Los Cabos: Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Open Bar

If you’re planning a trip to Baja California Sur and love the idea of spending a relaxing day on the water, this snorkeling tour in Los Cabos might just be worth considering. Offering a good mix of natural beauty, fun marine encounters, and laid-back vibes, it’s designed for travelers who want to enjoy the sea without fuss.

What we particularly like about this experience is the clarity of the waters—Santa Maria Bay is renowned for its visibility, making it easier and more enjoyable for snorkelers of varying skill levels. Plus, the included lunch and open bar add a nice touch of value, allowing you to unwind and indulge without constantly reaching for your wallet.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t the best choice if you’re not comfortable in the water or if you’re traveling with very young children who might require more supervision. It’s best suited for those who enjoy marine activities but don’t need a thrill-seeking adventure. Overall, if you’re a laid-back traveler looking for a scenic day with decent amenities, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Visibility: The waters of Santa Maria Bay are crystal clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
• Well-Organized Experience: Transportation and equipment are included, simplifying your day.
• Nice Food and Drinks: A freshly made lunch paired with unlimited domestic drinks offers good value.
• Iconic Los Cabos Sights: You’ll see Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and Sea Lion Colony from the boat—great photo ops.
• Group Size and Duration: With a maximum of 45 travelers over 6 hours, it strikes a balance between intimacy and social vibe.
• Family & Accessibility: Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, but suitable for most adults and non-swimmers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Itinerary

This tour kicks off with pickup options—either hotel, cruise, or you can meet directly at Gali Plaza. Transport is arranged, so you won’t have to worry about logistics. Once on board, the boat cruise offers a leisurely way to see some of Los Cabos’ most iconic sights. You’ll get to admire Lover’s Beach, the impressive Arch, and the Sea Lion Colony — all from a comfortable vantage point.

The highlight, of course, is the snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay. Known for its remarkably clear waters, this cove provides a safe and enjoyable environment for observing marine life. Snorkel gear is provided, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and a swimsuit. We’ve read reviews where folks mention the ease of the snorkeling gear, making it accessible even for those who aren’t frequent snorkelers.

What You’ll Experience

Once in the water, you’ll likely be captivated by the vivid marine life and the vibrant coral reefs. The water’s clarity means you can see plenty of colorful fish and maybe even some curious sea creatures. It’s a good spot for a relaxed swim rather than intense underwater exploration. After snorkeling, you’ll head back to the boat for your included lunch.

The meal is described as freshly prepared, with options like deli sandwiches and chips—nothing fancy but satisfying after a few hours in the sun. The open bar is a definite plus, offering unlimited domestic drinks. Most reviews mention it as a great way to unwind, especially when paired with the warm sun and ocean breeze. Just remember, you need to be 18 or older to enjoy alcohol.

The Sights from the Boat

The boat ride itself is part of the fun. From the deck, you’ll get fantastic views of Lover’s Beach—a scenic spot that’s otherwise accessible only by boat or kayak. The Arch is another picture-perfect backdrop, famous for its striking rock formations. Watching sea lions play around the colony is a bonus, providing some lively entertainment and memorable photo moments.

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Practical Details

Transportation is included, which is convenient—especially if you’re staying at a hotel or on a cruise. The tour lasts about 6 hours, which gives enough time for snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing with your food and drinks. The group size is capped at 45, striking a balance between a lively social environment and a manageable number of fellow travelers.

The meeting point at Gali Plaza simplifies logistics, but if you’re arriving by cruise, make sure to share your ship details and docking time when booking. Similarly, hotel guests should be ready 15 minutes before pickup, with drivers recognizable by khaki pants and white polos.

Cost and Value

At $104 per person, this tour sits in a reasonable range for a day out on the water with food, drinks, and transportation included. Considering the quality of the scenery, the ease of logistics, and the amenities, most will find the price fair. It’s not a budget experience, but it offers good value when you factor in the convenience and the chance to see some of Los Cabos’ iconic sights.

The Caveats

This isn’t the best choice if you’re not comfortable swimming or snorkeling, as touching marine life or plants is not allowed, and non-swimmers might find it challenging to fully enjoy the water portion. It’s also not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with severe back problems, given the physical nature of some activities.

Towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you want to dry off after swimming. Also, the tour is primarily designed for adults, with the alcohol policy requiring guests to be 18+.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water with beautiful scenery and easy access to marine life. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable outing. If you enjoy socializing over drinks and good food while taking in the sights, you’ll appreciate the open bar and the lively atmosphere.

It’s also good for those who prefer a less intense, more scenic experience rather than a high-adrenaline adventure. Families with older children might enjoy it, but keep in mind that young kids or non-swimmers might need extra supervision.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, so you can just bring your swimsuit, towel, and camera.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Since touching marine life is not allowed and snorkeling can be challenging for non-swimmers, it’s best for those comfortable in the water. If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider your comfort level before booking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, a camera, and snacks if you want extra fuel. Towels are not provided, so pack one.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans aren’t set in stone.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is around 6 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 45 travelers, which helps keep the experience comfortable and manageable.

Are the sights accessible if I arrive on a cruise?
Yes, if you provide your ship name and docking time, the tour provider will meet you directly; just arrive at the designated meeting point on time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from your hotel or cruise port is included, making logistics straightforward.

What is the price again?
The tour costs $104 per person, including gear, lunch, drinks, and transport.

Do I need to prepare anything special before going?
Just bring your essentials like sunscreen, water, and a camera. No special preparation is needed beyond booking and meeting up.

In the end, this Los Cabos snorkeling tour offers a relaxing way to enjoy some of the region’s most iconic sights, with the added bonus of good food and drinks. It’s a straightforward choice if you’re after a scenic, laid-back experience that doesn’t require intense physical effort. If you’re okay with the water and looking for a day of simple pleasures, it’s likely to give you some fantastic memories of your Baja adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: