From Vallarta: Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ at Majahuitas

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring pristine beaches and dramatic rock formations along Mexico’s Pacific coast, this 7-hour catamaran tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a relaxing beach BBQ at Majahuitas, one of the most beautiful hidden spots around Puerto Vallarta.

We’ve looked into what travelers experience on this tour, and it’s a blend of spectacular scenery, lively boat fun, and some areas where the experience might fall short. Two things we really appreciate are the guides’ knowledge and the stunning views of the islands’ rocky caverns and wildlife. On the flip side, a crowded boat and limited activity time have been common concerns. This tour will appeal most to those seeking a lively, social day on the water with plenty of opportunities for water play, rather than those craving a tranquil, intimate experience.

Key Points

• Scenic exploration of rock formations, caves, and archways around the Marietas Islands.
• Water activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with equipment provided.
• Majahuitas Beach offers a secluded, postcard-perfect setting for a beach BBQ and swimming.
• Lively boat atmosphere with music and drinks, suited for travelers looking for fun and socialization.
• Limited wildlife encounters and brief snorkeling time, good to know for those seeking more underwater exploration.
• Crowded boat with up to 180 passengers, impacting the personal feel of the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This Vallarta-based tour is designed as a full day of adventure and relaxation on the water. It sets sail from Puerto Vallarta aboard a comfortable catamaran that can accommodate up to 180 people, according to some reviews. While that number might be high for those craving tranquility, it ensures a lively, energetic vibe onboard with music and an open bar, especially during the return cruise.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Boarding and Departure — The tour begins at the marina, where you’ll meet your guides, settle into your spot on the catamaran, and set sail towards the Marietas Islands. It’s good to arrive early to avoid missing the departure, especially if you book through a third-party site like GetYourGuide, which some travelers recommend confirming the departure details in advance.

Exploring the Marietas Islands — Once at the islands, your group will be able to cruise around and explore the rocky caverns and archways by kayak or paddleboard, both included with your ticket. The guides will point out some of the endemic species, such as the blue-footed boobies, although reviews note that sightings can be distant or brief. The tour does not visit the Hidden Beach, which some visitors may find disappointing if they’re hoping for that iconic spot. Instead, the focus is on the marine environment and rock formations.

Snorkeling — You’ll have an opportunity to snorkel with provided gear. However, several reviews mention that the waters can be somewhat turbid, making underwater viewing less spectacular than expected. The roughly 45-minute snorkel session is often crowded, and some travelers felt the water was murky, limiting the marine life they could see.

Majahuitas Beach — After exploring the islands, the boat transports you to Majahuitas Beach, a gorgeous stretch of sand that’s considered one of Mexico’s most secluded. Here, a delicious beach BBQ awaits, with plenty of refreshing drinks as part of the open bar. The sand is soft and white, and the water inviting for swimming and relaxing.

Return Journey — On the way back to Puerto Vallarta, the boat transforms into a party vessel with music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the friendliness of the crew and the fun performances they put on, making the journey back as enjoyable as the day’s activities.

How Does the Water Activity Portion Measure Up?

We appreciate that water sports equipment—snorkels, kayaks, and paddleboards—is included, making it easier for travelers to get in the water without extra costs. Yet, some reviews indicate the actual time dedicated to these activities can be limited, especially if the boat is crowded.

For example, one reviewer noted, “there was only a single opportunity to snorkel (~45 min) with a giant group in turbid waters that were difficult to see much other than a few types of fish.” Overcrowding can hinder access to kayaks and paddleboards, particularly when the beach has only a few options available, which might lead to frustration.

Wildlife and Marine Life

While the guides are knowledgeable and do point out bird species and possibly whale sightings, the overall marine life experience may not match what some travelers expect. The waters are described as murky at times, and the focus on water activities means you’ll likely see only a limited variety of fish and creatures.

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The Beach: Majahuitas

Majahuitas is one of the key highlights of this tour. It’s not just a beach but a tranquil sanctuary far from the hustle of more popular spots. The seclusion and natural beauty make it ideal for unwinding after a busy morning of boat rides and water sports.

The beach BBQ is a major draw, with tasty local fare and a relaxed vibe. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the scenery. Keep in mind, however, that the number of water craft (kayaks, paddleboards) may be limited relative to the number of guests, which can lead to some waiting or sharing.

The Pros and Cons of the Tour

Pros:
– Stunning scenery with rock formations, caves, and birdlife.
– Engaging water activities included, suitable for families and active travelers.
– Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with commentary and safety.
– Relaxing beach BBQ at Majahuitas, with the option to swim and lounge.

Cons:
– Crowded boat may reduce the comfort and intimacy of the experience.
– Limited snorkeling and water activity time — some guests find it too brief or crowded.
– No visit to the Hidden Beach, which is often a highlight in other tours.
– Some travelers noted the waters can be murky, limiting underwater visibility.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $89 per person, the tour offers a decent value if you’re after a full day of water-based fun and scenic views. The cost includes snorkel, kayak, paddleboard equipment, a beach BBQ, and an open bar during the return trip. However, the high boat capacity and limited activity time mean the experience might not fully deliver on tranquility or underwater spectacle.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a lively, social atmosphere and doesn’t mind crowds, this tour can be a fantastic way to spend a day. For those seeking a serene or more personalized experience, it might feel a bit chaotic or rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun, active day on the water. It suits those who enjoy socializing, music, and a lively boat vibe. If you’re interested in marine wildlife and snorkeling, be prepared for the possibility of limited visibility and crowded conditions.

On the other hand, if you’re a traveler craving tranquility, intimate encounters with nature, or snorkeling in clear waters, you might want to explore other options. This tour emphasizes the scenic and social aspects more than the deepest underwater discovery.

Final Thoughts

This Vallarta tour offers a beautiful blend of scenic cruising, water activities, and relaxing beach time, making it a good choice for travelers seeking a full, active day with plenty of social energy. The knowledgeable guides, stunning rock formations, and the opportunity to snorkel and paddleboard are definite pluses.

Still, it’s worth noting the crowd size and activity limitations that some reviews mention. If you’re comfortable with a lively, somewhat bustling atmosphere and want to enjoy some of the best views along Mexico’s Pacific coast, this tour provides good value and memorable moments.

However, if your priority is a quiet escape or in-depth underwater exploration, you might want to research other options that focus more on tranquility and marine wildlife.

Overall, for its fun spirit, friendly crew, and breathtaking scenery, this tour remains a popular choice for many visitors to Puerto Vallarta—just keep your expectations aligned with the lively, social vibe it offers.

FAQ

Does this tour visit the Hidden Beach?
No, this tour specifically does not include the Hidden Beach. It focuses more on exploring the surrounding ocean, rock formations, and wildlife.

What water activities are included?
Complimentary snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding equipment are provided for guests to enjoy during the tour.

How long is the snorkeling?
Expect about 45 minutes of snorkeling, but it can be crowded, and visibility might be limited depending on water conditions.

Is there an open bar?
Yes, there is an open bar during the return cruise, offering drinks to keep the mood lively.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a light jacket. Remember, large luggage and drones are not allowed.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children ages 4 to 11 qualify for child pricing, while ages 12 and up are considered adults. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

This tour can be a lively, scenic day for those ready to share the water with fellow travelers, enjoy the natural beauty of the islands, and indulge in some fun water sports. Just be prepared for crowds and a lively atmosphere — it’s all part of the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby