Below the Surface: Snorkeling the Marine Preserve at Pelican Rock, Cabo
$46.50 USD per Person | Child Discount | 2 Hours
The boat slips away from the marina with a soft thrum, and the town’s high-rise silhouettes shrink into a smear of color. Salt breathes against your face; a guide points toward two dark fins cutting through sunlit water. As the hull nudges into the protective curve near Pelican Rock, the sea changes voice—calmer, full of undercurrents and sudden glints. This is a concise, two-hour window into the Sea of Cortez’s manicured wildness: a protected shoal where sea fans undulate like flags and sand cascades down a cliff-face that never sees air. It looks like a waterfall, but it’s made of sand.
Trail Wisdom
Book a Morning Slot
Early departures mean calmer seas, better visibility, and stronger chances for close manta sightings.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply a mineral-based sunscreen before arrival to protect coral and marine life.
Rent a Wetsuit If You’re Sensitive
Water can be cool in spring—renting a wetsuit ($17.50 USD) keeps you comfortable and in the water longer.
Practice Buoyancy Before You Shoot
If photographing, work on neutral buoyancy to avoid accidental contact with fragile sea fans.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The quieter cove on the leeward side of Pelican Rock for shallow snorkeling
- •Nearshore channels where the Sandfalls are most visible
Wildlife
Manta rays (summer), Parrotfish
Conservation Note
Tours operate within regulated marine areas—use reef-safe products, avoid touching corals, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Pelican Rock sits at the tip of the Baja peninsula near Land’s End, an area long used by local fishers and now protected by marine regulations.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calmer seas, Migratory fish, Cleaner winter plankton
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Variable winds
Spring brings steady conditions and clearer water after winter storms, though mornings can be cool—consider a thin wetsuit.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Manta-ray sightings, Vibrant reef life
Challenges: Higher boat traffic, Potential afternoon winds
Summer is prime for manta rays and warm swims, but pick early tours to beat the afternoon breeze.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Good visibility, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Occasional tropical storms, Warmer, wetter air
Fall often offers calm seas and lower visitor numbers—visibility can be excellent between storms.
winter
Best for: Clearer air, Quieter marinas
Challenges: Cooler water, Shorter daylight hours
Water cools in winter; a thicker wetsuit helps. Mornings bring crisp light for photography.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Mask & SnorkelEssential
The operator provides equipment, but a well-fitted personal mask improves comfort and visibility.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and fragile marine ecosystems—choose mineral-based formulas.
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture Sandfalls and sea fans; wide-angle settings work best for reef scenes.
Light Wetsuit (2–3mm)
Adds warmth and buoyancy for cooler mornings or sensitive swimmers.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 2 hours from departure to return.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children ages 5–11 have a discounted rate and are welcome with adult supervision.
Is gear provided?
Yes—mask, snorkel, and fins are included; wetsuit rental is available for an additional fee.
What wildlife might we see?
Expect tropical reef fish, sea fans, gorgonians, and occasionally manta rays in summer months.
Where does the tour depart from?
Departure is from the operator’s store in Cabo San Lucas; booking confirmation includes maps and meeting details.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in open water and able to tread or float for short periods, but guides provide life jackets as needed.
What to Pack
Mask (if you prefer your own) for fit; Reef-safe sunscreen to protect reef; Light towel to dry off; Waterproof camera to capture Sandfalls and marine life
Did You Know
Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez 'the world’s aquarium'—a nickname reflecting this region’s exceptional marine biodiversity.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning departures for calm seas; 2) Bring cash for wetsuit rental and tips; 3) Apply reef-safe sunscreen before arrival; 4) Expect basic cell service near the marina but limited reception on the water
Local Flavor
After a snorkel, head to the Marina or Medano Beach for fresh ceviche or fish tacos and a cold Mexican lager; local beachfront stalls serve up the most straightforward, delicious seafood.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). Driving time to Cabo San Lucas: ~40–50 minutes. Departure point: operator’s store in Cabo San Lucas (maps emailed at booking). Cell service: generally good near shore, weaker on open water. Permits: none required for visitors, but follow marine preserve rules.
Sustainability Note
This area is part of regulated marine zones—please use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching or standing on corals, and take all trash back to shore to protect critical habitat.
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