Cabo SUP & Kayak Tours

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas is one of the most active, rewarding family adventures available in Cabo — and it's a completely different experience from seeing the Arch by motorboat. Under your own paddle power, you get to feel the ocean, hear the sea lions barking, and earn the views in a way that creates a deeper connection to the landscape.

Several operators run guided paddle tours from Medano Beach, but True Baja (formerly Pablo's Kayak and Snorkel) is the most established family-friendly choice. Their tours launch at sunrise when the bay is glassy calm — crucial for paddling with kids. The route follows the coastline from Medano Beach past Pelican Rock to Land's End and the Arch, with stops for snorkeling along the way.

Families typically paddle tandem kayaks — one adult and one child per boat. The guides provide basic instruction, keep the group together, and know exactly where to find the best marine life. At Pelican Rock, everyone stops for snorkeling in water that's often crystal-clear in the early morning.

Schools of tropical fish, sea urchins, and occasionally sea turtles or rays make this one of the best snorkeling spots accessible from Cabo.

Stand-up paddleboarding is available for older kids and teens who want a challenge. The early morning calm makes it manageable for beginners, though occasional wakes from passing boats add excitement. Falling in is half the fun for teenagers.

The full tour takes about 3-3.5 hours and covers roughly 2-3 miles of paddling. It's a genuine workout — not extreme, but kids and parents will feel it in their arms. The sense of accomplishment when you round Land's End and see the Arch from your own kayak is real, and kids light up.

Group tours run $70-90 per person with all equipment, guide, and snorkel gear included. Private tours for families of 1-6 cost $700-1,100 for the entire group, offering more flexibility on pace and route. Kids as young as 5 can participate in tandem kayaks. Minimum age for solo paddleboarding is typically 10-12 depending on the operator.

Book at least 1-2 days ahead, especially during peak season. And book the earliest time slot available — by mid-morning, the wind picks up and the paddle becomes significantly harder.