Puerto Vallarta: Scuba Dive in Las Caletas

Puerto Vallarta: Scuba Dive in Las Caletas

Imagine spending a day surrounded by the calm waters of Las Caletas, a private beach on Puerto Vallarta’s southern coast, exploring an underwater world teeming with colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles. This 7-hour adventure, offered by Vallarta Adventures for $159 per person, combines two dives with expert guides, a light breakfast, a delicious lunch, and an open bar. The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5, indicating a solid experience with plenty of satisfied travelers.

What we particularly appreciate about this excursion is how it caters to both beginners and experienced divers. Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or you’re a seasoned pro looking to explore shipwrecks and vibrant reefs, Las Caletas offers a peaceful, visually stunning environment. Also, the inclusion of PADI-certified instructors makes safety and guidance a priority.

The only consideration? The port fee of $30 MXN isn’t included in the price, and you’ll need to bring biodegradable sunscreen and cash for extras. This experience appeals most to those who love nature, marine life, and a relaxed dive in a beautiful setting—ideal for travelers wanting a memorable, immersive underwater outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Biodiversity: Encounter eagle rays, manta rays, sea turtles, and large schools of tropical fish.
• Ideal for All Levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced divers, with guided instruction and exploration.
• Unique Shipwrecks: Explore old, shrunken shipwrecks that add historical intrigue to the underwater scenery.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes diving equipment, wetsuits (winter), light breakfast, lunch, and open bar.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• All-aboard Safety: Certified instructors ensure a safe experience, with clear guidelines on fitness and health conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Las Caletas Scuba Tour

Setting Out for a Day on the Water

The adventure begins with a pick-up at a designated Vallarta Adventures check-in desk, where you’ll redeem your reservation with a valid ID. The transportation to Las Caletas is straightforward, allowing you to relax and get ready for the day ahead. The tour lasts about 7 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy multiple underwater sights without feeling rushed.

The Location: Las Caletas

Las Caletas is a special spot—an exclusive, protected beach on Banderas Bay’s southern shore. Its calm, gentle waters are perfect for first-timers and seasoned divers alike. The site’s natural beauty is complemented by its proximity to vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and drop-offs that attract a variety of marine creatures.

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What to Expect During the Dives

For those new to scuba, this experience offers a gentle introduction, guided by PADI-certified instructors who focus on safety and fun. We loved the way guides explained the basics, making it accessible even for absolute beginners. Underwater, you’ll see garden eels, jawfish, rays, and a friendly sea turtle—a true highlight noted by many past guests.

Certified divers can look forward to two guided dives. These dives allow more exploration, including shipwrecks—some old, shrunken vessels on the seabed that add both historical charm and a sense of adventure. The drop-offs are also a highlight, offering different depths and habitats to observe marine life.

Marine Life and Natural Reefs

The abundance of marine life is what makes Las Caletas special. Reviewers often mention the stunning views of large manta rays and eagle rays, which glide gracefully through the water. The large schools of tropical fish swirl around divers, creating a vibrant, bustling scene. We appreciated how the currents are gentle, making navigation easier, especially for those still gaining confidence.

The Shipwrecks: A Glimpse into the Past

Among the most memorable aspects are the shipwrecks, which are relatively shallow and shrunken but still fascinating. They add an element of history and mystery, providing a different visual experience than the colorful reefs. Many reviewers point out how these wrecks serve as intriguing habitats for marine life and photographic subjects.

Post-Dive Comforts and Facilities

After your underwater explorations, you’ll return to Las Caletas beach, where a light breakfast is served, and later, a delicious lunch and open bar. The setting is relaxed, and many travelers note how the beautiful natural surroundings enhance the overall experience. Wetsuits are provided upon request in winter, which is a thoughtful touch considering the cooler water temperatures during the season.

Overall Value and Experience Quality

This tour offers excellent value for the price when you consider the guided instruction, all equipment, meals, and the chance to see marine life up close. Travelers often highlight the professionalism of guides and the well-maintained gear. The 4.6 rating from the provider reflects a strong reputation, supported by many positive reviews.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who love nature, marine life, and a bit of underwater adventure—regardless of experience level. It’s especially appealing to those looking for a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for snorkeling and underwater photography. If you’re traveling with beginners, the gentle waters and patient guides make it a safe, enjoyable outing. Conversely, experienced divers will appreciate the shipwreck exploration and more advanced dives.

The Sum Up

This Puerto Vallarta scuba tour at Las Caletas combines beautiful scenery, vibrant marine life, and well-organized guidance into a memorable day on the water. It balances adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice whether you’re new to diving or a seasoned pro. The inclusion of meals, equipment, and guidance ensures a hassle-free experience, especially for those who want to focus on enjoying the underwater spectacle.

While the port fee is extra, most travelers find the overall value justified by the quality of the environment and the professionalism of the guides. The stunning views of rays and reef alone make it worth considering. The tour’s length allows for thorough exploration without feeling rushed, and the relaxed beach setting afterward makes it a perfect full-day activity.

For travelers seeking an authentic, scenic, and marine-rich adventure in Puerto Vallarta, this tour strikes a good balance of fun, safety, and natural beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, exploring your love of underwater life, or simply want a memorable experience in Banderas Bay, Las Caletas offers a beautiful, accessible dive adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is perfect for beginners as it includes guided instruction from PADI-certified instructors. They focus on safety and making sure everyone feels comfortable, even if it’s your first time breathing underwater.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers diving equipment, wetsuits (if requested in winter), guided instruction, a light breakfast, lunch, and an open bar. You will also need to pay a port fee of $30 MXN separately.

Do I need to be in good physical condition?
Yes, good mental and physical health are important for diving. The tour recommends that guests have no ear problems and be in suitable condition to handle underwater activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility helps if your plans change unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras or the port fee. Avoid alcohol before the activity as intoxication is not permitted.

Are children allowed?
No, children under 10 years are not permitted, making this experience more suitable for teens and adults who meet the health criteria.

This scuba experience at Las Caletas offers an authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s underwater life, combining natural beauty, safety, and genuine adventure. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Mexico’s best marine scenery in a relaxed, guided environment—perfect for making lasting memories beneath the waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: