Arcos – Animas – Quimixto. By Grupo Naviero de la Bahìa (Bahia Alegre)

A Boat Trip to Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Beaches and Marine Wonders

If you’re looking to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty without the crowds, the “Arcos – Animas – Quimixto” boat tour by Grupo Naviero de la Bahìa offers a promising day out for around $82 per person. Spanning approximately 7 hours, this outing takes you to semi-virgin beaches accessible only by sea, with stops at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, Playa Las Animas, and Quimixto. The trip promises scenic views, snorkeling, and a taste of local village life, with a lively crew making the day memorable.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of snorkeling gear and a full breakfast, which sets a relaxed tone from the start. The caring guides and friendly atmosphere make the experience approachable, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking to relax and take in the scenery. Another highlight is the chance to sample authentic Mexican beach cuisine at Las Animas — a quiet fishing village with pristine waters.

However, a word of caution: some reviews indicate that timing and amenities may not be perfect. The rough waters, basic beach restaurant, and crowd levels can vary, so you’ll want to weigh whether a lively, somewhat unpredictable day at sea suits your style. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and are comfortable with a moderate physical effort — especially if hikes or optional activities like horse riding are involved.

In short, this tour is ideal for families, group travelers, or couples eager to explore lesser-known beaches, enjoy snorkeling, and experience local culture with a lively crew. If you want a full day of fun, good value, and a chance to see Puerto Vallarta from the sea, this is worth considering—but keep expectations realistic about some of the rougher spots and limited amenities.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on semi-virgin beaches accessible only by boat, offering a more authentic feel.
• Varied Activities: Includes snorkeling, beach relaxation, optional waterfall visit, and good food.
• Friendly Crew: Reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and energy.
• Value for Money: With snorkeling gear, food, and open bar included, it offers a decent package for the price.
• Timing and Crowds: Tour starts late relative to the advertised time, and the boat can be full, so arrive early.
• Mixed Reviews on Facilities: Beach restaurant and amenities may be basic, and some report crowded, messy beach areas.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour offers a full day on the water, and that means you’ll see some of Puerto Vallarta’s most scenic sights from a comfortable boat. The first stop is the famous Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a natural rock formation and marine reserve where snorkeling is the star activity. Expect to see a variety of colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral structures. The included snorkeling equipment makes it easy for all skill levels, though some reviews mention the water can be muggy or less vibrant than expected. Snorkeling is quick — about 15-45 minutes — so don’t expect to spend hours in the water but do plan to enjoy some lively underwater scenes.

Next, the boat heads to Playa Las Animas, a quiet, picturesque fishing village with a lovely stretch of sandy beach and clear waters. You’ll disembark here for a three-hour stop; the highlight is the beachside restaurant serving a “complementary” meal. Many travelers appreciate the authentic vibe and the chance to sample Mexican dishes like fajitas or fish tacos. But be aware that some reviews mention the food portions are small and the restaurant can be somewhat rundown. If you’re expecting a gourmet feast, you might be disappointed, but for a casual lunch, it’s decent.

The final stop is Quimixto, a tiny town with a waterfall that many find unforgettable — if you opt to go. The hike is approximately 30 minutes, and there’s an optional horse rental if you prefer not to walk. The waterfall itself is a beautiful natural feature, a perfect spot for photos and cooling off. However, not everyone takes the hike, and some reviews note that the water can be murky or disappointing if weather conditions aren’t ideal. The town itself is lively but basic, and some visitors have commented on the overcrowded beach and messy conditions.

Throughout the day, the crew’s energy and friendliness stand out as a major positive. Many reviews mention guides like Don Gato and Jorge, who are described as fun, informative, and attentive. The open bar is another highlight, with some noting that drinks flow freely and add to the festive atmosphere — just remember to drink responsibly, especially given the boat’s choppiness at times.

Practical Considerations

• The start time at 9:15 am is slightly later than the advertised 9:00 am, and some reviews report waiting around an hour before departure. Arrive early to avoid missing the boat or experiencing unnecessary delays.
• The port tax of 30 pesos isn’t included and must be paid at the marina, so bring some cash.
• The group size can be up to 130 travelers, so expect a lively, crowded environment.
• The beach facilities at Las Animas and Quimixto are basic, and some reviews mention dirty or rundown bathrooms and beach chairs that require extra rental fees.
• The water conditions can be rough, and some travelers have felt seasick despite taking precautions. If you’re prone to motion sickness, pack some medication.
• Snorkeling is quick and not the focus for everyone; some found the underwater visibility somewhat limited, with algae and green water affecting the experience.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour appealing is its focus on real local beaches and marine life away from the cruise ship crowds. The included meals and drinks offer good value, especially considering the full-day itinerary. The friendly crew and guides can turn a sometimes rough day into a lively and fun experience.

But, it’s also important to manage expectations. The publicized times and facility quality may not match your ideal. If you’re looking for a luxurious, perfectly polished experience, this tour might not be the best fit. However, if you’re okay with a rougher ride and unpredictable amenities, you’ll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and scenic highlights.

Who is this tour best for?

This adventure is ideal for families or groups eager to explore lesser-known beaches and enjoy some snorkeling and local cuisine without breaking the bank. If you thrive on social energy and are comfortable with some organized chaos, you’ll likely have a good time. It’s also a good choice for adventurous travelers interested in local culture and outdoor activities like waterfall hikes or horseback riding, if they choose to participate.

This tour suits those who aren’t expecting luxury, but instead seek an authentic, lively day at sea with plenty of opportunities for pictures and fun. If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and want to see the coast from a different perspective while enjoying a full day of sun, water, and good company, this trip might just be for you.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour?
  You get a full breakfast, snorkeling equipment, a national open bar, lunch at the beach, and insurance.

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts about 7 hours, starting at 9:15 am and ending back at the marina.

• Is snorkeling time sufficient?
  Snorkeling is brief — around 15 minutes at Los Arcos — so if underwater exploration is your priority, manage expectations.

• Do I need to bring cash?
  Yes, for the port tax (30 pesos) and any extra activities or souvenirs on the beach.

• Are the beaches crowded?
  Some reviews indicate that beaches can be busy and somewhat messy, especially at Quimixto, so prepare for lively, informal environments.

• Is the food on the tour good?
  The included meal is basic and served in a rundown restaurant, with some finding it adequate for a casual lunch. Be prepared for small portions or less-than-restaurant-quality food.

• What should I wear or bring?
  Bring swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, water, and maybe a towel. Comfortable shoes for the waterfall hike are recommended if you plan to go.

• Are the facilities on the beaches adequate?
  Facilities are minimal; some beach chairs may require extra rental, and bathrooms are basic and sometimes unkept.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour is weather-dependent. Poor conditions may lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds offered.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, perfect for those eager for a full day of water, nature, and camaraderie. While it’s not a polished luxury experience, the friendly guides, stunning views, and culture make it a worthwhile option for adventurous travelers and families alike. Just keep your expectations realistic about facilities and comfort, and you’ll likely find it a memorable day on the water.