THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a full day from Puerto Vallarta exploring Los Arcos’ marine reserve, relaxing on Las Animas beach, and hiking to Quimixto’s seasonal waterfall. This all-inclusive boat tour includes snorkeling, kayaks, paddleboards, meals, and an open bar.
Spend a full day from Puerto Vallarta exploring Los Arcos’ marine reserve, relaxing on Las Animas beach, and hiking to Quimixto’s seasonal waterfall. This all-inclusive boat tour includes snorkeling, kayaks, paddleboards, meals, and an open bar.
The morning light hits the bay in a clean slice as the double-deck boat slides away from Puerto Vallarta’s marina; gulls wheel and the water dares you forward. By mid-morning the islets of Los Arcos loom—steep basalt arches rising like weathered doorways into the Pacific—while the boat hums with chatter about coral gardens and the promise of a secluded beach.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Jehú Manzo · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
The morning light hits the bay in a clean slice as the double-deck boat slides away from Puerto Vallarta’s marina; gulls wheel and the water dares you forward. By mid-morning the islets of Los Arcos loom—steep basalt arches rising like weathered doorways into the Pacific—while the boat hums with chatter about coral gardens and the promise of a secluded beach.
Geology here is immediate: volcanic rock shaped by waves and tectonics frames Bahía de Banderas, and Los Arcos is part of a protected marine reserve with visible coral outcrops and channels that attract reef fish and turtles. Culturally, this coastline has long supported fishing villages; Quimixto still operates on small-scale tourism and artisanal life, where a jungle trail leads to a seasonal waterfall visited by locals for generations.
Practical guidance is straightforward. Expect a full 8‑hour outing with breakfast and a beachfront lunch, open bar on board after snorkeling, and options to kayak, paddleboard, or join a guided hike to the Quimixto falls. Snorkeling is generally gentle but currents change; guides brief the groups and provide equipment. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof phone case, and cash for small purchases in Quimixto.
Plan to arrive early at the meeting point, watch for seasickness if you’re prone, and respect the marine reserve—no touching coral or feeding wildlife. The itinerary balances reef time, beach relaxation at Las Animas, and a short jungle excursion, offering one of the region’s most accessible full-day mixes of water and land adventure.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to climb a short, uneven jungle trail to the waterfall is required.
Yes—basic snorkel masks and fins are provided; you may bring your own for a better fit.
The open bar typically offers national drinks (beer, rum, tequila mixes) after the snorkeling stop; premium brands may not be included.
Yes—you can choose to disembark at Quimixto for the guided jungle hike or horseback option; the choice is made during the beach stop.
Most departures leave from Puerto Vallarta’s main marina area early in the morning—confirm exact meet time and location on your ticket or with the operator after booking.
Los Arcos and the bay have supported fishing communities for centuries; the islets later became a designated marine reserve to protect reef habitats.
The area is managed to limit reef damage—avoid touching coral, use reef‑safe sunscreens, and support local guides and vendors to sustain the community.
Jehú Manzo operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The morning light hits the bay in a clean slice as the double-deck boat slides away from Puerto Vallarta’s marina; gulls wheel and the water dares you forward. By mid-morning the islets of Los Arcos loom—steep basalt arches rising like weathered doorways into the Pacific—while the boat hums with chatter about coral gardens and the promise of a secluded beach.
The morning light hits the bay in a clean slice as the double-deck boat slides away from Puerto Vallarta’s marina; gulls wheel and the water dares you forward. By mid-morning the islets of Los Arcos loom—steep basalt arches rising like weathered doorways into the Pacific—while the boat hums with chatter about coral gardens and the promise of a secluded beach.
Geology here is immediate: volcanic rock shaped by waves and tectonics frames Bahía de Banderas, and Los Arcos is part of a protected marine reserve with visible coral outcrops and channels that attract reef fish and turtles. Culturally, this coastline has long supported fishing villages; Quimixto still operates on small-scale tourism and artisanal life, where a jungle trail leads to a seasonal waterfall visited by locals for generations.
Practical guidance is straightforward. Expect a full 8‑hour outing with breakfast and a beachfront lunch, open bar on board after snorkeling, and options to kayak, paddleboard, or join a guided hike to the Quimixto falls. Snorkeling is generally gentle but currents change; guides brief the groups and provide equipment. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof phone case, and cash for small purchases in Quimixto.
Plan to arrive early at the meeting point, watch for seasickness if you’re prone, and respect the marine reserve—no touching coral or feeding wildlife. The itinerary balances reef time, beach relaxation at Las Animas, and a short jungle excursion, offering one of the region’s most accessible full-day mixes of water and land adventure.