Snorkeling Tour - Cabo Pulmo Watersports
GuidedDuration: 2.5 hours
Features
Description
Cabo Pulmo Watersports Snorkeling Tour
Discover the marvelous marine life of the Sea of Cortez, the world's aquarium, on this unforgettable 2.5-hour snorkeling tour. You will visit 3-4 places inside the National Marine Park, depending on the weather conditions of the day. These tours are small groups, no more than 8 people per boat to ensure you have an personalized and intimate experience snorkeling.
Our experienced guides will get into the water with you, ensuring your comfort and safety, and will help to identify the many marine species that you will encounter. The sites for snorkeling are Las Navajas reef, Frailes Bay, Chopitos and Carrizal. In Las Navajas you can see a variety of soft coral, tropical fish, schools of jacks, and a colony of sea lions. Frailes Bay is known for it's pristine beaches, clear and calm water, and great dive sites. Chopitos and Carrizal are two shallow areas where you can see hard and soft coral and possibly sea turtles. As you go from place to place on the boat, other marine life like humpback whales and dolphins can be seen.
Check out our Insider's Review of the Cabo Pulmo Snorkeling Tour - including photos and video!
Cabo Pulmo Watersports also offers Scuba Diving Trips for those looking to dive in Cabo Pulmo.
Duration
2.5 Hours
Tour Size
Group tours: up to 8 passengers per boat
Private tours: 5-6 passengers maximum per boat (depending on boat)
Start Time
Meet at shop at 8:30am, tours depart at 9-9:30
Depending on the day and weather, a second tour may be available at 12:30pm
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Cabo Pulmo is famous for the best snorkeling in the entire Baja Peninsula. This jewel of Baja has one of just three coral reefs in North America, and the reef is 5,000 years old. It is believed to be the only living coral reef in the Sea of the Cortez. Cabo Pulmo is just 60 miles north of Los Cabos.
The area was designed a National Marine Park by the Mexican government in 1995, which has helped protect the area and it's remarkable marine life. Prior to this, the area was a fishing village, and advances in fishing technology were emptying the formerly rich Cabo Pulmo reef of all of its fish. It was at this point that local fishermen decided to stop fishing, protect the reef, and change from a commercial fishing economy to a tourism-based economy, and in 1995, Cabo Pulmo was declared a National Marine Park. This was an extremely difficult and complex process, as Cabo Pulmo is located in a tiny desert enclave without major resources, little water, isolated from the rest of the state, and fishing was the village’s only important source of economic production. After making the commitment to protect the reef, all bets were on tourism, a fairly unknown activity for the East Cape at the time.
When you take a snorkeling tour with Cabo Pulmo Watersports you are participating in a regenerative adventure, which helps conserve the wonderful marine ecosystem and support the local community.
Included in the Snorkeling Tour
- Professional, knowledgeable English-speaking guide
- Panga boat tour - 23, 24 and 26 foot boats
- Safety briefing and conservation talk
- Complete snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit, if needed)
- Filtered water and snacks (please bring your bottle!)
- Bracelet to enter the Park
- PFD / Life jacket (mandatory inside the Park)
- Guide and captain certified by the Park
Not Included
- Transportation to Cabo Pulmo (we can arrange transportation from Cabo airport if needed for an additional cost)
- Gratuities for your guide (optional but appreciated)
Pricing
The pricing depends on the number of people in your group and on the boat. The price will be less if there are 3+ people in the boat. Private tours are available, typically this is maximum 5 people, but if you have more we may be able to accommodate you (just ask!). Some boats can hold up to 8 people.
About Us / Why Book with Us
Cabo Pulmo Watersports offers personalized, informative and beginner-friendly snorkeling adventures in Cabo Pulmo, led by local experts passionate about marine conservation. The team at Cabo Pulmo Watersports are well versed in the marine life of the area, and provide an exciting and educational trip that informs participants about the diversity of this unique ecosystem. Our small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, making your adventure both memorable and impactful.
What to Bring / Wear
- Comfortable swimsuit
- Towel and change of clothes
- Biodegradable sunscreen to protect our reefs
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Waterproof camera if you want to capture your underwater adventure
Other Info
- Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.
- Please inform us of any medical conditions or special requirements before your tour.
- Part of our proceeds goes towards local conservation efforts, supporting the preservation of Cabo Pulmo's marine life.
