Puerto Vallarta: Snorkel Adventure at Los Arcos

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and looking for a way to explore its underwater treasures without needing a scuba certification, the Snorkel Adventure at Los Arcos offers an enticing glimpse into one of Mexico’s most celebrated marine reserves. This tour, operated by Puerto Vallarta Net and rated 4.4 out of 5, is a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward, guided snorkeling experience that combines natural beauty with marine curiosity.

What we really like about this trip is its focus on the vibrant shallow reef and the chance to explore underwater caves and arches, which add a bit of adventure to the snorkeling. The fact that the waters are protected means your chances of spotting diverse marine life are pretty good, and the small group setting promises a more personalized experience.

On the flip side, one consideration is the absence of hotel pickup and drop-off. If you’re staying outside Puerto Vallarta’s main area, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. Also, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, which might be worth noting for travelers with certain health considerations.

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts, families with older children, or anyone curious to see Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world without breaking the bank or spending a full day at sea.

Contents hide

1 A detailed look at what makes this tour worth considering

2 The Sum Up

3 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Short but sweet: The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers.
Rich marine life: Expect colorful fish, including angelfish, pufferfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and possibly moray eels.
Guided experience: A knowledgeable guide helps you navigate underwater caves and arches, enriching the experience.
Protection matters: Los Arcos is a protected area, so fishing and anchoring are prohibited, preserving marine biodiversity.
All equipment included: Snorkel gear, boat, and bottled water are provided, so you don’t need to bring much.
Limited logistics: No hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at what makes this tour worth considering

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

Exploring Los Arcos, an iconic natural monument

The Los Arcos Marine Reserve is a highlight of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline—famous for its dramatic rock formations that rise out of the sea, creating a stunning backdrop and a unique underwater landscape. You’ll start by meeting your guide in Puerto Vallarta and heading towards the southern side of the bay, just off Mismaloya. The boat ride itself is quick, often less than 15 minutes, but it offers a chance to enjoy views of the coastline and the famous arches themselves.

This protected area ensures the waters are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for beginner and experienced snorkelers alike. The underwater caves and arches are not only beautiful but also serve as shelter for many fish species. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the caves and arches added a sense of discovery to the snorkeling,” which underscores how these natural features elevate the experience beyond just floating over a reef.

The snorkeling experience: vibrant, varied, and accessible

Once in the water, your guide will help you find the best spots to see wildlife. The shallow reef means you won’t need deep diving skills—just your snorkel gear and a bit of curiosity. Expect to see a parade of colorful angelfish, playful pufferfish, and curious parrotfish. For many, the highlight is the chance to spot dazzling damselfish or even encounter an elusive moray eel hiding in the rocks.

One reviewer expressed delight at the variety of life: “The fish were so colorful and plentiful, I felt like I was swimming in an aquarium.” The calm, shallow waters make it easy to stay close to your group and enjoy the marine spectacle without feeling overwhelmed, especially for first-timers.

Cave and arch exploration: add a touch of adventure

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to explore underwater caves and arches. These formations are not only scenic but also provide shelter for marine creatures. Swimming through or around these features gives a sense of adventure, even for those who might be nervous about open water. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and enhances your understanding of the area’s geology and marine ecosystem.

One participant mentioned, “The caves felt like secret passages, and it was fun to swim through them,” which captures the playful, exploratory spirit of the tour. Just keep in mind that snorkeling inside caves requires a bit of awareness and calmness, so it’s not suitable for anyone with mobility issues or who gets claustrophobic.

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The value for the price

At $116 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that focuses on quality and intimacy rather than sheer size. The inclusion of all snorkel equipment, boat transport, and bottled water adds to its value. Considering the short duration, it’s a good choice for those who want a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world without committing a whole day.

While some reviews point out the absence of hotel pickup, this is typical for many shared boat tours and can be easily managed with some planning. Also, the fact that you can reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially for last-minute travelers.

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Who is this tour ideal for?

This experience is perfect for first-time snorkelers, families with older children, or anyone who values an authentic, guided exploration of marine life. People who dislike long boat rides or full-day excursions will find this manageable and satisfying. However, pregnant women and those with mobility limitations should consider the physical demands and the fact that the tour does not include accommodations pickup.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Vallarta Snorkel Adventure at Los Arcos blends natural wonder with an accessible, guided activity. You’ll get to see Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world without needing special equipment or prior experience. Its focus on protected waters means you’re likely to see a variety of fish and marine life, all within a manageable, three-hour window.

This tour offers a good balance of scenic beauty, wildlife, and adventure—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, authentic experience without over-complication. Whether you’re on a short visit or a laid-back day looking to enjoy nature, it’s a solid choice. It’s best suited for those who appreciate guided group tours, want to see marine life up close, and are comfortable with basic snorkeling.

If you’re interested in exploring the underwater world of Puerto Vallarta with a knowledgeable guide and a small group, this tour provides excellent value. Just remember to bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of curiosity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you will need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, snacks, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash if you want to buy souvenirs or tips.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for those comfortable with snorkeling and swimming; however, it’s not specified if children are allowed or if there is an age limit. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Can pregnant women participate?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women due to the physical nature of snorkeling and boat travel.

How long does the tour last?
The whole activity lasts approximately 3 hours, usually offered in the morning and afternoon.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkel gear is included in the price, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What is the marine reserve’s significance?
Los Arcos is a protected area, which means fishing and anchoring are prohibited, helping preserve the marine ecosystem and ensure vibrant underwater life for visitors to enjoy.

This guided snorkeling tour at Los Arcos offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant marine environment—whether you’re a first-timer or simply seeking a beautiful, hassle-free outdoor adventure.