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    Beaches & Nature

    El Arco & Pelican Rock

    Iconic granite arch where Pacific meets Sea of Cortez, with sea lions and world-class snorkeling at Pelican Rock

    Price
    $10-20
    Duration
    1-3 hours
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Location
    Land's End, Cabo San Lucas

    About This Experience

    The iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco) is the rugged sea-stack at the tip of the peninsula where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez. This massive granite formation is millions of years old and a must-see Cabo landmark. Below the Arch is a small sea lion colony, and just offshore is Pelican Rock, a famed snorkeling spot where reefs teem with tropical fish and, in summer, mobula rays. Many boat tours combine stops at Lover's Beach and Pelican Rock after visiting El Arco.

    Highlights

    Cabo's most iconic landmark and photo opportunity
    Sea lion colony viewing (bring binoculars)
    Pelican Rock snorkeling with tropical fish
    Summer mobula ray sightings
    Glass-bottom boat options available

    What's Included

    Shared water taxi from Marina or Médano Beach
    Circle tour around the arch
    Optional Pelican Rock snorkel stop

    Best For

    PhotographySightseeingWildlife viewingSnorkeling
    Typical price
    $10-20
    per person, approximate
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    Location

    Land's End, Cabo San Lucas

    Beaches & Nature FAQs

    Which Cabo beaches are best for swimming?

    Médano Beach, Chileno Bay, and Santa María Bay are the safest for swimming with calm conditions. Most Pacific-facing beaches have dangerous currents and are not swimmable. Beach guide →

    Can I visit The Arch (El Arco) beach?

    Yes! Water taxis from Médano Beach take you to Lover's Beach near El Arco. You can't swim there due to strong currents, but it's perfect for photos and exploring the rock formations.

    Are there hiking trails in Cabo?

    Yes, the Sierra de la Laguna mountains offer jungle waterfalls and canyon hikes. Fox Canyon near Cabo has easy trails. Desert tours explore dramatic landscapes with giant cacti.

    Where can I see wildlife in Cabo?

    Sea lions at Land's End and Espíritu Santo Island, whales (December–April), sea turtles at Todos Santos, and desert wildlife on ATV/UTV tours. Birdwatching is excellent at the estuary.

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