Snorkeling at Los Arcos 5 islands Hidden Beach and Cliff Jumping

Planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This tour offers a lively mix of adventure and relaxation — snorkeling among striking rock formations, daring cliff jumps, and unwinding at a secluded beach. It’s a package designed for those craving a taste of both adrenaline and scenic beauty.

What we particularly like about this experience is how well it balances thrilling activities like cliff jumping with gentler moments such as snorkeling and lounging on a quiet beach. Plus, the guides seem to go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable and informed. The only caveat? The tour’s popularity means common spots like Los Arcos can get crowded, so timing and patience might matter.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting wet and enjoy discovering marine life and stunning coastlines. Families with older kids, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a half-day escape will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines snorkeling, cliff jumping, and beach relaxation.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive.
• Convenient Meeting Points: Multiple locations, including near the cruise port.
• Good Value: For $44, you get gear, guides, and access to some of the best spots.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for older kids and those comfortable in the water.
• Popular but Organized: Expect some crowds at Los Arcos but with good guidance.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Easy Access and Clear Instructions

The adventure begins with a straightforward pickup from one of three locations in Puerto Vallarta, including a convenient spot just a block from the cruise ship terminal at the OXXO store. This setup is perfect for cruise passengers or those staying nearby, as it minimizes hassle and ensures a smooth start. The tour operates at 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM, giving flexibility depending on your plans.

During the brief 30-minute transfer, guides typically give a quick overview of the day ahead, setting expectations and sharing interesting tidbits about the area. It’s a nice touch that enhances the sense of local connection right from the start.

Playa Mismaloya: Vibrant and Scenic

Once on-site at Mismaloya Beach, you’ll get a chance to explore this charming stretch of sand, dotted with small shops, eateries, and bars. It’s a lively spot with a genuine local vibe, far from the touristy buzz but still lively enough to enjoy some people-watching or a quick snack before heading to the boat.

Here, your guides will explain the history of Mismaloya, adding a layer of context that enriches your experience. This initial stop typically lasts around 30 minutes, giving time to appreciate the scenery and prepare for the aquatic portion.

Los Arcos de Mismaloya: The Main Attraction

The highlight for many is the boat ride out to Los Arcos, a marine geological wonder famous for its arches, caves, and abundant tropical fish. We loved the way guides manage the group, navigating the busy snorkeling spot where multiple tour groups often gather. They’re skilled at keeping guests in the calmer waters and maximizing viewing opportunities.

For thrill-seekers, the cliff jumping spot near the set of the “Night of the Iguana” film is a big draw. You can opt for a quick 15-foot leap or challenge yourself with a higher jump — a real heart-pumper. One reviewer mentioned that “cliff jump was fun, but a hard climb for a semi-fat old guy,” highlighting that it’s not for everyone but accessible enough for most active visitors.

Snorkeling: Marine Life and Underwater Marvels

The snorkeling here is described as “fantastic,” with many reviews praising the “beautiful fish” and the chance to see larger creatures like a spotted eagle ray. The equipment is provided, and guides are attentive to safety and comfort, making it suitable even for those new to snorkeling.

While the water can be a bit murky at high tide, the high volume of marine life tends to make up for it. As one traveler noted, “You should be a good swimmer to benefit most,” but even less confident swimmers can enjoy gazing at the vibrant underwater scenes with proper support.

Hidden Beach: A Peaceful Ending

After the lively snorkeling and jumping, the tour concludes at a secluded beach accessible only by boat. This spot offers a perfect opportunity to relax, swim, or soak up the sun in relative privacy. It’s a lovely contrast to the more crowded spots, providing that feeling of discovering a secret paradise.

The return to Mismaloya includes access to bathrooms, changing facilities, and rinsing stations, allowing guests to freshen up before heading back. The whole experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making it manageable for most day plans.

Transportation, Group Size, and Pricing

The tour’s transportation is straightforward, with pickup included and a small group size capped at 15 participants. This usually translates into a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere, avoiding the chaos of large tour boats.

For $44 per person, the value is quite reasonable, considering the included gear, guides, and access to prime snorkeling and jumping spots. Reviews point out that the guides are well-informed and friendly, which adds greatly to the overall satisfaction.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The majority of reviews are glowing, with a 4.9-star average based on 71 reviews. Many highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, with comments like “Ivan was our guide and he was amazing,” and “Sebastian was awesome.” The guides’ ability to make everyone feel at ease and their local knowledge really shine through.

Multiple reviews also mention how the tour’s timing allows them to experience the best of the area before crowds arrive. One traveler captured the spirit: “We got to see the arches up close and my wife almost made me drown — just kidding,” showing how fun and lighthearted the experience can be.

A few reviewers note that the snorkeling can get crowded, but guides do their best to keep guests comfortable and in calmer areas. Budget-conscious travelers might find this a small tradeoff for the overall quality and value.

One less positive review mentioned a missed pickup, but that seems to be a communication hiccup rather than a systemic issue, and the company responded promptly with a full refund.

Practical Tips for Future Participants

Bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Wearing reef-safe sunscreen helps protect this fragile environment. If you’re a nervous swimmer, consider bringing a flotation device or asking the guides about safety options.

Arrive at your designated meeting point a little early — the instructions are clear, but busy mornings can sometimes cause confusion. The tour’s schedule is tight but flexible enough to allow for a relaxed start.

While WiFi isn’t included on board, the scenery and underwater wonders more than compensate for the lack of internet. The boat is small and intimate, so don’t expect luxury amenities, but the views and activities make up for it.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a lively blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxation that suits those looking to make the most of a half-day in Puerto Vallarta. With knowledgeable guides, a well-organized itinerary, and access to some of the most photogenic spots in the area, it delivers excellent value for the price.

Whether you’re eager to snorkel amidst colorful fish, challenge yourself with cliff jumps, or unwind on a hidden beach, this experience has something for every active traveler. Its popularity speaks to its appeal, and many guests leave with unforgettable memories and new stories to tell.

If you love being on the water, discovering marine life, and enjoying some adrenaline, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary. It’s especially ideal for families with older children, couples, or solo explorers who want a fun, safe, and scenic outing.

FAQs

Is pick-up included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from three convenient locations in Puerto Vallarta, including near the cruise ship terminal.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but personal gear is also welcome.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, with most of that time spent enjoying activities at the stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children comfortable in the water. The tour’s reviews highlight that teenagers had a great time, but younger kids may find the cliff jumping challenging.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This snorkeling and adventure tour at Los Arcos combined with cliff jumping and a hidden beach spot is a fantastic way to enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline. It’s lively, well-supported, and offers a genuine taste of the area’s marine wonders and rugged cliffs — a perfect choice for active travelers seeking a half-day thrill.