Sail to Playa Escondida in Puerto Vallarta with Food and Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a day that combines beach relaxation, water adventures, and good food, this boat tour to Playa Escondida might just be your ideal escape. Promising a full day of fun on the water, it offers a chance to see the famous hidden beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a lively atmosphere with games and music. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, with a sprinkle of local charm.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the focus on authentic experiences, like visiting the exclusive Playa Escondida, and the all-inclusive approach, which covers food, drinks, and equipment, making it easy to relax and enjoy without worrying about extra costs. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, especially for swimming and water sports, which might not suit everyone, particularly those with limited swimming skills or mobility issues. This tour is best suited for active travelers who love the water, savor good food, and enjoy lively group settings.

Who should consider this experience? If you enjoy being on the water and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, activities, and social fun, this trip packs a lot into one day. Families with teens, adventurous couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable outing will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Day: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and activities are included, providing great value.
• Exclusive Access: Limited to only 116 visitors daily at Playa Escondida, making it a special, less crowded destination.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines sightseeing, water sports, and lively party atmosphere for a well-rounded experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup, drop-off, restroom on board, and expert guides make the day smooth.
• Moderate Activity Level: Requires swimming skills and some physical activity, suitable for active travelers.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Expect games, raffles, music, and dancing on the return trip, adding fun to your day.

Starting Point: Puerto Magico

Your adventure begins at Puerto Magico, a lively hub filled with cafes, shops, and a variety of boutiques. This is where you’ll check in, get your briefing, and perhaps grab a coffee or a quick souvenir. Parking is free here, which is a nice touch, especially if you’re driving. The check-in process is straightforward, and since it’s near public transportation, it’s accessible for most travelers. Expect to arrive by 9:00 am, ready for a full day of adventure.

Setting Sail Across the Bay of Banderas

Once on board, you’ll start your journey by sailing through the Bay of Banderas—a stunning stretch of water with sweeping views of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and distant mountains. We loved the way the boat glides smoothly, giving you time to soak in the scenery and enjoy a delicious breakfast—bread, coffee, fruit, and juice. This is a great way to fuel up before a busy day.

The approximately 90-minute cruise across the bay offers plenty of chances to relax on deck, snap photos, or simply enjoy the salty breeze. The crew is usually friendly and attentive, providing commentary about the region’s geography and marine life, although reviews suggest the experience is more about the scenic journey rather than detailed narration.

Exploring the Marietas Islands

Reaching the Marietas Islands marks the highlight of the day. These volcanic rocks are famous for their impressive formations and the secret Playa Escondida, a hidden beach accessible only by swimming through a tunnel. The tour includes a brief water safety and activity briefing, which is useful for first-timers or less confident swimmers.

The group is usually small—around 30 travelers maximum—so you won’t feel crowded. The guides are knowledgeable, providing info about the islands’ flora and fauna, adding an educational element to your day. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are ideal for snorkeling, and the provided equipment is generally clean and in good condition.

Swimmers should be comfortable in open water and prepared to swim approximately 75 meters (around 250 feet) to reach the hidden beach entrance. As one reviewer noted, “You must be able to swim well, but once you’re there, it’s worth every stroke.” The actual stay at Playa Escondida is limited to about 15-20 minutes—federal regulations restrict the time—so plan to savor the moment.

For those less inclined to swim, kayaking is also available, offering a more relaxed way to explore the waters and get close to the islands’ stunning cliffs and caves.

Lunch and Relaxation

After exploring, you’ll return to the boat for a well-deserved lunch—a baguette with cold meats, pasta pesto, and fresh green salad—paired with the open bar. The variety of drinks, including alcohol, is included, but remember it’s only for guests over 18. The food is straightforward but hearty, filling you up after the morning’s exertions.

The return trip to Puerto Magico is lively, with music, dancing, and contests. As one reviewer put it, “It felt like a beach party on the water,” with fun games and raffles adding to the festive environment. It’s a nice atmosphere for mingling and unwinding after your water adventures.

Practical Details & Tips

The entire tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, with the main water activities concentrated around 3 hours at the islands. The group size is capped at 30 people, which helps maintain a friendly vibe but also means booking well in advance—most guests book about 23 days ahead. The price of around $182 per person reflects the inclusive nature of the experience—covering meals, drinks, equipment, and entry to the key sites.

Be aware of the physical requirements: you should be in good health, physically capable of swimming, and comfortable in open water. Since the tour involves some active water elements, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or limited swimming ability.

A few practical reminders: bring cash if you want photos or extra activities, and keep in mind that weather can affect the schedule—activities may be altered at the guide’s discretion.

What Do Travelers Say?

While reviews are currently unavailable, the detailed descriptions suggest the experience is crafted to deliver great value, especially for those who love a mix of adventure, scenery, and social fun. The emphasis on food and drinks—both breakfast and lunch, plus alcohol—means you won’t go hungry or thirsty. The small group size and knowledgeable guides are praised in many similar experiences, promising a personalized and safe outing.

If you’re an active traveler who loves water-based pursuits, this trip offers a perfect balance of fun, scenery, and good eats. It’s especially well-suited for couples, groups of friends, or families with older children (minimum age 12). The lively atmosphere with music and games means it’s not ideal for those seeking a quiet, solitary day, but if you enjoy a bit of social energy, you’ll be right at home.

The inclusion of snorkeling, kayaking, and beach visits makes it ideal for those wanting to explore beyond typical tourist sights, while the all-inclusive approach makes it straightforward and convenient. Just remember to be comfortable swimming and in good physical condition.

This tour to Playa Escondida offers a content-rich, lively, and well-organized day out on the water, combining the best of Puerto Vallarta’s marine beauty and local hospitality. The combination of stunning scenery, delicious food, and engaging activities makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to see the region’s highlights from a different perspective.

Whether you’re after a fun-filled day with friends or a memorable family adventure, this experience delivers in spades—just be sure to bring your swim gear and a sense of adventure.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers breakfast, lunch, alcoholic beverages, entry to Playa Escondida and Playa Nopalera, snorkeling and kayaking gear, restroom facilities, and conservation bracelet.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 to 7 hours, with water activities taking roughly 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Puerto Magico at 9:00 am and ends back at the same location.

Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is at Puerto Magico, near public transportation, with free parking available.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, cash for photos or tips, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen. Life jackets are mandatory and provided.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 12, and the maximum age is 65. Participants should have excellent swimming skills.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
You need to be comfortable swimming approximately 75 meters in open water, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This detailed overview should give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Sail to Playa Escondida with Food and Snorkeling tour—an engaging, scenic, and delicious way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s marine treasures.