Pelican Rock is one of Cabo San Lucas’ most famous dive sites, offering an underwater adventure just minutes from the marina. Located within the Cabo San Lucas Marine Reserve, this spot is known for its rich marine life, vibrant coral, and clear blue waters. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner looking to snorkel, Pelican Rock provides an exciting, easy-to-reach spot for anyone eager to explore the underwater world of the Sea of Cortez. Plus, the iconic rock formation above water adds a scenic touch to your visit.
Practical Information
Location: Cabo San Lucas Marine Reserve, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Access: Easily accessible by boat from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach.
Depth: The dive site ranges from 20 to 70 feet deep, making it great for beginners and more experienced divers.
Water Conditions: Calm, with good visibility most of the year, typically ranging from 30 to 100 feet.
Marine Life: Expect to see everything from colorful tropical fish to larger sea creatures like rays and eels.
No special permits are required for diving or snorkeling here, but you’ll need to book with a tour operator or rent equipment from a dive shop.
Attractions
Pelican Rock is packed with underwater wonders that make it a must-visit for divers and snorkelers. Here are some of the highlights:
- Abundant Marine Life: The area is teeming with tropical fish, including angelfish, pufferfish, and moray eels. You might even spot sea turtles and rays gliding through the water.
- Coral Formations: Pelican Rock has colorful coral reefs that are home to countless species of marine life, making it a photographer’s paradise.
- The Sand Falls: One of Cabo’s unique underwater attractions, the Sand Falls is an underwater waterfall created by cascading sand—definitely worth a dive!
- Clear Waters: The visibility is excellent, often allowing you to see the rich marine life from the surface even if you’re just snorkeling.
Activities
Whether you’re looking for a full-on dive or just a snorkeling adventure, Pelican Rock has you covered.
- Scuba Diving: This is a top spot for scuba divers, with easy access and plenty to explore underwater. Dive operators in Cabo offer guided tours, and it’s an ideal place to spot marine life up close.
- Snorkeling: Don’t dive? No worries! Snorkeling at Pelican Rock is also fantastic. You can swim through schools of fish and admire the coral just below the surface.
- Underwater Photography: With crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life, this is a perfect spot to practice underwater photography.
- Swimming: While snorkeling and diving are the main draws, the calm waters make Pelican Rock a great place for a casual swim.
- Boat Tours: If you prefer to stay dry, you can always take a boat tour that passes by Pelican Rock, with some even offering glass-bottom boats so you can see the marine life below.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pelican Rock for diving or snorkeling is between November and May when the water is clearest and the weather is mild. During these months, water temperatures are comfortable, ranging between 70-75°F, making it perfect for underwater activities.
If you’re a fan of big marine life like whales, visit between December and March—you might even see humpbacks breaching nearby on the surface!
Getting There
Pelican Rock is super easy to get to, thanks to its proximity to Cabo San Lucas.
- By Boat: The most popular way to reach Pelican Rock is via boat from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach. Water taxis, dive boats, and snorkel tours frequently stop at this dive site.
- Kayak or Paddleboard: For the more adventurous, renting a kayak or paddleboard from Medano Beach is another option. It’s a short paddle to Pelican Rock, and you’ll get some great views along the way.
- Private Tours: If you prefer something more exclusive, many private boat tours can be arranged for a custom experience.
Nearby Attractions
Pelican Rock is just one stop in a region full of natural beauty and exciting spots to explore.
- El Arco (The Arch): Just a short boat ride away from Pelican Rock, this famous rock formation is a must-see while you’re in Cabo. Many tours combine a stop at El Arco with a dive or snorkel at Pelican Rock.
- Lover’s Beach & Divorce Beach: Right around the corner, these two iconic beaches offer beautiful views and a chance to relax after your dive or snorkeling session.
- Neptune’s Finger: Another popular dive site nearby, known for its towering rock formations and abundance of marine life.
- Marina Cabo San Lucas: Before or after your trip to Pelican Rock, spend some time at the lively marina. It’s full of restaurants, shops, and bars, perfect for a post-dive meal or a drink.
Conclusion
Pelican Rock is a must-visit for anyone heading to Cabo San Lucas, especially if you love diving or snorkeling. The underwater world here is vibrant and full of life, making it the perfect spot for both beginner and seasoned divers alike. With easy access, clear waters, and a chance to see some of Cabo’s most famous landmarks nearby, Pelican Rock delivers an unforgettable experience. Pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to dive into one of Cabo’s top underwater destinations!
