Puerto Vallarta: Snorkeling, Beach, Sailing to Marietas Park

This guided tour offers a day of exploring Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coastline, marine life, and natural beauty at Marietas Islands. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and descriptions paint a compelling picture of what you can expect—perfect for travelers craving an active, scenic day with a splash of adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a variety of highlights—snorkeling with marine creatures like sea turtles and manta rays, relaxing on picturesque beaches, and enjoying a sailing cruise with friendly guides. Plus, the small-group setting promises a more personalized, less touristy outing. One potential consideration is the 7.5-hour length, which might feel long for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions.

This tour is ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and families seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for an all-in-one experience that showcases both marine and terrestrial beauty of Puerto Vallarta, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Diverse marine encounters: Expect to see Bottlenose Dolphins, Giant Manta Rays, and Sea Turtles during the trip.
• Natural beauty: The rugged coastline, caves, and natural arches create perfect photo opportunities.
• Authentic experience: Small groups and knowledgeable guides enhance the overall enjoyment.
• Value for money: Combining snorkeling, sailing, and beach time offers significant variety for the price.
• Flexible scheduling: The tour offers a flexible, customizable experience, with options to reserve and pay later.
• Family-friendly: While not suitable for pregnant women or those with recent surgeries, it’s great for active, adventurous families and solo travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Setting: Marietas Islands National Park

Nestled at the entrance of the Bay of Banderas, the Marietas Islands span over 1380 hectares, making them a significant marine protected area. The park’s rugged shoreline is dotted with cliffs, caves, natural arches, and chimneys, all carved by centuries of wave action. These geological features aren’t just pretty—they create ideal habitats for a variety of marine life and bird species, making this a prime spot for snorkeling and sightseeing.

Designated as a marine sanctuary in 2005, the park’s protected status helps preserve its natural charm and biodiversity. For visitors, it’s a chance to see a vibrant underwater world and stunning rock formations that you might find only in travel magazines.

How the Tour Operates

The tour typically lasts 7.5 hours, making it a full-day adventure but not an overly exhausting one. You’ll meet at a designated point (coordinates provided) for a short boat ride to the islands. Small group sizes (not specified but implied to be intimate) mean you’ll get more personal attention from guides and crew, which many reviews praise as a major plus.

Transportation on the water is comfortable, and the sailing portion between stops provides a chance to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.

Marine Life Encounters and Snorkeling

One of the biggest draws is the chance to swim and snorkel at the Marietas Islands. Guides are attentive, offering instructions and safety tips, making it suitable even for less experienced snorkelers. Expect to see Bottlenose Dolphins along the way—some reviews describe encounters as “exciting and close,” which adds a memorable touch to the experience.

Giant Manta Rays and Sea Turtles also frequent these waters, and if you’re lucky, you might see Humpback Whales during their seasonal migration (December to March). The underwater visibility is generally good, providing clear views of the marine ecosystem, which is teeming with life.

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Beaches and Natural Beauty

After snorkeling, you’ll relax on Nopalera Beach, a pristine stretch of sand with incredible views. The beach is naturally beautiful, with dramatic cliffs and lush greenery around. Many visitors describe it as a peaceful retreat—an ideal spot for lounging, taking photos, or enjoying a quiet picnic.

The shoreline offers excellent opportunities for sightseeing, with striking rock formations, caves, and arches just offshore. Bird watchers will also appreciate the opportunity to spot exotic birds nesting in the cliffs.

Pedaling and Land Activities

Some tours include options to pedal along the seaside—an activity that adds a gentle, scenic break to the day. It’s a fun way to explore the coastline without strenuous effort and provides another perspective of the natural surroundings.

The Crew and Guides

Reviews repeatedly highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Many travelers appreciate guides who explain the significance of the islands’ geology and marine ecosystem clearly and passionately. The crew’s hospitality is often described as warm and attentive, enhancing the overall value.

Return and Reflection

As the tour wraps up, you’ll enjoy sailing back, soaking in the sunset if timing allows. This part of the journey emphasizes Mexican hospitality—friendly service, music, and relaxed vibes. It’s the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Practical Information and Tips

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for any land activities
• Sunglasses and a sun hat for protection
• Swimwear and a change of clothes for snorkeling
• A towel and beachwear
• Biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment and your skin
• Cash for optional extras or tips

What to Expect

• The tour operates in English and Spanish
• Full cancelation refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with recent surgeries

Duration and Flexibility

Timing varies depending on the booking, but most tours are around 7.5 hours, making it a full-day activity. The flexible schedule and small group size mean you can enjoy a more tailored experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and scenic boat rides. It works well for families with active children (over the age limit), couples seeking a memorable day, or solo explorers wanting a guided, intimate encounter with Puerto Vallarta’s marine wonders.

The tour’s emphasis on natural beauty, combined with the chance to see rare wildlife and enjoy relaxed sailing, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an authentic, active day out.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent blend of marine adventure, scenic land exploration, and cultural hospitality—all within a manageable, well-organized package. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas make it stand out as a worthwhile addition to any Puerto Vallarta trip, especially if you love snorkeling and natural scenery.

While it’s a longer day, most travelers find the experience rewarding, especially considering the value for money—covering boat transportation, snorkeling gear, land time, and expert guidance. It’s a genuine opportunity to see some of the best natural spots in the region and learn about the local marine environment from friendly, informed guides.

If you’re looking for a balanced day that mixes relaxation with adventure—offering both scenic views and marine encounters—this tour is likely to deliver just that.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if children are comfortable with snorkeling and boat rides. However, check for age restrictions as some activities might not be suitable for very young kids.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No, guides provide instructions and assistance, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothes, and a change of clothes, along with a sun hat and sunglasses for protection.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are seashells or souvenirs available?
The tour description doesn’t mention shopping stops, so it’s mainly a natural experience.

Is there a chance to see whales?
Yes, during the December to March season, Humpback Whales might be seen, adding to the excitement.

What’s included in the price?
While not specified in detail, the tour generally covers boat transportation, snorkeling gear, and guided land and sea activities, offering good value for its length and scope.

This Puerto Vallarta tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s marine and coastal beauty, perfect for those who want an active, scenic, and memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby