Cabopino is one of the Costa del Sol's best-kept secrets for snorkelling, with clear waters, rocky reefs, and sandy coves just 15 minutes by boat from Puerto Banús. This guide provides a practical map of the top Cabopino snorkeling spots, boat recommendations from our fleet, and everything you need to plan a day on the water in 2026. Whether you're a beginner or experienced snorkeller, we cover the key locations, depths, and marine life you can expect.
Why Cabopino for Snorkeling?
Cabopino's coastline is part of a protected natural area, which means minimal development and excellent water quality. The seabed is a mix of sandy patches and Posidonia seagrass meadows, home to sea bream, damselfish, and the occasional octopus. The water clarity averages 10–15m in summer, making it ideal for spotting marine life from the surface. Unlike crowded beaches near Marbella, Cabopino's coves are quieter and offer a more intimate snorkelling experience.
Map of Cabopino Snorkeling Spots
Our laminated onboard chart marks the following spots, all reachable within a 20-minute cruise from Puerto Banús. The map includes depth markers, buoy locations, and entry points for each cove.
- Cala del Faro – Sandy bottom, 2–5m deep, calm waters. Best for beginners. Coordinates: 36.4842° N, -4.7553° W.
- Cala Cortés – Rocky reefs, 3–8m deep. Look for ornate wrasse and cuttlefish. Coordinates: 36.4795° N, -4.7489° W.
- Punta Calaburras – Deeper spot, 10–15m. Occasional rays and small groupers. Coordinates: 36.4760° N, -4.7400° W.
- Playa de Cabopino – Sandy beach with gentle slope, 1–4m deep. Good for families. Coordinates: 36.4830° N, -4.7600° W.
All spots are sheltered from prevailing westerly winds, but check conditions before anchoring. Our skipper will advise on the best choice based on the day's swell and wind.
Best Boats for Snorkeling Trips
For a quick snorkel session, our Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39 (Tier A) are ideal. They're nimble, easy to anchor, and include all gear. The 2-hour charter costs €749 and covers fuel, skipper, drinks, snacks, and snorkel equipment. For a longer day, the 8-hour option (€2,299) lets you explore multiple coves and stop for lunch at a beach club. If you want extra fun, the Mangusta 80 (€4,719 for 4 hours) comes with a free jet ski to zip between spots.
All charters include a licensed skipper who knows the local waters, so you don't have to worry about navigation or anchoring. Just bring your sunscreen and towel. Browse our full fleet to see all options.
What to Expect: Marine Life and Conditions
The waters around Cabopino are part of a marine protected area, so fishing is restricted, and biodiversity thrives. You'll commonly see salema, damselfish, ornate wrasse, and sea bream. In deeper areas like Punta Calaburras, keep an eye out for stingrays resting on the sandy bottom or cuttlefish camouflaged among rocks. The water temperature ranges from 18°C in May to 26°C in August. We recommend a 3mm wetsuit in spring and autumn for comfort.
Visibility is best from June to September, when the water is calm and clear. Avoid days with strong easterly winds (levante), which can stir up sediment. Our skipper will check the forecast before departure.
Planning Your Snorkeling Day: Tips and Logistics
- Departure time: We offer daily slots at 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00. The 10:00 slot is best for calm morning waters.
- What to bring: Sunscreen (reef-safe), towel, hat, and a change of clothes. We provide towels on request.
- Snorkeling gear: Masks, snorkels, and fins are included. Wetsuits available for €15/person.
- Lunch options: For longer charters, we can arrange a stop at Chiringuito Cabopino or anchor near the beach for a picnic.
- Booking: Reserve at least 48 hours in advance, especially in July and August. Contact us via WhatsApp or our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Cabopino snorkeling spots to reach by boat from Marbella?
Top spots include Cala del Faro (sandy bottom, calm waters), Cala Cortés (rocky reefs with sea bream and octopus), and Punta Calaburras (deeper waters, occasional rays). All are within a 20-minute cruise from Puerto Banús.
Do I need a snorkeling map for Cabopino?
A map helps identify entry points and hazards. We provide a laminated chart onboard with depth markers, buoys, and recommended snorkel zones. The seabed is mostly sandy with patches of Posidonia seagrass.
What marine life can I see while snorkeling in Cabopino?
Expect salema, damselfish, ornate wrasse, and the occasional cuttlefish. In deeper spots like Punta Calaburras, you might spot stingrays or small groupers. The area is a protected marine zone, so biodiversity is high.
How deep are the snorkeling spots near Cabopino?
Cala del Faro is 2–5m deep, ideal for beginners. Cala Cortés ranges 3–8m. Punta Calaburras reaches 10–15m. All are safe with calm conditions, but we recommend wearing a wetsuit in spring/autumn.
Can I rent a boat just for snorkeling in Cabopino?
Yes. Our Tier A boats (Astondoa 40, Azimut 39) start at €749 for 2 hours, perfect for a quick snorkel trip. For longer stays, the 8-hour charter (€2,299) includes lunch at a beach club.
Is snorkeling gear included in the boat rental?
Yes, we provide masks, snorkels, and fins on request at no extra cost. Wetsuits are available for an additional €15 per person. Just let us know when booking.
What is the best time of year for snorkeling in Cabopino?
June to September offers the warmest water (22–26°C) and best visibility (10–20m). May and October are cooler but still good, with fewer crowds. Avoid windy days in winter.
How do I book a boat for Cabopino snorkeling?
Book via WhatsApp or our website. We recommend reserving 48 hours in advance, especially in summer. All charters depart from Puerto Banús. Contact us for availability.
Last updated: March 2026. Prices and availability subject to change. All charters include 21% IVA.