marieta islands eco tour

Exploring the Marietas Islands on the Eco Discovery Tour From Puerto Vallarta

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: September 17, 2021  - Last updated: March 15, 2023

Planning a cruise that stops in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico? A shore excursion to the Marietas Islands is a wonderful way to spend the day.

I recently had the pleasure of touring the beautiful Marietas Islands with Mr. SBC on our Carnival Panorama cruise along the Mexican Riviera, on the Eco Discovery Tour with Vallarta Adventures.

In addition to snorkeling the islands’ protected reefs, our seven-hour tour also included other water sports, a birdwatching tour, a buffet lunch, and entertainment. Here’s everything you need to know about this fun day trip from Puerto Vallarta .

Where are the Marietas Islands located?

The Marietas Islands ( Islas Marietas in Spanish) are a pair of uninhabited islands in the Bahía de Banderas, northwest of Puerto Vallarta , Mexico.

By catamaran, the islands are about an hour away from Puerto Mágico , the cruise port in Vallarta. They’re also just a 15-minute boat ride from Punta Mita (near Sayulita), another popular vacation spot in this part of Mexico.

Check the price and buy tickets for a similar Marietas Islands excursion from Sayulita

What are the Marietas Islands famous for?

The Marietas Islands are a Mexican national park that was once a military testing ground. During the early 20th century, the Mexican government tested bombs and explosives on the islands, creating caves and craters. But by the 1960s, a massive campaign started by Jacques Cousteau forced the government to stop bombing and declare the island a national park.

The Marietas, sometimes referred to as “ Mexico’s Galápagos “, are home to 44 species of wildlife and plants. Many seabirds, including red-billed tropicbirds and rare blue-footed boobies, use the islands as a feeding and breeding ground.

This UNESCO biosphere reserve and Ramsar site hosts many varieties of coral, around which schools of tropical reef fish, eels, and sea turtles live. Dolphins and manta rays also live in the waters surrounding the islands, joined by humpback whales in the winter months.

In recent years, the islands have become even more famous as the home of the Hidden Beach , also called Playa del Amor. This gorgeous beach inside a crater can only be reached by swimming through a cave!

Park authorities only allow a small number of visitors to Hidden Beach each day, and it wasn’t a part of our tour. But I’ll include a stock photo so you can see just why this unusual beach has made the Marietas so famous!

Getting to the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re cruising to Puerto Vallarta, you’re in luck because the catamaran docks right at the cruise port! As you can see from my photo below, the tour boat was moored just steps from our ship.

If you’re not visiting Puerto Vallarta on a cruise, the port isn’t too far by taxi from the Zona Romantica or Centro (downtown Vallarta) where many popular hotels are located.

Just be sure to confirm your taxi fare before heading off to the port, and it’s more than OK to haggle over the price!

Amenities on the Vallarta Adventures catamaran

Our catamaran was clean and spacious, with plenty of room for our group of about 40 adventurers to spread out and relax on the hour-long ride to the islands and back.

Padded bench seating lines the perimeter of the boat, and there’s a large shaded area as well as uncovered seating at the bow for those who want to get some sun. Plastic deck chairs line the center of the boat to provide additional places to sit.

The catamaran features a large central bar with water and soft drink dispensers for self-service beverages, but the crew does walk around regularly with trays of drinks throughout the tour.

Open bar is included on this tour, but for obvious safety reasons the alcohol doesn’t flow until after everyone’s done with the water sports!

The boat also has two restrooms at the aft, behind the bar. They weren’t the cleanest toilets I’ve ever seen, but it was nice to have them available on such a long tour—especially to change into dry clothes after swimming.

Water sports on the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery tour

The opportunity to snorkel, SUP, and kayak in this beautiful location is the main reason most people book the Eco Discovery Tour shore excursion, and it’s a perfect spot for all of these water sports!

If you don’t have your own snorkel gear , the crew provides masks, snorkels, and flippers in various sizes. For those who don’t want to use a snorkel that’s been used before (they do clean them), you can purchase a fresh snorkel on board for a small fee.

Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise

As an avid snorkeler, I was so excited to explore the protected reefs around the Marietas. Mr. SBC also enjoys snorkeling but doesn’t feel as comfortable swimming right from a boat instead of from the beach. So he brought his inflatable snorkel vest for an added measure of safety and visibility.

However, we didn’t realize that because of state park regulations , all water sports participants need to wear an approved life jacket at all times. I get it—with larger groups of snorkelers it’s close to impossible for the crew to keep a close eye on everyone, and strict rules ensure that everyone’s safe.

But if having to wear a lifejacket while snorkeling is a dealbreaker for you, know that this is a strict rule with no exceptions. I normally would never knowingly book a tour where I had to wear one (snorkel vests at least don’t ride up and threaten to strangle you). But, access to the Marietas is very limited and it’s your only option if you want to snorkel there.

Access to the water for snorkeling is via a swim ladder—or you can just jump right in! I was one of the last in the water after dealing with some major adjustments to our life jacket straps, so the water was a little murky after so many swimmers were splashing around.

Everyone headed toward the island, where most of the coral reef is visible not too far beneath the ocean’s surface. But I swam for a bit in the area between the boat and the roped-off area for snorkelers. I was surprised to see so many colorful fish swimming in schools so close to the boat!

And these weren’t just tiny fishies—many were the size of my hand. Giant damselfish, surgeonfish, and plenty of fish I couldn’t even identify were happily going about their business just inches below me. I even spotted one of my favorite fish to see when snorkeling—the needlefish. Although they aren’t very colorful, long, slender needlefish look like they’re smiling and often jump right out of the water when hunting.

Once inside the roped-off snorkeling area , the fish were even more plentiful amongst the reefs. Don’t expect to see an abundance of colorful live corals—this is a heavy-traffic area, so it’s more like gray, craggy rock.

We didn’t kayak during the tour (I chose to spend more time snorkeling), but many guests used the two-person sea kayaks to explore the waters right near the boat.

There are a limited number of kayaks, so you can’t take them out for a long period of time, or try to go on an extended paddle around the islands.

The spot where our catamaran moored wasn’t close to a beach (and access to the island is restricted), so you also can’t take a kayak to shore and explore the terrain. Any adventurous rule-breakers would be quickly stopped by the eagle-eyed park authorities who patrol the area by boat.

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP)

Something I had never tried before was stand-up paddle boarding , or SUP. The boat only has a few boards for all of the guests, so I had to wait a while for a board to become available.

If you’ve never tried SUP before, the crew is great with helping newbies. Most of the guests on our tour also fell into this category, so I didn’t feel uncomfortable being a first-timer.

SUP is way harder than it looks! Just balancing on the board while kneeling (and trying not to crash into anything) was quite a workout for my core. I’ll admit I didn’t feel confident enough to try to actually stand up (maybe next time!) but it was a nice intro to SUP in a beautiful location.

Lunch on the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery tour

I’ve been on hundreds of group tours and shore excursions around the world, and I’ve seriously considered no longer booking any tours that include lunch. Why? I’ve noticed that these tours are generally much more expensive, and the lunch (usually) isn’t that great.

But the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery tour was very reasonably priced. Having no other option to purchase the lunch of my choice while out at an uninhabited island miles from shore, I decided to ignore my misgivings about food options and just book the tour. If the lunch was terrible (or the serving sizes would barely satisfy a toddler) we could always find something to eat when we returned to Vallarta or back on the ship.

The tour literature only said that we’d have a “deli-style” lunch included with the cost of the shore excursion. I pictured slimy pre-made sandwiches on soggy bread and a bag of chips.

But as soon as I returned to the catamaran from the water and smelled delicious fresh roasted peppers, I knew we wouldn’t have a problem with lunch.

Was it the fanciest gourmet lunch I’ve ever had? No. But it far exceeded my expectations in the quality, selection, and variety of food we could choose from on this small tour boat.

Our serve-yourself deli buffet at the bar started with freshly-baked flat sandwich rolls, mixed greens, a selection of sliced cheeses, cold cuts, and sliced tomatoes to create a sandwich to your liking.

Then turn the corner to find those roasted peppers (and onions!) yummy potato salad, pasta salad, and a giant tub of sliced fresh fruit including watermelon, mango, and pineapple.

Bird spotting around Las Islas Marietas

The Marietas Islands are famous for their abundance of native seabird species , and I was excited for the opportunity to spot the rare blue-footed booby bird. Although most of the world’s population of this funny-named creature resides in the Galápagos Islands, our tour guide told us that the second-biggest population is in the Islas Marietas.

Be sure to bring binoculars, because you won’t get close enough for a good look at their Smurf-blue feet with the naked eye!

But you can check out what these cool birds look like and observe their fantastic mating dance in this short NatGeo video :

Another interesting species we spotted was the magnificent frigatebird , a large, mainly black-feathered bird. The males have a bright red pouch just below their beaks that they blow up like a balloon to attract females.

You can see the red pouch on a male magnificent frigatebird in the center of the photo below—and that’s not blown up!

Heading back towards Puerto Vallarta, we passed a sheer cliff face extending straight into the water. Our guide told us that this was the filming location for an exciting scene in the 2011 film Limitless . If you’ve seen the movie, you might remember Eddie (played by Bradley Cooper) spontaneously high-diving from this cliff.

Entertainment on the Vallarta Adventures Eco Discovery Tour

Once the open bar was flowing and we were on our way back to the port, the crew had a surprise up their sleeves for us! After serving up drinks (unlimited rum punch, margaritas, and bottled beer ), our guide turned the music up and the crew members appeared dressed in hilarious 80s rocker costumes. We were then treated to a fifteen minute long lip-synch show featuring air guitars and dancing.

I didn’t expect any entertainment on the boat, but it made our trip back to the port so much more enjoyable.

What to take with you on the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour

You don’t have to take much with you on this shore excursion, but I’ve put together a small list of items that will make the Eco Discovery Tour more enjoyable.

• Full-face snorkel mask
• Light sweater or sweatshirt
• GoPro or waterproof camera
• Lightweight binoculars for bird watching
• Travel safe
• Non-drowsy seasickness medication
• Cash (to purchase personal snorkel and/or photos)

If you’d rather leave the expensive camera gear behind, the crew does have a photographer on board who spent the entire time getting action shots of everyone, including underwater!

He also took lots of landscape and bird pics. Near the end of the tour, the photographer put together a personalized photo package for each group of guests, which was available on a USB for $80 USD.

What NOT to take with you on the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour

There are a few items that you absolutely shouldn’t take with you on the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour . The first is drones—these are not allowed in Las Islas Marietas State Park.

The second is vape pens or e-cigarettes. I don’t vape (but I meet a lot of people in my travels who do) so this restriction intrigued me. In February 2020, the Mexican government banned the importation of all vaping products as part of its crackdown on drugs. Even if you just vape nicotine or one of those non-nicotine flavored liquids, it’s not allowed on the boat or at the marine park.

Although smoking cigarettes was allowed in a specific area at the back of the boat (when there are no full SCUBA tanks there), it’s safer to leave any vaping devices behind on this tour.

The third banned item is sunscreen! Although there was nothing mentioned in the tour listing provided by Carnival, our tour guide told us that the state park has banned the use of all sunscreens—even biodegradable ones which he claimed are “a hoax”!

As a very pale person with a deadly family history of melanoma, I of course had already applied my reef-safe MyCHELLE Dermaceuticals waterproof sunscreen before leaving on the tour. This sunscreen adheres to the reef-safe guidelines from savethereef.org , so I wasn’t worried.

Would I recommend the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour by Vallarta Adventures?

As a reminder, this is not a sponsored post. We paid for this shore excursion out-of-pocket and booked it through Carnival Cruise Line for our Mexican Riviera cruise. I didn’t even know what company was running the tour until we showed up at the port! Of course, like with any of my reviews, my opinions are all my own.

Who shouldn’t take this tour

I’ll start with the negatives. If you have any issues with motion sickness or seasickness, don’t book this shore excursion unless you’re sure that you have meds that work well for you (and don’t knock you out).

If you tend to get seasick, be sure to read my How to Avoid Getting Seasick on a Cruise

We took this tour on a clear day without any choppy waves to speak of or stormy weather at all. Despite the perfect conditions, there were two members of our smallish group who were seriously seasick for most, if not all, of the journey.

