THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Board a two‑deck catamaran in Banderas Bay for snorkeling at Los Arcos, beach time at Playa Las Ánimas, and optional hiking to Quimixto waterfall. This full‑day outing pairs crystal surf and coastal scenery with practical comforts: breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear and life jackets are included.
Board a two‑deck catamaran in Banderas Bay for snorkeling at Los Arcos, beach time at Playa Las Ánimas, and optional hiking to Quimixto waterfall. This full‑day outing pairs crystal surf and coastal scenery with practical comforts: breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear and life jackets are included.
You step aboard a two‑deck catamaran as the bay opens beneath you: wind picking at the canopy, deck crew calling out breakfast choices, and the city shrinking behind the mainland ridge. Forty minutes into Banderas Bay the captain eases toward a cluster of rocky islets—Los Arcos—where clear water slides against volcanic cliffs and small schools of fish thread through underwater arches.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Altus Tours · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
You step aboard a two‑deck catamaran as the bay opens beneath you: wind picking at the canopy, deck crew calling out breakfast choices, and the city shrinking behind the mainland ridge. Forty minutes into Banderas Bay the captain eases toward a cluster of rocky islets—Los Arcos—where clear water slides against volcanic cliffs and small schools of fish thread through underwater arches.
Los Arcos is both geological feature and marine nursery: hardened lava forms arches and submerged ledges that host corals, parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional ray. The route then traces the southeast shore toward Playa Las Ánimas, a shallow cove where calm water invites paddles and lazy swims. Locals still fish the bay and historic Mismaloya—nearby—bought international attention after mid‑20th century film crews worked the coastline, shaping tourism that continues today.
Practical notes: snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and a beach‑side restaurant serves a choice lunch. There’s an option (subject to availability) to skip Las Ánimas for a guided hike to Quimixto and a waterfall—expect uneven trails and a short climb. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a towel, and a light jacket for the crossing back when the sea breeze picks up.
Timing matters: mornings are calmer for snorkeling and visibility; afternoons bring more boat traffic but lively music and an open national bar on the return. Respect the marine park—no touching coral, and keep distance from wildlife. This day trip balances easy water time with a chance to explore coastal forest, making it practical for families and adventurous swimmers alike.
No advanced skills required—basic swimming and comfort with a mask and snorkel are recommended; life jackets are provided.
Yes—shallow water at Las Ánimas and onboard amenities make it suitable for families; check age rules with the operator.
Trips may be altered or cancelled in bad weather for safety; the operator typically offers full refunds if cancelled 24 hours prior.
Breakfast, a lunch choice, snorkel gear and an open national bar on the return are included per the itinerary.
Altus Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step aboard a two‑deck catamaran as the bay opens beneath you: wind picking at the canopy, deck crew calling out breakfast choices, and the city shrinking behind the mainland ridge. Forty minutes into Banderas Bay the captain eases toward a cluster of rocky islets—Los Arcos—where clear water slides against volcanic cliffs and small schools of fish thread through underwater arches.
You step aboard a two‑deck catamaran as the bay opens beneath you: wind picking at the canopy, deck crew calling out breakfast choices, and the city shrinking behind the mainland ridge. Forty minutes into Banderas Bay the captain eases toward a cluster of rocky islets—Los Arcos—where clear water slides against volcanic cliffs and small schools of fish thread through underwater arches.
Los Arcos is both geological feature and marine nursery: hardened lava forms arches and submerged ledges that host corals, parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional ray. The route then traces the southeast shore toward Playa Las Ánimas, a shallow cove where calm water invites paddles and lazy swims. Locals still fish the bay and historic Mismaloya—nearby—bought international attention after mid‑20th century film crews worked the coastline, shaping tourism that continues today.
Practical notes: snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and a beach‑side restaurant serves a choice lunch. There’s an option (subject to availability) to skip Las Ánimas for a guided hike to Quimixto and a waterfall—expect uneven trails and a short climb. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a towel, and a light jacket for the crossing back when the sea breeze picks up.
Timing matters: mornings are calmer for snorkeling and visibility; afternoons bring more boat traffic but lively music and an open national bar on the return. Respect the marine park—no touching coral, and keep distance from wildlife. This day trip balances easy water time with a chance to explore coastal forest, making it practical for families and adventurous swimmers alike.