There’s something magical about seeing sea life up close. In Abades, you get a guided snorkeling tour off Playa Adabes in Tenerife, plus underwater photos and videos you can share right after. It’s built for real people, not just fearless swimmers.

What I like most is the calm, structured support once you’re in the water, and how the guide actively helps you spot the good stuff (fish, reef life, and sometimes turtles). The second big win is the free photo and video set, which turns a short 2-hour outing into a keep-forever memory.

One consideration: turtles (and other rarer sightings) are never guaranteed, and if you’re a non swimmer, you may not be able to swim far enough to see them well. You’ll still see plenty of fish and sea life, but set your expectations for the “special” animals.

Key points before you go

• Small group pace (limited to 6) that keeps the guide able to check in often
• Wet suit + snorkeling gear included, with long or short options
• Free underwater photos and videos so you don’t miss the moment
• Beginner-friendly guidance, including extra help for nervous swimmers
• Sea turtles, stingrays, and octopus are possible, but sightings depend on conditions and effort

Finding Abades at the Magilu Restaurant: easy meeting, real beach time

This tour starts right by the water at the restaurant Magilu. The spot is directly in front of the beach, and you’ll see the white stands/banks before you reach the ocean. If you’re arriving by car, there’s plenty of parking, which makes the whole thing much less stressful than the usual “meet at a random corner” routine.

A small but useful detail: you’ll leave your personal items in the provider’s car. That means you’re not juggling a bag on the sand while you’re getting ready. It also keeps you focused on the swim itself.

You’ll also want to arrive with the right basics already handled. Bring swimwear and a towel. A sun hat helps too, because there’s time standing around while everyone checks gear and gets suited up.

Gear check and wetsuit fit: what you’re actually paying for

For $35, you’re not just paying for a guide and a swim. The price includes the practical stuff that makes snorkeling doable: snorkeling equipment, a wet suit, and the guiding itself.

In Tenerife, even in warmer months, a wetsuit can make the whole experience feel easier because it reduces that shock of cold water. Here you get a long or short wetsuit option, depending on fit and comfort. People in the group consistently mention that equipment quality is solid, which matters because a bad mask or loose fins can ruin your focus fast.

There’s also a key reality check for glasses. If you wear glasses to see, you can’t put them under the mask. So either use contacts (if you have them) or plan to rely on the snorkeling mask setup as provided.

Finally, this is a small group by design. The tour is limited to 6 participants, but the operator notes that sometimes groups may be combined. That’s not usually a deal-breaker, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you strongly prefer quiet, one-on-one attention.

Getting comfortable fast: beginner support that feels intentional

The underwater world is fun, but the water can also be intimidating. What makes this tour work for non swimmers and anxious snorkelers is that the guidance is hands-on and practical.

The tour is specifically described as feasible even if you’re a bad swimmer. The provider also says they work a lot with children and people who are afraid, and that they’re prepared for that. In plain terms: you’re not thrown in and told to figure it out alone.

A repeated theme in the experience notes and feedback is how the guide gives clear instruction before you go in. People mention feeling safe and sure in the hands of the instructors, and that the pace is adjusted based on participants’ abilities. Names that come up are guides like Natalie and Andres/Andre, and the common thread is supportive, watchful attention.

There’s one important distinction, though. Non swimmers may enjoy fish and reef life, but they often won’t see turtles the same way. The operator is clear that turtle viewing depends on swimming effort and distance. So think of this as: beginner-friendly, not magic-telepathy. You’ll still have a good time.

What you’ll see off Playa Abades: fish, reef life, and volcanic rock

Your snorkeling happens off Playa Abades along Tenerife’s coast. After meeting your guide at Magilu, you’ll put on the professional snorkeling equipment and wetsuit/neoprene suit. Then you’ll head underwater to explore the reef.

Expect lots of colorful fish. Several people specifically say the fish are easy to find and the reef is beautiful. That’s the payoff of a guided outing: the guide helps you stay oriented and actually find the interesting spots, instead of floating around wondering what you’re looking at.

There are also volcanic rock formations under the water, and that matters for what you see. Rocks create hiding spots for smaller marine life and attract fish that feed near the reef structure. If you’re hoping for a “wow” moment, reef edges and rocky zones are often where that happens.

If you’re snorkeling for the first time, this is also a good environment to learn the rhythm. You’re not learning every technique of freediving or scuba; you’re learning how to breathe calmly, keep your body stable, and use your fins without panicking.

Turtles, stingrays, and octopus: great odds, but not promises

Here’s the deal: the tour is designed around possible sightings of rarer animals. Depending on season and conditions, you may spot large turtles, stingrays, and octopus.

The operator even mentions that there are currently sea turtles living in the area (they note six turtles at that beach at the time of the info), but they also emphasize that this is open ocean. That’s why sightings can be inconsistent. If you’re lucky, you’ll see them. If not, you’ll still see plenty of reef life.

Octopus sightings are especially tied to searching behavior. The tour notes point out that octopuses can be hidden underneath stones. That means you may need to stay close to the rocky area and follow the guide’s direction rather than expect a big animal cruising in the open.

One more truth to plan around: non swimmers can still see plenty underwater, but turtle viewing can be harder because it takes more swimming. Even one guide tip from the info is basically: tell the team if you’re not confident in the water. They say they can provide additional aids so you can join safely and comfortably.