I also wouldn’t recommend this tour for people who don’t feel confident swimming in deep water, unless you’re fine either just kayaking or sitting on the boat. There’s no beach access, and you’ll be swimming in water that’s over your head without any shallower water to stop and rest.

Who will love this tour

If you don’t have seasickness issues and you’re a confident swimmer, the Eco Discovery tour is such a fun way to spend a day near Puerto Vallarta.

Our tour group consisted of cruisers of all ages, from tweens to mid-70s. There were no under-twelves on our shore excursion (this was the first tour out of Puerto Vallarta after the cruise shutdown, and was only for vaccinated passengers). But it would be a fun family day for school-aged kids who enjoy water sports.

Bird watchers will also enjoy this shore excursion, as it gives you the opportunity to spot various rare species in their native habitat.

You may also like: A Day Trip to the Charming Villages of the Sierra Madre from Mazatlán

How to book tickets for the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour

We booked our Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour tickets directly through the cruise line. Carnival offered this tour on our Mexican Riviera cruise as a featured shore excursion. Of course, you can also book tickets independently.

Check the price and book tickets for the Marietas Islands Eco Discovery Tour

Have you visited the Marietas Islands on a trip to Puerto Vallarta? Or are you considering taking the Islas Marietas Eco Discovery tour? Let me know in the comments below!

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Monday 8th of November 2021

The Marietas islands look like a beautiful place to visit now. I'm putting it on my bucket list.

Hi Sharyn, they really are a bucket-list-worthy place to visit! Thanks for stopping by!

Travel A-Broads

I had admittedly never heard of the Marietas Islands, but it sounds like a wonderful place to visit with a fascinating history. So glad to hear that the island was declared a national park and the explosives testing stopped. I would love to try some kayaking and SUP here - I still haven't been able to try SUP yet! My only concern is I did get a little sea sick on the deep sea fishing trip we did earlier this year but not too bad. I think I could take my chances on this excursion. Thanks for sharing all these details! Xx Sara

Hi Sara, the Marietas really are a wonderful place! If you go, I'd highly recommend taking seasickness meds (or wearing the patch). Mr. SBC and I chatted for a while back on the ship with one of the ladies who had been seasick, and she said she had zero history of it. Happy travels!

Sunday 7th of November 2021

Wow I didn't know this area was used for testing bombs. Thanks for sharing so much valuable information

Hi Elyse, I'm so happy they stopped the testing and protected the islands for the birds and marine life. Thanks so much for reading!

We missed this when we were in Puerto Vallarta and I was so disappointed! Looks incredible!

Hi Jenn, oh no!! I hope you're able to get back to PV and check out the islands - they really are incredible!

The Marietas Islands eco tour looks like so much fun! I'd absolutely love to go. Thank you for sharing!

Hi Alex, we really enjoyed our day visiting the Marietas! Hope you're able to see them for yourself :)

Marietas Eco-discovery

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General description

Protected as part of Marieta State Park, these natural wonders are home to a number of native wildlife species, as well as some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Mexico. Explore the serene ...

Protected as part of Marieta State Park, these natural wonders are home to a number of native wildlife species, as well as some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Mexico. Explore the serene seawater while snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. As well, visit by boat the exclusive Majahuitas Beach which, is one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. A continental breakfast, deli-style lunch, and open bar are provided — as are snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and kayaks to help you enjoy the warm waters surrounding the Marieta Islands. Immerse yourself in this pristine nature tropical beauty and enjoy an oasis of white sand beaches and turquoise waters!

This tour includes:

Continental breakfast

Deli-style lunch

Snorkel and kayak equipment

Paddleboard.

This tour does not include:

Transportation

Nature conservation fee

Optional gratuities

Photos and souvenirs.

To this tour we recommend you to take:

Mask mandatory

Comfortable clothing

Walking shoes

Eco-friendly sunblock

Light jacket

Extra cash for shopping.

Notes and Recommendations:

Not suitable for people with recent surgeries and guests with mobility issues

Due to COVID-19, masks are mandatory during the activity. Please bring your own mask and alcohol-based hand rub

Please be at Vallarta Adventures Center, Av. Las Palmas #39 Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit; ZC 63732, Mexico for check-in, 30 minutes before your schedule.

