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Snorkel Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to have fun. No ...

Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to have fun. No ...

Free uniforms Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed! We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to ...

About Snorkel At Snorkel, we believe meaningful AI doesn't start with the model, it starts with the ... Create governance and documentation for recruiting operations, including process guides, system ...

Snorkel Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do snorkel guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for snorkel guide in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a snorkel guide?

A Snorkel Guide is responsible for leading and assisting guests on snorkeling excursions, ensuring their safety, and enhancing their experience through instruction and knowledge of marine life. They provide briefings on equipment use, snorkeling techniques, and ocean conditions, while also monitoring participants in the water. Snorkel Guides often work in tropical or coastal locations and may be employed by tour companies, resorts, or dive shops. Strong swimming skills, CPR certification, and a passion for marine conservation are typically required for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a snorkel guide?

As a Snorkel Guide, your daily tasks often include preparing equipment, briefing guests on safety procedures, leading snorkeling excursions, and providing in-water supervision throughout the activity. You are also responsible for monitoring weather and water conditions, ensuring all participants adhere to safety guidelines, and offering educational insights about the local marine environment. Collaboration with other guides, boat crew, and sometimes hospitality staff is common to coordinate group logistics and enhance the overall guest experience. This role combines outdoor adventure with customer service and education, making each day dynamic and rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the snorkel guide position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snorkel Guide, you need strong swimming skills, knowledge of marine life and ecosystems, and typically a lifeguard or first aid/CPR certification. Familiarity with snorkeling equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and, in some regions, boat handling skills are important technical qualifications. Excellent communication, leadership, and customer service abilities help guides create enjoyable and safe experiences for diverse groups. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure participant safety, enrich the tour experience, and respond effectively to emergencies or unexpected challenges.

How much do snorkel guides make?

Snorkel guides typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and tips. Many guides also receive gratuities from customers, which can significantly increase overall earnings, especially in popular tourist destinations. Certifications in safety and rescue skills can enhance earning potential and job prospects.

How to become a snorkel guide?

To become a snorkel guide, you typically need to have strong swimming skills, knowledge of marine life, and relevant certifications such as CPR and first aid. Experience with snorkeling and guiding groups is important, and some employers may require a lifeguard certification or similar credentials. Training on safety procedures and local marine environments is often provided on the job or through specialized courses.

What are popular job titles related to Snorkel Guide jobs in California?

For Snorkel Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Snorkel Guide jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Snorkel Guide jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Snorkel Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,450 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

Everyday California

La Jolla, CA • On-site

$17.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Job description

Tour guides, surf instructors, and retail staff are needed!  We are actively looking for more great individuals who can help staff our operation for this coming busy season. Desire to have fun. No kayaking experience is required, nor needed, but a general understanding and respect for the ocean is always suggested. This opportunity is perfect if you enjoy making new friends, exercising on the beach, and challenging both your body and mind. If you are an athlete, mermaid or merman, or can handle a cross-fit workout, this is your calling. Our scheduling is flexible, and we work around both school and night jobs. We provide outstanding training on everything you will need to know. Best candidates work hard and are fun to be around!
Individuals who will be available to work through the Summer are desired! 
  • Perfect for current college students or recent grads
  • Teachers, military veterans, EMS personal, and those with service industry experience make for great tour guides!
  • Very flexible scheduling
  • 6-8 hour shifts available
  • must enjoy working in a team environment
  • CRP/First Aid certifications are required and will be turned in to the SD Lifeguards
  • All other training is done in-house! 

We are looking forward to hearing from you.  Contact us today to set up an interview!