Private Los Cabos Arch & Playa del Amor tour by Glass bottom kayak

Exploring Los Cabos from the Water: A Look at the Private Arch & Playa del Amor Kayak Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Los Cabos’ iconic landmarks without the crowds or noisy boat tours, this private Glass Bottom Kayak Tour around the Arch and Playa del Amor might catch your eye. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-loved way to enjoy some of the best scenery and marine life Baja has to offer—quietly, up close, and at your own pace.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: First, the personalized touch of a private guide, which means your adventure is tailored to your interests and comfort level. Second, the unique perspective of seeing the underwater world through a glass-bottom kayak, which makes snorkeling and sightseeing feel more intimate and less chaotic than larger tours.

A potential consideration? The weather can influence what you see and do—especially winds, which could limit access to the most famous sights like the Arch. So, this activity really suits those who enjoy a flexible schedule and are okay with some unpredictability in weather conditions.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, nature-filled experience with a good chance to see sea lions, tropical fish, and stunning coastal views—this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who value small-group or private experiences that prioritize safety, fun, and quality over sheer volume of participants.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Flexible Schedule: You can choose your preferred pick-up time within the window.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and safe, often receiving high praise.
• Unique Perspective: Glass-bottom kayaks offer a different view of underwater marine life.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect sea lions, tropical fish, and spectacular coastal vistas.
• Weather Dependency: Wind or storms can affect accessibility to the Arch but snorkeling continues.

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour spans roughly 2 hours 30 minutes, starting early at 7:30 am, a smart choice to beat the crowds and avoid stronger afternoon winds. The experience kicks off with convenient private pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting point, making the start smooth and stress-free.

Once at the beach near Marina in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll meet your private guide, who will brief you on safety and kayaking etiquette. The tandem kayak you’ll use is described as stable—great for those who might be less confident on water—and can hold up to 195kg/425lbs, so most you will be comfortable.

From there, you’ll paddle through clear, calm waters, getting close to landmarks like the Arch’s impressive natural rock formations and the colony of sunbathing sea lions. The guides are praised for their expertise—they’ll point out the best spots for wildlife viewing and photography, making sure your camera is never idle.

One of the biggest treats is the glass-bottomed kayak, which gives you a peek into the vibrant underwater world without needing to snorkel right away. Schools of tropical fish swirl beneath you, creating a lively, moving canvas of color. For those who want to snorkel, near Pelican Rock you’ll have the chance to dive in and explore marine life more closely.

You’ll pass by Playa del Amor, or Lovers Beach, which you’ll see from your kayak—an iconic backdrop that invites plenty of photo ops. Many reviewers mention how these views make for an unforgettable experience.

Highlights of the Experience

Up Close with the Marine Wildlife

Expect to see diverse marine birds, multicolored fish, and possibly sea lions lounging on rocks or sunbathing on beaches. Multiple reviews rave about how guides like Jose Luis and Marco are experts at spotting and explaining local wildlife, adding a layer of educational fun.

The Underwater View

The glass-bottom kayak allows for a fish-eye view into Baja’s vibrant waters, making snorkeling optional but highly recommended if you want more immersive encounters with the marine world. The design means you don’t have to get your face wet to enjoy the scenery, which some travelers find appealing.

Snorkeling Near Pelican Rock

Snorkeling near Pelican Rock is a favorite part of the tour—schools of tropical fish and perhaps even sea lions are common sights. Reviewers mention how guides are attentive, helping with gear and ensuring safety, especially on windy days.

Scenic Landmarks from a New Angle

You’ll paddle along the coastline, with opportunities to photograph the Arch, Lovers Beach, and Pelican Rock. The early start helps avoid the crowds that tend to flock to these spots later in the day, giving you space and serenity.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The tour begins at the beach, with transportation included, so there’s no need to worry about logistics. The guides’ main goal is to make you comfortable—whether you’re a first-time kayaker or more experienced. The pace is described as relaxed, making it accessible to most people.

The first part of the adventure involves paddling toward the Arch, where you’ll have a good chance to see marine birds and sea lions sunbathing on the rocks. Here, guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making the experience educational and fun.

Next, you’ll navigate toward Pelican Rock for snorkeling, which guests say is a highlight thanks to the abundance of colorful fish. Even on days with wind, guides will adapt, sometimes focusing more on snorkeling if the conditions make kayaking to the Arch challenging.

Finally, you’ll paddle along the coast, with time to relax and take photos of the stunning scenery—many reviews mention how much they appreciated having guides who are patient and attentive, helping to capture memories.

The Value for Money

Priced at $500 for a group of up to 4 people, this tour offers a private, personalized experience. When you consider the inclusion of transport, snorkeling gear, snacks, bottled water, and a guide, it’s a solid value, especially for those looking for a more intimate and relaxed way to see Los Cabos.

Compared to larger boat tours, this activity grants more control over timing and stops, plus the opportunity to avoid crowded boats. The reviews rave about the guides’ professionalism, making it clear that the quality of the experience justifies the cost.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly personalized with private guides
• Unique perspective via glass-bottom kayak
• Excellent wildlife encounters and photo opportunities
• Comfortable pace suitable for most fitness levels
• Early start to beat crowds and stronger winds
• Flexibility to snorkel or paddle as you prefer

Cons:

• Weather and wind can limit access to certain sights like the Arch
• No locker facilities on the beach (though personal belongings can be stored in transportation)
• The activity is weather-dependent, with potential for rescheduling or refunds if conditions aren’t ideal

Is this Tour Right for You?

This tour is perfect if you enjoy being active outdoors, love wildlife, and appreciate a personalized experience over large-group boat tours. It’s a great way to see Los Cabos’ most famous landmarks without the hustle and bustle of bigger excursions. If you’re interested in marine life and don’t mind a bit of wind or water splashes, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

Travelers who value safety, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to capture memorable photos will find this experience particularly appealing. It’s also suited for those who prefer exploring at a slower pace, taking time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, participants must be at least 6 years old. The kayak is described as stable, and reviews suggest that most kids comfortable in water can enjoy the experience with supervision.

Can I choose my pickup time?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can select your preferred start time within the provided window, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
If strong winds or storms prevent access to the Arch, guides will focus on snorkeling or other parts of the tour. You might be offered to reschedule or receive a full refund if conditions aren’t safe.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including transportation, paddling, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, private transportation, tandem kayak, and a private guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses are not included. Optional tips are always appreciated if you enjoyed the service.

Is this a crowded experience?
No. Because it’s private, you won’t be sharing your tour with strangers, which makes for a more relaxed, personalized outing.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Most say wear your bathing suit as you’ll likely want to snorkel or cool off.

This private Los Cabos Arch and Playa del Amor kayak tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to enjoy the region’s stunning coastal scenery, marine life, and iconic landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, flexible timing, and the ability to snorkel or paddle at your own pace, it’s a memorable experience for those looking for a more personal adventure. Just keep in mind the weather, and you’ll likely find yourself with plenty of great photos and stories to tell.