Mismaloya stands out as a prime spot for snorkeling thanks to its clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and proximity to protected marine areas. Whether you’re eager to jump off cliffs into the Pacific or explore underwater caves, this small coastal town offers a variety of tours suited to different preferences. Among the options we love is the Mismaloya: Snorkeling, Cliff Jumping, and Beach Tour, which combines adrenaline, underwater exploration, and relaxation—all in just 2.5 hours. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quick yet engaging experience. For those wanting a more extensive adventure, the Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure, Colomitos & Las Animas Beach offers a full-day itinerary with visits to multiple beaches and snorkeling at Los Arcos, a marine sanctuary brimming with colorful fish. If you prefer a luxurious or in-depth experience, the Islas Marietas National Park + Snorkeling at Los Arcos de Mismaloya offers a chance to explore protected islands and vibrant underwater life in a premium setting. Check out all the options below to find your perfect match.
1. Mismaloya: Snorkeling, Cliff Jumping, and Beach Tour
This 2.5-hour boat trip from Mismaloya takes you to Los Arcos and El Paredón Beach, with plenty of activities packed into a short timeframe. The highlight is jumping from cliffs into the Pacific Ocean—an experience that’s as thrilling as it sounds. After the adrenaline rush, you’ll snorkel with a guide around Los Arcos, exploring caves and arches home to schools of tropical fish. The boat then takes you to El Paredón Beach, where you can relax on soft sand or enjoy calm water swimming. The tour ends with a relaxing return cruise, giving you sweeping views of the coastline. At only $44 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a quick dose of adventure and scenery, perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a mix of action and rest. Reviewers rate it 5/5, praising the boat crew’s friendliness and the variety of activities.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a short, fun-packed trip with cliff jumping and snorkeling, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable if you want to sample the best of Mismaloya without committing to a full day.
2. Los Arcos Snorkeling Adventure, Colomitos & Las Animas Beach
Starting from Playa Mismaloya, this tour covers Los Arcos, Colomitos, and Las Animas Beach over roughly 3 to 5 hours. It’s a comprehensive experience for those keen on both underwater exploration and scenic cruising. The tour kicks off with a guided boat ride around Los Arcos, a protected marine area famous for its striking rock formations and abundant marine life. Snorkelers will love exploring the coral reefs, where colorful fish and maybe even sea turtles or rays can be spotted. Afterward, the boat heads south along the coast to visit beaches like Colomitos, known for its lush jungle backdrop and turquoise waters. The trip ends at Playa Las Animas, offering plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying lunch on shore. The tour has a solid 5-star rating based on three reviews, with comments highlighting the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. For around $69, this offers excellent value considering the length and variety.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full-day, varied experience, combining snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach time in one trip.
3. Snorkeling and Yelapa Beach Tour Majahuitas
This 5-hour tour lets you explore the underwater world at Majahuitas Beach and relax at Yelapa Beach, a quiet village with a waterfall. The tour begins at Mismaloya Adventures, where you hop on a boat heading to Majahuitas, renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Snorkelers will have about 40 minutes to observe colorful fish swimming around coral formations. Afterward, the boat continues south across the bay to Yelapa, a charming village where you can take a walk to the waterfall, relax on the beach, or explore local eateries on your own. This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of underwater exploration and cultural discovery, with a longer timeframe to soak in the scenery. The cost is $82 per person, which includes snorkeling and boat transfers but leaves room for independent exploration at Yelapa.
Reviewers note that the snorkel spot is teeming with marine life and the boat ride itself offers fantastic coastal views. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a slower pace and want to combine snorkeling with time at a quaint beach village.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a mix of underwater fun and authentic village experience in a laid-back setting.
4. Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Paddleboarding & Snorkeling Tour
This 4-hour tour introduces you to the natural beauty of Los Arcos from a different perspective—paddleboarding. Starting at Paraguay 1290, the group gets a quick safety briefing before heading out to explore caves by paddleboard and snorkel in the marine reserve. Paddleboarding through tunnels formed in the rocks is a highlight, offering a unique way to experience the area’s geological features. Snorkeling in the clear waters, you’ll see tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs. The group size is kept manageable, ensuring personalized attention and safety. The review rating is perfect, emphasizing how this tour blends adventure with learning about the park’s geological features. For those who prefer active, hands-on experiences, it offers a fun, engaging way to explore the marine park.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers looking for a blend of paddling, snorkeling, and exploring caves—all within a manageable four-hour window.
$65 per person
5. Islas Marietas National Park + Snorkeling at Los Arcos de Mismaloya
This premium tour, priced at $229 per person, combines a visit to the famous Marietas Islands with snorkeling at Los Arcos. The Marietas are known as a hidden paradise, with a “Hidden Beach” accessible only by boat or swimming through a water tunnel. The tour provides a chance to see this unique site alongside snorkeling in the vibrant waters of Los Arcos. The trip lasts about 5 hours, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want the full experience of Mexico’s marine treasures. The highlight is the chance to see the marble caves, abundant marine life, and possibly even dolphins during the cruise. This trip is best suited for travelers who value comfort and are willing to splurge for a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience.
Bottom Line: For those wanting the ultimate snorkeling day in Mismaloya, this offers a blend of iconic islands and underwater exploration in a luxurious format.
$229 per person
6. Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Snorkeling Tour
This 3-hour tour from Puerto Vallarta costs around $123 per person and offers a shorter, focused snorkeling experience. With a dive into the rich marine reserve, you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs, caves, and learn about the area’s ecosystems from guides who know their stuff. The tour emphasizes seeing a variety of marine species like angelfish and parrotfish, making it ideal for travelers eager to get a good taste of underwater life without a long commitment. The protected marine area ensures that the ecosystems remain healthy and thriving, adding an eco-conscious note to your trip. This tour is best suited for travelers with limited time or those looking for a straightforward snorkel adventure.
Bottom Line: A solid option for a quick, well-guided snorkeling outing that highlights the marine diversity of Los Arcos.
$123 per person
7. Yelapa Adventure, Los Arcos, Snorkeling and Village Discovery!
This slightly longer, group-oriented tour, costing $449 for up to seven people, combines boat rides, snorkeling, and exploring the village of Yelapa. The trip begins on Mismaloya Beach, with a scenic cruise to Los Arcos, then heads south along the coast past beaches like Colomitos and Las Animas. The highlight at Yelapa is the waterfall, plus free time to relax, eat, or explore on your own. The tour includes time for snorkeling in Majahuitas and discovering the local waterfalls and village life. It’s perfect for small groups or families who want an all-day experience with multiple highlights. However, with no reviews yet, it’s best for those who enjoy a customized, intimate tour.
Bottom Line: For a multi-activity, full-day adventure with a focus on natural beauty and cultural sights, this is a flexible choice.
$449.00 per group (up to 7)
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Tour in Mismaloya
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a quick burst of excitement, the Snorkeling, Cliff Jumping, and Beach Tour is an unbeatable value. If you want a more comprehensive day with multiple beaches and underwater sights, the Los Arcos Adventure offers great variety. For those seeking a premium experience, the Islas Marietas plus Los Arcos combines iconic sights with snorkeling in a luxurious setting. Lastly, active travelers might enjoy the Paddleboarding & Snorkeling tour, while families or groups looking for a full-day exploration may prefer the Yelapa Village Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons from November to April, when these trips fill up quickly. Many tours include equipment, guides, and transportation, so check what’s included in each package for the best value.
In summary, Mismaloya offers a surprisingly diverse range of snorkeling experiences. From quick adrenaline-pumping cliff jumps to full-day explorations of marine parks and islands, there’s something for every type of traveler. For those seeking an efficient, fun intro, the first tour hits the mark. If your idea of snorkeling involves lots of beaches, marine life, and scenic cruising, options like the Los Arcos Adventure or Marietas Islands will satisfy. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with fantastic memories of Mexico’s lively underwater world. Be sure to book early to secure your spot in these popular tours.