Jalisco: Scuba Diving at Los Arcos for Certified Divers

If you’re a certified diver eyeing a splash of adventure in Mexico, the tour at Los Arcos in Jalisco is worth considering. With its small-group setting and stunning underwater scenery, it promises an authentic experience for those comfortable beneath the waves. We particularly like the personalized attention from guides and the chance to witness the colorful marine life firsthand. However, since it’s a short, morning excursion, it may not suit travelers looking for a leisurely or lengthy underwater exploration. This tour is perfect for certified divers who want a quick, well-organized outing combined with spectacular views and marine encounters.

Key Points:

Small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures personalized guidance.
Includes boat ride with coastal views—great for photo opportunities.
Professional dive master guides you safely through the underwater world.
Vibrant marine life and coral reefs are the main attractions.
Flexible booking options allow cancelation up to 24 hours in advance.
Price point offers good value for a three-hour, guided adventure in a top diving spot.

Contents hide

1 The Experience in Detail

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 Practical Considerations

4 Final Thoughts

5 FAQs

The Experience in Detail

The adventure begins at the designated meeting point in Puerto Vallarta at Paseo del Río 125, Playa de Mismaloya. Arriving on time is key since the tour kicks off around 12:40 pm, ideal for mid-day plans and avoiding the late afternoon heat. The location is straightforward and accessible, especially for travelers staying nearby.

Once there, you’re welcomed warmly by the staff from Mismaloya Adventures. They introduce you to your dive master, who takes charge of your gear and walks you through the plan for the day. This briefing is crucial—it sets expectations, reassures nervous divers, and ensures everyone is on the same page about safety protocols. The guides speak both English and Spanish, making communication smooth regardless of your language preference.

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Equipment and Preparation

Expect to receive all the necessary scuba gear, including tanks, masks, fins, and wetsuits if needed. The staff pride themselves on professionalism, and we’ve heard from other divers that their equipment is well-maintained, which is vital for a safe and enjoyable experience. They also provide bottled water to keep you hydrated between dives.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mismaloya.

The Boat Ride – A Scenic Prelude

After gear-up, you’ll hop onto a boat for a short ride to Los Arcos. This part of the experience offers stunning coastal views, making it more than just a transit. The boat is generally comfortable, with space to relax and chat with fellow divers. The sea breeze and ocean vistas set an anticipatory mood for what’s to come underwater.

Exploring Los Arcos

Once at Los Arcos Mismaloya, the real magic begins. These towering rock formations are famous for their vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Your guides will walk you through the dive plan, pointing out the best spots to see schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, or perhaps a shy cuttlefish. The underwater scenery is a highlight—these natural arches and formations create a dynamic environment that’s picture-perfect and teeming with life.

What Divers Say

Many certified divers appreciate the small group setting, which allows for more personalized attention. Reviewers often mention how the guides are attentive and safety-conscious, making the experience both exciting and secure. One diver noted, “The instructors made me feel comfortable right away, and the marine life was more vibrant than I expected.” Others raved about the stunning views, both underwater and from the boat, describing it as a “perfect balance of adventure and scenery.”

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Duration and Pacing

At just three hours, this tour fits well into a morning schedule or a quick afternoon escape. It’s designed to be efficient—covering the essentials without rushing, giving you ample time to enjoy the sea and return comfortably. Keep in mind, the tour is typically available in the morning, so planning accordingly ensures the best experience.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers your diving guide, all necessary equipment, and use of bathrooms and showers at the location—convenient for freshening up afterward. The boat ride and bottled water are included as well, adding value to the package.

However, photos and videos are not provided, so if capturing memories is important, you might want to bring your own waterproof camera. Snacks are also not included, so consider packing a quick bite if you plan to extend your day.

Practical Considerations

Booking is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it an appealing option if your plans change unexpectedly. You book now and pay later, giving you peace of mind while you finalize your travel arrangements.

The tour is limited to 8 participants, which means more one-on-one guidance and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s suitable for certified divers comfortable at depths and in open water, but not for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with health issues like back problems.

What to Bring & What to Avoid

Make sure to pack essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Wear comfortable clothes for the brief land transfers. Remember that alcohol and drugs are not allowed—safety first.

Important Safety Notes

No diving within 24 hours of a flight—a standard precaution to prevent decompression sickness. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or individuals prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This small-group scuba experience at Los Arcos offers genuine value for certified divers seeking a concise but fulfilling underwater adventure. The combination of spectacular marine scenery, attentive guides, and coastal vistas makes for an engaging and memorable trip. The price is competitive—particularly considering the inclusion of gear, a boat ride, and expert guidance.

It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable underwater, want a quick escape from Puerto Vallarta, and appreciate personalized service. The tour’s short duration makes it manageable for most schedules, and the limited group size ensures everyone feels attended to.

If you’re after lively underwater scenes, professional guidance, and a scenic boat trip, this tour ticks those boxes. It might not be suited for absolute beginners (who should look for introductory dives) or those with specific health restrictions, but for seasoned divers, it’s a reliable and enjoyable choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time divers?
No, this tour is designed for certified divers, so you should have previous diving experience and certification.

How long does the dive last?
The total tour duration is three hours, which includes briefing, gear-up, boat ride, and diving time. The actual underwater time varies but is part of the overall schedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

What’s included in the price?
Your dive guide, all necessary scuba equipment, boat ride, bottled water, and access to bathrooms/shower facilities are included.

Are pictures or videos included?
No, photography services are not part of the package, so bring your own waterproof camera if desired.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing. Avoid alcohol and drugs.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a broader range of travelers.

What if I don’t want to go on the boat?
The tour is centered around the boat ride to Los Arcos, so if you prefer land-based activities, this may not be suitable.

Is this tour good for seeing marine life?
Absolutely. The marine environment at Los Arcos is known for vibrant fish, coral, and marine formations, providing ample viewing opportunities.

Can non-divers join?
No, since this is a certified diver tour, non-divers should look for other activities in Puerto Vallarta.

In summary, the Jalisco scuba tour at Los Arcos offers a well-organized, scenic, and lively underwater adventure for certified divers. Its intimate setting, professional guides, and striking marine scenery make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a quick but impactful dive experience in Mexico.