Snorkel Santa Maria & Chileno Bay: 2-Bay Adventure from Cabo San Lucas
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable swimming ability for short surface swims; suitable for families but those with limited mobility should notify operator.
Overview
Two of the Sea of Cortez’s clearest coves—Santa Maria and Chileno Bay—are reachable in a single half-day trip from Cabo San Lucas. Expect calm water snorkeling, dramatic rock walls, and close encounters with tropical reef species.
Snorkel Santa Maria & Chileno Bay: 2-Bay Adventure from Cabo San Lucas
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You step onto the boat with salt on your lips and the Pacific side of the Baja shrinking behind you. The captain slides the bow out of the marina and the Sea of Cortez opens—an expanse that seems to hold light itself. As the boat carves across the corridor, Land’s End and its battered arch keep pace to starboard, then fall away as the cove mouths of Santa Maria and Chileno Bay come into view: two cupped smiles of sand, rock, and impossibly clear water.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable SPF 30+ before arrival and reapply with a towel-dry method to protect coral and fish habitat.
Fit your mask ashore
Have guides test your mask and snorkel on land to avoid leaks and fog while in the water.
Bring a waterproof camera or case
Visibility is excellent—protect your phone or bring an underwater camera to capture fish, boulders and reef textures.
Watch cruise timing and dock rules
If you arrive on a cruise, plan for earlier check-in to make Dock 1 departures; late arrival risks missing the boat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Porcupinefish
- Green sea turtle
History
The Sea of Cortez has long supported fishing communities; the bays were traditional coves for small-scale fishers before tourism reshaped the corridor.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize reef-safe practices and no-touch policies; supporting companies that follow mooring and waste rules helps protect these reefs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cabo San Lucas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkel mask and fins (if you prefer personal gear)
Personal gear often fits better than rental equipment and improves comfort in the water.
Biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Protects skin from sun and reefs from harmful chemicals.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Captures underwater life and shoreline vistas without risking devices.
Light rashguard or sunshirt
Adds sun protection and warmth during breezy crossings.