Everyone knows Cabo’s famous Arch, but most first-time visitors have no idea how much sits within a 20-minute cruise of the marina. Here’s the route a typical private charter takes and why a full day on the water is one of the best ways to see Los Cabos.
Leaving the Marina: The Land’s End Show
Within minutes of leaving the dock, you’re cruising past the granite formations of Land’s End—the dramatic tip of the Baja Peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
Your captain will slow down for the highlights:
El Arco—the Arch
Cabo’s defining landmark. The water is the only place to see it properly, and your crew knows exactly where to position the yacht for the best view and photographs.
Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach
This narrow stretch of sand has two very different sides: the calm Sea of Cortez side, known as Lover’s Beach, and the rough Pacific side, known as Divorce Beach. The beaches are accessible only by boat.
The Sea Lion Colony
A lively group of sea lions regularly lounges on the rocks at Land’s End. They’re loud, entertaining and usually a favorite with children.
Pelican Rock
One of the closest snorkeling locations to the marina, Pelican Rock has tropical fish living just beneath the surface and is a convenient stop for shorter charters.
Cruising the Corridor: The Best Bays in Los Cabos
With a half-day or full-day yacht charter, you can continue along the coastline toward San José del Cabo. This stretch, known as the Tourist Corridor, is home to some of the area’s best swimming and snorkeling locations.
Santa Maria Bay
Santa Maria is a horseshoe-shaped cove and protected marine sanctuary. Its calm, clear water is home to sergeant majors, angelfish, rays and other marine life. It is widely considered one of the best snorkeling locations in Los Cabos.
Chileno Bay
Chileno is another protected reef area with excellent visibility. It is often slightly quieter than Santa Maria and is a popular place to swim, snorkel and relax at anchor.
Palmilla
Palmilla offers a calm, scenic anchorage in front of one of the region’s most attractive beaches. It is an ideal location for a swim stop followed by lunch on board.
The Difference a Private Yacht Makes
Large shared catamarans generally visit the Arch before following a fixed route and schedule. On a private charter, the itinerary and pace can be shaped around your group.
- Anchor and swim for as long as your group wants.
- Have the crew prepare paddleboards and snorkeling equipment in the calmer bays.
- Enjoy lunch on deck while anchored instead of following a group dining schedule.
- During whale season, pause to watch when whales surface nearby.
A Typical Full-Day Cabo Yacht Charter Itinerary
- Depart the marina and stop for photographs at the Arch and Land’s End.
- Visit the sea lion colony and cruise past Lover’s Beach.
- Continue along the Corridor to Santa Maria Bay or Chileno Bay.
- Snorkel, swim or paddleboard while the crew prepares lunch on board.
- Enjoy a relaxed cruise back along the coastline.
- Optionally time the return to pass the Arch again during golden hour.
Plan Your Day on the Water
Whether you’re planning a two-hour sunset cruise or a full day exploring the Corridor’s bays, the route can be built around your group. Tell the crew what you want from the day and they’ll help plan the right experience.
