Planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This 7-hour tour offers a chance to explore the Marietas Islands and enjoy a beachside BBQ at Majahuitas. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to combine water activities, scenic vistas, and a relaxed beach experience, all aboard a comfortable catamaran.
What we love about this tour are two key points: the chance to see marine life and rock formations up close and the relaxing, all-you-can-eat beach BBQ. Both offer authentic moments that highlight the natural beauty of Jalisco’s coast. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the large group size and limited activity time, which can make some visitors feel crowded or underwhelmed.
This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, laid-back beach days, and scenic boat rides. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation — though those with mobility issues might want to look elsewhere, as the tour isn’t designed with accessibility in mind.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: Rocky caverns, archways, and marine life
- Water activities included: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Secluded beach: Majahuitas for a relaxing BBQ and swim
- Group size and organization: Can be crowded; emphasis on social atmosphere
- Tour focus: Ocean exploration over visiting Hidden Beach
- Value for money: Includes food, drinks, and equipment but watch extra fees
- Guides and safety: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
- Mixed reviews: Some find it well-organized and fun, others too crowded or underwhelming
From the moment you step aboard one of the comfortable catamarans, you’ll notice that the vessel is well-suited for a day on the water. The tour, operated by Vallarta Adventures, lasts about 7 hours, which amounts to a leisurely day full of activities and scenic cruising. Once underway, you’ll set your sights on the Islas Marietas National Park, famous for its striking rock formations, secret caves, and the elusive Hidden Beach (though, notably, this tour does not visit that particular spot).
You can check availability for your dates here:What to Expect at the Marietas Islands
The boat ride itself offers excellent opportunities for stunning views of the coast and the chance to spot marine life. Several reviews mention sightings of whales and interesting fish, making it a worthwhile trip for nature lovers. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping you appreciate the natural surroundings.
Once at the islands, you’ll have access to snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards — all included in the price. This is where the tour shines for those wanting to get into the water. We loved the way the guides encouraged participants to explore the rocky caverns and archways, giving a real sense of discovery.
However, some travelers have noted that the water can be turbid, and the snorkeling opportunities are limited — especially when the boat is crowded. One review from Benjamin from Canada pointed out that the snorkeling was brief, in murky waters, with some feeling disappointed that more time wasn’t allocated. The crowded conditions also make it tricky to access the water gear comfortably, particularly with large groups.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Islas Marietas National Park.
Majahuitas Beach — The Secluded Oasis
After exploring the islands, the tour heads to Majahuitas Beach, one of the most secluded beaches on Mexico’s Pacific coast. The scene here is idyllic — soft white sand, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. This is where the beach BBQ takes place, offering delicious grilled food and refreshing drinks.
The beach’s remoteness means fewer crowds, though some reviews mention that the availability of kayaks and paddleboards can be limited when many guests are present. The open bar at the beach adds to the festive vibe, but it’s worth noting that access to water activities might be restricted during busy times.
Guests often remark on the beauty of the setting: the pristine environment, the gentle surf, and the chance to relax with a cold drink under the sun. One traveler from the US described it as “pure fun,” especially enjoying the friendly crew and lively atmosphere.
The Return Journey and Overall Atmosphere
As the tour winds down, you’ll cruise back to Puerto Vallarta on the catamaran. This part of the trip is usually more relaxed — with music, drinks from the open bar, and plenty of opportunities to take in the sunset views if timing allows.
While the experience is lively, some reviews have raised concerns about the emphasis on music and alcohol, feeling it detracts from the natural beauty. Others appreciated the social vibe, especially if traveling with friends or family seeking a fun day out.
Priced at $89 per person, this tour includes all water gear, a beach BBQ, and drinks, which contributes to its overall value — provided you’re comfortable with the large group setting. The additional fees — including the port fee (MXN$40) and a conservation fee of USD$20 — are extra costs to keep in mind.
Given that much of the experience focuses on relaxing, socializing, and enjoying water activities, it offers a good balance of adventure and leisure. However, some reviews mention that the large crowd (capacity of 180 people) can make certain activities feel rushed or crowded, and the limited water activity time might leave water enthusiasts wanting more.
Practical Considerations
- Timing: The tour’s departure times vary, so check availability for your preferred day.
- What to bring: Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, a sun hat, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and a towel. A light jacket might be handy for the boat ride.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
- Group size: Large groups mean lively atmosphere but can also mean crowded water gear and limited access.
- Booking: You can reserve with “reserve now & pay later”, which offers flexibility if your plans change.
While most travelers found the crew friendly and helpful, opinions diverge on the overall organization. One traveler from Canada described the tour as overpriced, crowded, and underwhelming in water activities, citing issues with access to kayaks and paddleboards. Conversely, others raved about the fun atmosphere, excellent guides, and tasty lunches.
The marine sightings — like whales and the blue-footed boobie — add an exciting dimension, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. But if your main goal is snorkeling or visiting Hidden Beach, this tour isn’t tailored for that, emphasizing ocean exploration over the famous Hidden Beach’s access.
This tour offers a lively, social day on the water with plenty of opportunities for water activities and scenic views. It’s best suited for those looking for a fun, laid-back experience that combines sightseeing with swimming and relaxing at a beautiful beach. The friendly guides and lively atmosphere make it especially appealing for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a memorable day out.
However, if you’re after a more exclusive or tranquil experience, or if you’re highly interested in detailed marine exploration, you might find this tour a bit too crowded or superficial. It’s a good value for what it offers but keep your expectations aligned with the lively, group-oriented nature of the trip.
Does this tour visit the Hidden Beach? No, this tour focuses on exploring the ocean, marine life, and the surrounding areas of the Marietas Islands. The Hidden Beach is not part of this itinerary.
What water activities are included? You can snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard, with equipment provided at no extra charge.
How long is the snorkeling? The snorkeling session is approximately 45 minutes, but some reviews suggest it may be brief and in murky waters if crowded.
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 4 to 11 pay child prices, while those 12 and up are considered adults. It’s suitable for families, but keep in mind the large group size and water activity limitations.
Are drinks included? Yes, there’s an open bar on the way back, plus drinks at the beach BBQ. Additional gratuities and fees are extra.
What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen. A light jacket is also recommended.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, this tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This Marietas Islands and Majahuitas Beach tour offers an engaging way to enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coast. With stunning volcanic formations, opportunities for water activities, and a relaxing beach BBQ, it has many ingredients for a memorable day. The lively guides and social atmosphere make it especially suited for travelers wanting fun, companionship, and scenic views.
However, potential visitors should be aware of the large group size, limited water activity time, and the fact that the Hidden Beach is not included. Those seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience might prefer smaller, specialized tours or private charters.
For explorers eager to combine adventure with socializing and scenic beauty, this tour provides good value, memorable moments, and plenty of photo-worthy vistas. Just keep your expectations in check regarding crowd levels and activity duration, and you’ll have a day to remember on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
You can check availability for your dates here: