Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure, Colomitos & Las Animas Beach

A Complete Guide to the Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure, Colomitos & Las Animas Beach

Planning a day out in Puerto Vallarta that combines incredible underwater sights with relaxing beach time? The Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure offers a fantastic mix of both, with a promise of vibrant marine life, gorgeous scenery, and a relaxed pace that suits most travelers. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give us plenty to look forward to.

What really catches our eye are the knowledgeable bilingual guides, the opportunity to snorkel at the protected Los Arcos islands, and the chance to unwind on Las Animas Beach—a spot praised for its tranquility and great local food. The cost of $69 per person seems reasonable given the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks, though the tour’s duration of about 3 to 5 hours allows for flexible exploration.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency; if heavy rain or storms hit, the experience could be canceled or modified—so it’s wise to plan with some flexibility. This tour appears perfect for travelers who want a blend of adventure and relaxation, especially those keen to discover underwater life and enjoy some quality beach time without the hassle of arranging transportation.

Good To Know

• Vibrant marine scenery at Los Arcos islands offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Charming stops like Colomitos and Las Animas Beach showcase Puerto Vallarta’s scenic coastline.
• Guided boat tour provides insightful commentary and safe navigation.
• All essential snorkeling gear is included, making it hassle-free.
• Relaxed pace with time to swim, eat, and enjoy the beaches.
• Affordable price considering the activities, food, drinks, and scenic value.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Playa Mismaloya

Our journey kicks off at Playa Mismaloya, an energetic little beach surrounded by lush green mountains and dramatic cliffs. It’s a well-chosen launch site, offering easy access and a bustling vibe. Guides—like Carlo and Hugo, who are noted for their friendliness and bilingual skills—greet guests warmly, delivering a safety briefing that’s clear and friendly. This sets the tone for a relaxed, well-organized trip.

Cruising Along the Coast

Once aboard the boat, the next hour is a scenic sail along the Bay of Banderas. Expect panoramic views of the coastline, dotted with small, hidden beaches, and perhaps some wildlife sightings as guides share snippets about the area’s history and movie fame (notably from films like “Night”). The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering opportunities to snap photos of the rugged cliffs and jungle-covered hills.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos

The main event is at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a famed marine sanctuary. Here, the underwater world truly shines—colorful fish dart through coral formations, and the calm waters make for easy snorkeling. Reviewers mention seeing playful fish and even sea turtles or rays, although these are not guaranteed. The guides, Brayan and Arnold, are praised for their patience and teaching skills, especially when helping snorkelers see the best of the underwater scene, even if the water appears a bit murky at times.

Visiting Colomitos

Next, a short boat ride takes us south along the coast to Colomitos, a tiny beach renowned for its jungle backdrop and emerald waters. The boat ride itself highlights towering cliffs and lush greenery, as guides point out interesting sights. This stop is perfect for a quick dip or just soaking in the scenery. Reviewers emphasize the beauty of this secluded spot, with one mentioning, “the beach was beautiful and calm,” making it ideal for relaxing after snorkeling.

Relaxing at Las Animas Beach

The final stop is Las Animas Beach, a lively yet peaceful stretch of sand with clear waters. Here, you’re free to unwind, take a swim, or jump off the pier. The beachfront restaurants are well-loved for serving simple, delicious local dishes—perfect for refueling after a morning of activity. Reviewers mention the great food and drinks, adding to the appeal of this beach stop. There are optional activities like parasailing or banana boat rides, but these are not included, giving you the freedom to choose your adventure.

The Return and Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up after about two hours on the beach, providing a flexible schedule that fits comfortably into a half-day adventure. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides like Efraín, who is praised for his wealth of information.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $69 covers most essentials—snorkeling gear, bottled water, sodas, beers for adults, and snacks. This means you won’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment or snacks, simplifying logistics. However, WiFi isn’t available on board, so be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the moment.

It’s important to note that activities like parasailing, banana boat rides, or massages at Las Animas Beach are not included. If you’re looking to splurge on additional fun, these can be arranged on-site, but they’ll be at extra cost.

Transportation & Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Gasolinera Pemex Puerto Vallarta in Zona Romántica, a convenient location accessible by public transportation. The end point is at Mismaloya, where the boat drops you back at the same location. The pickup and drop-off arrangement makes it easy for travelers staying nearby, and the tour itself is well-organized in terms of timing.

The Experience: Authenticity, Comfort, and Value

The reviews highlight the high standard of guides and captains, with Carlo, Hugo, Sebastian, and Efraín frequently mentioned for their professionalism and friendliness. It’s clear that safety and comfort are priorities, which is reassuring whether you’re a confident swimmer or a first-timer.

An important aspect is the value. At $69, you get a mix of guided snorkeling, scenic cruising, and beach relaxation, with drinks and snacks included—plus a knowledgeable guide who enhances the experience with local insights. The positive feedback about the delicious food, attentive guides, and beautiful scenery suggests this tour offers excellent bang for your buck.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who want quality snorkeling without the hassle of organizing transport or equipment. The tour is accessible for most travelers, with most being able to participate, and is perfect if you value small group settings and friendly guides.

Final Thoughts

The Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure offers a well-rounded day out that combines marine exploration, scenic coastline cruising, and beachside leisure. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude ensure an enjoyable experience for all, while the stops at Colomitos and Las Animas add variety and a chance to unwind.

While weather conditions can affect the outing, the overall quality, value, and authenticity make this a compelling choice for anyone in Puerto Vallarta wanting to explore underwater life and relax on stunning beaches.

If you’re after a manageable, well-organized day that doesn’t break the bank and leaves plenty of room for spontaneous fun, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to snorkel, enjoy the beaches, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers snorkeling equipment, bottled water, sodas, beers (for adults), and snacks. You’ll also have the benefit of a guided boat trip and beach time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gasolinera Pemex in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica and concludes at Mismaloya, where the boat returns you to the starting point.

Are activities like parasailing or massages available?
These activities are available at Las Animas Beach but are not included in the tour price. They can be arranged separately on-site.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides help with safety and instructions, making it suitable even for those new to snorkeling. The water can be a bit murky, but guides like Brayan and Arnold are praised for helping guests see the fish.

Is transportation provided?
The tour starts at a fixed meeting point; transportation from your hotel isn’t included, so plan to get there on your own or arrange local transport.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if needed.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a day filled with underwater discovery, captivating coastline views, and relaxing beach moments, the Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure balances all of this at an accessible price point. Friendly guides, excellent scenery, and a mix of activities make it a standout choice for travelers eager to explore Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty without the fuss.