Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Islands with Open Bar and Food

Experience the Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta with a full-day tour that combines adventure, relaxation, and great food for around $89.14 per person. This 8 to 9-hour excursion is perfect for anyone keen on exploring Mexico’s stunning marine landscapes, whether traveling solo, with family, or as a couple. The tour includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and, if you’re lucky during whale season, close-up whale sightings. It also features a delicious breakfast, a hearty lunch with an open bar, and stops at the famed Playa Escondida.

What we love most about this trip is how it strikes a good balance between active water-based fun and relaxing moments. The underwater scenery and vibrant marine life make snorkeling a standout activity, while the friendly crew ensures everyone feels at home and well-cared-for. Plus, the inclusive food and drinks elevate the experience, so you can truly unwind without constant worries about meals or hydration.

A minor consideration is the duration of the boat ride—around 90 minutes each way—so if you’re sensitive to long boat trips or prone to seasickness, packing accordingly might be wise. Also, the shaded seating on the boat is limited, turning some parts into a sunbathers’ challenge. However, for most, the natural beauty and activities compensate well for these small inconveniences.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a comprehensive day of exploration with plenty of water sports, and appreciate authentic Mexican scenery. Families with kids aged 8 and up, couples, and solo travelers looking for a mix of adventure and comfort will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining water activities, relaxation, and good food.
• Includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and the chance to see marine wildlife.
• All meals and drinks are covered, with an open bar after water activities.
• Visits Playa Escondida through a marine tunnel, a unique and memorable experience.
• Affordable price offers excellent value considering the activities and inclusions.
• Limited boat shade and long ride times are minor considerations for some travelers.

A Detailed Look at the Puerto Vallarta Marietas Islands Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Puerto Vallarta to see the famous Marietas Islands, you’ll find this tour offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. For $89.14, you get roughly eight to nine hours of activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and a delicious meal—not bad for a full-day adventure in this part of Mexico.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins bright and early at Puerto Mágico, where you’ll meet your friendly guides. Expect to register, make a small conservation fee payment, and get briefed on the day ahead. The initial costs include a $120 MXN conservation fee and a $30 MXN port tax, which are standard for visiting protected marine areas. These fees support the preservation of the islands, and paying them helps keep this fragile ecosystem healthy.

Scenic Drive to Bahia de Banderas

As you depart for the islands, you’ll enjoy the beautiful landscape of Bahia de Banderas, a highlight in itself. The views are quite captivating, making the roughly three-hour boat ride more enjoyable than a mere transfer. The boat, while comfortable, has limited shaded seating, so if you’re sensitive to sun, consider bringing a hat or sunblock—though they avoid sunscreen to protect marine life.

Exploring the Islands and Underwater World

The centerpiece is the Islas Marietas, famous for their stunning natural formations and rich marine ecosystem. Once ashore or close to the water, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the marine environment. The tour includes snorkeling gear, fins, life vests, and snorkel tubes, allowing you to explore underwater landscapes full of fish and colorful coral.

Many reviewers highlight how the vibrant underwater scenery and marine wildlife (including possible whale sightings during season) make this a memorable part of the trip. One guest exclaimed, “The Island is spectacular. I really enjoyed its nature,” emphasizing the natural beauty.

Some travelers also venture to Playa Escondida, accessible via a small boat to a rocky access point where you swim through a marine tunnel to reach the beach. This part of the experience is limited to about 30 minutes, but it offers an exclusive, almost secretive feel—definitely worth the effort for adventure lovers.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

After the water activities, you’ll head back to Bahia de Banderas for a delicious lunch and unlimited drinks from the open bar. The reviews appreciate the good quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere—a time to socialize, unwind, and capture some photos of the stunning scenery. The hour-long stop is ample for enjoying the meal and soaking in the views.

Return and Reflection

The journey back to Puerto Vallarta takes around two hours, giving everyone a chance to relax, share stories, and enjoy the last vistas of the coast. Many reviews note that the crew was helpful and fun, making the long ride more enjoyable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Beyond the activities, the value for money is particularly notable. For under $90 per person, you receive all water sports gear, a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, and open bar—a package that covers most essentials for a day of fun and relaxation. The marine conservation fee is a small premium that supports the preservation of the islands, and many travelers appreciate the opportunity to give back while enjoying nature.

The small group size (max 40 travelers) fosters a more intimate experience, and the professional, friendly staff make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe. Several reviews praised the staff’s helpfulness and positive attitude, which can truly elevate the experience.

Worth Considering

One downside some travelers mention is the long boat ride—about 90 minutes each way. If you’re prone to seasickness or dislike extended boat trips, this could be a challenge. Plus, limited shaded seating means the sun can be intense, so plan to bring sun protection.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers and families who enjoy water activities and are looking for a full-day experience. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing marine wildlife, snorkeling, and exploring unique natural formations. It’s also great for those who want an all-inclusive experience with meals, drinks, and activities taken care of, rather than worrying about multiple bookings or hidden costs.

If you value authentic scenery and engaging activities over luxury or leisure-only trips, this tour hits the right note. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate ecotourism, supporting conservation efforts while enjoying spectacular views.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Vallarta tour to the Marietas Islands offers an authentic, fun, and value-driven experience. You get to snorkel through vibrant underwater habitats, paddleboard in calm waters, and relax with good food and drinks—all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural scenery. The inclusion of Playa Escondida adds a special touch of adventure and exclusivity, even if only for a short time.

While the boat ride might be lengthy and sun exposure a consideration, these are minor trade-offs for the chance to explore one of Mexico’s most captivating marine parks. The friendly crew and organized itinerary make it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re after a well-rounded day that combines nature, water fun, and local charm without breaking the bank, this tour is an excellent pick—particularly for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to make the most of their time in Puerto Vallarta.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Most travelers, including children aged 8 and up, can participate. The tour is suitable for families with kids who are comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sun protection like hats and sunglasses, and wear comfortable swimwear. Considering the limited shaded seats, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable) and a towel are advisable.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides a breakfast, a hearty lunch, and an open bar after the water activities, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to and from the islands lasts approximately 90 minutes each way, so be prepared for a total of about 3 hours on the water.

Can I visit Playa Escondida?
Yes, a smaller boat will take you to the rocky access point near Playa Escondida. You can swim through a marine tunnel to reach the beach for about 30 minutes.

Is the tour suitable during whale season?
Yes, during whale watching season, there’s a good chance you might see whales swimming nearby, adding an extra layer of excitement.

What are the main costs not included in the booking?
Additional costs include the optional Hidden Beach fee of $1,000 MXN (know how to swim required), a $30 MXN port fee, and a $150 MXN conservation bracelet if you choose to purchase it.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled within 24 hours, you won’t get a refund, so plan accordingly.

This tour combines the best of Mexico’s natural beauty with active fun and good food, all at a fair price. It’s a trip that promises memorable moments, whether you’re snorkeling among colorful fish or lounging with a drink in hand, watching the day fade over the Pacific.