Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa las Animas

Exploring the Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa Las Ánimas: An Honest Look

Many travelers heading to Puerto Vallarta consider taking a boat trip to explore the coastline, snorkel, and relax on beautiful beaches. This particular tour offers a blend of water activities, scenic stops, and beachside dining, promising an adventurous half-day at sea. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a taste of the ocean without a full-day commitment, but like any tour, it has its ups and downs.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to snorkel at Colomitos, often described as Mexico’s smallest beach, and relax at Playa Las Ánimas with its inviting sands and seaside restaurant. The free bar and lively music onboard add to the fun atmosphere, making it feel more like a party on the water. The itinerary’s focus on scenic stops like Los Arcos de Mismaloya also adds a touch of natural beauty.

However, a note of caution: some travelers have found the snorkeling to be disappointing, citing poor marine life and unclear waters. Plus, the review from a Tripadvisor user points out a mismatch between expectations and reality, especially regarding the organization and the snorkeling quality. That said, if you’re after a casual, lively day with plenty of socializing and a scenic boat ride, this tour could suit you.

This experience is best suited for travelers who are looking for a fun, social boat trip with water activities, casual dining, and stunning coastal views. It’s not the best choice for serious snorkelers seeking vibrant marine ecosystems but can be perfect for first-timers or families wanting an easygoing day at sea.

Good To Know

• Scenic Stops: Expect impressive views at Los Arcos de Mismaloya and the coastline.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling or kayaking at Colomitos, though reviews suggest the marine life may be underwhelming.
• Beach Relaxation: Several hours at Playa Las Ánimas for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying seaside food.
• Onboard Fun: Open bar, music, and contests keep the atmosphere lively.
• Cost and Value: About $57.51 per person, including lunch and drinks, but consider extra costs like dock tax.
• Group Size: Up to 60 travelers, so it can be lively but also crowded.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Start Point and Check-in at Puerto Magico

Your adventure begins in the Puerto Magico, a vibrant hub with cafes, shops, and parking, making it easy to arrive. The check-in process is straightforward, and the free parking is a bonus for those driving. The setting hints at the lively atmosphere you can expect onboard.

Sailing Past Puerto Los Muertos and Los Arcos

The initial sailing segment takes you past Puerto Los Muertos, offering views of Puerto Vallarta’s bay. It’s a quick stop for boarding extra passengers, giving you a chance to admire the scenery and snap photos.

The highlight here is Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a stunning natural formation of sea stacks and arches. This area is perfect for quick photos and soaking in the natural beauty. When we read reviews, many appreciated the opportunity to admire these majestic rock structures during the cruise.

Colomitos: The Smallest Beach with Water Activities

Next, the boat takes you to Colomitos, Mexico’s tiniest beach, famous for its clear waters and rocky surroundings. Here, you’re offered the option to snorkel or kayak. However, a review mentions that the snorkeling was “the worst” they’d experienced, citing poor marine life and unclear waters. This highlights that what looks promising on the itinerary doesn’t always turn out as expected.

Expect about 40 minutes here, which is enough for a quick dip or snorkel, but don’t expect vibrant coral reefs or abundant fish. For those who love just dipping their toes in the water or trying a quick swim, it’s ideal. For serious snorkelers seeking colorful underwater scenes, this might be a disappointment.

Playa Las Ánimas: Sun and Food

The star of the trip for many is Playa Las Ánimas, where you’ll spend around 3 hours. The boat drops you off directly on the beach, providing ample time to relax, swim, and enjoy the sun. The beach is complemented by a seaside restaurant, offering local dishes and drinks.

Many reviews mention the convenience of having a restaurant right on the sand, serving delicious food and cold drinks. This part of the tour is perfect for those wanting to chill, take in the views, and enjoy some beachside hospitality.

Return Journey and Onboard Entertainment

After a few hours at the beach, you’ll board the boat again for the return trip, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The onboard atmosphere is lively, with an open bar, music, and contests. It’s designed for fun and socializing, making it a great way to end your day.

