THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Board a full-day sail from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands for snorkeling, kayaking and a rare visit to Playa Escondida. Expect clear water, a mandatory open-water swim to access the hidden beach, and a conservation-minded, festive return to port.
Board a full-day sail from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands for snorkeling, kayaking and a rare visit to Playa Escondida. Expect clear water, a mandatory open-water swim to access the hidden beach, and a conservation-minded, festive return to port.
The bow cuts a bright line through Banderas Bay and, within an hour, the shoreline thins to a low horizon and the Marietas Islands rise like sculpted stone out of the Pacific. Salt spray and music set the tempo as guides brief the boat and hand out breakfast; beyond the engine noise, the ocean seems to dare you to step over the rail and into its clarity.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Monkey Adventures México · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
The bow cuts a bright line through Banderas Bay and, within an hour, the shoreline thins to a low horizon and the Marietas Islands rise like sculpted stone out of the Pacific. Salt spray and music set the tempo as guides brief the boat and hand out breakfast; beyond the engine noise, the ocean seems to dare you to step over the rail and into its clarity.
The Marietas are volcanic remnant islets shaped by waves and centuries of limestone erosion. Once used by the military in the 20th century, the islands are now a federally protected national park where restricted daily visitor numbers and conservation bracelets regulate human impact. The area’s rocky outcrops and submerged reefs create pockets of calm water that shelter schooling parrotfish, rays and occasional dolphins.
On this full-day cruise you’ll snorkel clear channels, paddle a kayak past sea-stained cliffs and enter Playa Escondida—accessible only by swimming through a short tunnel—where federal rules limit time ashore to preserve nesting birds and fragile life.
Practical edge: arrive early at the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal, follow crew instructions for the 75 m open-water swim and wear a life jacket for all water activities. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a secure mask if you prefer your own snorkel gear, and cash for photos or tips. Timing matters—calmer seas make the beach visit smoother—so plan this activity for mornings with lighter swell. Expect music and conviviality on the return trip, but respect the islands’ protected status while ashore.
The tour runs about 6–7 hours and departs from the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal (Magic Port); arrive 30–45 minutes early to check in.
Access is limited by federal rules and requires an open-water swim of roughly 75 m; visits ashore are short (15–20 minutes) and capped daily to protect wildlife.
Yes—basic snorkeling equipment is included, and life jackets are mandatory for all water activities.
Minimum age is generally 12, maximum recommended age around 65; not suitable for poor cardiovascular health, pregnancy, or serious spinal issues—check with the operator if in doubt.
Monkey Adventures México operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The bow cuts a bright line through Banderas Bay and, within an hour, the shoreline thins to a low horizon and the Marietas Islands rise like sculpted stone out of the Pacific. Salt spray and music set the tempo as guides brief the boat and hand out breakfast; beyond the engine noise, the ocean seems to dare you to step over the rail and into its clarity.
The bow cuts a bright line through Banderas Bay and, within an hour, the shoreline thins to a low horizon and the Marietas Islands rise like sculpted stone out of the Pacific. Salt spray and music set the tempo as guides brief the boat and hand out breakfast; beyond the engine noise, the ocean seems to dare you to step over the rail and into its clarity.
The Marietas are volcanic remnant islets shaped by waves and centuries of limestone erosion. Once used by the military in the 20th century, the islands are now a federally protected national park where restricted daily visitor numbers and conservation bracelets regulate human impact. The area’s rocky outcrops and submerged reefs create pockets of calm water that shelter schooling parrotfish, rays and occasional dolphins.
On this full-day cruise you’ll snorkel clear channels, paddle a kayak past sea-stained cliffs and enter Playa Escondida—accessible only by swimming through a short tunnel—where federal rules limit time ashore to preserve nesting birds and fragile life.
Practical edge: arrive early at the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal, follow crew instructions for the 75 m open-water swim and wear a life jacket for all water activities. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a secure mask if you prefer your own snorkel gear, and cash for photos or tips. Timing matters—calmer seas make the beach visit smoother—so plan this activity for mornings with lighter swell. Expect music and conviviality on the return trip, but respect the islands’ protected status while ashore.