If you’re thinking about booking a marine adventure near Cabo San Lucas, this Marine Reserve Dive offers a mix of underwater exploration and scenic cruising. It’s a tour that seems to combine the thrill of seeing sea lions and Sand Falls with the classic sights of Land’s End and Lover’s Beach. We’ve looked into what it offers so you can decide whether it matches your travel style.
What really draws us to this experience are the unique Sand Falls phenomenon and the chance to snorkel alongside sea lions near the iconic Arch. Plus, the chance to enjoy a small group setting (limited to 10) sounds appealing for those who prefer a more personal touch. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour is only suitable for certified divers, which might limit some travelers.
Overall, if you’re a certified diver looking to combine marine life encounters with classic Cabo sights, this tour could be a great fit. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate a well-structured half-day with both land and sea elements, and who value having a guide to enrich the experience.
Key Points

- Includes guided exploration of the Marine Reserve, with a focus on Sand Falls and sea lion encounters.
- Covers iconic Cabo sights like the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Neptune’s Finger.
- Limited to certified divers, making it less ideal for non-swimmers or those without certification.
- Small group setting (max 10) for a more personalized experience.
- All necessary tanks, weights, and guide included, but you need to bring your own equipment.
- Four-hour tour duration fits well into a day of exploring Cabo’s highlights.
What to Expect on Your Marine Reserve Dive Experience

Starting at the marina, you’ll meet your guide and hop onto a boat that whisks you out to the Marine Reserve. The trip itself is part scenic cruise, part underwater adventure. You’ll get a chance to see some of Cabo’s most famous landmarks from the water, including the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Lover’s Beach, and Pelican Rock.
One of the standout features of this tour is witnessing the Sand Falls phenomenon. This natural spectacle, where sand appears to cascade down the underwater canyon walls, offers a mesmerizing view that’s a bit different from your typical snorkeling trip. Although it’s a natural event, many reports mention how fascinating it looks and makes the experience more memorable.
After taking in the surface views, it’s time to snorkel. Here’s where things get especially interesting: you’ll have the opportunity to dive with sea lions near the arches. Many reviewers mention that watching these playful creatures swim alongside you is a highlight. One person noted, “The sea lions were so close and curious—it was incredible to see them up close.”
Most dive sites are located along a submarine canyon that plunges over 2,000 feet deep, adding to the sense of adventure and wonder. The guide will help you navigate the area safely and point out interesting marine life along the way.
Once your underwater exploration wraps up, you’ll head back to the marina, feeling like you’ve experienced a mix of nature’s spectacles and Cabo’s iconic landmarks. The entire tour lasts around four hours, making it a manageable window for most travelers.
Planning more time in Cabo San Lucas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers tanks, weights, guide, and taxes, so once you’re on the boat, most of the gear and support are taken care of. You’ll need to bring your own equipment if you have specific gear preferences, along with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, towel, camera, and water.
One key point to note is that diving certification is required. This isn’t a tour suitable for non-swimmers or those without diving experience. It’s geared toward certified divers who want a guided exploration of Cabo’s marine life.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds a bit of peace of mind when planning. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility if your plans are still in flux.
The Experience: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re a diver with certification craving a more adventurous outing that combines marine wildlife with iconic Cabo scenery. The chance to snorkel with sea lions and witness Sand Falls makes it stand out from more standard boat tours or snorkeling trips.
Travelers who enjoy small group tours will appreciate the intimate feel, and those looking to maximize their marine encounters will find the trip’s focus on underwater life appealing. If you’re visiting Cabo with a partner or a small group of friends who share your diving interest, this could be a memorable choice.
However, if you’re not certified or prefer a more relaxed, non-diving experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, for folks prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering that the boat ride and offshore dives could be a bit choppy.
The Balance of Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique Sand Falls phenomenon makes the trip stand out.
- Close-up sea lion encounters provide unforgettable moments.
- Well-organized with all gear, tanks, and guide included.
- Small group setting enhances the experience.
- Combines marine life with classic Cabo landmarks like the Arch and Lover’s Beach.
Cons:
- Only suitable for certified divers—no snorkeling-only option.
- Might be too short for travelers wanting a full-day adventure.
- Participants need to bring their own equipment if preferred.
- The boat ride could be rough for sensitive travelers.
Our Final Take

If you have your diving certification and want a balanced mix of marine wildlife, natural wonders, and iconic scenery, this tour offers a memorable window into Cabo’s underwater world. The chance to see Sand Falls and swim with sea lions makes it a standout for dive enthusiasts.
It’s a solid choice for small groups seeking a guided, intimate experience that’s manageable within a few hours. While it’s not the cheapest activity at $135, the combination of sights, marine encounters, and the guide’s support makes it a good value for those eager to explore beneath the waves.
This experience isn’t for everyone—non-divers or those with limited mobility might want to look for more inclusive options. But if you’re ready to get underwater and see Cabo’s marine wonders up close, it’s worth considering.
Cabo San Lucas: Marine Reserve Dive
FAQs

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Yes, you need to bring your own gear unless you plan to rent from elsewhere, as the tour only includes tanks, weights, and guide support.
Is this suitable for non-divers?
No, this tour is specifically for certified divers. Non-swimmers or uncertified individuals will need to look for other options.
What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
The tour is usually available in the morning and afternoon, so you can choose a time that works best with your schedule.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about four hours, which fits well into a morning or afternoon activity.
Are there any age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but since it’s diving-focused, it’s best suited for adults and certified divers.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.
If you’re looking for a marine-focused adventure that combines wildlife encounters with Cabo’s stunning scenery, this tour deserves a spot on your list. Just make sure you’re comfortable with diving, and you’re set for a memorable day exploring beneath the surface.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Cabo San Lucas
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