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Cabo Pulmo Watersports
FAQs
Am I required to wear a life jacket for the Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
The national park requires all participants to wear a life jacket during the tour while on the boat and while snorkeling. One of the reasons for the requirement to wear a life jacket while snorkeling is that the life jacket prevents the snorkelers from diving down and accidentally disrupting or damaging the reef. By wearing the life jacket, the participants float on the surface and reduce the risk of damage to the reef.
Can Cabo Pulmo Watersports assist complete beginners or those afraid of snorkeling in open water?
Absolutely! The expert guides at Cabo Pulmo Watersports make sure that you feel secure and comfortable in the water. If needed, they can bring along a floatation device in the water that you can grab onto for extra floatation and security.
Do you offer tours where some participants snorkel while others dive in Cabo Pulmo?
Unfortunately, we do not offer combined snorkeling and diving tours in Cabo Pulmo. Managing different sites and spots for diving and snorkeling on the same tour presents logistical challenges that prevent us from offering this option.
Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler to take a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
No experience is necessary! Cabo Pulmo has snorkeling sites suitable for all skill levels. Beginner-friendly areas offer calm waters and shallow reefs, while more advanced snorkelers can explore offshore sites with stronger currents. Your guide will provide instructions and safety tips to ensure a comfortable experience. However, basic swimming skills are recommended for an enjoyable experience.
What kind of marine life may I see on a snorkeling tour in Cabo Pulmo?
Snorkelers in Cabo Pulmo can encounter a huge variety of marine species, including sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, mobula rays, eagle rays, and even large schools of jacks and groupers. During certain seasons, you may also see larger marine life from the boat, such as whale sharks and dolphins.
When is the best time for a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
The best time for snorkeling in Cabo Pulmo is from October to May, when water conditions are calm, visibility is high, and marine life is abundant. June to September can bring warmer waters but may have reduced visibility due to plankton blooms.
Are snorkeling tours in Cabo Pulmo eco-friendly?
All Cabo Pulmo tour operators follow strict conservation guidelines to protect the fragile marine ecosystem. The tours include the purchase of a Marine Park bracelet, and the funding goes towards marine conservation efforts. Regulations include no touching or chasing marine life, using reef-safe sunscreen, and maintaining safe distances from coral and wildlife.
What should I bring for a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
You should bring a swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard or wetsuit (if needed), sunglasses, a hat, and a waterproof camera. Most tours provide snorkeling gear and refreshments.
Is snorkeling in Cabo Pulmo safe?
Yes, snorkeling in Cabo Pulmo is safe when following your guide’s instructions. The area is protected, and experienced guides monitor conditions to ensure a secure experience. However, it’s important to be comfortable in the water, as some snorkeling spots may have mild currents.
Can I see whale sharks on a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
Whale sharks are seasonal visitors to the Sea of Cortez, typically seen between October and February. While sightings in Cabo Pulmo are possible, they are not guaranteed. For a higher chance of encountering whale sharks, consider snorkeling tours in nearby La Paz, a known hotspot for these gentle giants.
Can I snorkel from the shore in Cabo Pulmo?
No, self-guided snorkeling is not allowed in Cabo Pulmo National Park. You must book a tour with a licensed outfitter to help preserve the marine reserve. There are options for snorkeling off the shore outside of the park, however.
What is the water temperature in Cabo Pulmo?
Water temperatures in Cabo Pulmo range from 70°F (21°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer. A wetsuit is recommended during cooler months for comfort.
Are there any restrictions on who can participate in a Cabo Pulmo snorkeling tour?
Snorkeling is generally suitable for all ages, but some tours have minimum age requirements (usually 6+ years old). Participants should be in good health and comfortable in the water. Pregnant individuals or those with heart or respiratory conditions should consult their doctor before joining.
Can I book a private snorkeling tour in Cabo Pulmo?
Yes! We offer private snorkeling tours for families, small groups, or those looking for a more personalized experience. Private tours often include flexible itineraries and additional stops.
How far is Cabo Pulmo from Los Cabos, and can I do it in a day?
Cabo Pulmo is about 2 hours from Cabo San Lucas and 1.5 hours from San José del Cabo. Yes, this is possible in a day trip - if you need transportation, please let us know and we can arrange for an additional fee.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
If weather conditions are unsafe (such as strong winds or rough seas), tours may be rescheduled or canceled. It’s recommended to book your snorkeling trip early in your stay to allow flexibility in case of changes.
Cancellation Policy
Any cancellation or changes must be made at least 2 weeks in advance for refund of deposit. If the tour is cancelled by Cabo Pulmo Watersports due to weather or other circumstances, the deposit is refundable or credit can be applied for a new tour date.
Reviews
Location
ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT
✔️Easy, secure, instant booking
✔️No extra fees
✔️Book directly with top-rated outfitters
%20Copyright%202023%20Fonticons,%20Inc.%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M256%2032c12.5%200%2024.1%206.4%2030.8%2017L503.4%20394.4c5.6%208.9%208.6%2019.2%208.6%2029.7c0%2030.9-25%2055.9-55.9%2055.9H55.9C25%20480%200%20455%200%20424.1c0-10.5%203-20.8%208.6-29.7L225.2%2049c6.6-10.6%2018.3-17%2030.8-17zm65%20192L256%20120.4%20176.9%20246.5l18.3%2024.4c6.4%208.5%2019.2%208.5%2025.6%200l25.6-34.1c6-8.1%2015.5-12.8%2025.6-12.8h49z'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Discover 5,000+ handpicked human powered adventures.
%20Copyright%202023%20Fonticons,%20Inc.%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M302.8%20312C334.9%20271.9%20408%20174.6%20408%20120C408%2053.7%20354.3%200%20288%200S168%2053.7%20168%20120c0%2054.6%2073.1%20151.9%20105.2%20192c7.7%209.6%2022%209.6%2029.6%200zM416%20503l144.9-58c9.1-3.6%2015.1-12.5%2015.1-22.3V152c0-17-17.1-28.6-32.9-22.3l-116%2046.4c-.5%201.2-1%202.5-1.5%203.7c-2.9%206.8-6.1%2013.7-9.6%2020.6V503zM15.1%20187.3C6%20191%200%20199.8%200%20209.6V480.4c0%2017%2017.1%2028.6%2032.9%2022.3L160%20451.8V200.4c-3.5-6.9-6.7-13.8-9.6-20.6c-5.6-13.2-10.4-27.4-12.8-41.5l-122.6%2049zM384%20255c-20.5%2031.3-42.3%2059.6-56.2%2077c-20.5%2025.6-59.1%2025.6-79.6%200c-13.9-17.4-35.7-45.7-56.2-77V449.4l192%2054.9V255z'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Book directly with vetted local experts.
Average 4.8 ⭐️ across 185,000 reviews.
%20Copyright%202023%20Fonticons,%20Inc.%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M57.7%20193l9.4%2016.4c8.3%2014.5%2021.9%2025.2%2038%2029.8L163%20255.7c17.2%204.9%2029%2020.6%2029%2038.5v39.9c0%2011%206.2%2021%2016%2025.9s16%2014.9%2016%2025.9v39c0%2015.6%2014.9%2026.9%2029.9%2022.6c16.1-4.6%2028.6-17.5%2032.7-33.8l2.8-11.2c4.2-16.9%2015.2-31.4%2030.3-40l8.1-4.6c15-8.5%2024.2-24.5%2024.2-41.7v-8.3c0-12.7-5.1-24.9-14.1-33.9l-3.9-3.9c-9-9-21.2-14.1-33.9-14.1H257c-11.1%200-22.1-2.9-31.8-8.4l-34.5-19.7c-4.3-2.5-7.6-6.5-9.2-11.2c-3.2-9.6%201.1-20%2010.2-24.5l5.9-3c6.6-3.3%2014.3-3.9%2021.3-1.5l23.2%207.7c8.2%202.7%2017.2-.4%2021.9-7.5c4.7-7%204.2-16.3-1.2-22.8l-13.6-16.3c-10-12-9.9-29.5%20.3-41.3l15.7-18.3c8.8-10.3%2010.2-25%203.5-36.7l-2.4-4.2c-3.5-.2-6.9-.3-10.4-.3C163.1%2048%2084.4%20108.9%2057.7%20193zM464%20256c0-36.8-9.6-71.4-26.4-101.5L412%20164.8c-15.7%206.3-23.8%2023.8-18.5%2039.8l16.9%2050.7c3.5%2010.4%2012%2018.3%2022.6%2020.9l29.1%207.3c1.2-9%201.8-18.2%201.8-27.5zM0%20256a256%20256%200%201%201%20512%200A256%20256%200%201%201%200%20256z'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Every booking contributes to conservation.
Proud member of The Conservation Alliance and Leave No Trace.