Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Islands Snorkel and Hidden Beach

Perched on the edge of Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta beckons adventurers with its hidden gem – the Marietas Islands. This remarkable archipelago, forged by volcanic activity, conceals a true natural wonder within its craggy shores. Beneath the surface, a kaleidoscope of marine life dances in the crystal-clear waters, while the elusive Hidden Beach, accessible only by a select few, promises a breathtaking glimpse into a world untouched by time. Embark on this captivating excursion, and discover the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits beyond the horizon.

Good To Know

• A 4-hour adventure departing from Marina Vallarta at 9 AM, with a starting price of $150.80 per person for guided snorkeling and exploration of the Hidden Beach.
• Access to the exclusive Hidden Beach is limited to 116 visitors per day, with a 99% success rate for visitors.
• The tour includes complimentary box lunch, fruit, and potential wildlife sightings such as dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and whales.
• Essential items to bring include swimsuit, towel, light sweater, hat, and biodegradable sunscreen, with a $3 USD conservation fee collected at check-in.
• The tour offers an immersive snorkeling experience with expert guidance, access to the iconic Hidden Beach, and opportunities to encounter diverse marine life.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Marietas Islands Snorkel and Hidden Beach tour offers a captivating 4-hour adventure departing from Marina Vallarta around 9 AM.

Priced from $150.80 per person, this excursion features guided snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with diverse marine life and the chance to explore the renowned Hidden Beach.

Led by experienced instructors, the tour is available in both English and Spanish.

With a 97% likelihood of accessing the Hidden Beach and a 99% success rate for visitors, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Guests will enjoy a complimentary box lunch and fruit while taking in the scenic route, which may offer sightings of dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and even whales during the winter season.

Hidden Beach Access

Access to the renowned Hidden Beach is limited, with only 116 visitors permitted daily. However, the success rate for accessing the beach is remarkably high, with 99% of visitors able to explore this hidden gem. The beach is only accessible on Wednesday through Sunday, making it a must-see for those visiting the Marietas Islands during the permitted days.

Access Day	Hidden Beach Deposit
Wednesday – Sunday	$25 USD (non-refundable if unable to swim)

Adventurers must be prepared to pay the non-refundable hidden beach deposit, which acts as a conservation fee to help maintain the delicate ecosystem. With such a high success rate and the chance to discover this truly unique natural wonder, the Marietas Islands Hidden Beach is an unmissable experience for any visitor to the region.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can expect an immersive snorkeling experience in the crystal-clear waters of the Marietas Islands, where they’ll encounter a diverse array of vibrant marine life.

Expert guides will lead the way, sharing their vast knowledge and ensuring a safe, thrilling adventure. As they dive beneath the surface, guests will be treated to a breathtaking underwater world, filled with kaleidoscopic schools of tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and the possibility of spotting majestic manta rays.

This unforgettable excursion also includes a visit to the iconic Hidden Beach, a hidden gem accessible only by boat that offers a truly unique and awe-inspiring exploration.

Wildlife Viewing

A scenic route along the Ameca River offers the chance to spot dolphins gracefully swimming and playing in the calm waters.

Lucky guests may catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures as the boat glides towards the Marietas Islands.

The adventure doesn’t end there – the nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands are a haven for a diversity of marine life.

On any given day, visitors may spot curious sea turtles, majestic manta rays, or even humpback whales during the winter season.

With an experienced guide leading the way, the opportunities for up-close wildlife encounters are endless, making this snorkeling tour a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

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What to Bring and Restrictions

Travelers planning their Marietas Islands snorkeling adventure will want to come prepared with the right essentials.

Bring a swimsuit, towel, light sweater, and hat to stay comfortable in the island’s tropical climate. Biodegradable sunscreen is a must to protect skin while exploring the crystalline waters.

While a box lunch and fruit are provided, extra cash is recommended for purchasing photos or souvenirs. Be aware of the $3 USD conservation fee collected at check-in.

Certain restrictions apply, with a minimum age of 10 years old (with adult supervision) and a maximum age of 65 for accessing the Hidden Beach. Those with medical conditions or physical limitations may want to reconsider this adventure.

Tour Inclusions

The Marietas Islands Snorkel and Hidden Beach tour promises an unparalleled adventure. Visitors will embark on a thrilling snorkeling expedition in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by diverse marine life.

Expert guides will lead the way, offering invaluable insights and ensuring a safe, unforgettable experience. The highlight of the tour is the exclusive opportunity to explore the Hidden Beach, accessible to only a limited number of people each day.

Travelers will savor a delectable box lunch and fresh fruit as they cruise along the scenic Ameca River, keeping an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and even whales in the winter months.

With all equipment provided and a high success rate for accessing the Hidden Beach, this tour offers an adventure of a lifetime.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Marietas Islands Snorkel and Hidden Beach tour couldn’t be simpler. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan your adventure with confidence.

The $25 USD deposit for the hidden beach is non-refundable if you’re unable to swim due to weather or availability, but the 99% success rate means you’re virtually guaranteed access.

Tours depart around 9 AM from Marina Vallarta, with English and Spanish-speaking guides to enhance your experience.

Don’t forget the $3 USD conservation fee per person at check-in.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the area, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural wonders of the Marietas Islands.

Getting to the Marina

Navigating the winding roads of Puerto Vallarta, adventurers will find themselves arriving at the bustling Marina Vallarta. This vibrant hub serves as the departure point for the Marietas Islands tour, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of exploration.

Transportation	Time	Distance
Walking	10 mins	0.5 miles
Taxi	5 mins	1.5 miles
Local Bus	15 mins	2 miles
Uber	7 mins	1.8 miles
Rental Car	8 mins	2.2 miles

With a range of options to suit every preference, the journey to the marina promises to be as exciting as the adventure that awaits beyond the docks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkel gear on this exciting tour. That way, you’ll feel more comfortable exploring the crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life around the Marietas Islands during your unforgettable adventure.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

The tour has no minimum group size – adventurers can explore the Hidden Beach and snorkel the crystal-clear waters even as a solo traveler. Experienced guides ensure an immersive experience with a high chance of accessing the secluded beach.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t cover the $3 USD conservation fee per person collected at check-in, nor the $25 USD non-refundable Hidden Beach deposit. Adventurers should also budget for any extra photos, souvenirs, or purchases during the excursion.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Stay Longer?

Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 4 hours and can’t be extended. The strict schedule ensures everyone gets a chance to access the limited-access Hidden Beach. Extending the tour would require booking a separate excursion.

Are Gopro Cameras or Other Photography Equipment Allowed?

Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras and capture the stunning underwater scenes and hidden landscapes. GoPros and other photography equipment are allowed, but guests must keep safety in mind when snorkeling.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Marietas Islands, where you’ll snorkel amid vibrant marine life and uncover the hidden gem of Hidden Beach. This thrilling excursion offers unparalleled access to a natural wonder, immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal treasures. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the Marietas Islands and discover the hidden delights that await.

You can check if your dates are available here: