Marietas Islands with Guaranteed Entry to Playa Escondida

Planning a day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands offers an exciting chance to enjoy Mexico’s natural beauty. This tour promises a full day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the famous Playa Escondida—an Instagram-worthy hidden beach. We’ve gathered the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we like about this tour? First, the guaranteed access to Playa Escondida is a huge selling point—many other trips struggle to secure this coveted spot. Second, the inclusion of water equipment and an open bar ensures a hassle-free day with plenty of fun in the sun.

However, one thing to consider is the cost, which approaches $210 per person, including some extra fees. For those on a budget, the added expense of port and environmental fees can add up.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures, aren’t afraid of small crowds, and want a guided experience that covers the essentials of the islands. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with plenty of activities and a scenic setting, this might be a good fit.

Key Points

• Guaranteed entry to Playa Escondida ensures you’ll experience the famous hidden beach.
• Includes all water equipment and guidance, making activities accessible to most.
• Long duration (7 hours) provides ample time for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing.
• Some extra fees (port MX$33 and Semarnat MX$180) are not included in the base price.
• Limited group size (max 30 people) keeps the experience intimate but popular.
• Mixed reviews highlight the beauty but also some logistical and equipment challenges.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs at 10:00 am from Puerto Mágico—a convenient location near public transit, which makes it accessible for most travelers. The meeting point at the Puerto Vallarta port is straightforward, with clear directions. The tour’s duration of about 7 hours means you’ll spend a good chunk of your day on the water, with plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The core of this day is the journey to the Marietas Islands archipelago, known for their dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. The highlight is definitely securing access to Playa Escondida, which is often closed to visitors without a guided tour. The tour guarantees entry, which is a big plus for those eager to experience this unique spot.

Water Activities and Equipment

Water lovers will appreciate that all necessary gear—snorkels, masks, kayaks—is included. From the reviews, we see that the water activities are a major draw, and they can make or break the day depending on conditions and equipment.

One reviewer fondly recalls seeing whales at the start of their trip, awakening excitement from the get-go. However, others have experienced jellyfish in the water—so bring some caution and possibly reef-safe lotion with a sting inhibitor if you’re prone to reactions.

The Guide and Natural Encounters

A major positive noted in reviews is the knowledgeable guides. They help spot whales and whales’ behaviors, adding value to the trip. Their expertise enhances the experience, making the journey more than just a boat ride.

The Hidden Beach Experience

Once at Playa Escondida, you’ll have the opportunity to relax, swim, or explore. The beach’s fame comes from its secretive, secluded nature—a true highlight. You may need to swim about 60-100 meters through a cave to reach it, which can be challenging or impossible for those with mobility issues. The tour provides helmets and life jackets, but the effort of reaching the beach is part of what makes it special.

Food and Drinks

A continental breakfast, a meal, and an open bar are included. This setup allows you to stay energized and hydrated throughout the day. The open bar is a nice touch, making it easy to relax after active water pursuits. Keep in mind, some reviews mention additional expenses, like the MX$180 Semarnat fee and a port fee of MX$33, which aren’t included in the base price.

Overall Value

At $210 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but it bundles multiple activities with guaranteed access to Playa Escondida. When you consider the included gear, guides, and a full day of adventure, many travelers find it offers good value, especially if the main goal is to see the iconic beaches and enjoy water fun.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer described a fantastic whale sighting at the start but was disappointed with jellyfish later on—highlighting that water conditions can vary. Others appreciated the chance to see wild dolphins on their return, adding a spontaneous wildlife encounter to their trip.

Some travelers mentioned that the equipment and directions could be better, and charges for photos felt excessive. These small drawbacks are typical in full-day water excursions, but they’re good to keep in mind for planning.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, which keeps it manageable but popular.
• Duration: About 7 hours, enough time for multiple activities.
• Starting Time: 10:00 am from Puerto Mágico.
• Additional Fees: Remember to budget for MX$33 port fee and MX$180 Semarnat bracelet, which are not included.
• Participation: Most travelers can join, but swimming skills will help.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting a guided adventure with guaranteed access to the famous Playa Escondida. It suits those who enjoy water activities and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can spot wildlife.

If you’re comfortable sharing a boat with others and don’t mind potential crowds or extra fees, this tour offers a balanced mix of fun and scenic beauty. It’s less suited for travelers seeking complete privacy or those with mobility issues, given the cave swim and water-based nature.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a solid introduction to the beauty of the Marietas Islands, especially with the guarantee of visiting Playa Escondida. The inclusion of all water equipment and guided wildlife spotting adds real value, making it suitable for travelers eager to explore marine life and secluded beaches without hassle.

It’s best for active travelers who want a structured day filled with aquatic fun, guided insights, and natural wonders. The long duration ensures you get your money’s worth, but be prepared for fee add-ons and variable water conditions.

If your goal is to see the iconic beaches and enjoy a guided, all-inclusive day of water activities, this tour fits well. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or a smaller group experience, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour begins at Puerto Mágico, with a boat ride to the islands included in the package.

What is included in the water activities?
All water equipment—snorkels, masks, and kayaks—is provided, so you won’t need to bring your own gear.

Are meals and drinks provided?
Yes, a breakfast, a meal, and an open bar are included for a full energy boost during the day.

Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a MX$33 port fee and a MX$180 Semarnat bracelet fee, which are not included in the ticket price.

What if I don’t swim well?
While water activities are included, swimming ability can enhance your experience. The tour does provide life jackets and helmets, but reaching Playa Escondida involves some swimming.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the swim to Playa Escondida and water conditions when traveling with young children or those with mobility concerns.

In essence, this tour offers a hearty taste of Puerto Vallarta’s marine beauty, perfect for those who love guided outdoor adventures, stunning vistas, and a chance to see the famed Playa Escondida at least once in their travels.