Marietas Hidden Beach Trip From Puerto Vallarta

The Marietas Hidden Beach trip from Puerto Vallarta offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a natural wonder. Departing early in the morning, participants embark on a scenic boat ride to the remote Marietas Islands. Here, they can enjoy the vibrant marine life, potentially even spotting migrating whales. The true highlight, however, lies in swimming through a mysterious cave to reach the secluded hidden beach – a unique and unforgettable experience. With safety as a top priority and strong swimming skills required, this tour promises an adventure like no other. What awaits on the other side of the cave?

Key Points

• A 6-hour tour from Puerto Magico to the Marietas Islands, allowing participants to snorkel, spot whales, and access the secluded Hidden Beach through a cave.
• Snorkel equipment, purified water, and snacks are included, but travelers must pay a 40 MXN port fee and a 100 MXN conservation fee.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with limited mobility, serious medical conditions, or who are afraid of water due to the physical demands.
• Travelers should arrive on time at the 7:00 am departure from Puerto Magico and are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.
• Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, but the tour may be affected by weather conditions.

Tour Overview and Details

The Marietas Hidden Beach trip from Puerto Vallarta, offered by Vallarta Adventures, takes travelers on an adventure to explore the hidden treasures of this natural wonder.

This tour lasts approximately six hours and departs at 7:00 am from Puerto Magico. With a maximum of 20 participants, the tour includes the use of snorkel equipment, purified water, and snacks.

Travelers should note that port fees of 40 MXN and a conservation fee of 100 MXN per person are collected at check-in.

While the tour offers the opportunity to witness whales and snorkel, it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility or certain medical conditions.

Included and Additional Fees

Although the Marietas Hidden Beach trip from Puerto Vallarta includes the use of snorkel equipment, purified water, and snacks, there are additional fees travelers should be aware of.

The tour requires a $40 MXN port fee per person as well as a $100 MXN conservation fee collected at check-in. These mandatory fees aren’t included in the base price of the tour.

Plus, gratuities for the crew aren’t covered and are at the discretion of the traveler. Overall, it’s important for participants to budget for these extra costs when booking the Marietas Hidden Beach experience.

Health and Safety Restrictions

Not everyone may be suited for the Marietas Hidden Beach tour. Participants must have a strong physical fitness level, as the tour involves swimming through a cave to reach the hidden beach. Travelers with back problems, heart conditions, limited mobility, or other serious medical issues are advised not to participate. Pregnant women should also avoid this activity. The minimum age is 12 years old, and minors must provide identification. Plus, the use of drones is prohibited due to federal regulations protecting endemic birds. Strict no-drug policies are enforced in Mexico’s federal maritime ports.

Restrictions	Details
Medical Conditions	Not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues
Mobility Limitations	Pregnant travelers and those with limited mobility (wheelchair access) should not participate
Age Requirement	Minimum age of 12 years (ID required for minors)
Drones	Prohibited due to federal regulations protecting endemic birds
Drug Policy	Strict no-drug policy in Mexico’s federal maritime ports

What to Expect

Participants can expect to swim through a cave to reach the Hidden Beach during this tour.

Once at the beach, they’ll have opportunities to snorkel and may even spot whales during the boat ride.

Travelers should bring proper attire, including bathing suits, sun hats, and towels.

It’s essential to have strong swimming skills, as the tour isn’t suitable for those afraid of water or with limited mobility.

While the tour typically runs smoothly, weather conditions can affect the experience.

Participants should pack extra water and snacks, as the provided refreshments are limited to a granola bar, apple, and banana.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Travelers have shared both positive and concerning experiences about the Marietas Hidden Beach trip.

On the positive side, many enjoy the fun swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching on the tour, as well as the knowledgeable crew.

However, some have reported unsafe conditions during rough weather and inadequate communication regarding tour cancellations.

Reviewers emphasize that strong swimming skills are essential, and the tour may not be suitable for young children or those afraid of the water.

The tour provides limited snacks, so travelers are advised to bring extra water.

Meeting Point and Start Time

The tour begins at 7:00 am from the Puerto Magico meeting point, located on Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio in the Zona Hotelera Nte. of Puerto Vallarta.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour departs promptly at 7:00 am. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

It’s important to note that the tour’s start and end location isn’t the same as the tour provider’s main office, so participants should plan accordingly.

Cancellation Policy

According to the policy, travelers can cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any penalties. This means that if plans change or the weather doesn’t cooperate, you have the flexibility to cancel your reservation and get a full refund.

Just be sure to do so within the 24-hour window. Keep in mind that the tour may be affected by weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan.

The tour provider give you a safe and enjoyable experience, so they understand that sometimes changes are necessary. Just be sure to communicate with them in a timely manner.

Boat Ride and Activities

Typically, the tour begins with a scenic boat ride from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands. During the journey, travelers may spot whales as they migrate along the coast.

Upon arrival, guests will have the opportunity to snorkel and explore the islands’ diverse marine life. The highlight of the trip is swimming through a cave to reach the hidden beach, a unique natural wonder protected by the Mexican government.

Travelers should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, as strong swimming skills are required to access the secluded beach. The boat ride and activities offer an immersive and memorable experience in this stunning natural setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Guide-To-Participant Ratio?

The tour has a maximum participant count of 20 travelers. With no specific guide-to-participant ratio provided, it’s likely an unspecified number of guides will lead the tour to accommodate the group size.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?

No, travelers cannot bring their own snorkeling equipment. The tour includes the use of snorkel gear, so participants must use the equipment provided by the tour provider, Vallarta Adventures.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

According to the tour details, there doesn’t appear to be an option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour has a maximum of 20 participants and is not offered as a private experience.

Can We Book the Tour in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is offered in multiple languages beyond English, including Spanish and sometimes other languages. Travelers should check with the tour provider for available language options when booking the Marietas Hidden Beach trip from Puerto Vallarta.

Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Boat Ride?

The tour provides numerous photo opportunities during the boat ride. Travelers can capture scenic views of the coastline and may even spot whales, depending on the timing of the trip.

The Sum Up

The Marietas Hidden Beach trip from Puerto Vallarta offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers can enjoy a scenic boat ride, snorkel among diverse marine life, and swim through a cave to reach the secluded hidden beach. However, strong swimming skills are required, and health and safety restrictions apply. This tour promises a unique and memorable experience for those seeking natural beauty and marine exploration.