If you’re planning on doing some snorkeling while in Cabo, you’re certainly in luck. Here are some of the top beaches for snorkeling on your next Mexican vacation:
Pelican Rock - Lover’s Beach
Surrounded by towering rocks and sensational views across the bay, Lover’s Beach is a prime spot for snorkeling in Cabo. Pelican Rock is an especially popular location, as it rises up high from the water. On calm days you’ll be able to swim alongside schools of colorful fish. Because Lover’s Beach, or Playa del Amor, is on the bay side, it means even better snorkeling and usually calmer water.
The easiest and most budget-friendly way to get there is to take a water taxi from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach, as the only way to reach Pelican Rock is by boat. You can also book a chartered boat tour.
Santa Maria Bay
Another top spot for snorkeling in Cabo is Santa Maria Bay. This horseshoe-shaped bay is packed with tropical fish and marine life, making it a favorite of families and others who are searching for a great place for snorkeling. The water is clear, and if you go on shore, you’ll find clean sand and a peaceful setting.
When you’re planning out your day, try to get there early. You’ll usually see the most fish when the water is calmer during the morning hours. You won’t find much in the way of facilities at Santa Maria Bay, so be sure to pack your own food, water, and anything else you might need. The area is accessible from KM 12 Transpeninsular Highway.
Playa Chileno
Thanks to the clear water of Chileno Bay, Playa Chileno has some of the best underwater visibility you’ll find in Cabo San Lucas. That’s one reason why it’s the most popular place for snorkeling and diving in the area. Expect to see all kinds of exotic and tropical fish, from parrot fish to angelfish, as well as starfish and sponges. You may even see some sea fans, sea urchins, moray eels, and sea turtles while you’re there.
Be sure to bring food and beverages with you, as there aren’t any nearby restaurants. The laid-back beach, however, does have some showers and restrooms. The beach does have parking, so you can reach Playa Chileno from KM 27 Transpeninsular Highway or easily catch a boat tour from the Cabo San Lucas Marina.
Cabo Pulmo
Well worth the extra drive, Cabo Pulmo is one of the most scenic spots you’ll find along the east coast. The clear and calm waters of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park make it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The park is actually made up of protected marine sanctuaries that come together to form a bay around one of the only living coral reefs in all of North America, and the only one in the Sea of Cortez.
Because Cabo Pulmo isn’t as close to some of the big resorts and tourist shops, it’s a quieter setting than some other locations in the region. You may even get close to marine life. Sea lions are known to swim close to snorkelers at Cabo Pulmo.
