Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach: Small Groups Tours

Planning a trip to Jalisco? The Marietas Islands and its famous Hidden Beach are often on travelers’ must-see lists. But not all tours are created equal, especially when it comes to value, authenticity, and the chance to see some of the most captivating spots in this protected marine park. We’ve looked into a small-group tour offered by CAMPOS & MORAS, and here’s what makes it stand out — and what you should consider.

What we love about this experience is the intimacy of the small-group setting, which keeps the adventure personal and engaging. Plus, the tour offers a mix of water fun and wildlife watching — snorkeling at Skull Reef, visiting the Secret Beach, and even a unique underwater flying experience. The only downside? The tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange that yourself. This tour is best suited for travelers who love active outdoor adventures and don’t mind some water time, but it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

If you’re craving an authentic, hands-on encounter with one of Baja’s most iconic natural wonders, this tour could be a perfect fit. Now, let’s explore the details, step by step, to see what makes it a worthwhile choice and what you might need to prepare for.

• Intimate Group Setting: With fewer than 9 guests per boat, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Multi-Activity Adventure: Snorkel, bird-watch, surf, and experience underwater flying — all in one trip.
• Unique Spots: Access the Secret Beach (seasonal) and explore caves and waterways around the islands.
• Wildlife & Nature: Spot blue-footed boobies, humpback whales (seasonal), and learn about the marine ecosystem.
• Taste of Local Food: A delicious lunch of shrimp ceviche and beers provides a satisfying end to your adventure.
• Accessible & Flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

An Authentic Look at the Marietas Islands Small-Group Tour

The moment we think about visiting the Marietas Islands, it’s the sense of adventure that pulls us in — and this tour promises just that. It’s designed to give a full picture of what makes these islands special, without overwhelming you with crowds or unnecessary frills.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a meet-up at the Lobbie of Hotel Ancora Mita, a convenient starting point if you’re staying nearby. From there, your small boat — with a capacity of less than nine passengers — heads out into the waters of the Pacific toward the islands. This intimacy means you’ll get more personalized commentary and a chance to ask questions throughout.

The first highlight is swimming through a marine tunnel leading to the Hidden Beach — undoubtedly the star attraction. This beach is famous for being one of the few places in the world accessible only by swimming through a water tunnel, which adds a sense of secrecy and adventure. The guide’s role is reassuring here; they bring a life ring and flippers, ready to assist anyone who might need a hand. As one reviewer puts it, “Our guide was attentive, and the fact that they had safety gear made me feel comfortable even as I was a bit nervous about swimming.”

Once inside, you’ll explore caves and waterways, admiring the natural formations that make these islands so unique. The caves are accessible, and guides often point out interesting features, making this part both scenic and educational.

Next, the Snorkeling at Skull Reef provides the opportunity to see damsel-fish, the only fish known to harvest their own food. The reef’s name hints at the skull-like shapes in the rocks, offering both visual interest and a great snorkeling spot. According to reviews, “The snorkeling was fantastic—seeing the fish dart around and knowing they’re self-sufficient was pretty special.”

Birdwatching is woven into the experience as well — the islands are home to the blue-footed booby birds, and if you’re lucky during the December to April whale season, you might spot humpback whales breaching nearby. One traveler mentioned, “Watching whales while enjoying a fresh ceviche in the sun was unforgettable.”

The Secret Beach is only accessible during specific months (December through April), depending on sea currents. If you visit during this window, you’ll get a rare chance to soak up this secluded spot, which feels like a hidden treasure. The Stone Bridge and the Marine Geyser add to the sense of discovering natural wonders you won’t find in typical tourist spots.

Water & Adventure Activities

Beyond sightseeing, the tour offers several water-based fun experiences. The beginner surf lesson is perfect if you’ve ever wanted to stand on a board, and the Subwing experience is the highlight for those seeking a thrill — imagine gliding underwater like a dolphin, performing playful maneuvers. Reviewers describe it as “like flying through the ocean,” which sounds pretty exhilarating.

These activities are optional but add real value, especially considering the price of $191 per person. When you consider the all-inclusive nature — with lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and wildlife watching — it’s a solid investment for a well-rounded adventure.

The Food and Relaxation

After all this activity, the tour wraps up at Anclote Beach with a delicious lunch of shrimp ceviche and beers. Many reviews mention the high quality of the food, which feels like a well-earned reward after a morning of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. It’s refreshing to sit back, enjoy good local flavors, and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The tour lasts about 4 hours, typically scheduled in the morning — perfect for fitting into a day of exploring.
• Price: At $191, this isn’t the cheapest tour in town, but for the small-group experience, multiple activities, and included food, it offers good value.
• Transportation: Note that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for individuals who can swim with some help.
• What to Bring: Swimwear and sunscreen are essential. The guide provides safety equipment and a plastic jar for your phone, so you can take photos without worry.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 10, non-swimmers, or those with mobility or back problems.

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Why This Tour Works

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a small-group adventure with a mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and active water fun. The limited group size ensures you get more attention and flexibility, which can make all the difference in a place as special as the Marietas Islands. The inclusion of snorkeling, bird watching, and underwater flying makes it feel like a day packed with variety and authentic experiences.

Travelers have praised the delicious lunch and the safety measures, making it a comfortable option for those a bit unsure about swimming or new to water sports. Plus, the seasonal access to the Secret Beach makes it a flexible choice, depending on your travel dates.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Active travelers who enjoy water sports and wildlife
• Those seeking a more intimate, personalized experience
• Travelers who are comfortable in the water or want to try beginner surfing
• People interested in bird and whale watching
• Visitors looking for a well-rounded day with food included

Conversely, it’s not ideal for families with very young children or anyone with mobility issues, given the swimming and active nature of the tour.

A Few Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtful balance of adventure, natural beauty, and local flavor. The small group size makes it feel exclusive without the high price tag of private charters, and the array of activities packed into just four hours makes it a smart choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The delicious local lunch adds a satisfying finish, making the trip feel complete.

If you’re after authenticity and excitement, and don’t mind a bit of water splashing, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a chance to explore the hidden corners of the Marietas Islands, learn about their environment, and have fun doing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the Lobbie of Hotel Ancora Mita, where the tour starts.

How many people are in each tour group?
The tour is limited to less than 9 persons per boat, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and sunscreen. The guide provides safety gear, and you can store your phone in a plastic jar during swimming and snorkeling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, especially since active swimming and water activities are involved.

What activities are included?
The tour includes swimming through a marine tunnel, snorkeling at Skull Reef, bird watching, visiting the Secret Beach (seasonal), seeing the Stone Bridge, and experiencing the marine geyser.

Can I do this if I can’t swim?
While swimming is part of the experience, safety gear and assistance are provided, making it accessible for those who can handle some water activity with help.

Is there an opportunity to see whales?
Yes, during the whale-watching season (December to April), you might spot humpback whales breaching nearby.

To sum it up, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day exploring the Marietas Islands. It balances adventure, wildlife, and local flavors, perfect for travelers who want authentic experiences without the crowds. Whether you’re snorkeling at Skull Reef, marveling at the Hidden Beach, or gliding underwater with the Subwing, you’ll leave with memorable stories and a deeper appreciation of these protected waters.

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