Side by Side Sport Adventure

Exploring the waters around Cabo San Lucas often feels like stepping into a postcard, but a tour like the Side by Side Sport Adventure promises more than just pretty pictures. It offers an up-close look at the vibrant marine environment of Espiritu Santo Island, with opportunities to snorkel amid tropical fish and sea lions, topped off with a delicious beachside lunch and stunning views.

This experience is designed for travelers who crave authentic encounters with nature, enjoy a bit of adventure, and appreciate a small-group setting that fosters personal attention. What we love most are the wildlife sightings—particularly the playful sea lions—and the fresh, flavorful meal that comes with a view.

A potential consideration is that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, mainly because you’ll be swimming and snorkeling. Also, it’s a short trip—just around three hours—so if you’re looking for an all-day deep dive into Baja’s marine world, you might want to combine it with other adventures.

This tour suits those who want a relaxed, authentic, and adventure-packed experience that combines wildlife, scenic beauty, and local cuisine, all wrapped into a hassle-free package.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Get close to sea lions at Los Islotes and enjoy snorkeling among tropical fish.
• Beautiful Scenery: Experience stunning views of Espiritu Santo Island’s coast and marine life.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cabo San Lucas, making logistics easy.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 people for a more personalized experience.
• Cost & Value: At $205, the tour offers substantial value considering the wildlife, scenery, and included lunch.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness levels who enjoy active, outdoor adventures.

Getting There and Logistics

The roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas is a major convenience. It means you won’t need to worry about arranging separate transport, allowing you to relax from the moment you wake up. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable trip if you’re on a tight schedule or want a taste of the marine environment without dedicating an entire day.

The Ride Out to Espiritu Santo

The journey out to Espiritu Santo Island is part of the fun. Expect a speedboat ride that delivers a bit of adrenaline early on—perfect for those who enjoy that quick rush. The boat ride not only gets you there quickly but also offers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Gulf of California. Keep your camera ready; the coastline, with its rocky outcroppings and turquoise waters, is stunning.

Los Islotes Sea Lion Colony

Once at Los Islotes, the highlight is undoubtedly the sea lion colony. Visitors consistently mention how well the guides care for the animals and how safe the interactions are. One reviewer noted, “The nado con los leones marinos (swimming with sea lions) is one of the best experiences,” and emphasized that while it might seem a little intimidating initially, the guides ensure safety and respect for the animals. It’s a rare chance to see these playful mammals up close in their natural habitat, with some just lounging on rocks, others swimming energetically.

Snorkeling Along Reefs

After the sea lions, the tour continues with snorkeling along the reefs of Espiritu Santo. The waters are known for their tropical fish, and you might spot colorful species darting through the coral formations. The included security equipment and bottled water help ensure safety and comfort during your time in the water.

The Beachside Lunch

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is the beachside lunch. Travelers rave about the delicious fresh fish and the laid-back setting. It’s an excellent way to refuel after aquatic adventures, with the laid-back atmosphere complementing the stunning natural surroundings. The lunch is a thoughtful touch, turning the trip from just an activity into a genuine local experience.

Return and Reflections

After enjoying the scenery and lunch, the boat returns to your hotel. Expect to be back in Cabo San Lucas within the 3-hour window, feeling refreshed and having experienced a slice of Baja’s marine wildlife.

The value of this tour lies in its combination of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and hassle-free logistics. For $205 per group, you’re not just paying for a boat ride, but for an immersive experience—especially if you love nature and active pursuits. Given the small group size (max 12 people), you’ll enjoy a more intimate, personalized experience, which often results in better wildlife sightings and meaningful interactions with guides.

The reviews reinforce this value. One traveler called it “La naturaleza en su máximo esplendor,” highlighting the biodiversity and the safety of encounters with sea lions. The fact that the guides are described as caring and attentive adds a layer of trust and comfort, especially for first-time snorkelers or those wary of wildlife interactions.

What Makes It Special

It’s the combination of exciting wildlife, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace that makes this tour stand out. The crisp, fresh lunch by the beach offers a satisfying end to the day, making it feel like a genuine escape rather than just a quick sightseeing trip.

Who Will Love It

If you’re someone who enjoys active outdoor adventures, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing in stunning natural settings, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially ideal for families with children of moderate physical fitness, couples, or solo travelers seeking a memorable, guided marine experience.

• Be prepared to get in the water, so wear your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat.
• The park entrance fee of $25 per person isn’t included, so bring cash or prepare for the additional cost.
• Since it’s a small-group tour, booking in advance is wise to secure your spot.
• The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Side by Side Sport Adventure offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Baja’s marine environment. It’s a superb choice for those who appreciate wildlife, scenic boat rides, and delicious local food—all wrapped into a manageable, small-group trip. Whether it’s your first time snorkeling or you’re a seasoned marine enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love here.

This tour isn’t just about ticking off a box; it’s about experiencing the biodiversity and natural beauty of Espiritu Santo Island in an intimate, safe, and well-organized setting. Perfect for travelers wanting a fun, educational, and scenic adventure that leaves them with lasting memories.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers professional guides, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and security equipment. The park entrance fee of $25 per person is not included.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most travelers with moderate physical fitness, children should be comfortable swimming and be supervised at all times, especially around wildlife.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Be prepared for water activities and possibly a bit of sun exposure.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to bad weather are fully refundable if made more than 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours, and it’s no longer eligible for a refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour caps at 12 participants for a more personalized experience, but the maximum group size can be up to 25 travelers.

In short, this tour offers a well-balanced blend of wildlife, scenery, and comfort, making it a worthwhile splurge for anyone eager to see Baja’s marine treasures without sacrificing convenience.