Puerto Vallarta: Beach, Breakfast, Lunch & Open Bar

Puerto Vallarta: Beach, Breakfast, Lunch & Open Bar — A Detailed Review

Planning a day tour in Puerto Vallarta that combines adventure, relaxation, and good vibes? This 8-hour boat tour promises just that, offering a mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, exploring charming villages, and lively onboard entertainment. While it may not be perfect for everyone, especially if you’re after a highly polished experience, it’s a great option for travelers craving authentic moments, stunning scenery, and a fun-filled day on the water.

What we love about this tour are the opportunities to snorkel amidst vibrant marine life, the relaxing pause at Las Animas Beach, and the all-day open bar with lively music and games. The value is also notable considering the inclusion of breakfast, lunch, kayaking, and guided activities. The main concern? Some reviews point out inconsistencies in food quality, boat logistics, and activity timing—so knowing what to expect can help you get the most out of it. This tour is best suited for those looking for a lively, social experience rather than a secluded or ultra-exclusive escape.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Varied activities including snorkeling, beach relaxation, and waterfall hikes
• All-day open bar with music, games, and lively atmosphere
• Good value with breakfast, lunch, kayaking, and equipment included
• Mixed reviews highlight differences in experience quality and organization
• Suitable for travelers seeking fun, social adventures with a lively vibe
• Not ideal for those looking for a quiet, highly curated or luxurious experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning at the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal or Puerto Mágico, where your bilingual guides welcome you aboard a double-decker boat. The journey is designed to maximize your exposure to Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coastlines and marine wonders, with each stop offering something special.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos

First stop is the famous Los Arcos marine preserve — a magnet for snorkelers. You’ll be provided with masks and snorkels, and the guides will help you navigate the shallow waters teeming with tropical fish and colorful coral. From the reviews, it’s clear that this part of the trip can be a highlight, with some guests noting that the water is crystal-clear and the marine life abundant. However, some mention the limited availability of gear, with only a certain number of snorkel setups. If you’re eager to explore underwater, arriving early might give you better chances to secure equipment.

Relaxing at Las Animas Beach

Next, the boat takes you to Las Animas Beach, a long stretch of soft sand perfect for unwinding. You can lounge, swim, or participate in optional beach activities. The setting is described as peaceful and scenic, ideal for cooling off after snorkeling. Expect a laid-back vibe, with some reviews mentioning that food here can be basic, but the atmosphere makes up for it. You’ll have time to enjoy the gentle waves and soak in the sun.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Quimixto Village & Waterfall Adventure

Then the journey continues to the small village of Quimixto. Here, you have the choice between a horseback ride or a guided hike to a seasonal waterfall. The hike involves lush greenery, and reviewers say it’s a peaceful trek, with some noting that the waterfall is a refreshing spot for a swim. The waterfall hike might be the most authentic part of the experience, offering a chance to connect with nature away from crowded tourist spots.

The Lunch & Entertainment

Midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch served right on the beach, with options that reviewers find generally flavorful, although some mention the food can be hit or miss. The onboard open bar is a highlight, with unlimited drinks, lively music, and games, making it a perfect way to relax, dance, and meet fellow travelers. The boat’s musical playlist tends toward classic tunes, which some guests find charming, while others note the music can be a bit dated.

Additional Activities & Tips

• Kayaks are available for those who want to paddle around the beach. It’s a nice way to explore the calm waters near the shoreline.
• Beach toys and equipment are provided, but be aware that the experience can be crowded, especially during peak times.
• The tour ends around sunset, with some reviews mentioning that the return trip takes longer than expected—so patience might be necessary.

The Real Cheers & Challenges

While the tour offers a fun day out, the reviews provide useful warnings. One guest from Spain pointed out that the actual experience differs from the promises, criticizing the mediocre breakfast, watered-down drinks, and limited snorkeling gear. They also mentioned that only a tiny portion of the snorkeling equipment was available for everyone, which could mean rushed or limited underwater time.

Another traveler from Canada found the loud music and high crowds a bit overwhelming, though they appreciated seeing whales and turtles. The mixed feedback suggests that this tour is better suited for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere rather than a serene, peaceful day.

Pricing & Value

At $87 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price — breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and an open bar. Yet, some reviews suggest that the food and drinks might be on the basic side, and optional activities like horseback riding or waterfall hikes are paid separately, which can add up. The value, then, depends largely on how much you enjoy socializing over drinks and participating in multiple activities.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for group travelers, singles, or couples wanting to meet new people and enjoy a lively day in Puerto Vallarta. If you’re after adventure with a social element—snorkeling, dancing, and lounging—this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer quiet, exclusive, or highly curated experiences, you might find this too boisterous or inconsistent.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Puerto Vallarta boat tour offers a fun and lively way to see some of the coast’s best sights. You’ll enjoy stunning views, good food, and unlimited drinks in a setting that encourages socializing and casual exploration. The snorkeling at Los Arcos, relaxing hours at Las Animas, and waterfall hike are genuine highlights, especially for travelers eager to combine adventure with relaxation.

However, it’s important to keep expectations tempered. Reviewers highlight that the experience can vary—some found the food underwhelming, the snorkeling limited, and the organization sometimes disorganized. The loud music and crowds may not appeal to those seeking a peaceful escape, but for those wanting a vibrant, engaging day out, it ticks many boxes.

This tour is best suited for adventurous, fun-loving travelers who enjoy lively atmospheres and social experiences. If you’re okay with some logistical quirks and are hoping for an authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal charm, you’ll likely find this tour worthwhile.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bilingual guides, breakfast, lunch, an all-you-can-drink open bar, life jackets, mask & snorkel, kayaks, and onboard music, dancing, and games.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You can meet at the Maritime Terminal (API) in Puerto Vallarta or Puerto Mágico, where the Beach Boy company staff will host you.

How long does the tour take?
It’s a full 8-hour experience, usually available in the morning, with most guests returning around late afternoon or early evening.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to do horseback riding or a hike to a seasonal waterfall in Quimixto, but these activities are paid separately and require advance registration.

Is snorkeling worth it?
Many reviewers say the snorkeling is enjoyable with colorful marine life, but some note that gear availability can be limited, so arrive early if snorkeling is a priority.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
While not explicitly stated, outdoor tours like this generally operate in most weather conditions. Check the cancellation policy if weather might be an issue.

Is this suitable for families or kids?
The lively atmosphere and open bar might make it more appealing to adults. For families, it depends on kids’ interests—some may enjoy the water and beach time, but the party vibe might be overwhelming for younger children.

In Summary:
This Puerto Vallarta tour offers a lively, activity-packed day with excellent value for those who enjoy social settings, scenic views, and beachside fun. While it might not satisfy travelers seeking serenity or a highly polished experience, it excels in providing a genuine, energetic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline. If you’re ready for an adventure with plenty of options to relax and connect, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check if your dates are available here: