Puerto Vallarta: Beach, Breakfast, Lunch & Open Bar

If you’re looking to spend a full day exploring Puerto Vallarta’s stunning shoreline with a touch of adventure and plenty of relaxation, this tour offers a lively way to do it. For around $87 per person, you’ll get approximately 8 hours of fun—highlighted by snorkeling at Los Arcos, lounging on Las Animas Beach, and exploring the charming village of Quimixto. Led by bilingual guides (who are generally friendly and helpful), this trip promises a mix of natural beauty and lively onboard entertainment.

We especially like the variety of stops packed into one day—snorkeling, swimming, hiking or horse riding, and beachside dining. Plus, the open bar and music make it feel more like a festive outing than just a sightseeing tour. However, a couple of downsides are worth noting, such as the limited snorkeling time and the possibility of crowded conditions, as echoed by some travelers.

This experience suits those who want an active, social day with plenty of on-board amenities. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see different parts of the coast without fuss, although if you’re after a more intimate or focused adventure, you might find it a bit rushed.

Key Points

• Variety of activities from snorkeling, beach lounging to village exploring, making it good value for a full day.
• Lively onboard atmosphere with music, dancing, and unlimited drinks.
• Limited snorkeling time and activity choices may feel rushed or less personal.
• All-inclusive with breakfast, lunch, and open bar, simplifying the day.
• Crowd levels can be high, sometimes impacting the experience.
• Suitable for travelers seeking a lively, social day with multiple highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Puerto Vallarta Beach, Food, and Fun Tour

If you’re after a day packed with activities that showcase Puerto Vallarta’s best coastal sights, this tour offers a lively package. Starting early in the morning, the journey begins at the Maritime Terminal (API) or Puerto Mágico, where a double-decker boat awaits. As soon as we step aboard, the energy picks up—music, drinks, and a welcoming guide set the tone for what’s to come.

What the Day Looks Like

The first highlight—snorkeling at Los Arcos—is a natural marine preserve famed for its colorful fish and underwater scenery. We loved the chance to slip into the water with provided mask and snorkel, although some reviews mention limited gear and short snorkeling windows. Thankfully, the crystal-clear waters make it easy to see vibrant marine life, but the experience may be brief if there are many guests competing for equipment or space.

After the underwater exploration, the boat heads to Las Animas Beach—a gorgeous stretch of sand perfect for relaxing or swimming. Many travelers appreciate this stop for its laid-back vibe and scenic surroundings. You can lounge on the sand, rent kayaks, or just soak up the sun, with some noting it’s a peaceful contrast to the lively onboard scene.

Exploring Quimixto: Village Charm and Waterfalls

Next, we visit the small village of Quimixto, a quiet spot where lush greenery surrounds quaint streets and local life. Here, you get a choice: horseback riding or a guided hike leading to a seasonal waterfall. The waterfall is a real highlight, offering a refreshing plunge after your trek and a chance to snap some photos of the cascade amid dense jungle.

However, some travelers have pointed out a major consideration—activity choices are announced with little time to decide, and you’re often forced to pick between the waterfall or the beach. One reviewer explained that they were told they couldn’t do both, which could be disappointing if you wanted a more relaxed or flexible schedule.

Dining and Drinks

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast to start your adventure. Later, a delicious lunch served right on the beach complements the day’s activities. Many rave about the quality of the meal, which adds a satisfying touch to the trip.

The open bar is a big draw—unlimited drinks, music, and games create a festive atmosphere. We liked the lively onboard vibe, although some reviews mention that drinks can be watered down and the music a bit outdated—think wedding reception rather than nightclub. Still, it’s fun if you’re in the mood for a party.

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The Real Experience

While the tour promises a mix of adventure and relaxation, some reviews reveal the reality isn’t perfect. Germán from Spain mentioned that the experience differs from expectations—the breakfast was mediocre, and the snorkeling was limited to a tiny area because of equipment shortages. He also pointed out that the watered-down drinks and old-fashioned music didn’t live up to the lively vibe one might hope for.

Another traveler from Canada noted that the up-selling was prevalent—extra charges for motorcycles, taxis, and optional activities, which can add up quickly. The tour does run longer than advertised at times, with some returning two hours late, impacting subsequent plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for social travelers looking for a full, lively day with plenty of opportunities to socialize, dance, and indulge in good food and drinks. If you’re someone who appreciates a variety of activities packed into one day and don’t mind a bit of a crowd or some logistical quirks, you’ll find this tour worthwhile.

Conversely, if you prefer quiet, exclusive experiences with more flexibility or a focus on snorkeling or hiking, you might find this tour’s pace and organization a bit lacking.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour For?

This Puerto Vallarta tour offers value through its full itinerary, combining snorkeling, beach lounging, village exploring, and onboard entertainment. The all-inclusive aspect means no fuss over meals and drinks, making it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day.

For first-time visitors eager to see multiple highlights without organizing their own transport or activities, this tour fits nicely. It’s also suitable for groups wanting a lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and a friendly guide.

However, if you’re a traveler who prioritizes quality over quantity—perhaps seeking a more serene snorkeling experience or authentic cultural encounters—you might find this tour’s crowd levels and scheduled activity choices limiting.

In the end, it’s a fun, energetic day that guarantees a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, but not necessarily a deep or personalized adventure. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy social outings and lively environments but should be approached with realistic expectations about the pace and organization.

FAQ

Is food included during the tour?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast in the morning and a lunch served on the beach.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an all-you-can-drink open bar onboard, though some reviews mention drinks being watered down.

How long is the snorkeling session?
Snorkeling takes place at Los Arcos, but some reviews note it’s only about 10 minutes due to equipment limitations and crowding.

Can I choose to do both the waterfall and beach?
Not quite. You’ll need to select between the waterfall hike or beach time early in the day, as activity choices are made quickly and are often mutually exclusive.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, typically starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities—snorkeling, swimming, and village exploring—are generally family-friendly, but check for age restrictions or safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and photo ID (for snorkeling gear). Water and snacks aren’t provided, so consider a water bottle.

How crowded does it get?
Some reviews mention large groups and limited equipment, which can make the experience feel rushed or crowded.

Is transportation provided?
You meet at the Maritime Terminal or Puerto Mágico; transportation to the meeting point is usually your responsibility.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, for travelers who want a lively, full-day experience with plenty of social fun. But if you prefer a quieter, more personalized trip, you might want to explore other options.

This tour packs a lot into one day—stunning views, fun activities, and vibrant social scenes—making it a popular choice for those ready to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s lively coast. Just keep your expectations in check regarding activity choices and crowd levels, and you’ll have a memorable day by the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: