If you're looking for a Cabopino boat rental snorkeling tour, you've come to the right place. Cabopino, just 10 minutes east of Puerto Banús by boat, offers some of the clearest, calmest waters on the Costa del Sol for snorkeling. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned diver, the rocky coves and sandy shallows around Cabopino are teeming with marine life. In this guide, we'll cover the best snorkeling spots, which of our boats are ideal for a snorkel trip, and practical gear tips to make your day on the water unforgettable. All our charters depart from Puerto Banús and include skipper, fuel, drinks, snacks, insurance, and VAT — so you can focus on the fun.
Why Cabopino for Snorkeling?
Cabopino is a small, sheltered bay with a mix of sandy beach, rocky headlands, and a protected dune system. The water here is typically clearer than in Marbella's main beaches because there's less boat traffic and no river runoff. The seabed drops gently, making it safe for children and less confident swimmers. Visibility often reaches 10–15 metres in summer, and you'll spot bream, wrasse, octopus, and sometimes small rays. The nearby Cala del Faro and Cala Cortés are two of the best coves along this stretch of coast.
Best Snorkeling Spots Near Cabopino
- Cala del Faro – A rocky cove with a small lighthouse, about 1 nm east of Cabopino beach. The rocks attract lots of fish and crustaceans. Anchor in 4–6 metres of water and snorkel along the cliff edge.
- Cala Cortés – Slightly larger than Cala del Faro, with a mix of sand and rock. Shallow entry makes it ideal for beginners. Look for sea urchins, starfish, and small octopus hiding in crevices.
- Cabopino Sandbar – The sandbar that forms at the mouth of the Río Verde creates a shallow, calm lagoon. Perfect for families with young children; the water is rarely deeper than 2 metres.
- Punta de la Mona – A rocky point 2 nm east of Cabopino. Deeper water (8–12 metres) with larger fish and occasional moray eels. Best for experienced snorkelers.
Which Boat Should You Choose for a Snorkel Tour?
Your choice of boat depends on group size and desired comfort. For small groups (up to 5 pax), our Dubhe (8m) or Mariah SX21 (6.4m) are nimble and easy to anchor close to the rocks. For up to 6 pax, the Speedboat (7m) offers a classic open-bow experience. If you have up to 10 pax, the Fairline Targa 12m or Pershing 46 combine speed with a spacious cockpit and sunbathing areas. For larger parties (up to 11 pax), the Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39 (both €749 for 2 hours, €2,299 for 8 hours) include a flybridge, cabin, and full galley — ideal for a full-day excursion with lunch on board.
Snorkeling Gear Tips
- Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them — fit is everything. Our onboard gear is clean and functional but may not suit every face shape.
- Fins are useful for covering more ground in rocky areas but can be cumbersome on the beach. We provide them on request.
- Wetsuit or rash vest – In summer (June–September) water temps are 20–25°C; a thin rash vest is enough. In spring and autumn (15–20°C) a shorty 3mm wetsuit is recommended. We can supply wetsuits for an extra charge.
- Don't forget sunscreen – The Mediterranean sun reflects off the water, so use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after each snorkel.
- Underwater camera – A GoPro or waterproof phone case will capture the bream, wrasse, and maybe an octopus. The water clarity is best between 10am and 2pm.
Sample Itinerary for a 4-Hour Snorkeling Tour
Depart Puerto Banús at 10:00. Cruise east along the coast (10 minutes) to Cala del Faro. Anchor and snorkel for 45 minutes. Then move 5 minutes east to Cala Cortés for another 40-minute snorkel. At 12:00, head to Cabopino sandbar for a relaxed swim and lunch at Chiringuito Cabopino (or enjoy the snacks and drinks on board). Return to Puerto Banús by 14:00. This itinerary works perfectly on any of our boats under 12m length.
What's Included in Your Charter?
Every Cabopino boat rental snorkeling tour includes a licensed skipper, fuel, insurance, safety equipment, soft drinks, water, beer, white wine, cava, and light snacks. Spanish VAT (21%) is included in the price. Snorkeling masks, snorkels, and fins are provided free of charge. There are no hidden extras — just bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
Book Your Snorkeling Tour
Ready to explore the underwater world of Cabopino? Browse our full fleet and book your preferred boat via WhatsApp for the best availability. For small groups, we recommend the Dubhe or Speedboat; for larger parties, the Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39 offer unbeatable value. We look forward to welcoming you on board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own snorkeling gear for a Cabopino boat rental snorkeling tour?
We provide basic masks, snorkels, and fins onboard at no extra cost. However, for the best fit and comfort, we recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel if you have them. Our gear is cleaned and sanitised between charters.
Which boats from your fleet are best for a snorkeling trip from Cabopino?
For small groups (5–6 pax), the Dubhe (8m) or Mariah SX21 (6.4m) are nimble and easy to anchor near coves. For up to 10 pax, the Fairline Targa 12m or Pershing 46 offer speed and comfort. Larger yachts like the Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39 (11 pax) include a flybridge and plenty of deck space.
What are the best snorkeling spots near Cabopino?
Cala del Faro (just east of Cabopino beach) has rocky outcrops with abundant marine life. Cala Cortés offers clear, shallow water ideal for beginners. The sandbar at Cabopino itself is calm and sheltered, perfect for a relaxed snorkel and paddle.
Can we combine a snorkeling tour with a beach club or lunch stop?
Absolutely. Many guests anchor at Cabopino beach for a swim and then head to a nearby chiringuito (beach bar) like Chiringuito Cabopino or La Pesquera for fresh seafood. Your skipper can recommend the best spots and arrange the timing.
What is the water temperature like for snorkeling in Marbella?
In summer (June–September) the sea temperature ranges from 20°C to 25°C, so a thin wetsuit or rash vest is optional. In spring and autumn (15–20°C) a shorty wetsuit is advisable. We can provide wetsuits on request for an extra fee.
How long does it take to reach Cabopino from Puerto Banús by boat?
It takes about 10–15 minutes by powerboat or 20–25 minutes on a sailing catamaran like the Lagoon 380. The short distance means you can spend more time snorkeling and less time travelling.
Are children allowed on snorkeling tours?
Yes, children are welcome on all our boats. Life jackets and children's sizes of masks and snorkels are available. We recommend the calm waters of Cabopino sandbar for young swimmers.
What is included in the price of a Cabopino boat rental snorkeling tour?
Every charter includes a licensed skipper, fuel, insurance, safety equipment, soft drinks, water, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, and Spanish VAT (21%). Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge. There are no hidden costs.