Private Snorkeling Experience and Boat tour to Las Animas Beach

Puerto Vallarta’s Private Snorkeling and Beach Tour: A Deep Dive into Marine Beauty and Relaxation

Imagine cruising out from Puerto Vallarta’s lively Los Muertos Pier on a boat tailored just for your group. For about four hours, you’ll explore the famous Los Arcos, marveling at the natural limestone formations and the abundant marine life beneath the surface. After that, you’ll head to Las Animas Beach, a remote stretch accessible only by water, where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a delicious meal—if you choose to upgrade your experience with lunch. All this for $180 per person, with private arrangements making it feel like you’re exploring with your own crew.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized experience it offers—no crowded group here—and the all-inclusive gear, which means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own snorkeling equipment. Plus, the boat’s cooler with ice lets you BYOB, adding a relaxed, picnic-like feel to your trip. However, if you’re not a fan of boat rides, keep in mind that the 45-minute ride to Los Arcos and the two-hour stay at Las Animas could be a bit long for some.

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want to combine marine exploration with some downtime on a beautiful, less-visited beach. If you enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, with the option to customize your time in the water or on the sand, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, making it more flexible and intimate.
• All Equipment Included: Snorkel gear, life jackets, and bottled water are provided at no extra cost.
• Flexible Refreshments: Bring your own drinks in the cooler to stay refreshed while you cruise.
• Two Key Stops: Snorkel at Los Arcos and unwind at Las Animas, accessible only by water.
• Optional Lunch Upgrade: Enjoy a beachside meal—an excellent way to extend your relaxation.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible but will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

An In-Depth Look at Your Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling and Beach Trip

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The adventure kicks off early at Los Muertos Pier, a lively hub in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica. We appreciated how easy it was to find the meeting point, with the boat ready and waiting at the dock. The departure at 9:00 am ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy the day’s best weather—though, of course, weather can always throw a wrench in plans, and the tour is subject to cancellation if conditions are poor.

This private tour is priced at $180 per person, which may seem a bit steep at first glance, but when you consider the all-inclusive gear, personal attention, and private nature, the value becomes clearer. The cost also includes admission tickets to Los Arcos and Las Animas, saving you from extra charges and hassles.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos de Mismaloya

The first stop is at Los Arcos, a beloved marine protected area. Here, you’re in for a treat—crystal-clear waters teeming with fish and colorful marine life. The natural limestone formations create a dramatic backdrop, perfect for that memorable photo. It’s a sheltered spot, ideal for snorkeling, especially if you’re new to it. We loved the way the snorkel gear was thoughtfully provided, making it easy to jump in without fuss.

The 45-minute stop offers enough time to explore but not so long that you feel rushed. Many reviews mention how the scenery alone is worth the trip, but the snorkel experience elevates it. One traveler noted, “The water was so clear, and I saw more fish than I expected. It was like swimming in an aquarium.”

Stop 2: Playa Las Animas

Next, you cruise to Las Animas, a secluded beach that feels like your own private paradise. Access is solely by boat, which keeps it pleasantly uncrowded. The beach itself is lined with soft white sand and dotted with palapas and local vendors. Here, you can stay for two hours—ample time to relax, swim, or even grab a bite if you’ve upgraded to include lunch.

Many visitors rave about the combination of calm waters and picturesque surroundings: “It’s a perfect spot to just relax, dip in the water, or walk along the shoreline without the throngs of travelers.” The optional lunch isn’t included in the base price but is well worth considering if you want a leisurely meal with fresh seafood and local flavors.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s inclusions make it convenient and hassle-free. Snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and bottled water are all provided, meaning you can focus on having fun rather than lugging gear or worrying about hydration. The cooler with ice onboard allows you to bring your own drinks—ideal for those who prefer a chilled cerveza or soda.

However, food and drinks at Las Animas are extra, typically costing between $5 and $15 USD depending on what you order. Tips for your guide are also not included but are customary if you appreciate their service.

The Experience and Its Value

Many travelers find the experience well worth the price, citing the personalized nature of the tour as a big plus. The ability to spend as much time as you like at each stop, coupled with a private boat, makes it feel like a bespoke adventure rather than a crowded cruise.

The scenery at Los Arcos is stunning, and the chance to see marine life up close is rewarding. The beach at Las Animas offers a peaceful contrast, perfect for unwinding after the water activity. The option to upgrade with lunch adds a nice touch, especially for those wanting a full-day experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a perfect fit if you’re seeking a private, flexible, and engaging half-day excursion. It suits travelers who appreciate snorkeling, enjoy beach time, and prefer not to be part of a large group. It’s also ideal if you want the convenience of all gear provided and a chance to BYOB for a relaxed vibe.

Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t want to spend time on a boat, this might not be the best choice. Also, those sensitive to boat rides or concerned about weather should keep in mind that the tour relies on good conditions.

Final Thoughts

This private snorkeling and boat tour to Las Animas and Los Arcos offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal beauty. With all gear included and the ability to customize your experience, it strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. The scenic stops, combined with the personal touch, make it an appealing option for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more intimate look at Puerto Vallarta’s natural treasures.

The value lies in the flexibility—being able to spend as much time as you like, enjoy private service, and skip the crowds—and the genuine chance to connect with the area’s stunning marine environment. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or just eager to try it out, you’ll find this half-day trip both memorable and worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $180 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, life jackets, bottled water, and admission to Los Arcos and Las Animas.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Los Muertos Pier.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Los Muertos Beach Pier in Puerto Vallarta and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the tour?
Use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets, bottled water, and a cooler with ice are included.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The boat has a cooler with ice, so you can BYOB to stay refreshed during the cruise.

Is food available during the tour?
Not included in the base price, but you can upgrade to include a beachside lunch, which is highly recommended for a relaxed, full experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, but those unsure about swimming should wear a life jacket, which is provided.

In sum, this private snorkeling and boat tour combines the thrill of marine discovery with the serenity of a secluded beach, making it a well-rounded, memorable part of any Puerto Vallarta visit.