Imagine gliding over calm waters past dramatic rock formations, exploring underwater tunnels, and snorkeling in a vibrant marine sanctuary—all within a single half-day outing. This tour offers a lively mix of physical activity, natural beauty, and close encounters with marine life. For $65 per person, you’ll spend around four hours exploring Los Arcos, a protected area famed for its impressive arches, tunnels, and diverse aquatic life. Starting from a meeting point near Paraguay 1290 and heading south to Mismaloya Beach, this experience combines a guided paddleboarding session with the thrill of snorkeling in a natural aquarium.
What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is—beginners are warmly welcomed with a paddleboard lesson, and the guide (Felix, as one reviewer mentioned) makes sure everyone feels safe and confident. Plus, the scenery is truly breathtaking—crystal-clear waters, vibrant tropical fish, and the chance to see manta rays and turtles. The second standout? The unique opportunity to paddle through caves and tunnels, giving you a sense of adventure and exploration unlike most standard snorkeling trips.
One potential consideration is the weather. Since the tour relies heavily on calm waters for safety and enjoyment, choppy seas or strong winds might make paddling or snorkeling less comfortable. Also, if you’re not a fan of physical activity, be prepared for some light paddling rather than a leisurely float—though the class helps ease beginners into the rhythm.
This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure, education, and natural beauty. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy active outings, want to see Los Arcos’ impressive rock formations, and appreciate marine wildlife in a protected setting. Families, couples, or solo explorers who thrive on hands-on experiences will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Accessible for beginners with a paddleboard lesson and safety briefing.
- Stunning scenery and wildlife including tropical fish, manta rays, and sea turtles.
- Unique exploration through tunnels and caves at Los Arcos.
- Small group size (limited to 10) ensures personalized attention.
- Includes necessary equipment and bottled water for comfort.
- Guided by knowledgeable professionals to ensure safety and fun.
Meeting Point and Initial Setup
The adventure kicks off at the meeting point on Paraguay 1290, just outside the restaurant Barracuda. From there, the small group (max 10 participants) loads into the transport heading south to Mismaloya Beach. This proximity to Puerto Vallarta’s scenic southern coast means you’re already in the perfect spot for marine exploration. The initial 15-minute safety briefing and paddleboard lesson set a relaxed tone, especially for those new to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The guides are clearly experienced, with one reviewer praising Felix for his skill and attentiveness.
Mismaloya Beach and Paddleboard Instruction
Once on the beach, we receive a quick demonstration of paddleboarding techniques—how to balance, paddle efficiently, and handle the board in different conditions. This instruction is crucial because the highlight of this tour is paddling through the impressive tunnels at Los Arcos. The calm, protected waters at Mismaloya make it an ideal place to learn and practice, even for absolute beginners. We appreciated how the guide emphasized safety, making sure everyone felt comfortable before setting off.
The Paddle to Los Arcos
The main part of the experience involves paddling about one mile out to Los Arcos, a well-known marine park. The journey itself is scenic—gazing at the rugged coastline, spotting sea birds like pelicans and frigates, and feeling the thrill of moving under your own power. The water in this area is described as crystal clear, offering excellent visibility for marine viewing even before snorkeling.
This paddle through tunnels is what makes this tour truly special. The tunnels—formed naturally in the volcanic rock—are like underwater passageways that give a sense of adventure and discovery. We loved the feeling of gliding silently through these formations, with the natural acoustics amplifying the sounds of sea birds overhead.
Snorkeling in the Marine Sanctuary
After reaching Los Arcos, it’s time to switch gear and gear up for snorkeling. The protected waters here are rich with marine life, including over 40 species of tropical fish, manta rays, and various turtles. The snorkeling spot is considered the best in the bay, partly because of its calm, clear waters and diverse ecosystem. The guide ensures everyone is fitted with masks and snorkels, and the experience is made more enjoyable by the knowledgeable commentary on the marine environment.
One reviewer, Sharon, described the snorkeling as “worth the trip,” emphasizing the abundant fish and the overall vibrant underwater scene. Watching manta rays glide past, or spotting a turtle peeking out from below, are moments that stick with many travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyReturn Paddle and Debrief
After around two hours of marine exploration, we take a short break to rest and hydrate with bottled water and a granola bar. Then, it’s time to paddle back to Mismaloya Beach. The return journey is generally more relaxed, allowing us to appreciate the scenery and reflect on the adventure. The guide keeps an eye on everyone, ensuring a safe return.
Once back on land, the group loads into the van for the transfer back to the meeting point. The entire tour wraps up within four hours, making it a perfect morning activity that leaves plenty of time for other explorations or relaxing beach afternoons.
What’s Included and What’s Not
All necessary paddleboard equipment, snorkeling gear, life jackets, bottled water, and a granola bar are provided—no need to worry about bringing extra gear. The guide is certified and professional, which adds a layer of confidence, especially for first-timers. Digital photos aren’t included, so if capturing memories is important, you might want to bring your own camera or phone.
Overall Value and Experience
At $65, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of guided instruction, equipment, marine exploration, and the scenic paddle through caves makes it a well-rounded adventure. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
This experience is best suited for active travelers who want a hands-on day of outdoor fun. It’s especially fitting for those interested in marine life and impressive rock formations, and who enjoy a mix of physical activity and natural beauty. Families with children comfortable on paddleboards, couples seeking a scenic date, or solo travelers looking for a memorable adventure will all find something to enjoy here.
If you’re looking for a laid-back snorkel-only trip, this might not be ideal—since it involves paddling and some physical effort. But if you’re eager to combine paddling, caves, and snorkeling all in one go, this tour delivers.
This paddleboarding and snorkeling tour at Los Arcos is a fantastic way to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective. The combination of active exploration and the chance to observe a vibrant underwater world makes it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides, especially Felix, help ensure safety and fun, making it accessible for beginners yet engaging enough for experienced paddlers.
The scenery—rock formations, tunnels, marine life—is stunning, and the protected waters mean you can enjoy the experience without worry. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly good value considering all that’s included, and it’s a memorable way to spend a morning in the Mexican coast.
If you’re craving an energetic, picturesque, and educational experience that takes you beyond the usual beach lounging, this Los Arcos paddleboarding and snorkeling trip is worth considering. Just bring your sense of adventure—and maybe a waterproof camera to capture the underwater moments.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a paddleboard lesson and safety briefing, making it accessible for those new to paddleboarding.
What equipment is provided?
You’ll receive paddleboard gear, snorkeling masks and snorkels, life jackets, bottled water, and a granola bar.
How long is the paddle?
The paddle to Los Arcos is about one mile, which is manageable with the provided instruction and guidance.
Can I snorkel if I’m not comfortable in the water?
Snorkeling is optional; you can choose to stay on land or watch from the boat if preferred. The guided experience is designed to be inclusive.
What marine animals might I see?
Expect to see tropical fish, manta rays, and turtles. The waters are part of a protected marine park, rich in diversity.
Is digital photography included?
No, digital photos are not included, so bring your own waterproof camera or phone if you want pictures.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, usually scheduled in the morning.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.
Are transportation and meeting details clear?
Yes, the meeting point is outside the Barracuda restaurant at Paraguay 1290, with transportation provided to Mismaloya Beach.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and bring sun protection, a towel, and waterproof gear if desired.
This detailed review should help you decide whether this paddleboarding and snorkeling adventure at Los Arcos aligns with your travel style. It’s a true active experience that highlights the best of Puerto Vallarta’s natural surroundings—perfect for explorers eager to combine exercise, wildlife, and stunning scenery.
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