The popular resort area of Los Cabos, on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is an area of contrast, where the desert meets the ocean and where the Gulf of California meets the Pacific Ocean. Boat tours in Los Cabos provide opportunities to whale watch, snorkel or admire dramatic rock formations along the coast.

Depending on your preference, you can choose a relaxing day trip, admire the ocean depths in a clear boat, enjoy the sunset on the water, or join a more festive boat cruise.

You will find below all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most fun outdoor activities in Los Cabos.

What are the most popular boat tours in Los Cabos?

There are several different types of boat tours that are popular in Los Cabos.

Whale-watching boat tours from Los Cabos

From mid-November to late April, humpback and gray whales call the waters around Los Cabos home. During these months, you can book a whale-watching boat cruise in the company of your experienced marine guide. Apart from sightings of whales, you might also see dolphins, orcas and sea lions.

The well-known Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Pelican Rock and Neptune’s Finger are some of the more striking points of interest you may pass by on your tour.

Sailing cruises with snorkeling

Relax on board a luxurious yacht or sailboat on a private tour in Los Cabos or as part of a small group. After a leisurely cruise along the southern point of Baja, spend some time snorkeling among the region’s colorful fish near the Arch of Cabo San Lucas or Pelican Rock. Some boats are equipped with standup paddleboards (SUPS) and floating mats to enhance the water-based activity experience.

Sunset and dinner cruises

Whether you are looking to enjoy sunset cocktails, dinner or boat parties, you have several choices of sunset cruises from Los Cabos.

Small-group shared sunset cruises on board a yacht begin with passing the popular sightseeing landmarks before unfurling the sails. Enjoy a peaceful and romantic sunset, while sipping a glass of your favorite drink paired with delicious appetizers.

If you’d like to have dinner while on your boat, choose a sunset dinner cruise that includes sundowners and a buffet dinner, as well as an opportunity to dance as you sail back to the dock.

For an evening of scenic beauty and entertainment, a sunset pirate ship cruise will entertain you, as you learn about Cabo’s maritime history while sailing in the Sea of Cortez. You will enjoy a BBQ buffet and drinks from the well-appointed bar.

Private luxury cruises

A day aboard a private charter will allow you to experience the waters off Los Cabos in luxury and at your leisure. The crew will ensure that you have the opportunity to watch whales in season, snorkel in the azure waters of areas such as the Santa Maria or Chileno bays, and view the many striking landmarks along the coast.

Clear or glass-bottomed boat trips

Clear or glass-bottomed boats give you a window into the seas around Los Cabos. These boat trips are usually shorter than other boat trips and are perfect if you have a limited amount of time to experience the waters off Los Cabos. This type of boat trip will allow you to stay dry while you marvel at the region’s tropical fish, coral reefs and rock formations.

Guided jet ski and boat trips

For the more adventurous, you can sign up for a small group guided ski boat and jet ski excursion. You will be collected by a ski boat to start your excursion before transferring to a double jet ski trip and exploring the rocky coastline. Upon your return to shore, you will be able to enjoy a snack and cold drink.

How much do boat tours in Los Cabos cost?

The 2-hour whale-watching boat tours in Los Cabos start at around US$80 per person and usually include snacks and drinks. Some tours include a pickup from your hotel.

Small-group sailing tours with snorkeling are usually about 3-4 hours and start at US$100 per person, and the price includes park fees, lunch and drinks.

Sunset and dinner cruises vary in price and cost around US$60 per person with drinks and appetizers, or around US$120 per person for additional entertainment. Sunset cruises are between 1.5 and 2 hours long.

Private cruises plus a snorkeling tour cost US$420 per group of up to six people, with exclusive use of the boat for the duration of your tour. Cruises on a luxury sports yacht cost about US$1,120 per group of four people.

An hour of clear or glass-bottomed boat trip starts at US$20 per person, while a guided ski boat and Jet Ski excursion costs US$180 per two people.

Which places are visited with a boat tour in Los Cabos?

Lover’s Beach

Rated one of Mexico’s top five destinations for tourists, Los Cabos is known for its beautiful shoreline and beaches. Lover’s Beach, surrounded by dramatic rock formations, is one of the most well-known and popular for swimming, sunbathing and fun water activities.

Arch of Cabo San Lucas

The El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, or Arch of Cabo San Lucas, is one of the area’s most striking geological formations. Standing nearly three stories tall, the spot is frequented by sea lions. Forged by natural erosion, this arch stands at the very tip of the Baja California Peninsula and is the point where the Gulf of California and the Pacific Ocean meet.

Pelican Rock

Pelican Rock is a natural landmark in Los Cabos and is a prime snorkeling spot. The area is ideal for spotting many of the colorful tropical fish species in these waters.

Chileno Bay

One of the most frequented spots by snorkelers in the area is Chileno Bay. Here, you have a good chance of seeing tropical fish, sea turtles and sponges.

Neptune’s Finger

For both beginner and more experienced divers, Neptune’s Finger is a popular diving spot. Only accessible by boat, it marks a coral reef that is well populated with a variety of marine life.

How long does a boat trip in Los Cabos last?

Clear or glass-bottomed boat trips in Los Cabos are the shortest at one hour long. The average duration of whale watching and sunset boat trips is 2 hours, while sailing and snorkeling trips and private boat trips last 3.5 to 4 hours.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Most of the boat tours depart from one of the docks at the Cabo San Lucas marina. Some tours include collection from your hotel or offer a transfer to the dock at an additional cost. The dock is located a short walk from the city center and shopping district.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Los Cabos?

If you are hoping to whale watch, book your boat tour between mid-November and April. To make the most of the day, most tours will depart in the mornings, with the exception of the sunset tours, which usually leave port an hour before sunset.

Which other water activities can be done in Los Cabos?

Travel tips

Boat tours may be unsuitable if you are pregnant or have back problems.
Remember your motion sickness tablets if you are prone to sea sickness.
Bring your swimsuit and sunscreen if you are planning to snorkel.
Carry your valuables in a waterproof bag as a precaution.
Tell your tour operator if you have any mobility issues before your tour begins.
Waterproof housing for your camera is a great idea if you want to snorkel.

Boat Tours in Los Cabos