Marieta Islands: Full-Day Tour with Meals and Open Bar

Planning a trip to the coast of Jalisco and wondering how to make the most of Mexico’s marine treasures? This full-day tour of the Marietas Islands offers a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, natural beauty, and fun activities—all wrapped up with good food and drinks. While we haven’t personally taken this particular trip, a close look at the details, reviews, and features helps paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What really draws us to this experience are the chances to see dolphins, humpback whales (December to March), and an array of colorful fish—all in a setting renowned for its natural caves and underwater marvels. Plus, the inclusion of meals and an open bar adds to the value of the $115 price tag, making this a surprisingly affordable day of adventure. The only thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, so accessibility might be limited.

This tour seems perfect for nature lovers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a full-day escape from the hustle, with the bonus of comfortable amenities. If you’re after an active, engaging experience that combines wildlife viewing with a relaxed vibe, this might be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, colorful fish, and humpback whales (Dec-Mar)
• Natural Wonders: Caves and underwater formations to explore
• Activities: Snorkeling and kayaking in calm waters
• Inclusions: Meals, open bar, snorkeling gear
• Price & Value: $115 for a full day of activities with food and drinks
• Limitations: Not suitable for wheelchairs or back problems

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day tour begins early, with a meeting point at Puerto Vallarta’s Francisco Medina Ascencio Boulevard, and an 8:15 a.m. check-in. The actual departure is at 9:00 a.m., giving you a fairly relaxed start to your marine adventure. The trip lasts around 7 hours, which is ample time to soak in the sights, enjoy activities, and still return in daylight—ideal for travelers who dislike rushing.

The journey takes you from the coast into the protected waters of the Marietas Islands, a UNESCO-protected area known worldwide for its hidden beaches, caves, and vibrant marine life. The boat itself is equipped for comfort, with an open bar serving drinks throughout the day, and a simple breakfast and lunch included. This keeps the focus on fun rather than worrying about food logistics.

Exploring the Marine Environment

The Marietas Islands are famous for their extraordinary marine fauna. Expect to see dolphins frolicking alongside the boat, and if you’re visiting between December and March, you might be lucky enough to spot humpback whales breaching and spouting. Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing these gentle giants, with one traveler noting, “Watching the whales from the boat was a highlight—I could’ve spent hours just watching them.”

Snorkeling here is a key part of the experience. The tour provides fins, vests, and snorkels, so you’re ready to dive into the clear waters and admire the colorful fish and underwater formations up close. We loved the way guides often keep an eye out for marine life and point out the best spots for viewing.

Kayaking is another favorite activity—smooth, calm waters make it a relaxed way to explore the coast and get a different perspective of the islands’ rugged shoreline. The caves, accessible by boat or kayak, reveal hidden chambers and underwater tunnels that add a sense of adventure to the day.

Natural Caves and Underwater Wonders

One of the biggest draws of the Marietas Islands is their natural caves—some large enough to swim into, others just narrow openings that frame impressive views. Many reviews highlight the “magical feel” of exploring these caves, with some even mentioning the chance to see underwater stalactites and stalagmites (though this depends on conditions). The caves are accessible via boat tours, and guides often provide interesting facts about the geological history and formation of these features.

The famous Playa Nopalera, a hidden beach accessible only at low tide, is a highlight. It’s one of those secret spots that feels like discovering a private paradise, with clear waters and soft sand. While some tours focus more on snorkeling and wildlife, others include time for relaxing on this secluded stretch.

Meals and Open Bar: A Nice Touch

The $115 price includes breakfast and lunch, which we find offers excellent value given the length and activity level of the tour. Expect simple but satisfying Mexican dishes—fresh fruit, perhaps some eggs for breakfast, and a variety of local flavors at lunch. The open bar is available on the boat, providing drinks to keep the mood lively. Travelers appreciate this feature, especially after a morning of swimming and kayaking.

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Practical Considerations

While the tour is generally well-reviewed, there are a few things worth noting. First, the port fee of $30 MXN is not included—small but worth remembering. Plus, the Sermarnat bracelet for conservation costs $110 MXN and supports efforts to preserve the islands, which some travelers see as a worthwhile contribution.

The tour is limited to 80 participants, so it’s not overly crowded, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Since the tour isn’t adapted for wheelchairs or those with back problems, it’s best suited for active travelers in good health.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy the outdoors and marine activities. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a full day of exploration. If your goal is wildlife sightings and natural beauty, you’ll find plenty here. However, if you require accessible facilities or prefer a more relaxed, less active day, you might want to consider other options.

This tour delivers a balanced chunk of nature, activity, and comfort—a winning combination for many visitors to Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding area.

For those seeking a day full of adventure and stunning scenery, this Marietas Islands tour offers tremendous value. You get to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, glimpse whales and dolphins, explore caves, and relax with good food and drinks—all in one package. The guided aspect ensures you don’t miss the highlights, and the inclusion of meals and beverages makes it easy to unwind without extra planning.

While it isn’t suited for everyone—particularly mobility-challenged travelers—it does cater well to those who want active, engaging experiences in nature. Plus, the price point when factoring in food, drinks, and gear makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a full Caribbean-style day without the Caribbean prices.

If you’re craving an authentic outdoor adventure with a touch of luxury, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment (fins, vest, snorkel), breakfast, lunch, and an open bar on the boat.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:15 a.m. and returning mid-afternoon, with the main activities packed into that time frame.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

Is there a chance to see whales?
Yes, if you visit between December and March, humpback whales are often spotted from the boat, which many reviews describe as a memorable highlight.

How much does the port fee and conservation bracelet cost?
The port fee is $30 MXN, and the Sermarnat conservation bracelet costs $110 MXN. Both are paid extra, not included in the base price.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it is not suited for wheelchair users or people with back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera if you like. While snorkeling gear is provided, you might want your own if you prefer specific equipment.

This Marieta Islands tour balances active adventure with comfort and is perfect for those eager to see marine wildlife, explore caves, and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. It offers a good mix of natural beauty, engaging activities, and hearty Mexican food—making it a memorable part of any Puerto Vallarta visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: