Side by Side Sport Adventure

Thinking about a day trip that combines wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and some good old-fashioned adventure? The Side by Side Sport Adventure offers just that—an engaging experience on Espiritu Santo Island, known for its incredible natural beauty and vibrant marine life. While we haven’t personally done this tour, reviewing its details and feedback gives us a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances adventure with comfort—offering small-group intimacy (maximum of 12 people) and hassle-free pickup from Cabo San Lucas, making it easy to focus on the fun. The highlight for many is the snorkeling along coral reefs and the chance to see sea lions up close. Plus, a delicious beachside lunch featuring fresh fish is a real treat that adds to the overall value. The only thing to keep in mind is the park entrance fee of $25, which isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly.

This tour seems well-suited for active travelers who enjoy wildlife, scenic boat rides, and snorkeling. It’s a great pick if you’re after a more intimate, nature-focused experience rather than a large, crowded excursion. If you’re traveling with a moderate fitness level, are comfortable with water activities, and want a taste of Baja’s marine biodiversity, you’ll probably love this trip.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures more personal attention from guides.
• Wildlife sightings, especially sea lions at Los Islotes, are a major highlight.
• The beachside lunch with fresh fish offers a nice relaxing break.
• Roundtrip hotel pickup makes the day seamless.
• The experience includes snorkeling and seaside viewing that appeal to nature lovers.
• Price is reasonable considering the inclusions, but the park fee is extra.

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas, which takes the hassle out of logistics. Once aboard the boat, you’ll cruise across the Gulf of California toward Espiritu Santo Island, renowned for its striking scenery and biodiversity.

The journey itself is part of the fun—expect a small-group setting (no more than 12 people), so you’ll get a more personalized feel. The boat ride offers fantastic views of the coastline and islands, setting the perfect scene before you arrive at the snorkeling spots and wildlife encounters.

Visiting Los Islotes: Sea Lions and Marine Life

One of the main attractions is the sea lion colony at Los Islotes. As one reviewer pointed out, the experience of nado con los leones marinos (swimming with sea lions) can be a little intimidating at first but is ultimately very safe, thanks to the guides’ careful supervision. The reviewer even mentioned that it’s one of the best experiences they’ve had, which speaks volumes.

You’ll also get the chance to snorkel along reefs teeming with tropical fish and other marine creatures. The guided snorkeling provides a great balance of excitement and security, with security equipment supplied to help you feel comfortable in the water.

The Scenic and Wildlife Highlights

The island itself is a picture of rugged beauty—crystal-clear waters, dramatic rocky formations, and lush vegetation. The biodiversity here is rare to find easily elsewhere, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The tour’s reviewer noted that “la biodiversidad que se encuentra en el recorrido no se ve tan fácil en algún otro lugar,” emphasizing the uniqueness of this environment.

The Beachside Lunch

After a morning of adventure, you’ll stop at a beachside location for a tasty lunch featuring fresh fish. It’s not just about filling your stomach but enjoying a relaxing moment with stunning views. The food, paired with the casual atmosphere, enhances the experience.

The Practicalities

The cost of $205 per group (which covers up to one person, usually meaning a solo traveler or a small group) seems reasonable, especially given the inclusions—hotel pickup, guide, bottled water, and security equipment. Keep in mind, the $25 park entrance fee is not included, and you’ll need to budget for that separately.

The tour duration clocks in around 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip—perfect for those who want to pack a lot into a short time without it feeling rushed.

Physical fitness should be moderate, especially since you’ll be swimming and snorkeling. If you’re comfortable in the water and enjoy light adventure, this tour is a good fit. For travelers with mobility issues or those less comfortable in the water, it’s worth mentioning that the experience involves some active elements.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

The only review available was glowing, with the reviewer describing the biodiversity and sea lion encounters as “La naturaleza en su máximo esplendor” (nature at its best). They emphasized how safe the guides made them feel, even at the start, which is reassuring for first-time snorkelers or those worried about marine animals.

This kind of feedback points to a well-managed tour that prioritizes safety while delivering memorable wildlife interactions. The guides seem to care deeply about the environment and their guests, making for a respectful and enjoyable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves wildlife and outdoor adventures, you’ll probably find this tour well worth it. It’s ideal for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of water activity and want a personalized experience away from large crowds. It’s also great for those looking to see sea lions in their natural habitat and explore the reefs with guided snorkeling.

However, if you’re not comfortable swimming or prefer more relaxed activities, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind the additional fee for park entry, which adds a small extra to your overall costs.

The Sum Up

The Side by Side Sport Adventure offers a genuine taste of Baja California Sur’s marine and terrestrial beauty. With small-group intimacy, wildlife encounters, and a scenic boat ride, it ticks many boxes for those seeking a memorable day in Cabo San Lucas.

The tour’s emphasis on safety, wildlife, and natural scenery makes it a compelling option, especially for travelers who crave a more personal and immersive experience. Though the price is reasonable, remember the extra park fee, and plan accordingly.

This tour appeals to adventurous souls who enjoy snorkeling, wildlife watching, and beautiful landscapes. If that sounds like your kind of trip, you’re likely to walk away with stories worth sharing.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get professional guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and security equipment. The lunch with fresh fish and the boat ride are also part of the experience, but the park entrance fee of $25 is additional.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day trip.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, roundtrip hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so you don’t have to worry about arranging your own transport.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify, the physical activity involved suggests it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Always check with the provider if traveling with kids.

Are there any restrictions?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour is weather-dependent, so it might be canceled in poor conditions, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations or changes within 24 hours are not refundable.

If you’re after a close-up encounter with Baja’s marine life, scenic snorkeling, and a relaxed vibe, the Side by Side Sport Adventure seems like a solid choice. Just remember to account for the extra park fee and check your comfort level with water activities. Happy exploring!