Two Bays, One Boat: Snorkeling the Reefs of Chileno and Santa Maria
Two bays, one quick and marine-rich morning — the simplest way to meet Cabo’s reefs.
The boat eases away from the pier with the quiet authority of something that’s done this run a thousand times. A sun deck stretches above, a strip of generous shade underneath — enough room for fifteen people to spread out, secure their masks and watch Cabo’s shoreline slide into a tidy horizon. In minutes the town is a sugar-smeared memory and the Sea of Cortez opens wide, a sheet of green-blue that seems to dare you to get closer. This is Two Bays Snorkel Adventures: three hours that compress the best snorkeling in the Cabo San Lucas area into an efficient, sensory-rich morning on the water.
Trail Wisdom
Go Early
Morning departures usually yield the calmest water and best visibility—aim for first light or the first trip of the day.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you hit the water to protect corals and reduce skin irritation under your wetsuit or rash guard.
Secure Loose Items
Bring a dry bag or use the boat’s dry storage—phones, cameras and hats can go missing in a tumble; tether cameras when possible.
Float Don’t Chase
Let marine life approach you; avoid touching coral or chasing fish to keep both you and the reef safe.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Snorkel near the shallows at Chileno’s shoreline for juvenile fish sightings
- •Walk the rim paths above Santa Maria for dramatic sunset silhouettes and quieter viewpoints
Wildlife
Parrotfish, Moray eel
Conservation Note
Operators in the area emphasize reef-friendly practices—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and follow crew briefings to minimize impact.
Cabo San Lucas grew from a fishing village into an international port town; its reefs have long been a lifeline for local fisheries and, increasingly, for tourism.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calmer seas, Good visibility, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Occasional spring winds, Cooler mornings, Variable currents
Spring offers mild temperatures and improving water clarity—ideal for comfortable snorkel sessions but bring a light wetsuit for cool mornings.
summer
Best for: Warmest water, Best tropical fish activity, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Higher sun exposure, Occasional tropical swells, Crowds in peak vacation weeks
Summer provides the warmest, most comfortable water for snorkeling and vibrant fish activity—use strong sun protection and plan early departures.
fall
Best for: Warm water carryover, Fewer tourists, Calm afternoons
Challenges: Potential for tropical weather late in season, Variable visibility after storms
Fall can be a sweet spot with warm seas and smaller crowds, but watch local forecasts during hurricane season windows.
winter
Best for: Clear air and scenic shorelines, Whale-watching season in region, Cool, crisp conditions
Challenges: Colder water temps, Occasional choppy conditions from winter swells
Winter brings whale season and crisp skies; water is cooler so a wetsuit rental is recommended for extended snorkeling.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Full-foot fins or neoprene bootiesEssential
Helps with propulsion and protects feet on rocky shore entries.
Rash guard or 2mm wetsuit
Keeps you warm on cooler mornings and protects against sun and chafing.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while preventing coral-damaging chemicals from entering the water.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures underwater life; tether it to your body to avoid losses.
Common Questions
Where does the tour depart?
Departures are from the operator’s store in Cabo San Lucas—after booking you’ll receive an email with meeting location maps and times.
Is snorkel gear included?
Yes—mask, snorkel and fins are provided; wetsuit rental is available on request for an additional fee.
How long is the trip and how many bays are visited?
The trip is three hours and visits two snorkeling sites: Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Bay, with roughly 25 minutes by boat between stops.
Is this trip good for kids?
Yes—children ages 5 and up are accepted, and groups are kept small; parents should ensure kids are comfortable in the water and supervised at all times.
What should I wear and bring?
Bring a swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a hat, and a waterproof bag for valuables. A light wetsuit can help in cooler months.
Are there environmental rules I should follow?
Yes—avoid touching coral or marine life, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow crew instructions to prevent anchoring on reefs or disturbing habitat.
What to Pack
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for comfort; reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral; water bottle to stay hydrated; waterproof phone case or camera to record reef life.
Did You Know
Marine explorer Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez 'the world’s aquarium' for its extraordinary biodiversity — a phrase often used to describe the waters off Cabo.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures for calmer seas; bring cash for small tips and rentals; confirm meeting point in your booking email; avoid glass containers on board.
Local Flavor
After snorkeling, head back into Cabo San Lucas for fresh seafood tostadas at a beachside palapa or a cold craft beer at a local taproom; iconic spots along Medano Beach offer shade, salty air and views of the marina.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) — about 45 minutes drive; Departure: operator store in Cabo San Lucas (email maps provided); Cell service: generally good near town, spotty at remote coves; Permits: none required for recreational snorkeling.
Sustainability Note
This area’s reefs are sensitive — use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and pack out trash; choose operators who follow low-impact anchoring and educational briefings.
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