Where do you snorkel with sea lions in La Paz?

At Los Islotes — a rocky islet at the northern tip of Isla Espíritu Santo, about 1.5 hours by boat from La Paz. A permanent colony of around 300 California sea lions lives on the rocks.

How much does the sea lion snorkel cost?

$80–110 USD per person as part of the standard Espíritu Santo day tour. Some operators run a dedicated sea-lion-only half-day for $70–90 USD.

Is it safe to snorkel with sea lions?

Yes, with a licensed operator. The young sea lions are curious and playful — they approach within arm's reach. The bulls stay on the rocks. Operators keep groups away from haul-out areas during pup season.

La Paz · Snorkel

Sea Lion Snorkel at Los Islotes — The 2026 Honest Guide

By Mr. Playas · Updated March 2026

Los Islotes is a guano-streaked rock pile rising out of the Sea of Cortez at the northern tip of Espíritu Santo. About 300 California sea lions live here year-round, and the young ones treat snorkelers as toys — circling, blowing bubbles, and nipping at fins in ways that make this one of the rare wildlife encounters where the animals are the curious ones.

Quick answer

How long is the actual sea lion time?

30–45 minutes in the water with them. The full tour day runs 7 hours including the boat ride, two additional snorkel stops, and a beach lunch. $80–110 USD all-in.

Pup Season Closure (Jun–Aug)

Los Islotes closes to in-water encounters from approximately June 1 through August 31 each year for pup-birthing season. Tours still circle the rocks by boat to watch from the surface, but no snorkeling is permitted. SEMARNAT enforces this — book tours outside that window if the in-water encounter is your goal.

Book a Sea Lion Snorkel Tour

Licensed La Paz operators with permits to Los Islotes. Includes the full Espíritu Santo day, gear, lunch, and guide.

Browse La Paz tours on Viator

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For the full island context see Isla Espíritu Santo, or the broader La Paz things to do guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

You need to be comfortable in open water with a mask, snorkel, and fins. The site is 5–8 meters deep with mild current. The boat stays close.

Are wetsuits provided?

Most reputable operators include a shorty wetsuit November through April. Water drops to 70°F in winter and a wetsuit makes the 45-minute snorkel pleasant rather than punishing.

Can I dive with the sea lions?

Yes — Cabo Pulmo and several La Paz dive operations run scuba trips to Los Islotes when it's open. Two-tank dive packages run $130–180 USD.