One reviewer described the return as “just the beginning of the party,” emphasizing the lively, festive vibe that persists until you arrive back at the dock. Still, keep in mind the crowds—up to 60 travelers can be onboard, which might be overwhelming if you prefer quiet.

Additional Details and Cost Considerations

The ticket price of $57.51 includes lunch, the open bar, snorkeling or kayaking, and access to the beach. But, there’s a dock tax of 33 MXN, which isn’t included in the ticket and will be an extra expense. Also, extra food, drinks, and activities on the beach are at your own cost.

The tour starts at 12:00 pm, with registration at 11:30 am, and is suitable for most travelers, including children (0-2 years are free). The use of life jackets is mandatory, especially during water activities, adding a safety measure that’s good to see.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

A notable review claims that the snorkeling was “support be a family but they canceled and asked us to reschedule. Two were not able to go at rescheduled date and they did not refund their tickets.” This points to some organizational issues, which can affect your experience, especially if you’re expecting a seamless trip.

Another review states, “No Title,” indicating the snorkeling was underwhelming with little marine life to see, which is a key consideration if underwater exploration is your main goal. The reviewer also expressed frustration about the company being a third-party operator, not directly managed by the agency, which can sometimes lead to less reliable service.

What This Means for You

If your priority is vibrant underwater life, this tour might not meet your expectations. But if you’re happy with a lively boat ride, scenic views, and relaxing beach time, it could still be a fun option. Just keep in mind that the snorkeling spot is not guaranteed to be spectacular.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Families and first-time visitors who want a relaxed day with some water fun and scenic sights will likely enjoy this trip. Its casual vibe and inclusive nature—lunch, drinks, and activities—offer good value for the price.

Party-goers and social travelers will appreciate the lively onboard atmosphere, music, and contests. It’s perfect if you’re looking to mingle and enjoy a festive day at sea.

Serious snorkelers or marine life enthusiasts, however, might find the snorkeling experience lacking. If underwater exploration is your main goal, you might want to explore other options known for vibrant marine ecosystems.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

This tour packs a lot into a half-day, with scenic stops, beach relaxation, and onboard entertainment. It’s an excellent choice if you want a fun, social outing with the convenience of included food and drinks. The price offers decent value, especially considering the all-inclusive feel—just be prepared for the crowds and the possibility that the snorkeling may not thrill everyone.

For those who love stunning coastal views, a lively atmosphere, and a day spent soaking up the sun, this trip could be just right. If your main focus is pristine underwater scenery or a quieter experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour provides a lively, social adventure that balances sightseeing, beach time, and fun. Just keep your expectations in check if snorkeling is your top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the snorkeling activity worth doing on this tour?
It depends. Several reviews mention poor marine life and unclear waters, so if vibrant underwater scenes are your goal, you might be disappointed. However, it still offers a chance to cool off and try snorkeling in a calm setting.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers lunch, an open bar with alcoholic beverages (for over 18s), snorkeling or kayaking, and access to Playa Las Ánimas. The dock tax is extra, as are any additional purchases on the beach.

How long do we stay at Playa Las Ánimas?
Approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy lunch at the seaside restaurant.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 0-2 are free of charge. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

What are the main drawbacks?
Some travelers have experienced organizational issues, and the snorkeling may not meet expectations for marine life. The crowds can be sizable, which might detract from a peaceful experience.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 12:00 pm, with registration at 11:30 am, and returns to the starting point after about 6-7 hours.

Final Summary

This half-day Puerto Vallarta tour offers a lively mix of scenic views, beach relaxation, and onboard fun. It’s ideal for those seeking a social, easygoing experience packed with entertainment, good food, and picturesque stops. While snorkeling may not wow the underwater adventurers, the overall atmosphere and convenience make it a solid choice for many.

If you’re after an active, festive day with plenty of socializing and beautiful scenery, this trip will likely hit the mark. For travelers craving more pristine underwater environments or a quieter escape, consider other options. But for an energetic day out at sea, it’s worth considering — just manage your expectations and bring your party spirit.