Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Coastal Gems: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour

This 7-hour boat trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of Puerto Vallarta’s most captivating spots—Los Arcos, Playa Ánimas, and Quimixto—at a reasonable price of $60 per person. We love how this tour combines marine adventures with scenic beauty, hearty local food, and a taste of authentic Mexican beach life. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and seeing waterfalls—all in one day.

Two features stand out: first, the guided snorkeling in Los Arcos National Park, where vibrant marine life is guaranteed to impress. Second, the visit to Quimixto’s waterfall and beach, which offers a peaceful escape from crowds. A possible drawback is the somewhat slow pace, especially with the large boat and waiting times at stops, which might leave some wanting more activity or less downtime.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, water-based activities, and laid-back beach days. If you’re happy sharing the boat with others and don’t mind some logistical delays, it offers a good value experience. Travelers with limited time in Puerto Vallarta and families or groups looking for a fun, all-in-one excursion will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Diverse Locations: Visit Los Arcos, Playa Ánimas, and Quimixto, each with its own unique charm.
• Active & Relaxing: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfall visits cater to different interests.
• Inclusive & Flexible: Breakfast, lunch, drinks, and equipment are included, with options for flexible reservations.
• Potential Drawbacks: Slow transportation times and large groups may affect the experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Guides and staff are appreciated for their friendliness and effort.
• Ideal for: Those wanting a full-day, varied coastal adventure with a mix of activities and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of the Tour Experience

First Impressions and Booking

Starting at Marina Vallarta, the check-in process involves settling any outstanding balances and paying a $32 port tax for travelers over 8 years old. The staff, identifiable by their gray polo shirts, handle check-in efficiently, but some reviews note that communication about certain requirements, like bringing ID, could be clearer. Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, making it easy to fit into your itinerary.

The Journey to Los Arcos

The adventure kicks off with a 35-minute boat ride across the bay, offering beautiful panoramic views of Vallarta’s mountains and coastline. We found this part quite enjoyable, especially with the chance to relax and watch the scenery pass by. The boat is sizable, which can be a pro or con—more space but also means it can feel crowded as groups gather for snorkeling and other activities.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Once arrived, the crew explains the snorkeling process and supplies the necessary gear. For about 40 minutes, you’ll glide among colorful marine life and dramatic rock formations—a highlight for many. The reviews echo this sentiment, with Ana from the US praising the crew’s friendliness. She specifically said, “The whole crew was extremely friendly and worked hard to keep us happy.” But some travelers, like Anna, felt that snorkeling time was limited due to the boat’s size and the need to rotate—so don’t expect endless underwater explorations.

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Playa Las Ánimas: Relaxing & Water Sports

Next, the boat heads south to Playa Ánimas, a beautiful beach with calm water perfect for relaxing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Here, you can choose to unwind on the sand or get active with the provided equipment. According to reviews, the crew is eager to assist, and the beachside restaurant offers a chance to try local snacks. Be aware that some guests noted the water can be shallow or difficult for larger boats to dock, which might mean some extra effort or waiting.

Quimixto & the Waterfall

From Ánimas, the tour continues to Quimixto, a quaint fishing village famous for its stunning waterfall. The visit is a peaceful break—perfect for photos, swimming, or simply soaking up the scenery. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, is a favorite among travelers for its natural beauty and tranquil setting. For some, like your who wanted to hike to the waterfall, the experience was limited by footwear requirements—something to keep in mind if hiking is part of your plan.

Beachside Lunch & Open Bar

A highlight that keeps everyone happy: the lunch served on the beach, offering four different options that vary daily. The food is generally well-received, and the open bar keeps drinks flowing throughout the day. This is a good value, especially considering that drinks and food are included in the price, making it easier to relax without worrying about extra costs.

Return & Reflection

The return trip involves some waiting—especially if you’re part of a large group—since the boat needs to shuttle back and forth for activities and disembarking. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, which feels just right for a full-day outing. Some reviews mention the slow pace and long transfers, but others appreciated the relaxed atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

From positive reviews, it’s clear that friendly guides and staff make a difference. Ana’s comment about the crew working hard to keep everyone satisfied illustrates the care taken. The scenery, especially the views of Vallarta’s mountains and the colorful marine life, make for memorable moments.

On the flip side, some travelers experienced disappointments—notably, the lack of clarity about what’s included, the need to bring IDs, and the challenge of managing large crowds. Anna pointed out the limited snorkeling time and the slow transit, which can make the day feel more sluggish than adventurous.

Cesar’s experience highlights the importance of clear instructions and communication—“Pick up location is wrong nobody answers the phone,” he said, underscoring the need to confirm logistics beforehand.

The Value of This Tour for Different Travelers

If you are a water lover eager to snorkel among colorful fish, or someone who wants to relax on beach sands while sampling authentic dishes, this tour offers a compelling package. It balances guided activities with free time, so you can choose whether to snorkel, paddle, or just soak up the sun.

However, if you prefer a more intimate, less crowded experience, or enjoy hiking or exploring at your own pace, this may not be the best fit. The large boat and group size mean some activities are timed and somewhat structured, which won’t suit everyone.

The Sum Up

This boat tour is a solid choice for those seeking a full-day coastal adventure packed with snorkeling, beach relaxation, and waterfall sights, all with friendly guides and inclusive amenities. It offers good value, especially for families or groups wanting to sample multiple highlights without multiple bookings.

Travelers who value scenic views and social atmosphere will enjoy the lively vibe and the chance to meet fellow explorers. Be prepared for the slower pace and some logistical quirks, but overall, it’s a memorable way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coastline.

If you’re after an easy, all-in-one excursion with plenty of opportunities for water fun and scenic beauty, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to bring your ID and a good pair of shoes if you want to hike to the waterfall!

FAQ

What is the cost of this tour?
It costs $60 per person, which includes breakfast, snorkeling gear, kayak and paddleboard use, lunch, and drinks. The only extra is a port fee of $32 pesos.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 7 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, making it a full but manageable day.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID (especially if hiking to the waterfall), sun protection, a towel, and possibly your camera. Equipment such as snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want waterproof cases or extra sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is generally suitable for families, especially since equipment and activities are geared toward all ages. Just be aware of the time spent on large boats and the need for footwear if hiking.

Will I see marine life?
Yes, the snorkeling at Los Arcos is a highlight, with vibrant fish and coral formations. The guides explain the process and provide gear.

How crowded does it get?
The boat can hold many guests, which can lead to a busy atmosphere. Some reviews mention limited snorkeling time and wait times at stops.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, a beachside lunch with four options and an open bar are included in the price, making this a relaxed, all-inclusive outing.

What’s the transportation like?
The boat ride across the bay offers scenic views but can be slow. Large boats mean some logistical delays, especially during disembarking and activities.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can choose to relax, snorkel, or paddleboard at different stops.

What do reviewers say?
Most praise the guides’ friendliness and the beautiful scenery. Some mention that the slow pace and large groups are downsides, but overall, it’s a worthwhile experience for a full day of fun.

In summary, the Puerto Vallarta boat tour to Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto provides a lively, scenic, and activity-filled day on the water. It’s best for travelers seeking a comprehensive, social adventure with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and marine life of this stunning coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: