piedra Pelícanos are renowned for their visual appeal. A potential downside? The overall rating of 3.7 suggests some travelers might find the experience less polished or too brief for their liking. Still, for those seeking a balanced blend of scenery and marine life, this tour fits the bill.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate educational guides, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a cost-effective introduction to Los Cabos’ underwater treasures. If snorkeling with knowledgeable guides in a relaxed setting sounds appealing, keep reading for an in-depth look.

Key Points

• Two stunning marine sites: El Balconcito and Piedra Pelícanos, both offering unique underwater landscapes.
• Vibrant marine life and rock formations: Expect colorful fish, corals, and dramatic coastal scenery.
• Private tour option: For a more personalized and flexible experience.
• Educational bilingual guides: Ensuring safety and learning for all participants.
• Affordable price: At just $44 per person, offering great value for a two-hour marine adventure.
• Comfortable, well-equipped snorkeling gear: Masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This snorkel tour is designed to maximize your underwater encounters while offering scenic views from the surface. Starting at La Terminal de Cabo, the trip begins with a short water taxi ride along the striking coastline. The boat glides past iconic sights such as Lovers Beach, the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, and the rock formations that define the area’s rugged beauty.

The boat ride itself is part of the charm, offering a chance to appreciate the dramatic cliffs and jagged rocks that have made Los Cabos famous. The tour lasts about two hours, with the majority of that time spent snorkeling at two carefully chosen sites: El Balconcito and Piedra Pelícanos.

The Marine Sites: What Makes Them Special

El Balconcito

After a quick 20-minute sail, you’ll arrive at El Balconcito, a small bay known for its calm, crystal-clear waters that make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. We loved the way the guides emphasize safety and education here — pointing out tropical fish swimming among corals and sea urchins lurking in the rocks.

Travelers frequently comment on how vibrant the underwater scenery is, with some noting the “full of vibrant colors” marine life. The shallow waters allow for easy swimming, making it suitable for snorkelers of all experience levels. The calmness of this site offers a relatively relaxed environment to observe marine creatures without the intimidation of stronger currents.

Piedra Pelícanos

Next, the boat heads to Piedra Pelícanos, famed for its majestic rock formation and greater marine diversity. The waters here are a bit deeper, providing views of schools of fish and coral reefs that seem to stretch in all directions. Pelicans and seabirds perched on the rocks add a touch of Baja’s natural wildlife spectacle.

Several reviews mention that the spectacular rock formations are as captivating above water as the marine life below. This site feels a bit more wild and unspoiled, perfect for those who want a more dramatic backdrop to their snorkeling.

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The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at La Terminal de Cabo, where you check in and meet your bilingual guides. From there, a water taxi whisks you along the coast in about 10 minutes, providing you with sweeping views of Los Cabos’ rugged shoreline.

The stops include quick photo and sightseeing moments at Balconcito Beach, Pelican Rock, Lovers Beach, and the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. These are excellent opportunities for capturing the scenery and getting a sense of the area’s iconic spots.

The main activity, snorkeling at Pelican Rock, lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving ample time to explore underwater. The boat then returns to the terminal after about two hours total, making it a perfect morning or afternoon activity.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $44, you get full snorkeling equipment — masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets — plus the guidance of a professional bilingual guide. The guides are committed to ensuring safety and education, which is essential for beginners or those new to snorkeling.

You’ll need to bring a towel, some snacks, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and your beachwear. Feel free to bring your own snacks or drinks if you prefer, as none are provided. Travelers have noted that the waters are so clear and the marine life so colorful that you’ll want to have your camera ready (although professional photography isn’t included).

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

The most frequently praised aspect of this tour is the stunning scenery — both above and below water. Many reviews highlight the “spectacular rock formations” and the “abundance of marine life.” One traveler mentioned the guides’ attentiveness, stating, “They pointed out the most interesting species and made sure everyone was safe.”

Some reviews note the tour’s short duration — about two hours — as both a plus and minus. For those with limited time, it’s a great quick escape; however, avid snorkelers might wish for a longer experience. The rating of 3.7 indicates some mixed feelings, perhaps about the overall organization or the brief nature, but most agree it offers excellent value for the price.

Why Choose This Tour?

This snorkel adventure is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, or travelers on a budget. The private tour option means you can tailor the experience slightly, enjoy more personalized attention, and avoid crowded group tours.

It’s also a solid choice for those wanting to combine scenic boat views with underwater exploration — a gentle way to get acquainted with Los Cabos’ marine environment without diving deep into complex equipment or long trips.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic coastline and underwater beauty at a very reasonable price point. The focus on bilingual guides and safe snorkeling gear makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, including families and beginners.

While the experience might be a bit brisk for those seeking extensive snorkeling or marine adventure, it makes up for that with stunning views and genuine encounters with Baja’s marine life. For travelers who cherish an authentic, relaxed vibe and a chance to see Los Cabos from a different perspective, this tour delivers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, scenic, and educational snorkel experience, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and some biodegradable sunscreen for an eco-friendly experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the snorkeling activity?
The snorkeling at Pelican Rock lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time to see marine life and explore underwater.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the calm waters at El Balconcito make it accessible for all skill levels, and the guides’ emphasis on safety and education helps beginners feel comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, snacks, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear. You can also bring your own food and beverages if you prefer.

Are the snorkeling equipment and guides included?
Yes, full snorkeling gear and professional bilingual guides are included in the price.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available, offering a more personalized experience.

What about the boat ride?
The boat ride along the coast provides scenic views of Los Cabos’ famous landmarks, enhancing the overall experience.

Is there any professional photography included?
No, this tour does not include professional photography, so bring your own camera or smartphone.

To sum it up, this Los Cabos snorkeling tour is a delightful way to combine scenic coastal views with vibrant marine encounters. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a cost-effective, scenic, and educational experience that highlights the natural beauty of Baja California Sur. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or simply want a quick, memorable adventure, this tour offers a glimpse into the underwater world that makes Los Cabos so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: