Private Los Arcos Snorkel and Beach Tour from Puerto Vallarta

Imagine spending a half-day exploring some of the most scenic spots around Puerto Vallarta, with the freedom to go at your own pace and enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides. That’s precisely what the Private Los Arcos Snorkel and Beach Tour offers — a personalized, relaxed way to experience Banderas Bay’s underwater world and pristine beaches.

What we love about this tour are the expert guides who make the experience engaging and informative and the chance to see marine life up close in Los Arcos National Marine Park. The snorkel gear is provided, so there’s no fuss about bringing your own equipment, and the boat ride offers a chance to enjoy the scenery in comfort.

A minor consideration is that the snorkeling conditions can vary — some reviews mention murky waters or less visibility, which is typical for ocean snorkeling depending on weather and tides. Nevertheless, the overall experience remains highly praised, especially for those seeking a flexible, intimate tour rather than a crowded group outing.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a private, customizable day with natural beauty, delicious food, and engaging guides. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or just looking to relax on quiet beaches, this trip is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking a taste of authentic Puerto Vallarta waters and scenery.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means no crowded groups, with flexible timing and stops.
• Expert Guides: Guides are lauded for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the day memorable.
• Stunning Marine Life: Snorkeling at Los Arcos offers the chance to see tropical fish and underwater formations.
• Beautiful Beaches: Time at Las Animas beach provides a peaceful spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine.
• Value for Money: The tour includes snorkel gear, a boat ride, and a cooler — offering a lot of amenities for $168 per person.
• Authentic Local Flavors: The lunch at Las Animas is noted as tasty and fresh, a highlight for many travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Los Muertos Pier, you’ll board a private boat that comfortably transports you along the coast — a scenic ride in itself. The boat ride is a key highlight; reviews repeatedly mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Chema and Manuel, who are praised for their engaging commentary and local knowledge. As one reviewer put it, “Excellent tour guide and boat captain. Highly recommended.”

The main event is snorkeling at Los Arcos National Marine Park, one of the top spots for marine life in the area. The reefs and underwater tunnels are known for their vibrant fish and geological formations. While some reviews mention the water was murky during specific visits—sometimes due to weather or tides—the overall consensus is that snorkeling here offers plenty of chances to see tropical fish and enjoy the underwater scenery. One guest noted, “The snorkeling was great! We saw lots of fish and appreciated the guide’s knowledge.”

After snorkeling, the tour heads to Las Animas Beach — an isolated stretch accessible only by boat or foot. Travelers consistently rave about this beach’s tranquility and natural beauty. It’s a perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, or take a dip in the ocean. The beach restaurant, Los Conos, is highlighted for its fresh seafood and delicious grilled octopus, making it a memorable part of the day. One visitor summed it up: “Lunch on the beach was fantastic — the freshest seafood I’ve had during my trip.”

If you’re lucky, you might also have a chance to spot whales, as some reviews mention seeing pods during their trip. This is seasonal but adds an extra special touch to the experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup at Los Muertos Pier. From there, it’s about a 20-minute boat ride to Los Arcos. The boat is private, so your group can enjoy the ride without interruptions, and guides are attentive to your pace and interests.

Once at Los Arcos, you’ll put on complimentary snorkeling gear and explore the underwater caves, tunnels, and reef. Guides will assist with equipment and point out marine life, making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer.

After snorkeling, you’ll head to Las Animas Beach. Here, you can choose to relax, swim, or walk along the shoreline. Many reviews mention the delicious lunch served there, often at the beachside restaurant. While food and drinks are not included in the tour price, the reviews confirm that the meal is worth the extra cost — fresh seafood, tasty sauces, and a relaxed atmosphere.

The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, giving ample time for each activity without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the meeting point, with many guests remarking that the private setting felt more intimate and stress-free than larger, group excursions.

The Value of a Private Tour

At $168 per person, this tour offers considerable value, especially considering it includes exclusive boat transportation, snorkel gear, and personalized attention. Many reviews mention how having a private guide like Chema or Alexis enhanced their experience, making it more informative, relaxed, and tailored to their interests.

The reviews also highlight the flexibility of this tour: since it is private, you can spend more or less time at each stop, and guides are happy to customize parts of the day. The inclusion of a cooler is a thoughtful touch, allowing guests to bring beverages or snacks for added comfort.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Guests consistently praise the guides for sharing fascinating details about the area and its wildlife, making the tour both fun and educational. One reviewer said, “They shared the area’s background and interesting history, which added depth to the trip.” Guides are known for their friendliness and ability to make everyone feel at ease, which is especially valuable if you’re new to snorkeling or the area.

For the best experience, bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and Mexican Pesos for tips, souvenirs, or additional food and drinks. You might also consider bringing your own beverages or snacks, as some guests do, to enhance the boat ride.

While the snorkeling may be less vibrant on some days due to water conditions, the overall experience remains highly satisfying, especially for those who value personalized service and beautiful scenery.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a private, relaxed half-day outing that combines marine exploration with beach time. It suits families, couples, or small groups who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and authentic, local flavors. If you’re after a more intimate experience with knowledgeable guides and the flexibility to customize your day, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer not to be in large crowds and appreciate the chance to enjoy quiet beaches and vibrant marine life on your own terms. If you’re a family with kids, the gentle pace and safety provided by guides make it especially appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides are friendly and accommodating. Just bring swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen.

What is included in the tour?
You get snorkeling equipment, a boat ride, and a cooler for beverages. Lunch and drinks are not included but can be purchased at Las Animas.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours, from pickup to return, with ample time for snorkeling, beach relaxing, and lunch.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. No refunds are issued if canceled less than 24 hours in advance.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included in the price.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Los Muertos Beach Pier and ends back at the same location.

Can I bring my own beverages or snacks?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own drinks and snacks for the boat ride.

Is this tour seasonal?
While most of the year offers good weather, the availability of whale sightings depends on the season, and the tour is weather-dependent.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an authentic Puerto Vallarta adventure that balances marine discovery, beach relaxation, and local cuisine, this private snorkel and beach tour fits the bill. The personalized approach means you can tailor the day to your pace and interests, while the skilled guides ensure you learn about the area and feel comfortable throughout.

The boat ride, snorkel exploration, and delicious lunch at Las Animas make for a well-rounded experience that’s both fun and relaxing. It’s especially suited for those who value intimacy, flexibility, and a touch of adventure, all backed by positive reviews and a high level of customer satisfaction.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just want a beautiful day on the water, this tour offers a mix of natural beauty and genuine hospitality that will leave lasting memories.

Remember: Book early, especially during peak times, as this tour is popular and often booked 20 days in advance. Prepare for a day of sunshine, gentle waves, and the chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a whole new perspective.