Puerto Vallarta: Exclusive jet ski tour to discover Colomitos beach

Imagine zipping across the calm waters of Puerto Vallarta’s bay on a jet ski, feeling the wind in your hair and seeing some of the most famous sights from a unique perspective. This 2-hour guided adventure takes you along the coast, passing by the vibrant Malecón, the lively Pier of Los Muertos, and the iconic arches of Mismaloya, culminating at the renowned Colomitos Beach, Mexico’s smallest but most enchanting stretch of sand.

The tour is hosted by Riders of The Sea, with friendly guides who are there to help, make you comfortable, and ensure you get the most out of this water-based escapade. It’s a lively, fun way to see the city’s highlights, with a good dose of adrenaline and the chance to peek underwater with included snorkeling gear.

Two things we particularly appreciate: First, the small group size (limited to 6 participants), which allows for a more personalized experience — no feeling like just another tourist. Second, the opportunity to see marine life beneath the waves, adding an extra dimension to the journey.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour can feel rushed, especially if guides are late or if weather conditions are less than ideal. If you’re looking for a relaxed, unhurried experience, it might not be ideal. But if you’re eager for a short, action-packed adventure with fabulous views, this could be just right.

This experience suits travelers who love water sports, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want to see Puerto Vallarta from a different angle — especially those who appreciate stunning scenery and authentic coastal moments.

Key Points

• Guided experience with local guides focused on safety and assistance
• Includes snorkeling to observe marine life beneath the surface
• Visits iconic spots like Malecón, Los Muertos Pier, and Mismaloya arches
• Small group size enhances personal attention and fun
• Duration of about 2 hours makes it suitable for a half-day activity
• Starts at the Marina Vallarta with easy access and facilities

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Riders of the Sea, located inside the Opequimar Marine Center near the Westin Regina hotel in Marina Vallarta (coordinates: 20.65998, -105.24899). This central location is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby. Once you check in, you’ll be fitted with the necessary safety gear and given a quick safety briefing.

The actual jet ski ride lasts around 2 hours, but the overall experience includes a few transit moments—about 20 minutes of traveling by water to reach the first sightseeing stop. The guides are friendly and attentive, aiming to make everyone comfortable, whether you’re a first-timer or experienced rider.

The Route and Key Stops

Malecón and Los Muertos Pier

As you start your ride, you’ll pass by Puerto Vallarta’s famous Malecón, a bustling seaside promenade lined with sculptures, shops, and restaurants. While you won’t stop there, this iconic stretch provides a lively backdrop to your adventure, and you’ll see it from the water, giving you a fresh perspective. You might even catch some street performers if your timing aligns.

Next, a quick walk-by of the Los Muertos Pier gives you a glimpse of the lively beach scene that attracts sunbathers, vendors, and partygoers. It’s an excellent photo opportunity from the water, capturing the vibrant energy of Puerto Vallarta.

Mismaloya Arches

The ride then takes you past the famous arches of Mismaloya, a spot made famous by movies and TV shows. The natural rock formations are striking, and the guides often point out details about their geological features. This is also a great place to spot marine life, such as colorful fish or even the gentle glide of rays beneath the surface.

Snorkeling and Marine Observation

One of the tour’s highlights is the marine complex under the sea, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel with provided gear. Our review mentions that this is a key part of the experience, giving you a glimpse of underwater life amid the beautiful coastline. The crystal-clear waters of Colomitos are perfect for seeing fish, coral, and other marine creatures.

Visiting Colomitos Beach

The final stop is Colomitos Beach, often called the smallest beach in Mexico. Despite its size, it packs a punch with crystal-clear water and a lush backdrop of jungle-covered hills. We loved the way the guides help you relax here, making sure everyone gets enough time to enjoy the water or simply soak in the scenery.

The short 20-minute visit allows enough time for a quick swim, some photos, or a snack — although food isn’t included in the tour. The beach’s secluded nature makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful moment away from the crowds.

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Returning and Practicalities

After visiting Colomitos, you’ll head back to the marina, passing by other watercraft and enjoying the scenery along the way. The entire experience, including transit between stops, lasts about 2 hours.

Facilities at the departure point include bathrooms, showers (depending on availability), parking for an extra fee, and a small supermarket and food area. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and beachwear. Oversize luggage isn’t allowed, so pack light.

Authentic Insights and Traveler Perspectives

A guest from Canada mentioned that the tour guide was late and that the experience felt somewhat rushed, but still enjoyable. This underscores the importance of punctuality and managing expectations; it’s a short tour, so timing can sometimes be tight, especially if guides are running behind schedule.

Most travelers seem to agree that the views are stunning and the chance to see Colomitos up close is a real highlight. The small group size appears to make a difference, providing a more personalized and safe environment.

While not everyone may find the tour perfectly relaxing—some may wish for more time at each stop—it’s an excellent option for those craving a quick adrenaline fix combined with memorable scenery.

The Value of This Adventure

The cost is modest compared to full-day excursions, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear and personalized attention. For anyone wanting a fun, active way to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast, this tour offers excellent value. You get a half-day filled with sights, thrills, and the opportunity to spot marine life, all within a manageable timeframe.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who:

• Love water sports and are eager for an adrenaline rush
• Want to see Puerto Vallarta’s iconic sights from the water
• Appreciate small-group experiences for better safety and interaction
• Are comfortable with short, guided tours and quick visits
• Are looking for a family-friendly activity (though pregnant women and those with certain health conditions should be cautious)

Final Thoughts

This jet ski tour around Puerto Vallarta offers an active and scenic way to enjoy the bay’s highlights in just a couple of hours. Whether you’re zooming past the lively Malecón, marveling at the natural beauty of the Mismaloya arches, or relaxing at Colomitos, the tour delivers a well-rounded coastal experience.

It’s a great choice for adventure lovers who want to combine fun with sightseeing. Just keep in mind that it can feel a bit rushed at times, so if you prefer a leisurely pace, consider whether a longer or more relaxed tour suits you better.

This experience provides stunning views, marine encounters, and a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant waters that few other activities can match — especially in such a compact format.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are there to help and ensure you’re comfortable, making it a good option even if you’ve never ridden a jet ski before.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including transit, sightseeing, and snorkeling.

Do I need to bring anything?
You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and beachwear. The facilities have bathrooms and showers, but parking costs extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to observe underwater life along the route.

What is the meeting point?
Inside the Opequimar Marine Center, directly in front of the Westin Regina hotel in Marina Vallarta, at the coordinates 20.65998, -105.24899.

Are children allowed?
The experience is best suited for adults; those over 80, pregnant women, and people with epilepsy are advised against participating.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, but you should check with the provider for specific needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates daily with some flexibility; if weather conditions force cancellation, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Embark on this lively jet ski adventure if you’re craving a fun, scenic, and engaging way to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast — it’s an experience that blends excitement with authentic coastal beauty.

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