How far are the Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta?

The islands are about 11 miles (18 km) offshore and can be reached in approximately 45 minutes by boat.

Is prior snorkeling experience required?

It is recommended that participants have basic swimming and snorkeling skills to safely enjoy the underwater tunnels and reefs.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Common sightings include tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and seabirds like frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with clean restroom facilities to ensure comfort during the trip.

Is food and drink provided?

A freshly prepared lunch and an open bar with non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are included.

When is the best time of year to visit the Marietas Islands?

The dry season from November to May offers calm seas and optimal visibility for snorkeling.

Explore the Marietas Islands: Snorkeling, Sailing, and Hidden Beaches Near Puerto Vallarta | Boat Tour | Snorkel

Just a short sail from the vibrant shores of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico lies the Marietas Islands, an unspoiled natural reserve often called the "Mexican Galapagos." This seven-and-a-half-hour snorkeling and sailing expedition offers an immersive experience into one of the region’s most prized marine sanctuaries. Known for its dramatic limestone formations, clear blue waters, and rare wildlife, the Marietas Islands combine adventure with serene coastal beauty that few other destinations can match.

The trip begins with a scenic boat ride departing Puerto Vallarta’s Marina, where expert guides share insights about the islands’ unique ecosystem. The islands are famed for the "hidden beach" or Playa del Amor, a naturally formed cavern with a sandy floor open to the sky, accessible only by swimming through a short underwater tunnel. Here, you can relax on the pristine beach framed by towering rock walls that shelter you from the wind and crowds.

Snorkeling around the reefs reveals vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The waters around the islands nourish an impressive diversity of marine life due to the protected status of the area, including the chance to spot elusive mantas and colorful parrotfish. Throughout the day, the experienced crew ensures safety and comfort, providing all necessary equipment and a delicious onboard lunch paired with an open bar to keep spirits high.

The Marietas Islands are part of a national park established in 2005 to protect the nesting grounds of seabirds like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, adding a remarkable birdwatching component to this outdoor experience. The volcanic rock formations that sculpt the terrain create natural arches and caves that invite curiosity and exploration.

This trip stands out for blending high-quality adventure with ecological respect, making it a must-book for travelers who want to dive into the wild beauty of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a nature lover seeking quiet beaches framed by towering cliffs, the Marietas Islands tour offers a memorable day of discovery, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Nearby Puerto Vallarta offers a lively cultural scene and convenient accommodations, making it ideal for visitors to plan their base before venturing out to the islands. With small group sizes and professional guides, the tour ensures a personal and eco-conscious experience unmatched in the region.

About Estigo Tours

Estigo Tours connects travelers with guided adventures across Mexico, offering private, group, and custom excursions from Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Oaxaca, and Guanajuato.

The company curates a broad portfolio of experiences including cultural city tours, archaeological site visits, jungle hikes, zip line and ATV adventures, scuba diving and snorkeling, boat charters, whale watching, and transportation services. Estigo Tours lists private tours to Teotihuacan, Monte Alban, Coba, Chichen Itza, Tulum, and San Miguel de Allende, plus local experiences like mezcal and food tours, Frida Kahlo Museum visits, and guided museum tours in Mexico City.

In coastal regions the operator offers boat-based outings such as Los Arcos snorkel trips, Marietas Islands sailing and snorkeling, Puerto Vallarta yelapa excursions, 46' and 50' private yacht charters, and scuba diving trips to Majahuitas and Los Arcos. Adventure options include canopy zip lines, ATV routes in the Sierra Madre, horseback rides, and combo ATV/zip-line tours. Day trips from Mexico City include Tolantongo hot springs and Puebla–Cholula private tours.

Estigo Tours emphasizes private, customizable itineraries and a wide geographic reach reflected in its catalog of over fifty listed tours and services. The company provides transportation services and designs experiences for different activity levels, from relaxed cultural tours to high-energy outdoor adventures. Travelers can book single-day excursions or multi-stop private tours through the operator’s listings and partner platforms. Booking options include private transfers, curated itineraries, and add-on activities; trip descriptions list difficulty, duration, and inclusions so travelers can choose the right experience for their trip needs.