Marietas Islands Snorkel Tour & Hidden Beach

Starting at around $89 per person for a 4 to 5-hour adventure, this tour takes you from Puerto Vallarta’s Marina Vallarta to one of Mexico’s most celebrated natural wonders. On this trip, you’ll snorkel in clear waters teeming with tropical fish, dolphins, and maybe even whales in season. You’ll also get a rare chance to visit Hidden Beach, accessible through a water tunnel—an experience that’s both adventurous and memorable.

What makes this tour especially appealing are the knowledgeable guides, like Rodrigo and Charlie, who are praised for their care and expertise, and the opportunity to see marine life up close in a protected national park. We also appreciate that snorkel gear, water, and snacks are included, making the experience smooth and worry-free.

However, it’s worth noting that the access to Hidden Beach isn’t guaranteed—permits are limited, and only a certain number of visitors are allowed each day. If seeing the beach is your top priority, a private tour might improve your chances. This tour is best suited for those who are comfortable swimming and eager for a mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic vistas.

Key Points

Spectacular wildlife sightings like dolphins, whales, and turtles enrich the experience.
Expert guides provide safety tips and interesting insights, making the trip educational as well as fun.
Limited permits for Hidden Beach mean that while your chances are good, they’re not guaranteed, especially in peak season.
All essential snorkeling gear and snacks are included, so you won’t need to worry about planning extras.
A conservation-minded approach ensures the islands’ natural beauty is preserved for future visitors.
Group size is capped at 16, balancing intimacy with social fun, and private tours can be arranged for families or small groups.

An In-Depth Look at the Marietas Islands Snorkel Tour

The Departure and Early Adventure

The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM from Marina Vallarta. We loved the way the boat ride begins with a scenic trip along the Ameca River, where dolphins often show up to greet travelers—what a way to start! The boat, equipped for comfort and safety, quickly whisks you out into the open ocean. The journey itself is part of the fun, with the chance to spot dolphins, and in winter months, whales and manta rays—an added bonus for wildlife enthusiasts.

Visiting the Marieta Islands

Once at the islands, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The craggy cliffs and lush vegetation create a stunning backdrop for your adventure. The tour includes a guided snorkeling session, with gear, life vests, and safety instructions provided. The guides are praised for their attentiveness—like Rodrigo, who was described as careful and knowledgeable—and for making sure everyone feels confident in the water.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The snorkeling spots are teeming with tropical fish, crabs, and birdlife such as blue-footed boobies. While some reviews mention murky waters and limited visibility, most agree that seeing the variety of fish and the underwater landscape was worth it. Many travelers highlight the fun of drifting over the vibrant coral reefs and spotting creatures like octopuses and colorful fish.

The Hidden Beach Experience

The main attraction is Hidden Beach, which is only accessible by swimming through a water tunnel. The water here can be chilly, but the thrill of swimming through the rocky archway makes up for it. Several reviews mention that the swim can be challenging—especially for those less confident in the water—so it’s wise to be comfortable swimming and to listen carefully to guides’ instructions. One traveler noted that only about two people per group are allowed on the beach at a time due to government restrictions, so your chance depends on the day’s permit availability.

Timing and Limits

The tour is designed with a strict time limit at Hidden Beach (around 30 minutes) to protect the site. This means you’ll want to be ready to enjoy your time efficiently, but most find it enough for photos and soaking in the scenery. The boat also stops for a scenic tour around the islands, pointing out wildlife and flora, making the journey as engaging as the destination.

Comfort and Sustainability

The tour emphasizes environmental conservation, with plastic-free policies on the islands and encouraging you to bring reusable bottles. Snacks like apples, bananas, and sandwiches are provided, but travelers recommend bringing your own water bottle to stay hydrated without contributing to plastic waste.

The Return Journey

On the way back, an exciting highlight is dolphin and whale sightings, often occurring in season. Several reviewers describe the ride home as peaceful and awe-inspiring, with dolphins feeding and whales breaching in the distance. The crew’s dedication to safety and attentiveness is clear, earning high praise across reviews.