Underwater photos and videos: the best souvenir is already included

This is one of the strongest “value for money” parts of the tour. You’ll get photos and videos free. That matters because snorkeling is visual, and it’s hard to take your own photos while staying stable.

People talk about the photo and video output as a highlight, including instances where the underwater views looked amazing and were shared afterward. If you’re traveling with family, this is especially helpful. It’s often the kids who end up disappointed because they couldn’t capture the moment, and here you’re covered.

The more practical angle: sharing photos removes the pressure to do everything perfectly during the swim. You can focus on experiencing what’s around you instead of turning your attention into a camera operation.

Timing, group size, and how the 2 hours will feel

The tour lasts 2 hours, which is a good length for first-time snorkeling. Long enough to get comfortable and actually explore, but short enough that you’re not mentally spent when you surface.

Group size is small, limited to 6. In practice, that usually means you’re not lost in a crowd. The guide can check if someone is struggling, adjust pace, and help with breathing and movement. One note from the info: they say the operator is famous for mini groups, and sometimes groups may be combined. Still, the small-number structure is the goal.

Because the meeting point is right at the beach, there’s no long travel component. That also helps time feel efficient. You start the gear process quickly, and the real underwater time happens sooner.

What to bring (and what to avoid)

For a smooth outing, you want to show up ready. The basics are:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sun hat
• Beachwear

And remember:

• If you wear glasses, you can’t put them under the mask.
• You’ll leave personal stuff in the car, so don’t bring anything precious you’ll worry about.

If you’re nervous, tell the guide before you enter the water. The tour info is explicit about being prepared for nervous swimmers and children, and that you can be guided even if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Who this tour suits best in Tenerife

This is a family-friendly snorkeling option in the sense that it’s designed for real comfort levels, not just athletic people. The tour notes say it’s an amazing possibility for the whole family to discover the underwater world.

That said, it’s not right for everyone. It’s not suitable for children under 5, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or anyone with a cold. The operator also states pregnant women can do snorkeling, which is good news if you were worried.

If you’re a total beginner, you’re still a good fit. Just understand the turtle part: non swimmers may not see turtles because it’s a lot to swim to reach them. You’ll still see fish and sea life, and you’ll likely have a smoother time if you go in focused on reef life rather than a specific animal checklist.

People who want value will like this too. You’re getting the guided component, the gear, and underwater media coverage all included, which is not always the case with tours that charge more.

Price and value: $35 for gear and underwater photos is a smart deal

At $35 per person for 2 hours, this tour competes well because so much is bundled. You’re not paying extra for:

• the guide
• snorkeling equipment
• a wetsuit (long or short)
• underwater photos and videos

Hotel pickup is not included, so you’re responsible for getting yourself to the meeting point by the beach. But that’s a trade-off: fewer logistics, and often less time wasted before you’re in the water.

Also, the free underwater media makes this stand out. Many paid tours might offer a photographer, but bundling photos and videos at no extra cost is a real value lever, especially for families.

In short: if you want guided snorkeling that feels safe, includes the gear, and gives you a strong souvenir package, this pricing makes sense.

Practical tips so you enjoy every minute

A few small choices can improve your experience:

• Tell the guide you’re not a confident swimmer before you go in. They say they can provide additional aids.
• Plan for the turtle possibility, not the turtle guarantee. You can absolutely still enjoy the fish and reef.
• Bring a towel and sun hat so you’re comfortable during the pre- and post-water portions.
• If you need eyewear corrections, plan around the mask rule (glasses can’t go under the mask).
• If you’re traveling with kids, remember the minimum age is 5.

One more comfort note: there doesn’t seem to be a dedicated changing room or toilet right on site. A nearby cafe can help if you need a restroom break, so it’s smart to plan your timing accordingly.

Should you book Abades: Guided Snorkeling Tour with Photos?

If your goal is guided snorkeling off Tenerife with small group attention, included gear, and free underwater photos and videos, this is an easy yes. It’s especially appealing if you want safety and coaching more than technical challenge.

Book it if:

• you’re a beginner or slightly nervous in open water
• you want a relaxed pace with real instruction
• you care about getting photos and video without paying extra
• you’re traveling with kids age 5+

Think twice if:

• you need a wheelchair-friendly setup or have mobility limitations (it’s not suitable for wheelchair users)
• you’re hoping for a guaranteed turtle encounter (rarer sightings depend on conditions and distance)
• you’re currently dealing with a cold

Overall, this tour earns its reputation through practical support and included underwater media. You’re paying for the experience to be manageable, guided, and memorable.

FAQ

How long is the Abades guided snorkeling tour?

It lasts 2 hours.

What does the price include?

The tour includes the snorkeling tour, guide, snorkeling equipment, wet suit (long or short), and photos and videos.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Where do I meet the guide?

The meeting point is the restaurant Magilu, directly in front of the beach. You’ll see white banks before the ocean.

Is this tour good for non swimmers?

Non swimmers can join and still see fish and sea life. However, non swimmers may not be able to see turtles because it’s a lot to swim to see them.

Can I snorkel if I wear glasses?

If you wear glasses to see, you can’t put them under the mask.

What should I bring?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and beachwear.

Is the tour suitable for young children or mobility needs?

It is not suitable for children under 5. It’s also not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Pregnant women can do snorkeling, and people with a cold are not suitable.

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