Puerto Vallarta: Arcos, Animas, Quimixto + Open Bar Onboard

Puerto Vallarta: Arcos, Animas, Quimixto + Open Bar Onboard offers a well-rounded day of adventure, relaxation, and vibrant scenery. For around 8 hours, you’ll cruise the waters off Jalisco, exploring some of the most iconic spots along the coastline. With a friendly guide leading the way—either in English or Spanish—you’ll get a taste of the local marine life, charming villages, and scenic beaches. The tour costs a reasonable amount considering the activities, meals, and unlimited drinks included.

Two things really make this tour stand out: first, the chance to snorkel at Los Arcos, renowned for its lively underwater world, and second, the opportunity to relax on Las Animas Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty. The open bar and lively atmosphere aboard are perfect for those wanting to combine social fun with scenic exploration.

A potential consideration? The day can be quite full, and some might find the schedule a little packed—especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, a small entrance fee of 30 Pesos per person at the marina is payable on arrival, which is a minor extra.

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for an active, all-in-one day out that mixes snorkeling, beach lounging, cultural exploration, and lively onboard entertainment. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy social outings and want a comprehensive taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal charms.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines snorkeling, beach relaxation, charming village visits, and onboard fun.
• Highlights: Snorkeling at Los Arcos, Las Animas Beach, Quimixto Waterfall, open bar.
• Duration & Flexibility: 8 hours with optional activities; booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Practical Tips: Bring essentials like swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and extra cash for tips or photos.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see local village life and natural waterfalls.
• Value for Money: Includes meals, drinks, and guided commentary, making it a convenient, all-inclusive day trip.

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Exploring the Itinerary

Starting early in the day, you’ll board a double-decker boat, getting a good view of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline as you set out. The first major stop is Los Arcos, a famous marine reserve. Here, the clear waters teem with tropical fish and marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. We loved the way the guide explained the marine environment, and several reviews mention how vibrant and lively the underwater scene is.

Expect to spend about an hour here, giving you enough time to don your snorkel gear and explore. The water visibility is generally good, and you’ll get a close look at colorful fish, maybe even some small rays or sea stars. This part of the tour is especially popular because it’s accessible for all skill levels, and the boat provides snorkeling equipment.

After snorkeling, the boat heads to Las Animas Beach, a pristine stretch of sand with calm waters. This is the perfect place to relax, swim, or simply soak up the sun. Many travelers appreciate how laid-back this beach is, with some mentioning they enjoyed the chance to grab a cold drink from the onboard open bar while watching the waves. Beach activities like paddleboarding are available if you wish to add some fun to your downtime.

Next, the boat makes a trip to Quimixto, a tiny village with a distinctive charm. The highlight here is the seasonal waterfall, which can be reached either by a guided hike or horseback riding (if you prefer). Several reviews mention the waterfall as a peaceful retreat, with one traveler noting, “The waterfall was well worth the effort—refreshing and beautiful.” You can swim in the pool below or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.

The entire journey is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, chat with fellow travelers, or just enjoy the scenery. Mealtimes are included with a continental breakfast at the start and a hearty lunch served on the beach—both of which add significant value to the tour.

Throughout the day, the lively atmosphere onboard is complemented by the unlimited drinks from the open bar, ensuring you stay refreshed and in good spirits. The dance floor and games are popular features, as noted by travelers who enjoyed the convivial environment.

What Makes This Tour Special

The mix of active and relaxing elements ensures there’s something for all. Snorkeling at Los Arcos is often highlighted as a real highlight due to the abundance of marine life. The secluded Quimixto waterfall offers a chance to connect with nature away from more crowded tourist spots. The onboard open bar adds a lively, social element, making the day feel like a celebration rather than just a sightseeing trip.

The flexibility of booking—with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—is a big plus, giving you peace of mind in case your plans change. The tour’s small additional marina fee of 30 Pesos is a minor expense, but it’s good to be aware of it in advance.

The Authenticity Factor

Many reviews praise the tour for its authenticity and local flavor. The guides often speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse group. Travelers appreciate the chance to see local villages and natural waterfalls, providing a glimpse into the authentic coastal life of Puerto Vallarta. The combination of scenic beauty, marine ecology, and local culture makes this tour more than just a boat ride—it’s a mini adventure into the heart of Jalisco’s coastal environment.

Practical Details & Tips

• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, extra cash for tips or photos.
• Duration: 8 hours, starting early to make the most of the day.
• Group Size: Typically small to medium groups, creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
• Cost & Value: The included meals, drinks, and guided activities make it a good value, especially for a full-day experience.
• Child Policy: Children ages 3-5 pay 100 Pesos at check-in, so consider this if traveling with young kids.
• Accessibility: The activities include some physical effort—be prepared for walking or horseback riding if you visit the waterfall.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of diverse experiences, from snorkeling and beach lounging to cultural exploration. It suits those traveling in a group or family, as the mix of activities appeals to a broad age range. If you enjoy social settings, lively onboard entertainment, and scenic natural sights, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a balanced day of adventure and relaxation in Puerto Vallarta, this tour offers real value. You get to snorkel among vibrant marine life, unwind on a beautiful beach, explore a tranquil village, and enjoy unlimited drinks while making new friends onboard. Its carefully curated itinerary means you won’t miss out on key sights or local flavor, all wrapped into an 8-hour package that’s both fun and practical.

While the schedule might be a bit tight for those craving a slower pace, most find the mix of activities engaging and well-paced. The inclusion of meals and drinks adds to the overall value, making it a hassle-free way to experience the best of Puerto Vallarta’s coast.

If you’re looking for an active, social, and scenic day out that’s suitable for a variety of travelers, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a chance to see the natural beauty, sample local culture, and enjoy lively onboard entertainment—all in one memorable day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What are the main highlights?
Snorkeling at Los Arcos, relaxing at Las Animas Beach, exploring Quimixto village, and enjoying an open bar onboard.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes a continental breakfast at the start and a hearty lunch served on the beach.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, there is an open bar with unlimited drinks, which many travelers find adds to the festive atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, and extra cash for tips or photos.

Is there an extra fee?
Yes, there’s a small marina entrance fee of 30 Pesos per person, payable upon arrival.

This Puerto Vallarta tour offers a lively and authentic way to see the coast, with a good mix of active and relaxing moments. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to experience Mexico’s vibrant marine life, scenic beaches, and charming villages—all with a friendly, fun atmosphere onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby