Slip into Banderas Bay with a marine biologist guide to observe wild dolphins respectfully, then fin through the protected waters of Los Arcos Marine Park. A small-group boat, calm morning seas, and clear guidance make this half-day on the water both immersive and informed.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn lays a silver sheen across Banderas Bay as the small boat noses out from Marina Vallarta. Pelicans idle on pilings, the bay breathing in slow swells, and a marine biologist at the helm scans the water for the first hint of dorsal fins. Minutes later, the surface ruffles—a burst of motion—and wild bottlenose dolphins thread the boat’s wake, daring you to keep up. You won’t chase them; you’ll observe on their terms, learning how to read their body language, social pods, and feeding patterns before sliding quietly into the sea when conditions allow. The approach is careful and respectful, and that restraint becomes the point: this is their blue city, you’re a guest.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable swimmer who can tread water and climb a ladder back onto the boat; basic stamina for 30–45 minutes of intermittent snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
Los Arcos’ granite islets were carved by waves and uplift over millennia; nearby Mismaloya gained fame after the 1964 film Night of the Iguana put Puerto Vallarta on the travel map.
Conservation
Keep a respectful distance from dolphins, avoid touching wildlife, and pack out all trash. Choose reef-safe sunscreen and never feed fish or birds to protect this protected marine area.
Reserve your spot on the Wild dolphins encounter & snorkeling today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Aim for the early boat
Morning departures typically bring calmer seas and better visibility at Los Arcos, plus more active dolphin behavior near the surface.
Practice quiet entries
Follow the guide’s cues and enter the water gently to avoid spooking dolphins and reef fish; never touch or pursue wildlife.
Go reef-safe
Use mineral, reef-safe sunscreen or wear a long-sleeve rash guard to protect both your skin and the marine park’s corals.
Plan for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take non-drowsy medication 30–60 minutes before departure; eat a light, non-greasy breakfast.
Long-sleeve UPF rash guard
Adds sun protection and warmth during longer snorkel sets without relying solely on sunscreen.
Reef-safe mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Protects skin and helps minimize chemical impact on corals and fish in the marine park.
summer
Compact dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet, and a light layer dry on board during spray and ladder re-entries.
Motion-sickness tablets
Prevents queasiness on choppy runs between Marina Vallarta and Los Arcos.