Travelers heading to Puerto Vallarta often seek a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxing downtime — and this tour aims to deliver just that. Offered by Vallarta Adventures, the 7-hour Marietas Islands & Majahuitas Beach tour promises a day filled with boat rides, snorkeling, kayaking, and a mouthwatering beach BBQ. It’s a popular choice, especially for those who want to experience the Pacific’s scenic coastline without breaking the bank.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning scenery of the Marietas Islands and the chance to explore rocky caves and archways. Second, the secluded Majahuitas Beach, perfect for unwinding away from crowds. Third, the variety of water activities with included equipment, and finally, the relaxed, lively atmosphere fostered by the friendly crew and open bar.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s organization has drawn some criticism — mainly due to the large group sizes and limited activity time. If you’re seeking a quiet, intimate experience or exclusive access to specific spots like the Hidden Beach, this may not be your ideal choice. But if you’d enjoy a fun-filled day with a lively group, this trip could fit the bill.
This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing, water fun, and good food, all within a reasonable budget. It’s especially great for those who enjoy social atmospheres and engaging guides. Let’s dig deeper into what this tour really offers.
Good To Know
- Stunning scenery of rocky caves, archways, and marine life at the Marietas Islands.
- Secluded Majahuitas Beach offers a quiet escape with excellent swimming and relaxing spots.
- Water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included, with equipment provided.
- Lively atmosphere driven by friendly staff, music, and an open bar on the boat.
- Tour limitations include large group sizes and limited activity time, especially for snorkelers.
- No visit to Hidden Beach; focus is on exploring the surrounding ocean and wildlife.
Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
Once you’ve booked your spot, the day begins with gathering at the designated marina, where you’ll check in and pay the port fee (around MXN$40), plus a USD$20 conservation fee. The comfortable catamaran sets sail for the impressive Islas Marietas National Park, a protected area renowned for its volcanic rock formations, caves, and birdlife.
The boat ride itself offers scenic views and a chance to spot marine creatures and seabirds. It’s worth noting that some reviewers mention the large capacity of the boat (up to 180 people) can make the experience feel crowded. This crowdsourcing affects the overall vibe, especially during water activities.
Once at the islands, you’ll be invited to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The provided gear is generally sufficient, but a reviewer notes that kayaks and paddleboards may lack fins or oars, which could be frustrating for some. The waters around the islands are often turbid, making snorkeling less vibrant than some might hope, though a few reviewers have seen interesting fish and spotted whales nearby. One traveler describes the snorkeling as “ok,” but states that the waters were murky with limited visibility.
Rocky caves and archways are a highlight, best explored via kayak or paddleboard if you’re comfortable. Guides usually give brief explanations about the geological features, and some mention spotting blue-footed boobies from a distance. The tours focus mainly on experiencing the natural formations rather than visiting the Famous Hidden Beach, which is explicitly not part of this trip.
After exploring the islands, the boat cruises to Majahuitas Beach, a pristine stretch of sand far from tourist crowds. Here, a delicious beach BBQ awaits, complemented by a fully stocked open bar and refreshing drinks. The atmosphere is lively, with staff sometimes putting on performances or music, creating a fun, festive setting. One review praises the excellent lunch and lively crew, describing the overall experience as “a blast.”
During the return trip, you’ll enjoy the scenic ride back with an open bar, often with music playing, making for a relaxed end to the day. Keep in mind that some travelers, especially those with seasickness or seeking a quieter experience, find the large crowd and party atmosphere less appealing.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Islas Marietas National Park.
The Water Activities: Are They Worth It?
Water activities are a major draw, especially with snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard equipment included. For many, the chance to paddle around rocky formations and spot marine life is a highlight. However, reviews suggest that activity access can be limited when the boat is crowded — with only a handful of kayaks and paddleboards available.
One guest, Benjamin from Canada, commented that the snorkeling was limited and the waters turbid, which made it difficult to see much beyond a few fish. Plus, the kayaks and paddleboards lacked fins and had short oars, making them less enjoyable for some users. On the flip side, others appreciated the opportunity to try water sports in a safe, guided environment, especially for beginners.
It’s also worth noting that the focus of this tour isn’t solely on water activities. It’s more of a scenic cruise with some water play thrown in. If your priority is dedicated snorkeling or kayaking, other tours might better suit you, but for those wanting a balance of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers a good compromise.
The Beach BBQ and Relaxation
Majahuitas Beach provides a much-needed break from the boat’s hustle. The white sand, clear waters, and quiet surroundings are perfect for lounging or quick swims. The beach BBQ includes local-style grilled meats, salads, and sides, providing a satisfying meal after several hours of water activities. Many reviews highlight that the lunch is tasty and well-prepared.
The open bar continues on the beach, enabling guests to enjoy drinks while soaking up the sun or chatting with fellow travelers. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with some crew members even putting on impromptu performances. It’s a lively scene that encourages socializing, but travelers seeking solitude might find it loud or crowded.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Transportation and Duration: The tour lasts around 7 hours from start to finish, including travel to and from the marina (note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included). This makes it suitable for those with a full day to spare but might feel rushed if you’re tight on time.
Group Size and Guides: The tour is operated by Vallarta Adventures, with bilingual guides who generally provide knowledgeable commentary. However, with a capacity of up to 180 people, some travelers mention feeling like just a number. Still, the guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism.
Pricing and Fees: The $89 per person fee offers good value considering the included activities, lunch, and drinks. Additional costs include the port fee (MXN$40) and the USD$20 conservation fee, which are paid at check-in. Gratuities are not included but are appreciated by staff.
Booking Flexibility: The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in your planning.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a fun, lively day on the water with plenty of social interaction, water activities, and scenic views. Families with children over 4 will find it suitable, although those with mobility issues or wheelchair users should note that the tour isn’t accessible for them.
If your goal is intimate encounters with nature or a quiet hideaway, this might not meet your expectations. The large groups and focus on a party atmosphere may detract from a peaceful experience. Also, if snorkeling in clear visibility is a priority, you might find the waters less than ideal here.
Summary: Is It Worth It?
In the end, this tour offers a balanced adventure with plenty of opportunities to see the iconic rock formations, enjoy water sports, and relax at a beautiful beach. The lively crew, tasty lunch, and open bar add a layer of fun that many travelers appreciate. For those who don’t mind the crowds and are happy with a more social, energetic environment, this experience can be a highlight of a Vallarta vacation.
However, if you prefer a quieter, more exclusive experience or are seeking highly pristine snorkeling conditions, you might want to explore other options.
Overall, it’s a good-value tour that combines scenic beauty, water fun, and delicious food, making it perfect for groups, families, or travelers looking to make the most of a full day on the Pacific coast.
FAQs
Does this tour visit the Hidden Beach?
No, this tour does not include a visit to the Hidden Beach. Instead, it focuses on exploring the ocean, caves, and wildlife around the Marietas Islands.
How long is the snorkeling activity?
The snorkeling opportunity lasts approximately 45 minutes, but it’s often done in turbid waters with limited visibility, especially when the group is large.
Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding equipment are provided at no extra charge, although some reviewers mention limitations like lack of fins or short oars.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a light jacket for the boat ride.
Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to arrive at the designated marina for check-in.
What’s the capacity of the boat?
The boats can carry up to 180 people, which may result in crowded conditions during peak times.
Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4 to 11 receive a discounted rate, while older children and teens are considered adults. However, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
In summary, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and activity-rich day out of Puerto Vallarta. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, water sports, and good food, all at an affordable price — just keep in mind the crowds and limited quiet moments.
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