From Puerto Vallarta: Marieta Islands Snorkeling Trip

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta and craving a day of sun, sea, and spectacular scenery? The Marieta Islands snorkeling tour offers a chance to explore one of Mexico’s most unique marine parks. With clear waters, abundant wildlife, and the chance to glimpse the famed hidden beach, this tour promises an engaging and memorable outing.

We’ve looked at what makes this trip stand out: the expert guides, the personalized small-group atmosphere, and the stunning underwater scenery. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that access to the hidden beach is limited and not guaranteed on every trip—something to keep in mind if that’s your main goal. Still, if you love nature, snorkeling, and small-group adventures, this could be just the right fit.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate marine life, scenic boat rides, and natural beauty with a touch of adventure. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable swimming, with an interest in wildlife and the outdoors. The experience combines a quick boat ride with plenty of snorkeling, making it ideal for a half-day escape from Puerto Vallarta.

Key Points

• Small group size means more personal attention and less crowding.
• Expert guides provide insights into the local flora and fauna.
• The crystal-clear waters are great for spotting colorful fish and marine creatures.
• Limited access to the Hidden Beach makes it a more exclusive and environmentally conscious experience.
• The duration of roughly 4.5 hours offers a full but manageable half-day adventure.
• Price point of $131 balances affordability with quality, especially considering the included boat ride and guided snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Departure

The tour begins at Ecotours de México, conveniently located at the end of Proa Street next to the ramp in Marina Vallarta. The morning departure typically allows for the best lighting and calmer seas, which are ideal for snorkeling and sightseeing.

Once gathered, you’ll board a fast, safe boat—a key feature that ensures a quick trip to the islands. The boat ride itself is a highlight, giving you sweeping views of the coastline, the mountains, and the distant horizon. Expect some speed and excitement, but with a focus on safety and comfort.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The journey to the Islas Marietas takes about an hour each way. During this time, your guide, often bilingual in English and Spanish, will point out interesting sights and share tidbits about the islands’ geology and wildlife. The boat’s speed and reliability mean you’ll spend less time in transit and more time enjoying the islands.

Exploring the Marietas Islands

Upon arrival, you’ll be granted up to 3 hours to explore this protected area. Despite some restrictions—like limited access to the famous Hidden Beach—the island’s surroundings are full of visual and sensory delights. The rock formations are remarkably sculpted, creating natural tunnels, arches, and secluded coves perfect for photography and contemplation.

Snorkeling here is the main attraction. The water is famously clear, with visibility often exceeding 30 feet, making it easier to spot the vibrant marine life that calls these reefs home. Expect to see schools of tropical fish, like the king angelfish and Moorish idols, along with larger creatures such as sea turtles or even dolphins if luck is on your side.

The reefs host a variety of corals, sponges, and invertebrates—sea stars, sea urchins, and colorful sponges—that bring the underwater landscape to life. Swimmers have praised guides for their knowledge, with one reviewer noting how a guide, Cynthia, kept a close eye on everyone and helped out when needed.

Visiting the Hidden Beach

One of the main draws of this trip is the chance to see Playa del Amor, the Hidden Beach, accessible via a rock tunnel. However, access is strictly regulated: only 116 visitors per day are allowed, and even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll get in every trip due to weather or capacity limits.

Visitors should be comfortable swimming approximately 250 meters through a rock tunnel, climbing in and out of the boat with ladders, and wearing life jackets and helmets. The limited time—about 10 minutes—is enough for a quick look, but don’t expect to lounge on the sand for hours.

Safety and Environmental Precautions

The tour emphasizes safety at every step. Life jackets are mandatory during snorkeling, and the tour includes travel insurance for peace of mind. Drones, pets, and alcohol are not permitted, reflecting the focus on respectful interaction with the environment and fellow travelers.

The restrictions surrounding the Hidden Beach are designed to protect the environment and visitors. While some travelers might be disappointed if they can’t visit the beach, most appreciate the conservation efforts and the more intimate experience of exploring the islands’ other scenic spots.

Considering the price of $131 per person, this tour offers good value for a half-day adventure. It includes all the essentials: boat transportation, snorkeling gear, an experienced guide, and insurance. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures that you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd, and guides can tailor their commentary and assistance.

The actual experience—seeing the marine life, snapping photos of the striking rock formations, and enjoying the tranquil waters—is worth the price for many travelers. Several reviews highlight how the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness enhanced the trip, making it not just a boat ride but an educational and engaging outing.

The tour’s timing in the morning allows you to beat the crowds, which is especially helpful if visiting during peak season. Plus, the shorter window of time keeps the experience manageable and focused, avoiding the fatigue that can sometimes come with longer excursions.

Starting at Ecotours de México near Marina Vallarta, the journey begins with a brief safety briefing and gear distribution. The boat departs promptly, with guides setting the tone for a relaxed yet exciting trip.

Once aboard, the scenic ride takes you past Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, where you can take photos of the lush mountains and shimmering water. The boat speeds along, making the trip feel lively but controlled.

At the islands, guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll have time to explore the rocky coastlines, photograph the stunning vistas, and snorkel in the clear waters. The reefs here support a diverse array of fish and invertebrates, making it a rewarding spot for underwater photography.

The Hidden Beach visit, when accessible, is brief but unforgettable. If weather or capacity limits prevent entry, you’ll still leave with plenty of memories from the scenic boat ride and snorkeling.

Returning to Puerto Vallarta involves a comfortable, relaxed ride back to the marina, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

One traveler from the US shared, “My wife and I went snorkeling at both Los Arcos and the Marieta Islands. The Marietas are superior, although they are not extraordinary in terms of corals. We mainly followed along the rocky coast of the island, which had plenty of fish but not much else. It was fun, however, to ride the rush of the waves in and out.” This highlights how even if coral reefs aren’t spectacular, the overall experience—including the boat ride and marine life—is enjoyable.

Another traveler from Peru described it as “Muy linda” (very beautiful), emphasizing the visual appeal of the islands. Meanwhile, a family from the US appreciated the kindness and attentiveness of the guide, noting that their kids, aged 11 and 13, had a great time and felt safe throughout.

This snorkeling trip is ideal for those who want a short, well-organized half-day experience with a focus on wildlife and scenic views. It’s perfect if you value small groups and personal attention, especially if you’re interested in learning about the local environment from knowledgeable guides.

Travelers who enjoy marine life and underwater photography will find plenty to admire beneath the surface. The tour also suits active participants comfortable swimming 250 meters through a tunnel and climbing with ladders—so keep that in mind if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility concerns.

Given the environmental restrictions, it’s best suited for adults and children aged 10 to 65 who are comfortable in the water. Families with older kids, nature lovers, and adventure-seekers will find this trip a worthwhile addition to their Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

The Marieta Islands snorkeling tour from Puerto Vallarta offers a balanced blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, personalized service, and stunning scenery, it provides a meaningful way to connect with Mexico’s protected marine environment. The quick boat ride combined with quality snorkeling makes it both exciting and manageable, especially for travelers looking for a half-day escape.

While access to the Hidden Beach isn’t guaranteed, the trip’s other sights and underwater delights more than compensate. It’s a good choice for those who want to see the natural beauty of the islands without overextending their schedule or breaking the bank.

This tour delivers on its promise of fun, learning, and scenic wonder, making it a highly recommended option for active, nature-minded travelers seeking an authentic experience in Puerto Vallarta.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for ages 10 to 65. Children should be comfortable swimming 250 meters through a tunnel and climbing in and out of the boat. The tour’s focus on safety and guided assistance makes it suitable for kids within the age limit.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the reef, a face mask or protective covering, and your underwater camera if you want to capture the marine life. Avoid pets, drones, alcohol, and drugs during the tour.

Will I get to see the Hidden Beach?
You might, but access is limited and not guaranteed. Only 116 visitors are allowed per day, and weather conditions or capacity can prevent entry. The focus of the trip is on snorkeling and exploring other parts of the islands.

How long is the boat ride?
The round-trip boat ride takes about an hour each way, making it a total of roughly 2 hours. The boat ride is swift and scenic, giving you ample time to enjoy the islands once you arrive.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
Yes, the tour emphasizes conservation, with restrictions in place to protect the environment. The limited access to the Hidden Beach and the requirement to wear life jackets reflect this priority.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking offers flexibility to keep your travel plans open until you’re ready to commit.

Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a lover of scenic landscapes, or someone eager to learn about Mexico’s marine environment, this trip offers a satisfying mix of adventure and education. It’s a great way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the Puerto Vallarta coast, with the added bonus of small-group intimacy and expert guidance.

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