Private trip: snorkeling at Los Arcos & Colomitos beach

A Closer Look at the Private Snorkeling Trip to Los Arcos & Colomitos Beach

When considering ways to explore Puerto Vallarta’s spectacular coastline, a private snorkeling tour to Los Arcos and Colomitos Beach offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and personalized service. For $630 per group (up to 10 people), this approximately four-hour experience takes you on a scenic boat ride to two highly photogenic spots: the rock formations of Los Arcos and the secluded sands of Colomitos Beach. Led by a knowledgeable guide, usually Michael, you’ll snorkel among colorful fish, rays, and starfish, then relax on a quiet beach away from the crowds.

What we love most about this trip is the intimate attention you get in a private setting, ensuring a tailored experience whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group. The scenic boat ride itself offers some of the best views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, giving you a sense of the area’s rugged natural charm. Plus, the snorkeling gear is top-notch, and water and soda are provided to keep you hydrated throughout. One small consideration: this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point, which is in Marina Vallarta. It suits travelers seeking a flexible, well-organized outing with expert guidance who want to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Only your group participates, allowing for a tailored experience.
• Expert Guidance: Naturalist or biologist guides enhance your understanding of marine life.
• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Scenic boat ride with views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
• Excellent Snorkeling: Gear included, with opportunities to see rays, starfish, and more.
• Convenient Water & Soda: Stay refreshed during your adventure.
• Clear Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Marina Vallarta

Your adventure begins at the Ecotours Vallarta office in Marina Vallarta, where a friendly team checks you in and hands over your snorkeling gear. This spot is accessible by public transportation, which is a plus if you’re not staying nearby. The check-in process itself is straightforward, taking about 15 minutes, providing a good window to get familiar with the crew and your gear.

First Stop: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

This is the highlight for many snorkelers and nature lovers. The Los Arcos are a striking set of limestone formations rising from the sea, home to vibrant marine life. The tour allocates around two hours here, giving plenty of time to snorkel and explore. The admission to Los Arcos is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. According to reviews, many snorkelers appreciated the secluded and relatively untouched environment, which offers better chances for seeing diverse fish and rays compared to busier spots.

One reviewer, Tobin B., mentions how Michael, the guide, “took us to a more secluded beach with more fish to see,” emphasizing the added value of a knowledgeable guide who seeks out quiet, fish-rich locations. Expect to see starfish, eels, and urchins, along with colorful schools of fish darting around the rocks.

Second Stop: Playa Colomitos

After about two hours of underwater exploration, you’ll head to Playa Colomitos, a tiny, untouched beach known for its tranquil atmosphere. Here, you’re given about an hour to relax, soak in the scenery, or dip your toes in the water. The beach is included in the tour’s admission, so you won’t be paying extra. Many find this spot ideal for a quick swim or simply to enjoy the peaceful surroundings away from the more developed tourist beaches.

Ending the Tour

The trip concludes back at the starting point in Marina Vallarta. The whole experience, from check-in to return, lasts roughly four hours, making it a manageable outing for most travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour provides snorkeling gear, water, soda, and a certified guide, ensuring safety and comfort. Travel insurance is also included, which adds peace of mind. However, it doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point. Also, there’s a small port fee of $3 USD. Many guests appreciate the straightforward pricing—knowing upfront what’s included helps plan your day better.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

The reviews consistently highlight the intimate, well-guided nature of this tour. Dallas D. mentions, “Michael was fabulous and very knowledgeable,” which implies that the guide’s expertise truly enhances the experience. The small group size and private setting mean you can ask questions, customize parts of the trip, and enjoy a relaxed pace.

The scenic boat ride itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s rugged coastline. The opportunity to snorkel with a naturalist guide who points out marine life adds an educational element that many travelers find enriching. The included water and soda mean you can stay hydrated without having to bring your own supplies or buy overpriced drinks on the boat.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At $630 for the entire group, this tour averages out to about $63 per person if you’re a full group of ten—an excellent deal considering the personalized attention, guides, gear, and multiple stops. Compared to larger, less personal excursions, this private trip offers better value for those wanting a more tailored experience.

Given the positive reviews and high booking rate (146 days in advance on average), travelers clearly find this a reliable and worthwhile outing. The friendly guides and focus on natural beauty make it ideal for those seeking an authentic, nature-centered adventure without the crowded feel of group tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure appeals most to travelers who want a personalized, guided experience with an emphasis on natural beauty and marine life. Perfect for families, small groups, or couples, especially those who value expert guidance and a peaceful setting. It’s also suited for those who prefer to avoid large crowds and want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots in a relaxed but well-organized manner.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour. You’ll need to meet at the Ecotours Vallarta office in Marina Vallarta.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately four hours, starting with check-in and ending back at the meeting point.

What’s the best way to get there?
The meeting point is near public transportation options at Marina Vallarta, making it accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring?
While the tour provides snorkeling gear and water, it’s smart to bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a towel or change of clothes for after snorkeling.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance or due to bad weather, you’ll be refunded or offered a different date.

Is there any additional cost besides the tour fee?
Yes, a port fee of $3 USD applies, and optional extras are not included in the price.

To sum it up, this private snorkeling trip to Los Arcos and Colomitos Beach offers a well-organized, intimate way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s marine life and scenic coastline. With expert guides, high-quality gear, and the chance to explore some of the area’s most beautiful spots without the crowds, it’s a smart choice for travelers who value authentic, personalized adventures. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a curious first-timer, you’ll find this tour provides a meaningful mix of education, relaxation, and natural beauty.