Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo (Playa Arbolitos) · 멕시코 바하칼리포르니아수르, 코르테스해
Location
Overview
Cabo Pulmo National Park sits on the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) in Baja California Sur, Mexico, and protects the only living hard-coral reef in the gulf — one of the oldest reefs in the eastern Pacific at roughly 20,000 years. Since it became a no-take marine reserve in 1995, fish biomass has rebounded dramatically, making it a celebrated conservation success and part of the UNESCO-listed 'Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California.' About 5 km south of the village, Playa Arbolitos is the go-to beach-entry snorkel spot: the reef begins just a few meters offshore, so you can slip in from the sand to see sea turtles, rays and clouds of tropical fish over the coral. Visibility is typically 10–20 m and is at its best from summer into fall (July–November), when the water is warmest.
True beach-entry snorkeling — the reef starts a few meters off the sand, no boat required
Sea turtles, stingrays and abundant colorful reef fish in shallow, snorkeler-friendly water
A living hard-coral reef, the only one in the Sea of Cortez and around 20,000 years old
La Sirena, a rewarding spot a short swim south along the shoreline
Boat-access highlights nearby: the swirling 'tornado' of jacks and the sea lion colony (seasonally restricted)
Good to know
SafetyCurrents can become very strong the farther you drift from shore at Arbolitos. Beginners should stay in the shallow water near the reef, never snorkel alone, and tow a float or safety buoy.
SafetyWind and tide can create surface currents and offshore pull. If you tire, swim parallel to the beach to exit the current rather than fighting straight back against it.
SafetyContact with sea urchins or fire coral can cause cuts and stings. Keep hands and fins off coral and rock, defog your mask and check gear in the shallows first to avoid panic, and watch for chill on long swims.
RulesInside the national marine park it is illegal to touch, stand on or collect coral and marine life. Snorkel and dive sites reached by boat require a licensed guide.
RulesOnly biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen is permitted. Products with oxybenzone or octinoxate are banned — use mineral (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) sunscreen or a rash guard instead.
MannersKeep your distance from sea turtles, sea lions and other wildlife; never touch or feed them. Don't stand on the coral or kick it with your fins.
SeasonDuring sea lion breeding and mating season (June 1 – August 31), swimming near the colony is closed. In winter (Jan–Apr) the water can drop to the low-70s °F (around 23 °C) with somewhat reduced visibility.
Practical info
Cabo Pulmo is about a 2-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas, east of San José del Cabo, with a dirt road running down to Playa Arbolitos. The beach charges a small daily-use fee (around 50 pesos) and has set opening hours; the prime window is August–November for warm water and clear visibility. Confirm current fees, hours, tour/guide requirements and any sea lion season closures with a local dive shop or park notice before you go.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