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$99.00 $79.00 USD

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In order to facilitate a seamless experience for our valued customers, we kindly request that cancellations be initiated with a notice of more than 24 hours prior to the scheduled activity, ensuring a full 100% refund. For cancellations made within 24 hours or in the event of a no-show, a 100% charge will be applicable to cover the operational costs.

It is important to note that, in the occurrence of adverse weather conditions, a 100% refund will only be granted if the harbor is officially closed by the relevant authorities, prioritizing the safety and well-being of our clients.

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Marietas Eco Discovery

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• Visit the World-Famous Marietas Islands for the Ultimate Vallarta Eco Tour Experience
• Kayak, Snorkel and Explore the Marine Sanctuary of Marietas
• See Why Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau Fell in Love with These Islands 
• Explore the Sealife and Waters That Surround Marietas Islands

Tour Summary

This aquatic adventure will give you the rare opportunity to witness the splendid beauty and bio-diversity on and around the Marietas Islands, a cluster of rocky isles located at the border of the Pacific Ocean in Banderas Bay. Join our naturalist English-speaking guides cruise across the beautiful waters of the Bay. Along the way, we’ll be on the lookout for marine mammals that inhabit this enormous body of water. During the winter, we’ll be looking for humongous humpback whales that migrate to Banderas Bay every winter to spawn, give birth, and nurse their newborn offspring. You may also see a pod of playful dolphins frolicking near the boat. You’ll treasure this chance to witness the natural splendor and diverse aquatic life of the waters near Puerto Vallarta on this fun-filled and enlightening excursion. Once we reach Marietas Islands (also known as Tres Marietas), witness some of the rare nesting sea birds that inhabit this island. Tres Marietas is one of the few locations on the globe where the endangered blue-footed boobies nest.  While at Marietas you can sunbathe, kayak along the rocky coastline, or snorkel over a fabulous coral gardens where you will view an array of sea life, including Olive Ridley Turtles, Giant Pacific Mantas, and prismatic tropical fish. And as always, our knowledgeable ecological guides will be pleased to answer any of your questions.

It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.

• SEMARNAT fee of ~$5.00 per person is not included in price.
• There is NO ACCESS to any land or beaches with this tour.
• Hidden Beach is not part of this tour.
• All cruise ship passengers MUST book this tour directly through their cruise line.
• Tour doesn't operate on Mondays

Vallarta Tour Center is always interested in your tour experience with us. We hope you enjoyed your tour and love to hear comments.

I have been to the Bahamas many times, but Marietas Eco Discovery is one of my favorite trips! It includes everything that everyone should do here. As a Bahamas veteran, I can say only the best about this experience!

Thanks to the professional guides! I was a bit worried about kayaking because I had never done it before, but the instructions were great and I had such a good time!

The best way to discover nature! ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

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Marietas Eco Discovery

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On this tour, our guides give you the opportunity to enjoy the natural majesty of the Las Islas Marietas at your own pace. Explore the serene seawater while snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding. No matter what type of natural wonder you’re looking for, our tour of Islas Marietas, Puerto Vallarta, will help you find it.

Also included in our Islas Marietas Eco Discovery Tour is a full lunch, as well as a visit by boat to our exclusive Majahuitas Beach Club, which is located at one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Immerse yourself in its pristine tropical beauty and enjoy an oasis of white sand beaches and turquoise waters by booking Islas Marietas Eco Discovery today!

If you are looking for a breathtaking, cost-effective way to see the Las Islas Marietas in all their natural glory, there is no better choice than our tour of Las Islas Marietas here at Vallarta Adventures. Led by friendly and knowledgeable local tour guides, this comprehensive tour brings you up close and personal with the many natural wonders of the Marieta Islands. Deli-style lunch and open bar are provided, as are snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and kayaks to help you enjoy the warm waters surrounding the Marieta Islands. To help benefit and preserve this beautiful natural area, we give a portion of the proceeds from our tours to the Islas Marietas National Park in order to fund education and preservation efforts.

RESTRICTIONS:

Child prices apply to children ages 4 to 11 Children ages 12 and up are considered an adult Due to federal regulations, and in an effort to protect the flight path of endemic birds, drones are prohibited in this tour. .

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Marietas and surroundings

Located to the north of Puerto Vallarta, the Islas Marietas National Park is an ecological refuge that has become a must-see tourist attraction due to its spectacular landscapes, reefs and clear waters. The two islands that make up this archipelago are home to a great diversity of birds and marine species…

Marietas + Hidden beach

On this tour, our guides give you the opportunity to enjoy the natural majesty of the Las Islas Marietas at your own pace. Explore the serene seawater while snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding. No matter what type of natural wonder you’re looking for, our tour of Islas Marietas, Puerto Vallarta…

Price: $ 90.00

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Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach Tour From Puerto Vallarta

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: July 13, 2021  - Last updated: June 13, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This allows me to keep the site up to date and expand on resources.

If you’re a nature lover, one day trip you cannot miss is the Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta.

All excursions to the islands, including the hidden beach tour, must be arranged with a tour company, so plan ahead if you want to check out the amazing eco-adventures Marietas Islands have to offer.

This post will explain everything you can do on the islands and how to book a tour here!

Table of Contents

Why Visit Marietas Islands?

Designated as a National Marine Park and UNESCO biosphere reserve , the Marietas Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Vallarta , including Hidden Beach, which is among the most famous in Mexico.

Aside from the beaches, the Islas Marietas are one of the best places to see wildlife around Puerto Vallarta.

They are home to over 90 species of birds and marine animals like dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

What to expect on a Marietas Islands Tour

We booked this all-day tour to Islas Marietas from Puerto Vallarta for my friend Courtney’s birthday in May 2021, which was so much fun. It’s one of my favorite Puerto Vallarta day trips!

We met the tour guides at the cruise port in Puerto Vallarta and set off for the islands around 9 am.

They leave on time, so give yourself lots of time as the port is big and confusing. You also have to pay your port fee and fee to enter the islands at the marina (140 pesos total).

The islands are 22 miles (36km) west of Puerto Vallarta, so it takes about two hours to get there.

The time went by quickly, eating breakfast and enjoying the views. Continental breakfast is included, which is buffet-style

The views are gorgeous along the way  – keep your eyes peeled as we saw dolphins jumping out of the water!

Species of dolphins you can see here include the Pacific Bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and spinner dolphins.

During the winter months, it is also common to see humpback whales in the bay since this is a centuries-old breeding ground for them.

Before arriving at the islands, the guides will ask you if you want to do the extra eco-tour at the islands (see more on that below) or visit hidden beach in case they have permits available to sell.

Once you arrive at the islands, you’ll hop in a smaller boat to go on the eco-tour if you booked it.

After that, we hopped in the water for a guided snorkeling tour which was included in the tour. The water here is beautiful and much clearer than anywhere else I snorkeled around Puerto Vallarta.

While you’re snorkeling, the staff prepares a deli-style lunch ready to eat when you get back from the water.

If you feel like more adventures, paddleboards and kayaks are also available to take out to explore during that time.

After lunch, we then had some time to explore the beautiful beaches on the island, and those who had permits for Hidden Beach went there.

While Hidden Beach is undoubtedly one of the most unique sights in Puerto Vallarta , the other beaches on the islands are also incredibly beautiful to see. So don’t be disappointed if you don’t get a permit – the islands are still worth visiting!

Around 2 pm, we headed back to Puerto Vallarta for the journey home. This went much faster than the way there, as they give you unlimited alcohol on the way back.

It was my friend’s birthday, and the staff went out of their way to show us a good time.

We played drinking games and by the last hour, the boat had became a massive dance party . It was such a memorable experience!

If you are want to see Marietas islands and all they have to offer, this tour of Las Islas Marietas is a great choice.

Snorkeling and diving at Islas Marietas

The snorkeling at Islas Marietas is easily the best in Puerto Vallarta. The water is crystal-clear, and seeing the rock formations underneath gives you a whole new appreciation for how special these islands are. 

I’ve heard that it’s common to see giant rays and sea turtles here, although I wasn’t lucky enough to see them. I only saw colorful schools of fish, but still really enjoyed the snorkeling because of the unique underwater landscapes.

