Set out from Marina Vallarta for a five‑hour, small‑group boat trip to Los Arcos and Colomitos. Snorkel clear reefs, paddleboard in protected coves, and keep watch for dolphins and seasonal humpbacks.
Set out from Marina Vallarta for a five‑hour, small‑group boat trip to Los Arcos and Colomitos. Snorkel clear reefs, paddleboard in protected coves, and keep watch for dolphins and seasonal humpbacks.
A harbor wake breaks against the hull as your small group slips out of Marina Vallarta, the city skyline shrinking behind you and the open blue of southern Banderas Bay pulling you forward.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Gray Line Puerto Vallarta · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
A harbor wake breaks against the hull as your small group slips out of Marina Vallarta, the city skyline shrinking behind you and the open blue of southern Banderas Bay pulling you forward.
Within 30 minutes the boat eases among the granite ribs of Los Arcos, rock fingers rising from the water that invite you to peer through natural windows at swirling fish below. Guides hand out masks and fins, brief you on currents and reef etiquette, and point to bands of sunlight dancing on the seabed as you step into warm, clear water for snorkeling.
This stretch of coast—once home to coastal Cuyuteco fishing communities and later spotlighted by the 1960s boom in Puerto Vallarta tourism—rests on volcanic foundations shaped by tectonic uplift and erosion; the arches and caves are living geology. Local fishing culture still influences cuisine and boat-handling traditions you’ll see onshore.
Practical notes: the tour runs about five hours, max 25 guests, and combines snorkeling at Los Arcos with paddleboarding and a calm stop at Colomitos Beach. Expect basic swimming and comfort in open water; guides provide gear and safety equipment. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, light cover for sun or wind, and a dry bag for valuables. If you travel between December and March, be alert for humpback whales on migration; summer brings warmer water but more chance of afternoon squalls.
The trip balances wildlife viewing with accessible water sports—an efficient, scenic way to experience Banderas Bay’s marine life and coastal geology with a local crew who know where the fish and quiet coves hide.
The tour meets at Marina Vallarta on the main pier in front of the restaurants and runs about five hours; arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
No advanced experience is required—guides give a safety briefing and basic instruction, but participants should be comfortable in open water and able to swim.
Dolphins are commonly seen; humpback whales are seasonal (typically December–March) and may be observed when in season but sightings aren't guaranteed.
Standard policy allows a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; operators may alter plans for safety but check directly with the provider for weather‑related changes.
Gray Line Puerto Vallarta operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A harbor wake breaks against the hull as your small group slips out of Marina Vallarta, the city skyline shrinking behind you and the open blue of southern Banderas Bay pulling you forward.
A harbor wake breaks against the hull as your small group slips out of Marina Vallarta, the city skyline shrinking behind you and the open blue of southern Banderas Bay pulling you forward.
Within 30 minutes the boat eases among the granite ribs of Los Arcos, rock fingers rising from the water that invite you to peer through natural windows at swirling fish below. Guides hand out masks and fins, brief you on currents and reef etiquette, and point to bands of sunlight dancing on the seabed as you step into warm, clear water for snorkeling.
This stretch of coast—once home to coastal Cuyuteco fishing communities and later spotlighted by the 1960s boom in Puerto Vallarta tourism—rests on volcanic foundations shaped by tectonic uplift and erosion; the arches and caves are living geology. Local fishing culture still influences cuisine and boat-handling traditions you’ll see onshore.
Practical notes: the tour runs about five hours, max 25 guests, and combines snorkeling at Los Arcos with paddleboarding and a calm stop at Colomitos Beach. Expect basic swimming and comfort in open water; guides provide gear and safety equipment. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, light cover for sun or wind, and a dry bag for valuables. If you travel between December and March, be alert for humpback whales on migration; summer brings warmer water but more chance of afternoon squalls.
The trip balances wildlife viewing with accessible water sports—an efficient, scenic way to experience Banderas Bay’s marine life and coastal geology with a local crew who know where the fish and quiet coves hide.