Experience the Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ at Majahuitas from Vallarta
This 7-hour catamaran trip offers a chance to explore Jalisco’s stunning Pacific coast, with stops at the Marietas Islands and Majahuitas Beach. For $89 per person, you get to sail along rocky coves and archways, snorkel in turbid waters (with gear provided), paddleboard, and kayak, all culminating in a laid-back beachside BBQ. Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to see whale sightings from the boat and the delicious, well-prepared beach lunch.
One potential drawback is that the tour spends a good chunk of the time traveling between spots, which might feel a bit lengthy to those eager for constant activity. Also, the tour does not visit the famed Hidden Beach, which can be a disappointment if that’s your main goal.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy water-based adventures paired with scenic cruising, and those looking for a relaxed day with good food and drinks. If you’re after an authentic, laid-back day on the water, this trip offers a solid balance of activities and scenic beauty.
Key Points
- Beautiful scenery and natural formations at the Marietas Islands.
- Secluded Majahuitas Beach offers a quiet, picture-perfect spot.
- Water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included.
- The tour is well-suited for marine life sightings, including whale glimpses.
- Food and drinks are plentiful, with a tasty beach BBQ and open bar.
- Crowd size and organization could vary, impacting the experience.
A Closer Look at the Vallarta Marietas Islands Tour
What the Tour Offers and What You Can Expect
The tour begins with a comfortable catamaran ride from Vallarta, setting sail for the Islas Marietas National Park. The boat itself is described as “comfortable,” and guides—sometimes bilingual—help make the trip educational and enjoyable. We loved the way the crew puts effort into making the journey engaging, often with lively commentary and some fun performances, especially on the return trip.
Once at the islands, the focus is on exploring the rocky caverns and archways. Many travelers find these formations fascinating, perfect for photos and close-up views—though the tour emphasizes that they focus more on the natural scenery and marine wildlife rather than visiting the Hidden Beach. You’ll have the chance to snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard using the provided equipment. This is where the experience shines, especially if you’re into water activities, and guides are typically attentive in helping you navigate the waters safely.
After the water explorations, the boat cruises over to Majahuitas Beach, renowned for its seclusion and stunning white sands. Here, a beach BBQ awaits, with plenty of refreshing drinks and a relaxed vibe. This is a highlight for many—swimming in clear waters and lounging on the soft sands while enjoying the sounds of the waves.
The return journey often features an open bar, and travelers can unwind as they cruise back toward Vallarta. The overall atmosphere is casual, with music and socializing adding to the fun.
The Water Activities: What’s Included and What’s Not
Snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are included, which is convenient. However, some reviews mention that access to equipment can be limited during busy times, with only a couple of kayaks and paddleboards available. For example, one traveler noted that “there were only 2 kayaks, 2 paddleboards, a banana boat,” which can make it difficult to coordinate with a large group.
Another point to consider is the turbid waters at the islands, which might limit what you see underwater. Several reviews mention that the water was murky, making it hard to spot marine life beyond a few fish. The one snorkel session is about 45 minutes, so don’t expect hours of underwater exploration, especially during busy times when the group is large.
The Crowds and Organization
One recurring theme in reviews is crowd size. The capacity is listed at 180 people, and some travelers found the tour overcrowded, making activities like snorkeling and kayaking less enjoyable due to limited equipment and space. A reviewer from Canada called the experience “overpriced, crowded, underwhelming”, citing long transit times between spots and a focus on music and drinks rather than nature.
This suggests that if you prefer intimate experiences or quiet exploration, this might not be the ideal tour. On the bright side, the crew’s enthusiasm and knowledge generally receive praise, with many appreciating their efforts to entertain and inform.
More Great Tours NearbyFood, Drinks, and Atmosphere
The beach BBQ lunch is often highlighted as a highlight—tasty, well-prepared, and served with plenty of drinks. The open bar on the return leg is appreciated, and many travelers mention that the staff make the experience lively and fun.
However, it’s worth noting that gratuities, the port fee, and conservation fee are extra costs, adding to the overall expense. One traveler mentioned the USD$20 conservation fee, which is collected at check-in, so budget accordingly.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best for water lovers, especially those happy to share equipment with others and who enjoy a social, lively environment. It’s great if you value scenic views, marine wildlife sightings, and a relaxed day with good food. But if you’re after a quiet, more customized experience, or want to visit Hidden Beach, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up
The Vallarta Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ tour offers a fun and scenic day out on the water, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying beautiful coastal views. The knowledgeable crew and delicious beach lunch stand out as highlights, making this a solid choice for travelers seeking a lively, social atmosphere combined with natural beauty.
However, the large crowds and organization issues mean it might not suit those craving a more intimate or tranquil experience. The waters can be cloudy, and activities are somewhat limited by group size, but the whale sightings and stunning scenery still make it worthwhile.
If you’re comfortable sharing water gear, enjoy lively atmospheres, and want a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour delivers good value. Just keep your expectations in check regarding crowd sizes and activity duration.
FAQ
Does this tour visit the Hidden Beach?
No, this tour specifically does not go to the Hidden Beach. The focus is on exploring the waters and wildlife around the Marietas Islands.
How long do we spend snorkeling?
You’ll have about 45 minutes of snorkeling, with gear provided, but water conditions can be turbid, so don’t expect hours underwater.
Is food included?
Yes, there is a beach BBQ lunch with refreshing drinks, and an open bar is available on the return trip.
Are water activities suitable for children?
Children aged 4 to 11 get a special price, and children 12 and up are considered adults. Water activities are included, but the tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired guests or wheelchair users.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a jacket. Large luggage or drones are not permitted.
How much does the conservation fee cost?
There is an additional USD$20 conservation fee per person, payable at check-in.
Is this tour really 7 hours long?
Yes, the complete experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, water activities, and the beach BBQ.
Are drinks included?
Yes, refreshing drinks are included during the BBQ, and the open bar is available on the way back.
What’s the group size?
The boat capacity is up to 180 people, which can lead to crowded conditions during peak times.
This tour offers a lively, scenic day with plenty of water fun and a delicious meal, ideal for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and marine vistas. Just be ready for some crowds and a busy schedule—it’s a good choice if you want to see the highlights without fuss.
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