Jet ski time in Cabo’s landmark bay is thrilling. You’ll run powerful Yamaha jet skis (2020–2022) from El Medano Beach, close to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, with coastal views and real odds of spotting marine life, including humpback whales in winter months.

I like that it’s a tight, one-hour adventure with a small cap on activity size, and you ride in a setup built for either one rider or two riders per ski. The small group limit (max 30 travelers) also means you’re less likely to feel like you’re waiting around in a crowd.

The tradeoff to think about: cameras aren’t accepted, and there’s extra cost for insurance per person, plus transportation to the beach isn’t included. If you want photos, plan for add-on pricing.

Key Things To Know

• Yamaha 2020–2022 jet skis built for speed and control along Medano Bay
• About 60 minutes on the water, with one or two people per ski
• El Arco de Cabo San Lucas and Medano Beach are the main ride targets
• Wildlife possible, including humpbacks during winter months
• Cameras are not allowed, so you may rely on photo options later
• Max 300 lb weight limit and kid age rules (10+ with adult; passenger 16+)

Where You Ride: El Medano Beach and the El Arco Route

This is a Cabo San Lucas jet ski ride centered on El Medano Beach, the busy, well-known beach area where the action is easy to find. The meeting and ending point stays the same, so you’re not stuck figuring out multiple drop-offs after you get wet and happy.

The route is geared toward the classic Cabo sight: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. In practice, that matters because you’re not just tooling around in open water. You’re riding with a clear visual goal—then finishing back near the Medano area.

Also, it’s offered in English, which helps if you’re trying to understand safety rules and how to handle the jet ski without guessing.

The Jet Ski Experience: Yamaha 2020–2022, Timing, and Safety Rules

You’ll be renting a Wave Runner (jet ski) and getting life jackets plus guide support. Expect the whole ride to last about 1 hour. That duration is a sweet spot for most people: long enough to get a real feel for power and turns, short enough that you’re not spending your whole day in “tour mode.”

The jet skis are Yamaha models from 2020–2022, and the activity is set for one or two people per motorcycle setup. The rules also have a few important limits you should respect before you book:

• Max weight: 300 lb per jet ski (as stated for the activity)
• Cameras are not accepted because of the fall risk into the water
• Children over 10 can participate with an adult
• Children over 16 can ride the double setup with an adult

None of these are deal-breakers, but they do change who this is best for. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to line up the age rules ahead of time so you don’t lose money or time at the beach.

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas from the Water

The first big highlight is the ride toward El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. Seeing it from the water is the whole point of this stop. From shore it’s impressive, but from a moving jet ski you get constant angles as the rock formation shifts around you.

This part of the experience is also where you’ll feel the “adrenaline” side most. You’re riding across the bay, adjusting speed and direction while keeping an eye on the landmark in your path. It’s not just sightseeing—you’re doing it while handling a powerful machine.

One practical note: the bay has real marine life, and the ride can be where you notice wildlife activity. In winter months, you might even have a humpback sighting. Wildlife doesn’t mean guaranteed sightings, but the habitat is there, which is what makes this route special.

Stop 2: Medano Beach Views and Wildlife Moments

After the El Arco segment, you’ll spend time around Medano Beach with coastal views from the water. Medano is known for being lively on land, but once you’re out and moving, the vibe can feel different. You’re focused on your ride, and the coastline becomes a moving backdrop.

This second stop is where you tend to appreciate the “you’re actually out there” feeling. Your view is broader than you’d get on a boat stuck in one position. You’ll also get more chances for quick, unexpected moments—like spotting marine life near the surface.

If winter timing works for your trip, that’s when the humpback chance is higher. If you’re traveling in other months, keep expectations flexible: you still may see fauna, just not on a guaranteed schedule.

Price, Insurance, and Photo Costs: What You Really Pay

The headline price is $140 per group (up to 2) for about 60 minutes. That group pricing can be good value if you’re going with a partner or friend and splitting the cost. But here’s how to think about total spending so you’re not surprised at check-in.

Extra costs to know

• Insurance: $40 per person (not included)
• Transportation: not included (you handle getting to the beach)
• Photos: not included, and add-on pricing can apply

On photo pricing, one thing to plan for is that you may be offered a photo option after your ride. The figures you might see cited are around $25 for one photo or $50 for them all, so decide in advance if you want that.

Is it worth $140?

For me, this kind of jet ski time is worth it when:

• you want adrenaline plus a landmark route (not just random cruising)
• you and a second rider can share the group price
• you’re okay with the no-camera rule and would rather spend on a curated photo set than your own gear risk

If you’re traveling solo and still want the “two-person per ski” setup, the group pricing model matters, so check how you’ll be paired or charged.

Also, don’t ignore the insurance line. It’s optional in the sense that it’s listed separately, but it’s a real part of the decision. If you’re risk-averse, it may be a smart add-on. If you’re comfortable with the stated terms, you might skip it. Your call.

Getting There and Check-In: Beach Location, Timing, and Comfort

The meeting point is right at El Medano Beach, and the activity ends back there. That’s convenient because it reduces time spent coordinating later rides, taxis, or wandering after you’re soaked.

It’s also described as near public transportation, which can help if you’re staying somewhere walkable or along a corridor where buses/taxis are easy. Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle is not included, so budget for your own route to the beach.

What you should bring (practical and simple)

The activity includes life jackets and guide support, so you don’t need to pack those. You do want to think about comfort and safety:

• Wear water-friendly footwear with grip (the sand and boardwalk areas can be hot)
• Bring sun protection since you’ll be outside the whole time
• Have a plan for your phone if cameras aren’t accepted
• Leave valuables secured (better to travel light for a water ride)

Also, note the activity has a maximum of 30 travelers, which typically helps with timing. Still, the beach can be busy, so aim to arrive with buffer time rather than rushing right at the start.

Wildlife, Weather, and What to Do When Conditions Change

This experience depends on good weather. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s a big deal with jet skis because water conditions affect both safety and ride quality.

Cancellation timing is also worth knowing in plain terms: free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and you’ll get your money back. That gives you flexibility if the forecast is shaky or your Cabo itinerary shifts.

Who This Is For (and Who Should Skip It)

This is a great fit if you want a Cabo San Lucas jet ski ride that combines speed with views and a clear route toward El Arco. It also works well for couples and friends because the price is per group up to 2, and the ride itself is set up for one or two people per jet ski.

It may be less ideal if:

• you strongly want to bring your own camera (you can’t)
• you don’t want the possibility of extra insurance cost
• you’re traveling with kids who don’t match the age rules (10+ with adult; passenger 16+)
• you need included beach transportation (it’s not included)

A quick reality check for families

The kid restrictions are specific, so this is one activity where you should confirm how your family fits the rules before you pay and commit. If your child will be a passenger, check the 16+ requirement for the double setup.

Potential Headaches: Equipment Issues and How to Protect Your Plans

No one wants to think about this, but jet skis are machines. Sometimes things happen. One of the most useful takeaways from the overall feedback is that you should pay attention to how the operator handles problems fast and fairly, especially if an equipment issue delays your slot.

Here’s how you protect yourself without turning the day into a stress contest:

• Ask before you ride what happens if a jet ski breaks down during a session
• Keep your payment method arrangements simple and secure
• If you’re on a tight vacation schedule, give yourself time buffer afterward so you’re not racing your other plans

Also, the experience is capped at 30 travelers, so in a perfect world you get a smoother flow. Still, if the beach is crowded on your travel day, the best defense is arriving early and staying calm.

Good communication matters. The best sessions feel organized: clear start times, clear instructions, and a guide who keeps the group moving.

Should You Book This El Medano Jet Ski Ride?

If you’re choosing between “just another water activity” and something with a landmark route, this one is a strong contender. The combination of El Arco in your sights, a real one-hour ride, and Yamaha 2020–2022 equipment makes it feel like a true Cabo highlight rather than a filler activity.

Book it if:

• you’re comfortable with the no-camera rule and are okay with photo add-ons
• you and a second rider can share the group price
• you want a one-hour adrenaline hit with guided support

Skip or rethink if:

• you need included transportation
• your group includes kids who don’t match the age requirements
• you’re on a super tight timeline and can’t absorb schedule changes from weather

When it clicks, this is the kind of day you remember at night: salt air, fast turns, and Cabo’s famous rock formation sliding by as you ride.

FAQ

How long is the jet ski ride?

The ride is about 1 hour.

How much does it cost?

It’s $140.00 per group (up to 2).

Is transportation included in the price?

No. Air-conditioned vehicle transportation is not included on the tour price.

Can kids ride?

Kids over 10 can participate in the wave runner activity if accompanied by an adult. Only children over 16 can ride the double setup with an adult.

Are cameras allowed on the jet ski?

No. Cameras are not accepted due to the risk of falling into the water.

Is insurance included?

Insurance is not included. It costs $40.00 per person.