Marietas Islands Tour: enter the hidden beach 100% GUARANTEED

Experience the Marietas Islands: a small-group tour with guaranteed access to the iconic Hidden Beach, snorkel adventures, and scenic sights in Puerto Vallarta.

Travelers seeking a memorable day on the water will find this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Marietas Islands’ natural beauty. For $164.42 per person, you get about three hours of exploring, swimming, and snapping photos. Led by friendly guides, this collective boat trip emphasizes comfort with small groups—no more than eight people per boat—allowing for personalized attention.

What we really love about this tour is the assured entry to the famous Hidden Beach, known locally as the “Beach of Love,” which is often a challenge to access due to limited entry points. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel among colorful fish and view incredible rock formations makes this experience great for those who want both adventure and tranquility.

A potential consideration is the sea conditions—as some reviews mention the ocean can be rough, making the swim to the hidden beach more strenuous than it looks. This tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure, especially those who enjoy being in the water. If you’re after a relaxed, purely scenic day, you might want to consider less active options or specific snorkeling tours.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who value small-group intimacy, expert guides, and authentic encounters with nature. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see the hidden beach guaranteed and enjoy a variety of activities in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Guarantee of Access: An important perk that sets this tour apart—most tours don’t promise entry to the Hidden Beach, but here, it’s 100% guaranteed.
• Small Group Comfort: With a maximum of 8 travelers per boat, you get personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple Activities: Snorkeling, birdwatching, photo ops, and visiting different beaches and rock formations make for a varied and engaging trip.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ruben and Chuy are praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and local knowledge.
• Environmental Respect: The tour emphasizes eco-friendly practices—no bags, no food at beaches, reef-safe sunscreen recommended.
• Mixed Reviews on Sea Conditions: While many rave about the experience, some mention the ocean can be choppy, requiring decent swimming skills.

In-Depth Review of the Marietas Islands Tour

What’s Included and How They Add Value

For $164.42, your ticket covers not just the boat ride but also lifejackets, snorkeling gear, non-alcoholic drinks, waterproof bags for your devices, and the all-important entrance to the Hidden Beach. The round-trip transportation on a covered boat ensures comfort and protection from the sun and wind, which can be a real plus in the sometimes blustery Pacific waters.

The inclusion of non-alcoholic beverages means you can stay refreshed without worry about alcohol impairing your safety during the activities, especially the swim to the Hidden Beach. The waterproof containers are thoughtful touches, protecting your camera and phone as you explore caves and beaches.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Start at the meeting point in Corral del Risco. The tour begins with a scenic boat ride out to the Marietas Islands, where you’ll immediately notice the striking rock formations and clear waters. The guide will ensure everyone is comfortable and prepared for each activity.

First stop: the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge). This natural arch offers an iconic photo opportunity. Many reviews highlight how memorable it is to stand beneath this natural wonder, capturing a snapshot of the rugged coast.

Next: snorkeling at the reefs. You’ll swim among vibrant fish for around 25-30 minutes, giving you a chance to see marine life up close. As one reviewer noted, the snorkeling was “incredible,” with abundant fish and clear waters. If you’re lucky, your guides may point out interesting species or hidden spots.

The Nopalera Beach visit is the third stop. Here, you can walk along the sands, explore caves, or simply relax. The shallow waters and caves make it a perfect spot for photos and a breather from the boat.

The highlight: the Hidden Beach. Access is by swimming roughly 100 meters through a water-filled tunnel. Guides like Ruben and others are praised for their safety focus and patience. Many travelers describe the swim as “a bit strenuous” but worth the effort for the breathtaking view of the beach that only a select few get to enjoy. As one reviewer mentioned, “The swim to the hidden beach was worth it!”

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

This tour’s smaller size and personalized approach foster genuine encounters with the environment. Guides take their time to support travelers during the swim, support with wildlife spotting (like Blue-legged Booby Birds), and help you capture memories at various scenic spots.

Multiple reviews emphasize guide expertise and friendliness. One traveler remarked, “Reuben was our guide and he was amazing, really patient and very attentive to safety.” That attentive guiding makes all the difference, especially considering the sometimes unpredictable ocean conditions.

Environmental Considerations

The tour’s rules reflect respect for nature. No bags or food at beaches, no drones, and reef-safe sunscreen are required to protect the delicate ecosystem. These policies may add some inconvenience but show a commendable commitment to conservation.

Traveler Experience and Feedback

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention challenges. The sea can be rough, making the swim more difficult or stressful for some. As one reviewer said, “Going through the swell in the tunnel might be too stressful for some, especially younger travelers.” The minimum age is 10, and the maximum is 65, aligning with the physical requirements.

A few reviews expressed frustration about finding the meeting point, but the tour provider mentions clear signage and precise Google Maps location. Most travelers seem to find the start point easily by following the provided instructions.

Value for Money

Compared to other tours in Puerto Vallarta, this trip offers a solid mix of activities and guaranteed access to the main attraction. The small-group setting enhances the experience, and the guides’ local knowledge and safety focus add comfort. The price also includes everything needed for snorkeling and exploration, making it a convenient, all-in-one package.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers with moderate fitness levels who want a personalized, authentic experience. It suits those interested in nature, wildlife, and scenic photography, especially if you’re eager to see the Hidden Beach without the hassle of unpredictable access. It’s also perfect if you value small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour has a minimum age of 10 years, so it’s suitable for older children and teenagers comfortable in water. The swim through the tunnel can be strenuous, so younger or less confident swimmers might find it challenging.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), camera or phone for photos, and a reusable bottle for drinks. Avoid bringing large bags, backpacks, or food to the beaches to protect the environment.

Will I see the Hidden Beach guaranteed?
Yes, the tour explicitly promises 100% guaranteed access to the Hidden Beach, which is a major reason many travelers choose this trip.

How long does the snorkeling last?
Snorkeling usually lasts around 25-30 minutes, during which you’ll see plenty of colorful fish and perhaps some interesting marine life.

What happens if the sea is rough?
While the guides are experienced and safety-conscious, rough seas can make the swim to the Hidden Beach more difficult and potentially less enjoyable. The tour is not recommended for those with difficulty swimming or young children.

What is the refund policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is food included?
No, food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for meals after the tour.

Final Thoughts

This Marietas Islands tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty, all with a focus on safety and environmental respect. Its guaranteed access to the Hidden Beach makes it stand out among other tours, and the small-group approach ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Guides like Ruben and Chuy earn praise for their warmth and professionalism, making the whole trip feel like a true local adventure.

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys snorkeling, scenic walks, and discovering hidden gems, this tour offers incredible value. It’s perfect for those who appreciate teamwork, safety, and authentic natural encounters, and who don’t mind a bit of ocean spray and a swim through the water.

Ultimately, this experience will appeal most to travelers eager for a small-group, adventure-packed day with guaranteed highlights. For anyone wishing to see the iconic Hidden Beach with knowledgeable guides and a focus on responsible tourism, this tour is a smart choice.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and remember that the ocean’s mood can change. Be prepared to adapt and enjoy the journey—whether swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the scenery.