What Travelers Are Saying

Authentic reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, enjoyable trip. One said, “Rodrigo and Rafa were fantastic guides,” highlighting the importance of good leadership. Another noted, “The hidden beach was hard to swim to but worth it,” emphasizing the adventure’s physical challenge but also its reward.

A common theme is the expert guidance and safety provided by crew members, which reassures first-timers or less confident swimmers. Several reviews mention the guides helping those who are nervous or struggle in the water, ensuring everyone has a memorable experience.

Potential Drawback: Permits and Access

A noteworthy consideration is the limited number of permits for Hidden Beach. One disappointed traveler mentioned, “Only 2 people out of our group of 10 could go to the island,” despite paying for the tour. This highlights that priority is given on a first-come, first-served basis, and your chance to step onto the beach may vary. For a more predictable experience, private tours are a good option—though at a higher cost.

Practical Details to Know

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, and beach time.
• Price: $89 per person, which covers almost everything except the government fee ($6) and optional entrance fee to Hidden Beach (~$30 cash).
• Group Size: Max 16 travelers; private tours are available.
• Physical Requirements: Moderate fitness is recommended; swimmers should be comfortable in open water.
• Age Limits: Min age for Hidden Beach is 10 with an adult; max age for access is 65.
• Pregnant travelers: Not recommended for safety reasons.
• Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if weather or plans change.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love snorkeling and are eager to see a spectacular marine environment, this tour offers excellent value and memorable wildlife encounters. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided adventures, have a moderate swimming ability, and appreciate eco-conscious tourism. Families with kids over 10, couples, and small groups will find the mix of scenic beauty and wildlife rewarding.

However, those who dream of guaranteed access to Hidden Beach might want to consider private tours or arrive early in the season. If you’re nervous about swimming or have limited mobility, check your comfort level with the water tunnel challenge—though guides are known for their helpfulness.

The Sum Up

This snorkel and island exploration tour to the Marietas Islands presents a wonderful blend of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty. The knowledgeable guides, like Rodrigo and Charlie, help make the trip safe and educational, while the chance to see dolphins, whales, and tropical fish keeps the excitement high. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, snacks, and a conservation focus adds to its value, making it a solid choice for eco-minded travelers.

While the limited permits for Hidden Beach mean your visit isn’t guaranteed, most guests find the journey itself rewarding—whether swimming through the water tunnel or relaxing on the boat watching wildlife. The trip is best suited for those comfortable in the water and eager for a mix of scenic beauty and marine life. Just keep in mind that the experience depends on permit availability, and private tours are a good choice if your goal is to have that beach all to yourself.

If you’re looking for an active, engaging way to experience part of Mexico’s stunning coastline, this tour delivers genuine moments of awe and adventure at a reasonable price.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for children over 10 years old with an adult. The tour includes snorkeling and swimming, so kids should be comfortable in the water.

How long is the trip?
The total tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, and time at Hidden Beach.

What’s included in the price?
All snorkeling gear, life vests, water, snacks, and a conservancy donation are included. The government fee ($6) and optional Hidden Beach entrance fee are extra.

Can I guarantee visiting Hidden Beach?
No. Access depends on permits which are limited; only a few people per group are allowed on the beach each day.

What should I bring?
Bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen (though it’s discouraged to protect corals), and a sense of adventure. Wear comfortable swimwear and bring ID for age verification.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life vests are supplied and explained by guides.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age for Hidden Beach access is 10. The maximum age is 65. The tour is for ages 6-70, but private family options are recommended for children.

What if I don’t swim well?
Guides are attentive and can assist those who are nervous or less confident. However, you should be comfortable swimming and listening to safety instructions.

What happens if weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This snorkeling tour of the Marieta Islands offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, perfect for travelers looking to explore one of Mexico’s most captivating natural sites. It’s an experience worth considering if you’re eager for underwater discovery and the chance to walk into a secret beach—just keep your expectations flexible with the permit system!