Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Cabo San Lucas Kayak Tour and Pelican Rock Snorkeling from Medano Beach

Paddle from Medano Beach through Cabo San Lucas Bay to Pelican Rock for a guided snorkel, stops at the Arch and Lovers Beach, and a chance to see sea lions. This easy, ~1.75-hour outing pairs calm bay paddling with shallow reef snorkeling—great for first-time kayakers and snorkelers.

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur•

1.5–2 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

Morning light slices across Cabo San Lucas Bay as participants push off from Medano Beach, fiberglass kayaks cutting through glassy water toward a skyline of granite fins and the famous Arch. The route threads past Lovers Beach and a noisy sea lion colony before stopping at Pelican Rock, where a shallow reef invites a brief snorkel among tropical fish.

Before You Go

Morning departures are calmer

Choose the 7am or 8am departure for flatter water and cooler temperatures, which makes both paddling and snorkeling easier.

Wear water shoes

Sand and rock at the launch can be sharp; light water shoes protect feet during entry and exit.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Apply biodegradable sunscreen before launch to protect coral and marine life while reducing reapplication hassle on the water.

Secure belongings

Bring a small dry bag or leave valuables on shore—phones and wallets don’t mix well with surf.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Paddle a short distance behind Pelican Rock where shallow tide pools reveal small reef fish at low tide
•Quiet shade behind the dune line near the Me Hotel is a good spot for a post-tour rest and local snacks

Wildlife

•California sea lions
•parrotfish and sergeant major tropical fish

Conservation Note

Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral or disturbing marine life; operators often follow guidelines to minimize anchoring on reefs and reduce plastic use.

Cabo grew from a small fishing village and waystation into a tourist destination; the granite formations are remnants of geological uplift and coastal erosion shaping the peninsula.

What to Bring

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Water shoesEssential

Protects feet on rocky launches and provides traction on wet surfaces.

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Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Reduces UV exposure and protects local marine ecosystems.

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Quick-dry towel

Useful for drying off after the snorkel and for warmth on breezy mornings.

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Light dry bag

Keeps small items and a spare shirt dry on the kayak.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and where do we launch?

The outing lasts about 105 minutes and launches from Medano Beach in front of the Me Hotel, with departures typically at 7am, 8am, and 9am.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes—guides supply masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets as part of the tour.

Who should avoid this tour?

Not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions; check with the operator if you have health concerns.

What happens in choppy conditions?

Operators monitor sea conditions; if winds or swell make the route unsafe they may reschedule or advise on alternative times—confirm cancellation rules when booking.