Private Tour Hidden Beach

Discovering the Marietas Islands: A Private Tour of Hidden Beaches and Snorkeling Adventures

If you’re looking for an authentic, personalized day at the stunning Marietas Islands near Puerto Vallarta, this Private Tour Hidden Beach could be just what you need. Priced at $600 per group (up to 4 people) and lasting about 3 hours, it promises a chance to see one of Mexico’s most iconic hidden beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and explore lesser-known spots like Nopalera Beach—all with the guidance of local experts.

What we love about this experience is the personalized vibe—you’re not just part of a large crowd, but your own group with attentive guides who know the area intimately. The guaranteed access to the famous hidden beach makes it a standout, especially since it’s limited to a 30-minute window that demands a swift swim—about 80 meters from the boat. Plus, the snorkeling segment around the second island gives you a chance to see vibrant marine life, and the visit to Nopalera Beach offers a quieter, more secluded spot to relax or snap photos.

One consideration is that the tour involves swimming and some physical activity, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Also, note that children under 10 and travelers over 65 are not permitted, which might limit some families or older travelers from joining. Still, if you’re after an intimate, well-organized adventure that highlights the natural beauty of the area, this private experience is hard to beat.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value expert guidance, want a customized experience, and are eager to explore the waters and beaches of the Marietas Islands away from the crowds. It’s perfect if you appreciate detailed itineraries, local knowledge, and are comfortable with swimming and moderate physical activity.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures your group’s comfort and attention.
• Guaranteed access to the hidden beach during favorable weather, with a swift swim required.
• Snorkeling and beach exploration provide varied activities within a 3-hour window.
• Local guides with expert knowledge enhance the overall experience.
• Limited age restrictions make it suitable for physically active travelers without young children or seniors over 65.
• Cost includes admission tickets and a focus on authentic, less touristy spots.

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Special

Visiting the Marietas Islands—A Natural Wonder

Your journey begins at a meeting point in Corral del Risco, Nayarit, a quick drive or taxi from Puerto Vallarta. The boat ride out to the Marietas Islands is part of the adventure, offering views of the coastline and opportunities to spot seabirds or marine life if you’re lucky. The main highlight is, of course, the hidden beach (Playa Escondida)—a marvel of nature, concealed within a crater and accessible only through a swim or kayak.

The tour guarantees entry into the hidden beach, a significant advantage that many visitors seek, given the restrictions on commercial tours. The hosts emphasize that if weather conditions prevent entry, your deposit or full payment will be refunded, highlighting their confidence in delivering the experience.

The Short but Sweet Swim

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have around 30 minutes to enjoy the hidden beach, but be prepared for a quick swim of approximately 80 meters. The guides assist with life jackets and support, making the swim accessible for most reasonably fit travelers. As Jennifer_H from the reviews noted, “the hidden beach and snorkeling were spectacular,” which speaks to the quality of this stop.

Snorkeling in Vibrant Waters

Next, you’ll head to the second island for a snorkeling session lasting approximately 30 minutes. The clear waters promise an eye-opening glimpse into the underwater world of tropical fish and perhaps even sea turtles or rays. The guides are knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water.

Nopalera Beach—A Hidden Gem

After snorkeling, you’ll take a short swim of about 10 meters to reach Nopalera Beach, a quieter spot favored by locals. Here, you can walk, take photos, and relax for about 30 minutes. The guides again assist with life jackets and support, making this lesser-known beach accessible and enjoyable. The limited time keeps the visit intimate without feeling rushed.

Iconic Photo Opportunities and Bridge Views

The tour includes a quick visit to the stone bridge, a natural rock formation perfect for capturing memorable pictures from the boat. This snapshot stop lasts about 10 minutes, but the views are worth it, offering a different perspective of the islands’ rugged beauty.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The 3-hour tour is tailored to provide a condensed yet comprehensive experience. The private nature means your group—up to four people—will enjoy the boat, guides, and itinerary without the hustle of larger tours.

Price and Value

At $600, the cost averages $150 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, this includes admission tickets, personalized guidance, and the exclusivity of a private tour. Many travelers who value intimate encounters and flexibility find this price worthwhile, especially given the high-quality service and guaranteed access.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Starting at the address in Corral del Risco, the tour provides straightforward logistics, and the company is near public transportation options. Make sure to confirm your reservation at least 10 days in advance, as bookings are popular.

Physical Fitness and Restrictions

The tour involves swimming, walking, and some physical effort, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. The restrictions for children under 10 and those over 65 are in place due to the physical activity involved, especially the swimming segments.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour is weather-dependent—poor weather might cause cancellation, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The free cancellation policy gives some peace of mind if you’re concerned about weather or scheduling conflicts.

Authenticity and Guides: Why Local Knowledge Matters

Our favorite aspect of this tour is the local guides’ expertise. They know the islands’ secret spots, the best angles for photos, and how to navigate the waters safely. Jennifer’s review highlights the friendly and knowledgeable guides, making the experience more personal and rich.

Reviews and Real Experiences

With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 from four reviews, it’s clear that travelers are delighted with the experience. Jennifer H. sums it up perfectly: “Our guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The boat was spotless. Hidden beach and snorkeling were spectacular!” Such glowing feedback underscores the value of choosing a private, well-organized tour like this.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a private, authentic day exploring the Marietas Islands, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides. The added benefit of personalized guidance means you’ll gain insider knowledge and avoid the crowds that often flock to the popular spots.

This experience is perfect if you want to maximize your time with guaranteed access to the famous hidden beach while also exploring lesser-known beaches and underwater environments. It’s a great choice for those who value quality over quantity and appreciate the local insights that make trips memorable.

Keep in mind the physical requirements and that this tour is best suited for adventurous, physically capable travelers without young children or seniors over 65. The cost reflects the exclusivity and personalized service, offering a more intimate alternative to larger group excursions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 10?
No, children under 10 are not allowed, mainly due to the physical activity involved, including swimming.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, all admission tickets, guides, and equipment like life jackets. No hidden fees.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll spend about 30 minutes at the hidden beach, 30 minutes snorkeling, 30 minutes at Nopalera Beach, and about 10 minutes at the stone bridge.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent access to the hidden beach, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, or you’ll get a full refund.

Is physical fitness required?
Yes, a moderate level of fitness is recommended due to swimming and walking involved in the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, allowing some flexibility.

This private tour to the Marietas Islands combines natural beauty, active fun, and personalized service—an ideal choice if you’re looking for an authentic experience that stands out from the crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone eager to explore with knowledgeable local guides, this trip promises memorable moments amid Mexico’s stunning coastline.