Stand-Up to the Arch: Paddle to Land’s End and Snorkel the Sea of Cortez
Paddle to the famed El Arco, snorkel teeming reefs, and discover why the Sea of Cortez is called the world’s aquarium.
You push off from the marina before the band of afternoon tourists arrives and the water turns into a mirror of motorboat wakes. The paddle bites cleanly; the board hums beneath your feet as the city’s silhouette slips astern. Ahead, the jagged shoulders of Land’s End, crowned by the famous El Arco, rise like a timeworn door into the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Salt rides your lips. The wind tugs at your hat. Every stroke brings a clearer view of the arch’s curve and the ocean’s palette: turquoise shallows, cobalt channels, and the pearly flash of fish that treat the underwater walls like a highway.
Trail Wisdom
Launch Early
Morning launches usually mean flatter water and cooler temperatures—ideal for calmer paddling and clearer snorkeling.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreen and reapplying before you hit the water rather than while afloat.
Secure Your Hat
Use a strap or tether for hats—wind can strip them off within seconds once you’re near the arch.
Listen to Your Guide
Guides read currents and wildlife behavior; follow their lead for the best views and safe snorkeling spots.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Medano Beach’s quieter eastern coves for post-paddle swimming
- •Small fishing coves near the arc where local fishers land daily catches
Wildlife
California sea lion, Brown pelican
Conservation Note
The Gulf of California is a UNESCO-recognized area; operators emphasize reef-safe products, no-touch policies, and small-group tours to minimize impact.
Land’s End (El Arco) formed from volcanic rock uplifted by tectonic forces and sculpted over millennia by waves, becoming an iconic Cabo landmark.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm seas, Wildlife spotting, Comfortable temperatures
Challenges: Occasional windy days, Slightly cooler mornings
Spring (March–May) often offers the most stable paddling conditions and abundant marine life as waters warm after winter.
summer
Best for: Warm water snorkeling, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Higher temperatures, Occasional afternoon winds and storms, Crowded high season
Summer brings warm water and active reefs but can be windy and busier—choose early starts to avoid the crowds.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Nice water visibility, Comfortable air temps
Challenges: Hurricane season window (watch forecasts), Variable water conditions
Fall can be excellent for visibility and fewer tourists, but keep an eye on tropical storm forecasts during peak hurricane months.
winter
Best for: Milder temperatures, Potential whale sightings offshore
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Shorter daylight
Winter (Dec–Feb) is pleasant for paddling with cooler air; you may also glimpse whales farther offshore on some days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)Essential
Required for safety and typically provided by the outfitter; wear it on the water at all times.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects both your skin and sensitive marine habitats from harmful chemicals.
Lightweight Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and a little warmth when the breeze picks up.
Dry Bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, keys, and small valuables dry on the board.
Common Questions
Do I need prior paddleboarding experience to join?
No—most guided tours provide basic instruction and use stable boards suited for beginners, though a short warm-up and balance check is standard.
Are tours suitable for children?
Yes—many operators accept children around ages 8 and up, but policies vary so check age and weight limits when booking.
What happens if conditions are windy or rough?
Guides monitor conditions and may postpone, reroute, or switch to a sheltered cove or boat-based snorkeling if safety is a concern.
Will I see wildlife on the trip?
Common sightings include pelicans, sea lions, and schools of fish; larger encounters (manta rays, whales) are seasonal and not guaranteed.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—snorkel masks and fins are typically provided; bring your own if you prefer a personalized fit.
How far is the paddle to El Arco?
Distances vary by launch point but expect a short, manageable paddle from the marina area—usually under a mile each way with stops for photos and snorkeling.
What to Pack
Water bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry towel, waterproof camera — hydration, skin protection, drying off, and capturing memories are essential.
Did You Know
The Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their exceptional marine biodiversity.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots to avoid wind; bring cash for local vendors; confirm pick-up/parking details with your operator; wear water-friendly footwear.
Local Flavor
After your paddle, head to a waterfront palapa for fresh ceviche and a cold Pacifico, or try Edith’s for upscale Baja cuisine; finish with a local craft beer at a marina bar and watch the light fade over the arch.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) — ~45–60 minute drive to Cabo San Lucas; Launch point: Cabo San Lucas Marina; Cell service: good near town, spotty near the arch; Permits: none required for recreational SUP tours.
Sustainability Note
The Sea of Cortez is ecologically sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or marine life, and choose guides who practice low-impact shore approaches and pack-out policies.
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