Cabo’s beautiful tropical location means there’s a lot of fun to be had in the water. Below, we discuss some of the most popular watersports in Cabo so you can find the best fit for you!
One of the main things which brings millions of tourists to Cabo each year is the town’s glorious tropical seaside location. Naturally, because of this, the most popular activities for tourists to take part in involve the ocean. There are a whole range of things to do on Cabo’s waters, from more sedate options such as cruising or whale watching, to more high octane sports such as surfing.
In this article we’ll be exploring some of the more active water sports you can take part in when visiting Cabo.
WaterSports Activities in Cabo San Lucas
- Surfing
- Stand-up Paddleboarding
- Kayaking and Canoeing
- Scuba Diving
- Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
Surfing
Despite being known for having strong undercurrents and being unsafe for swimmers, there are some spots on Cabo’s waterside that are great for surfers of varying levels. For those wanting to learn to surf, more gentle beginner-friendly waves can be found at Acapulquito Beach, located in San Jose Del Cabo. Here the waves are typically gentler, and with low risk from undercurrents.
For those who are more experienced, a great challenge can be found at the beaches of Barriles which boasts larger waves, and is best surfed in the early morning. Other popular beaches for both local and international surfers include Pastora and Los Cerritos, both located in San Todos.
Stand-up Paddleboarding
For those looking for a more relaxing yet still physical water sport activity, stand-up paddleboarding tours are available. This mode of marine transportation constitutes a whole-body workout, and while it requires balance and concentration to start with, can actually become quite meditative once you have the hang of things.
Paddleboarding is also a great way to explore Cabo’s many coastline attractions such as El Faro Viejo (the old lighthouse), and El Arco de Cabo San Lucas (also known as the ‘Arch at Lands End’).
Kayaking and Canoeing
While not always suited to swimming, Cabo’s waters are great for kayaking and canoeing, and there are many tours available. This watersport offers a less physical option than surfing and paddleboarding and is suitable to a wider age range, but will still give your arms and upper body a good workout!
Kayaking and canoeing is great for getting up close and personal in particular with El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, with tours regularly journeying up to and around the famous landmark.
Scuba Diving
Whilst not as physically active as some of the other entries on this list, scuba diving is perfect for adventurers as they get to explore Cabo’s underwater world and amazing marine life first hand. There are some great scuba tours available that can help make a bucket list dream for many come true.
You don’t even need to have any prior experience to take part, as a brief scuba diving course is given by a qualified and licensed professional before your dive, meaning you’re in safe and experienced hands at all times. Tours can be around 2-3 hours, come with all equipment provided, and many offer a light lunch and unlimited bar too!
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
While this can be hit or miss depending on the seasons wind levels, it is also possible to both windsurf and kitesurf in Cabo. There are locations where you can rent your board and equipment, and if the wind isn’t favorable in Cabo, many find that Barriles, just an hour up the coast, has far more reliable surfing weather.
Snorkeling
This watersport is great for all ages and abilities, and is great fun for families. There are a whole host of different tour options available in Cabo, so if you catch the snorkeling bug there’s always more tours to go on, and more places to explore!
Most commonly, tours will visit El Arco De Cabo San Lucas, as well as ‘The Pelican’s Rock’, so named because of the pelicans that have made their home there, and also the Santa Maria and Chileno bays, which are some of the safest waters for swimmers and makes a great option for kids.
Like the scuba diving tours, snorkeling tours will typically take two or three hours, and often will have lunch and an unlimited bar provided. There are also sunset tours available, allowing you to snorkel amidst the stunning backdrop of the setting sun.
Parasailing
Cabo even offers parasailing experiences for those hardcore adventurers! Prices for this activity are more affordable than you may think, and can be undertaken as a solo or a pair. Flying up to 600 ft in the air, there really is no better way to view all of Cabo’s beauty at once.
Tours tend to last for 10 minutes, and can include an optional dip into the water on request.
Cabo is Watersport Central
While in this article we have covered a whole host of different water sports activities you can take part in when visiting Cabo, this is by no means an exhaustive list. From Jet Ski tours to base jumping and everything in between, Cabo offers a water-based activity for everyone, no matter age or ability.
