Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco)

The basics

Because El Arco is a natural formation that’s accessible only by water, the only way to get close to it is by boat. A number of tours leaving from the Cabo San Lucas marina offer different ways to see the famous arch. Adventurous travelers can opt for a kayaking and snorkeling tour—or parasail over it! Those looking to relax with friends can sail by it on a catamaran or sailboat, or take an evening cruise that includes dinner and an open bar or pay-as-you-go drinks.

Things to know before you go

• Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco) tours combining a stop at El Arco with different activities—such as a snorkeling tour, a Cabo San Lucas shopping trip, whale watching, or a tequila tasting—are a great way to sample a variety of what the area has to offer.

• Chartering a private boat is another option for a view of the arch.

• A glass-bottom boat or kayak enables visitors to see the Sea of Cortez marine life in its natural habitat.

• A sunset cruise is a wonderful way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing on land.

How to get there

El Arco is at the tip of Land’s End, the spit of land running east of Downtown Cabo San Lucas and the marina. It's accessible only by boat, whether on a tour, independently, or via boat taxi.

When to get there

The tropical climate of Los Cabos makes El Arco delightful to explore year-round, but keep in mind that the area is at its busiest around winter (between November and April) and its rainiest in late summer.

Marine life around El Arco

Those interested in marine life will enjoy a scuba or snorkeling tour around El Arco. Glass-bottom kayak tours go past colonies of sea lions and plenty of tropical fish on the way to Pelican Rock and Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor). Larger glass-bottom boat tours offer more about the history of Los Cabos as passengers enjoy sweeping views of Pelican Rock, El Arco, and Land’s End—where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

Ways to explore

Because El Arco is a natural formation accessible offshore, and the only way to get close to it is by watercraft. Tours leaving the Cabo San Lucas marina offer different ways to see the famous arch. Adventurous travelers can opt for a kayaking and snorkeling tour or a glass-bottomed boat excursion. Those looking to relax with friends can sail by it on a catamaran or sailboat, or take an evening cruise that includes dinner and an open bar or pay-as-you-go drinks.

Accessibility

You can find boat tours to El Arco that are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water, camera

What to wear

Clothing to protect you from the sun, a hat

Not allowed

Swimming near the arch (as it is a protected natural reserve)

Address

The Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco) is located at the tip of Baja California, just offshore from Cabo San Lucas. You can visit the arch by boat from El Medano Beach or the Cabo San Lucas Marina.

Driving

Some boat tours to the Arch include pick-up from local hotels. If not, check if your hotel offers a shuttle service or can arrange a taxi to the marina.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to the Arch, but you can often find private water taxis on El Medano Beach that will take you there for a fee.

Best times to visit

You’ll likely have calmer seas if you visit the Arch in the morning hours. Sunset can also be a beautiful time of day for a cruise.

Best days to visit

You’ll have fewer crowds when visiting the Arch on Monday–Thursday. On Fridays and weekends, boat tours can crowd the waters around the Arch, making it difficult to get unobstructed views.

Best months to visit

Visiting from October through May will give you the best chance to experience calmer seas and avoid rain. If you visit the Arch from December through April, you will also have the opportunity to go whale watching nearby.