Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure, Colomitos & Las Animas Beach

If you’re planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, the Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure offers a fantastic way to see some of the area’s most stunning sights without breaking the bank. With a mix of guided snorkeling, scenic cruising, and time to relax on a beautiful beach, this tour balances adventure and leisure beautifully. It’s especially appealing if you want to explore the coast with knowledgeable guides, enjoy vibrant marine life, and have the flexibility to relax or indulge in local cuisine.

Two standout features we love are the expert guides who make the experience both informative and fun, and the spectacular scenery, from towering rock formations to lush jungle coastlines. The tour’s value for the price (just $69 per person) is impressive, considering all the sights, snorkeling gear, and snacks included.

A possible consideration? The tour can vary in duration (anywhere from 3 to 5 hours), which means your experience might be a quick splash or a more leisurely exploration. Also, the water clarity can sometimes be murky—something to keep in mind if snorkeling is your main goal.

This adventure is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of active water fun and relaxed beach time, especially those who appreciate guided stories and local insights. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see Puerto Vallarta from the water will find this tour hits many marks.

Key Points

• Authentic marine experience: Snorkel amid colorful tropical fish, coral, and possibly sea turtles or rays.
• Expert guides: Bilingual guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and ensure safety.
• Stunning scenery: Cruise along dramatic coastlines with towering cliffs and lush jungle.
• Flexible beach time: Relax at Las Animas Beach or indulge in optional activities like parasailing or massages.
• Great value: All equipment, snacks, drinks, and bottled water included at a competitive price.
• Small group size: Tour limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Mismaloya Beach

The tour begins at the lively Mismaloya Beach, a vibrant spot surrounded by green mountains and rocky cliffs. From the moment you arrive, the friendly, bilingual guides set a welcoming tone, providing safety instructions and a quick overview of what lies ahead. This initial 20-minute stop is a good chance to get familiar with your gear and meet your fellow travelers.

Cruising the Bay of Banderas and Visiting Los Arcos

After boarding the boat, you’ll cruise along the stunning coastline, passing by famous landmarks and learning a bit about the area’s Hollywood fame—”Night” was mentioned, hinting at its use in blockbuster films. The highlight here is Los Arcos de Mismaloya, an iconic series of protected marine islands known for their dramatic arches and abundant marine life.

Travelers who’ve been on similar trips rave about the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Carlo and Hugo were very knowledgeable and bilingual,” making the experience accessible and engaging. The guides’ expertise noticeably enhances the journey, making sure you get the most out of your time among the fish and coral.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos

The main event is snorkeling around the Los Arcos islands. Expect to see a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, colorful coral reefs, and maybe even a sea turtle or ray if luck is on your side. While some reviews note the water was slightly murky, others appreciated the efforts of guides Brayan and Arnold, who showed snorkelers how to better see the fish. It’s clear that the experience is tailored to all skill levels, with guides ensuring safety and fun.

The 30-minute stop here strikes a balance—enough time to explore, but not so long that it becomes tiring. If you’re a dedicated snorkeler, you may wish for more time, but for most, it’s just right.

Visiting Colomitos and the Jungle Coastline

Next, the boat heads south along the coastline to Colomitos, a tiny beach known for its lush jungle backdrop and emerald waters. This 25-minute boat ride offers spectacular views of towering cliffs cloaked in jungle greenery, making it one of the most photogenic spots on the trip.

Reviewers have praised the scenic ride and the natural beauty of Colomitos. Expect tranquil waters perfect for a quick swim or some relaxing beach time. Some travelers may find the water visibility isn’t always perfect, but the setting’s natural charm more than makes up for it.

Relaxing at Las Animas Beach

The final destination is Las Animas Beach, a lively spot with golden sands and calm, inviting waters. Here, you’ll have around two hours to unwind. Many visitors enjoy lounging at the beachfront restaurants, which serve local dishes and cold drinks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, activities like parasailing, banana boat rides, or visiting the adventure park are available—but these are not included in the tour. Alternatively, you can opt for a massage or just dip into the clear waters and soak up the sun, which many reviewers found to be a relaxing cap to the day. One reviewer described it as a “gorgeous beach club where we ate and swam,” emphasizing how enjoyable and laid-back this stop can be.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

The cruise back along the coastline completes the experience, providing a chance to take in more views and hear stories from your guides. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) helps foster a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—great for meeting fellow travelers and sharing the adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $69, the tour offers snorkeling gear, bottled water, soda, beer for adults, and snacks. The guides take care of the logistics, leaving you to relax and enjoy. One reviewer highlighted the top-shelf experience with “great food and drinks,” and the included snacks and drinks add significant value, especially after swimming and exploring.

The only noteworthy omission is Wi-Fi, which isn’t provided on board. If you’re used to staying connected, be prepared to disconnect for a few hours.

Analyzing the Value

At just $69 per person, this tour packs a lot of highlights into a half-day adventure. Considering the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, snacks, water, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a solid deal. The small group size enhances the experience, offering more personal attention and a relaxed vibe.

Reviewers consistently praised the guides for their friendliness and expertise, enhancing the overall value. The chance to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast from the water—with stops at renowned sites and time for relaxing—is a real perk. For families or first-timers, it’s a safe, engaging introduction to the region’s marine environment and scenic beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a blend of adventure and chill time. If you enjoy snorkeling, exploring natural scenery by boat, and relaxing at a beach with good food, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling and local insights as guides share tidbits about the coastline’s natural and cultural features.

Families with children (if they’re comfortable in the water), couples looking for a relaxed day, and solo travelers seeking social fun will all find this tour a worthwhile choice. It’s not for those craving a full-day excursion or highly structured activities—this is a laid-back, scenic tour with enough variety for a memorable half-day.

The Sum Up

The Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure offers a balanced, value-packed way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty. The combination of guided snorkeling among colorful fish, scenic boat rides along lush cliffs, and downtime at the lively Las Animas Beach makes it a versatile option for many travelers.

For those eager to see marine life, learn about the region from friendly guides, and enjoy stunning views without fuss, this tour hits the mark. The included snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear ensure you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. It’s a true taste of the region’s natural drama and relaxed vibe.

However, keep in mind the water clarity can vary and the tour duration isn’t fixed, so plan accordingly. If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and moderately active experience that balances adventure with relaxation, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, and the meeting point is at Gasolinera Pemex in Puerto Vallarta. The tour ends at the Mismaloya location.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 3 to 5 hours, depending on conditions and group pace.

What’s included in the tour?
Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, beer (for adults), and snacks are included. No WiFi is provided.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Always consider your child’s comfort with water activities.

Are there additional activities at Las Animas Beach?
Yes, optional activities like parasailing, banana boat rides, and massages are available but not included in the price.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snorkeling gear is provided; just dress comfortably for a boat ride and beach relaxation.

In sum, this tour offers a lively taste of Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal scenery, combined with the comfort of guided storytelling and local flavor. Whether you’re searching for underwater sights, scenic cruising, or just some beachside downtime, it’s a well-rounded choice for a memorable day by the sea.