Coral island guayabitos beach and snorkeling

If you’re exploring the coast of Jalisco, Mexico, and looking for an authentic, engaging activity that combines natural beauty with fun water adventures, the Coral Island Guayabitos beach and snorkeling tour might just be your next highlight. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a comprehensive picture of what to expect, the value it offers, and who it’s best suited for.

This tour promises a quick escape into some of Nayarit’s most stunning coastal scenery, with the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters and relax on pristine beaches. We love the way it highlights protected marine environments—no fishing allowed—ensuring a healthy, lively underwater scene. Plus, the convenience of a private group and a flexible schedule makes it accessible and personal. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short outing—just two hours—so if you’re craving an all-day adventure, you might want to consider other options. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back, nature-focused experience and want to explore at a comfortable pace with a local guide.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and clear waters make for excellent snorkeling and relaxing beach time.
• Includes free time for water activities, with equipment provided — no hidden costs for gear.
• Private groups offer a more personalized, tailored experience.
• The tour’s two-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Prohibition of fishing helps maintain the vibrant marine ecosystem.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Guayabitos area is a jewel of the Nayarit coast, offering a calm bay with two small islands directly facing the town. The waters here are renowned for their striking blue-green hues, which change with the seasons, creating beautiful backdrops for water activities. The coral formations, similar to those found at the famous Marietas Islands, host a lively variety of fish, making snorkeling a memorable experience.

One aspect that travelers consistently appreciate is the protected status of the islands—fishing is forbidden, which means the marine life is thriving. Visitors often comment on the impressive diversity of fish they see while snorkeling, with some describing it as “an impressive variety” that adds excitement to the water activity. During certain seasons, whales and dolphins also make appearances, adding an extra layer of magic to the trip.

The mountains surrounding Guayabitos are lush and full of jungle, providing a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters and sandy beaches. This natural setting offers a peaceful, almost untouched feel that makes it stand out from more commercialized resorts.

The Itinerary and Water Activities

The tour kicks off with a meeting outside an OXXO store, where the captain awaits to guide your group. Once on board, you’ll cruise out to the coral island, which is the main highlight. The boat ride itself is often enjoyed for the chance to see the coastline from a different perspective and perhaps spot some local wildlife along the way.

Once at the island, you’ll have free time for snorkeling, which is the main activity. Equipment is provided, so all you need to do is bring your enthusiasm and a desire to see some colorful fish and coral formations. Many reviews mention how “beautiful the coral” is and how “the water clarity makes snorkeling a delight.” You can also swim on the beaches, walk along the sands, or just relax and take in the scenery.

Additional activities like crab beach sighting offer a chance to observe local marine life up close. However, it’s worth noting that kayaks and boards are not included—so if you’re keen on those, you’ll need to rent them separately, which could add to your costs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the visit to three islands (though details specify mainly the coral island), with free time for snorkeling and beach activities. Equipment for water activities is provided, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

On the downside, kayaks and boards are not included, so if paddling around or exploring further on your own is your thing, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

The total cost is $237 for a group of up to 7 people, which makes it an accessible option for families or small groups. Given the duration—just two hours—it’s a quick, punchy experience rather than a full-day adventure, but that’s often enough to satisfy those wanting a taste of the ocean.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

You’ll meet your guide outside the OXXO store, a familiar and easy-to-find landmark. The tour is available in the morning or afternoon, giving flexibility to fit into your itinerary. Tours are offered as private groups, which means you won’t be stuck with strangers—an attractive feature for travelers seeking a customized experience.

The reservation process allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Plus, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, you can book with confidence.

Make sure to bring comfortable clothes, a bathing suit, sunscreen, and a towel. You’re encouraged to bring snacks or drinks, making it easier to stay hydrated and energized during your time on the island.

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The Experience from Reviews

While the tour itself enjoys a solid 4.1 rating, reviews highlight the stunning views and the vibrant marine life as standout features. One reviewer said, “The water was crystal clear, and I loved seeing all the different fish while snorkeling.” Others appreciated the personalized aspect of a private group, noting that their experience felt more intimate and relaxed.

Some travelers mention that the short duration meant it worked well as part of a broader itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but still want a memorable encounter with nature.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling and beach tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic outing with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting a quick escape to the water without the need for long boat rides or complex logistics. If underwater scenery and marine life are your priority, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value.

However, those looking for an all-day adventure or more varied water sports might find it somewhat limited. Also, if you’re eager to explore beyond snorkeling or want to rent kayaks and paddleboards, you’ll need to look elsewhere or arrange those separately.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Coral Island Guayabitos beach and snorkeling tour offers a compelling snapshot of Mexico’s Pacific coast. It combines beautiful scenery, vibrant marine ecosystems, and a relaxed pace, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy the water and nature without a lengthy commitment. The private group setup enhances the experience, ensuring it feels personal and exclusive.

For travelers craving a short, scenic, and activity-filled outing, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who want a taste of snorkeling and beach bliss in a protected, lively environment.

If you’re nearby and your schedule allows, it’s a straightforward, rewarding way to connect with Guayabitos’ natural charm. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and a sense of adventure — the waters here are waiting to surprise you.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet satisfying experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
You’ll meet outside the OXXO store, where the captain will be waiting and ready to direct you.

Is the tour private or group-based?
It’s offered as a private group, providing a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers visit to three islands, free time for snorkeling, crab beach sighting, and equipment for water activities.

Are there any extra costs?
Kayaks and boards are not included; if you want to rent them, you’ll need to pay separately.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a bathing suit, sunscreen, and a towel. Feel free to bring your own snacks or drinks.

Is there a language guide?
Yes, the tour is offered with guides speaking Spanish and English.

What is the rating of the tour provider?
The provider, Travel Vallarta, has a rating of 4.1 based on customer reviews.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys snorkeling and relaxing on beaches, and you’re comfortable with a short trip.

This detailed look at the Coral Island Guayabitos Beach and Snorkeling tour should help you decide if it fits your travel style. It’s a fine way to enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico’s coast, with memorable views and underwater wonders waiting just offshore.

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