Islas Marietas: Snorkel, Kayak, Paddle, and Playa Nopalera

If you’re considering a day trip to the stunning Islas Marietas off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, you’re in for a treat—especially if you love outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. This tour promises a well-rounded experience, combining marine adventure, beach relaxation, and local flavors, all wrapped into an 8-hour journey. It’s designed to appeal to those who want to experience a taste of Mexico’s natural beauty, with a bit of everything.

What we like most about this tour is the variety of activities—from snorkeling to kayaking—and the chance to enjoy authentic Mexican food onboard. The professional guides are often praised for their friendliness and ability to enhance the experience. On the other hand, a few travelers have noted that some activities—like visiting Playa Escondida—are not included, which could be disappointing for those expecting to see certain highlights. This tour suits adventure seekers and nature lovers who appreciate a balanced day of exploration and relaxation.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, and beach time offer a well-rounded experience.
• Professional guides: friendly and knowledgeable staff make the day more enjoyable.
• Included meals: breakfast and a local dish onboard add value.
• Price point: at $71 per person, it offers good value considering the activities and food.
• Limitations: no visit to Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), and some activities depend on weather and conditions.
• Reviews vary: some travelers wish for more inclusivity or better visibility during snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Booking and Preparation Process

Getting started is straightforward. When you arrive, you’ll pay a $32 pesos port tax and receive a bracelet that grants access to the protected Marietas Islands. The meeting point is at the main entrance on the left side, where you’ll see the port fee station and the BEACHBOY team in blue polo shirts. It’s a smooth check-in process, with staff handling your tickets and any additional fees.

The $180 pesos conservation wristband is a necessary purchase—think of it as a small price for helping preserve this natural wonder. The tour’s flexible booking options—like cancelation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later—add to its appeal, especially if you’re still finalizing your travel plans.

The Boat Ride and Morning Atmosphere

Once onboard, you’re greeted with a fresh breakfast, which sets a pleasant tone for the day. The boat itself is described as comfortable, providing a relaxed environment as you cruise out to the islands. The journey usually lasts about an hour, giving you time to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views.

Activities at Islas Marietas

Snorkeling

The core activity for many, snorkeling offers a window into vibrant underwater life. While some reviews mention less-than-ideal visibility—like seeing only a few sea urchins—others praise the guides for their support. The marine environment here is teeming with fish and other sea creatures, though the level of visibility can vary by day and weather conditions.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

These activities are included in the tour, but some reviewers note they don’t always get to participate in them due to time constraints or weather issues. One reviewer suggested that offering kayaking or paddleboarding while others are snorkeling would be a good idea for those who prefer land-based activities during certain periods.

Nopalera Beach

The highlight for many is the visit to Nopalera Beach—a gorgeous stretch of sand ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and taking in the views. However, it’s important to clarify that the tour does not include a visit to Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), which is often a major draw in other tours. This might be a disappointment if that was your main goal, but Nopalera still offers a peaceful setting away from crowds.

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The Food and Drinks

After a session of activities, everyone reconvenes on the boat for a delicious meal featuring local flavors. The onboard dining is appreciated, and the open bar on the trip back adds a lively atmosphere—perfect for unwinding and sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

The Return Journey

The return trip is lively, with the open bar sparking conversations and laughter. The guides keep the energy upbeat, making the journey back as memorable as the day on the islands. Many reviews mention the friendly staff and the supportive atmosphere, which enhance the overall experience.

What the Reviews Say

The mixed reviews highlight some important points. For example, one traveler from Costa Rica mentioned, “The guides and staff were super friendly and really set the mood for the tour.” Conversely, another review pointed out the disappointment that snorkel visibility wasn’t great and that some participants stayed on the boat without activities—something that could be improved by offering more options during downtime.

A standout review from Pepe in Mexico summed it up: “Great, I did all the activities mentioned and the guide always supported and guided me, great treatment, all day full of views of beautiful landscapes, fun on the catamaran… everything was great.” This suggests that for those eager to partake in multiple activities, the tour delivers on that promise.

The Value of the Experience

At $71 per person, this tour represents solid value, especially considering the variety of activities, meals, and guides included. It’s an affordable way to explore one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic natural spots without the hassle of planning each activity separately. The conservation wristband fee helps protect the islands, making this a responsible choice for eco-conscious travelers.

While some might wish for more exclusive access—like visiting Playa Escondida—the tour still offers a beautiful and engaging day in nature. The inclusion of meals and drinks provides a relaxed, all-inclusive feel that’s appreciated by many.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adventure lovers who want a full day of outdoor activities. The guided support makes it ideal for travelers unfamiliar with snorkeling or kayaking, though those with limited swimming skills should note the review warning about swimming ability. It’s perfect for families with older children, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy social outings with a variety of options.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day on the beach with light activities, this might be a bit too active. Conversely, if your goal is to explore hidden beaches like Playa Escondida, you might need a different tour.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor that makes it a strong choice for those visiting Puerto Vallarta. The friendly guides and well-organized activities ensure that you’ll get a good taste of what the Islas Marietas have to offer, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

It’s especially valuable for travelers who appreciate variety—snorkeling, kayaking, and beach time—along with supportive staff and delicious food. While some may be hoping for a visit to Playa Escondida or clearer snorkeling waters, the overall experience remains enjoyable and worthwhile.

If you’re eager to see a stunning marine environment, enjoy outdoor activities, and have a relaxed, fun-filled day, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s best for active travelers and nature enthusiasts looking for a practical, memorable outing during their trip to Jalisco.

FAQ

Does the tour include a visit to Playa Escondida?
No, this tour does not include a visit to Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach). Instead, it features Nopalera Beach, which is also quite beautiful and less crowded.

What is the port tax and how do I pay it?
You’ll pay a $32 pesos port tax upon arrival at the main entrance. The port fee station is on the left side, and the staff in blue polo shirts will assist.

Is the conservation wristband fee included?
No, it costs $180 pesos per person and is required to access the islands. You need to purchase it separately.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride out to the islands lasts about an hour, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenery.

What activities are included?
You’ll have opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard, along with time to relax on Nopalera Beach. All necessary equipment is provided.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is food provided?
Yes, a breakfast and a meal featuring local flavors are included onboard.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar on the return trip, making for a lively and social atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and biodegradable sunscreen. No drones or vaping are allowed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s best for those who can swim well. The guide noted that it’s not recommended for very young children or those not comfortable in the water.

To sum it up, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable day for those eager to see the natural beauty of Islas Marietas with a good mix of activities and social fun. It’s best suited for active travelers and nature lovers who appreciate friendly guides and scenic landscapes. While it might not suit those seeking exclusive access to certain beaches or perfect snorkeling conditions, it remains a rewarding experience in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant outdoor scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: