Is snorkeling suitable for children?

Yes, with proper supervision and basic swimming skills, children can enjoy this activity.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?

No experience is necessary; guides provide all necessary instruction and gear.

What should I bring on the tour?

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and water; everything else is provided.

Are tours weather-dependent?

Yes, tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to inclement weather or rough seas.

How deep are the snorkeling spots?

Most areas are shallow, ranging from 2 to 10 feet deep, ideal for beginner to intermediate snorkelers.

Is there parking available?

Yes, ample parking is available near the meeting locations for your convenience.

Snorkeling in Monterey Bay with Aquarius Dive Shop | Snorkel | Guided Tour

Adventure Brief

Dive into Monterey Bay’s kelp forests with Aquarius Dive Shop's guided snorkeling tours. Perfect for all levels, this adventure reveals the rich marine life thriving beneath California’s coastal waters. Discover why this sunset tour is a must-see for ocean lovers seeking an up-close marine experience.

2–3 hours

easy

From $159.00

Monterey Bay, along California’s rugged coast, offers some of the most accessible and vibrant underwater environments in the country. Known for its kelp forests that sway like underwater jungles, this area provides a mesmerizing backdrop for snorkeling adventures. Aquarius Dive Shop, based right in Monterey, is a standout operator that invites both beginners and seasoned snorkelers to immerse themselves in this dynamic ecosystem. Led by certified guides, their snorkeling tours bring participants face-to-face with the kelp canopy, where swaying fronds hide colorful fish, playful sea otters, and curious seals. The vehicles for adventure are straightforward—and surprisingly accessible—making this a perfect activity for those eager to get beneath the surface without diving gear.

The guided tours typically take place in shallow, protected parts of Monterey Bay, offering safe yet immersive encounters. The kelp forests here transcend their serene appearance, functioning as critical habitat for a multitude of marine species. Your guide will point out the array of wildlife—from the quicksilver flash of juvenile fish to the gentle glide of rays—fostering a deeper appreciation of the bay's ecological significance. The area’s history as a hub for fishing and conservation underscores its importance in marine research and sustainable tourism.

Aquarius Dive Shop’s tours are designed to be approachable for all levels, with gear included and detailed instruction provided. The overall experience offers a hands-on introduction to California’s marine biodiversity, perfect for family outings or individual explorations. It’s not just an activity but a way to witness Monterey’s underwater world up close, leaving visitors with fresh stories and a new perspective on oceanic beauty.

Using this tour as a springboard, visitors can further appreciate Monterey’s coastal charm, making it an ideal base for additional adventures and wildlife encounters along the California coast.

About Aquarius Dive Shop

Aquarius Dive Shop is a Monterey Bay-based dive outfitter specializing in guided shore dives, snorkel tours, equipment rentals, and certification support. Located near iconic dive sites and kelp forests, Aquarius Dive Shop offers experiences for beginners, certified divers, and families. Certified divemasters and PADI professionals lead guided Two Dive and One Dive shore tours, Private Point Lobos dives, night dives, and Discover Scuba sessions that include equipment rental and hands-on instruction. Many programs accept participants ages 10 and up with a simple medical questionnaire where required.

The shop provides single-day snorkel and scuba rental packages for flexible surface or dive plans, plus specialty courses such as Boat Diver and Peak Performance Buoyancy. Private Open Water checkout dives and personalized refresher sessions help returning or newly certified divers regain confidence before exploring Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary sites. Small-group formatting and experienced professional supervision prioritize safety, local site knowledge, and marine stewardship.

Booking is organized around clear, timed sessions so guests can plan shore or boat departures efficiently. Equipment is maintained and fitted by trained staff to ensure comfort and function. Whether seeking an introductory Discover Scuba experience or a technical buoyancy clinic, Aquarius Dive Shop combines regional expertise with a focus on safe, memorable underwater encounters. The business emphasizes environmentally respectful practices around kelp habitats and rocky reefs, creating lasting experiences that highlight Monterey’s diverse marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes. Advance reservations are recommended during peak season to secure preferred dates and specialized instructor availability and gear sizes too.