Why not include snorkeling on your itinerary if you’re traveling to Cabo San Lucas? Swimming on one of Cabo’s fantastic beaches is just one thing. However, if you want to have a genuinely extraordinary experience, try snorkeling in Cabo.
Cabo San Lucas is surrounded on one side by the stunning Sea of Cortez – which Jacques Cousteau famously dubbed “The World’s Aquarium” due to the variety of marine life it supports – and on the other side, the azure Pacific Ocean.
Best time of year to go snorkeling in Cabo
The ideal months to go snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas are April through October because the water temperature really starts to drop around November. Therefore, it’s best to come snorkeling in the spring, summer, and fall. Serious snorkelers and divers do swim year-round; however, they tend to be used to the colder temps sometimes seen in Cabo’s mild winters.
Top Spots for Snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas
Here’s our pick of the top spots that offer the best snorkeling experience in Cabo San Lucas.
Land’s End
At the very tip of Cabo, a stunning group of rock formations known as Land’s End protrudes from the water. Sea lions that live there enjoy sunbathing on the rocks. Pelicans find their place to roost in nearby Pelican Rock.
Excellent snorkeling can be found close to Pelican Rock and the well-known rock Arch (El Arco). Along with the numerous reef fish, you might see crabs, sea urchins, starfishes, and stingrays in the crystal-clear, unpolluted water.
The tall, rocky pinnacle of Neptune’s Finger is another snorkeling location near Land’s End. It rises out of the water between Lover’s Beach and the Arch. Schools of multi-colored tropical fishes are also frequently found here.
Cabo Pulmo
Cabo Pulmo is a prime snorkeling location that’s about two hour’s travel from Cabo. Los Abolitions is the best snorkeling shore in this area. The Sea Lion Colony, Mermaid Cove, and one or two reefs used by scuba divers are usually included in the tours.
Discover enormous groupers, schools of snapper, eels, and other marine species up close. There is a strong chance that you will see giant rays and marine turtles as well.
From early October to early December, Cabo Pulmo’s conditions are ideal for snorkeling, with quiet, mild, and pleasant waters (particularly in October).
Playa Chileno
The Chileno Reef, which extends about a half-mile offshore from well-known Chileno Beach, is a snorkeler’s dream. Picture this – it has crystal-clear water and amazing coral formations that are teeming with gorgeous underwater wildlife, including enormous manta rays, sea urchins, eels, tuna, starfish, and more.
Between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo in Los Cabos, along the Golden Corridor, sits Chileno Bay. Plan your snorkeling excursion in Chileno Bay in the morning, and then proceed to Santa Maria Cove to cap off a fantastic day of snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas.
Playa Santa Maria
Santa Maria Beach (Playa Santa Maria), one of the best snorkeling sites in Cabo San Lucas, is shielded from ocean surges and blessed with typically calm water. Even from more than 50 feet away, you can still see small, iridescent blue fish swimming in its crystal-clear waters. The pristine waters are shielded by rugged rock formations on either side of this safe, horseshoe-shaped beach.
There’s a wide variety of candy-colored fishes. After all, there are plenty of Nemo-like swimmers and vivid blue damselfish below the surface. Look first in the small pockets of rock reef on either side of the bay because that’s where they like to congregate.
Most snorkeling cruises in Los Cabos stop at Santa Maria beach, which is also popular for being a fantastic observation point for migrating whales.
Hilton Cove
The waters in Hilton Cove are always swimmable. Additionally, its waters become calmer as you draw nearer to the jetty. While you’re there, spend a family-friendly beach day at Hilton Cove.
In Hilton Cove, the spot around the submerged rocks to the left is perfect for snorkeling. Make sure not to snorkel directly under the hook. The reason for this is because there are more jet skis zipping around and fewer fish.
Enjoy a Snorkeling Vacation in Cabo San Lucas
Are you ready to book a snorkeling tour? When you stay at one of our properties, our helpful concierge staff can put you in touch with tour operators. Dial 1.800.975.5569 to reach us. We’d be delighted to include a snorkeling boat excursion in your Cabo San Lucas travel itinerary.
