Marietas Islands with Guaranteed Entry to Playa Escondida

Experience the Marietas Islands with Guaranteed Entry to Playa Escondida
Price: $210 per person | Duration: About 7 hours | Rating: 3.5/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If you’re craving a full day of outdoor exploration and ocean fun, the Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta offers a chance to swim, snorkel, kayak, and even access the famed Playa Escondida. For $210, you get a roughly seven-hour journey that promises both adventure and scenic beauty. The tour departs from Puerto Mágico, making it relatively easy to reach by taxi or public transportation.

What we really like about this trip is the combination of water activities—from snorkeling amid colorful fish to paddling around the islands—which ensures there’s plenty of physical fun in the sun. Also, the inclusion of breakfast, a meal, and an open bar adds a touch of convenience for a full day at sea.

However, potential travelers should consider that the reviews are mixed, especially regarding the overall experience and value. The primary drawback appears to be inconsistent experiences with guides and equipment, and some travelers found the costs for extras like photos or bracelets added up quickly.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures and are comfortable with group excursions. If you’re looking for a relaxing, perfectly smooth experience, or if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options. But if you enjoy seeking out natural beauty with a lively group atmosphere, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and unique island access make for memorable outdoor experiences.
• All water equipment and guides are included, simplifying logistics for travelers.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations around guides and additional costs.
• Departure early in the day offers maximum time for snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring.
• Entry to Playa Escondida is guaranteed, which is a rare and valuable perk.
• Tour size limited to 30 people helps keep the experience intimate but still lively.

Exploring the Itinerary and What to Expect

Departure from Puerto Mágico

Your day begins around 10:00 am at the designated meeting point, conveniently located near public transportation and central Puerto Vallarta. From there, you’ll board a boat with a crew that includes a captain and a professional guide. The boat ride itself is often highlighted in reviews—many travelers appreciated the chance to spot dolphins and whales along the way, with some even noting that whale sightings made the trip particularly memorable.

The Journey to the Marietas Islands

The boat ride offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and look out for wildlife, but it’s also where the experience can vary. Some reviews mention excellent guides who provide insightful commentary, while others suggest the equipment and directions could be more comprehensive. The trip takes around an hour, and it’s common to see whales or playful dolphins if the season’s right.

Water Activities at the Islands

Once at the islands, you’ll switch to snorkel gear, kayaks, or simply float in the ocean. The water equipment is included, which means you can focus on enjoying the marine life—colorful fish, maybe even sea turtles—and the rugged coastline.

A key highlight is Playa Escondida, the secluded beach inside the islands that you get guaranteed entry to, unlike many other tours where access can be limited or lottery-based. This hidden paradise, often described as a “secret beach,” is only accessible by boat and swimming through a cave, an exciting challenge for most.

Some travelers, however, had mixed experiences; one review recounts ending up in a “giant pool of jellyfish,” reminding us that nature sometimes throws surprises. Still, many appreciated the unique chance to explore this remote beach with fewer crowds than usual.

Lunch, Drinks, and Relaxation

After the water activities, a hearty breakfast is served to fuel your adventures. A meal and open bar follow, providing drinks and snacks to relax and socialize. This setup is convenient, but some reviews mention additional costs for photos or souvenirs, which can add to the overall expense.

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point. Expect to arrive around mid-afternoon, with plenty of time left to explore Puerto Vallarta or relax after your ocean adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Challenges

What Travelers Love

Many rave about the heightened sense of adventure—swimming through caves, spotting whales, and kayaking around unspoiled islands are real highlights. Reviewers consistently mention knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience, pointing out wildlife and sharing interesting facts. The scenery itself is a big draw, with some saying the views are “stunning” and worth the price alone.

What Could Be Better

The main criticisms focus on equipment quality and organization. Some found the gear less than ideal, and guides not always as engaged or informative as they could be. Additional costs—like MX$180 for the SEMARNAT bracelet or MX$33 port fee—can surprise travelers if not anticipated. On top of that, one reviewer described their experience ending in a “giant pool of jellyfish,” which shows that nature’s unpredictability can impact even well-planned tours.

Price and Value

While $210 may seem steep, especially considering extras that aren’t included, many feel the experience is worth it for access to Playa Escondida and the chance to explore the islands with water activities included. It’s a full day out, and if you value guided excursions with wildlife sightings and access to a hidden beach, this tour offers a decent balance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventure seekers who enjoy being in the water and exploring natural environments. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary and want to see whales or dolphins along the way. If you’re comfortable with a lively group and expect some variability in guide quality, you’ll likely enjoy the day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, private experience or are concerned about additional costs and equipment quality, you might consider other options. Travelers who are keen on snorkeling and kayaking will find this a good match, especially with the guarantee of entry to Playa Escondida, making it a unique highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers find it appropriate for families, especially those comfortable with water activities. Just ensure children are good swimmers and prepared for some physical activity.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps a dry bag for valuables. Equipment, breakfast, and a meal are included, but extra costs for photos or souvenirs may apply.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to the islands typically lasts about an hour, providing opportunities to see wildlife. Some travelers mention whale or dolphin sightings during the trip.

Are the water activities safe?
Yes, all equipment is provided, and guides are there to assist. However, be cautious of nature’s surprises like jellyfish, which some have encountered.

What is the guaranteed entry to Playa Escondida?
Unlike some tours that leave access to this beach to chance, your ticket guarantees you entry, making it a rare opportunity to visit this secluded spot.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, in addition to the tour price, you’ll need to pay MX$33 for the port fee and MX$180 for the SEMARNAT bracelet. Photos and souvenirs are also extra.

Can I cancel or reschedule this tour?
No, the booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, the Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta offers a lively, water-based adventure perfect for travelers eager to explore and enjoy Mexico’s stunning coastlines. While some aspects like gear quality and additional costs warrant caution, the access to Playa Escondida and potential wildlife sightings make it a memorable outing. Ideal for active travelers who value guided insights and a full day of ocean fun, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of stories—and maybe a few jellyfish surprises.