You can also go diving at Marietas Islands but you have to book it as a separate trip.

Marietas Islands Eco-tour

At the islands, you have the option to do an eco-tour around the islands for an additional 200 pesos (10 USD). It’s absolutely worth it.

They will take you on a smaller boat around the islands to see the birds closer, and a collapsed sea cave.

On the rocks, you can spot the blue-footed booby and some 90 other bird species. It actually made me feel although I’d been transported back to the Galapagos Islands!

Hidden Beach Tour Puerto Vallarta

The Marietas Islands are home to one of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta – Playa Del Amor. It’s also commonly called Hidden Beach or Secret Beach. 

Playa Del Amor is an incredible underground crater beach. Someone posted a photo of it a few years ago that went viral on Instagram and as a result, hundreds of people started visiting the beach every day.

This caused adverse environmental impacts, and the government imposed limits on the number of people that could visit each day in an effort to protect it.

Now, only 116 people are allowed to visit the beach each day, and a limited amount of permits are given to each tour company.

If your heart is set on going, you should do that with the tour company in advance as they do sell out. This company says they have more permits than any other.

On our Marietas Islands tour, the captain told us that two permits were available for an additional 50 USD on the way to the islands.

I didn’t go as it was my roommate’s birthday and she wanted to go with her friend that was visiting. But they loved it and said it was worth the extra money!

Don’t be disappointed if you can’t get a permit to go to the beach – the islands are still worth visiting on their own. There are other beaches on Marietas Islands which are just as stunning!

What to bring on a tour to Marietas Islands

• Biodegradable Sunscreen
• Light sweater
• Waterproof case for your phone or GoPro
• Extra cash for dock fees and photos (they have a photographer there). On top of your ticket, there is an additional 40 pesos fee to enter the marina and 100 pesos to access the islands (government fee).

When planning your itinerary to Puerto Vallarta, be sure to leave a day for a tour to Islas Marietas! These stunning islands are one of the most picturesque places to visit in the Bay of Banderas.

BOOK YOUR TOUR TO MARIETAS ISLANDS

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Lora Pope is a travel content creator who’s been wandering solo for over a decade. In 2021, she moved to Puerto Vallarta and fell in love at first sight. After visiting 70+ countries, she decided to make it her base and now helps travelers like you make the most of your time in PV.

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[…] Marietas Islands […]

Marietas Eco Discovery

Description

Practical information, good to know.

• ✓ Sun
• ✓ Mon
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• Sail on a catamaran into the Pacific, with a light breakfast to kickstart your day
• Visit Marietas Islands, a favorite of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau
• Kayak and paddleboard around the island, keeping eye peeled for dolphins
• Enjoy lunch and an open bar as you make your way back to the mainland
• Activity duration: 6 hours approx.
• English-speaking host and crew
• Continental breakfast
• Snorkeling and kayaking equipment
• Deli-style lunch and domestic open bar
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear
• Bring bathing suit, towel, hat, sunglasses, biodegradable sunblock, an extra T-shirt, insect repellent, and camera
• Bring money for environmental protection fee ($5 USD approx), souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)
• Note: Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure time
• Tour Language: English
• Tour Location(s): Puerto Vallarta
• Season: All year long
• Duration: 6 hours (approx.)
• Minimum Age Requirement: Suitable for all ages
• Hotel Pick-up Available: No
• Good Physical Condition Required: No
• Suitable For Children : Yes
• Suitable For Elderly: Yes
• Pregnant Woman Allowed: No

• Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching

Marietas Eco Discovery

888-558-3330

• Guaranteed Low Price
• No Booking Fees
• Hassle Free Reservations
• RESTRICTIONS
• Visit the World-Famous Marietas Islands for the Ultimate Vallarta Eco Tour Experience
• Kayak, Snorkel and Explore the Marine Sanctuary of Marietas
• See Why Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau Fell in Love with These Islands 
• Explore the Sealife and Waters That Surround Marietas Islands

Tour Summary

If you want to encounter the splendor and variety of Banderas Bay, then this tour is for you! Come with us as we search for dolphins playing in the Bay, catch glimpses of the awe-inspiring humpback whales that migrate through these waters, and spend hours relaxing or engaging in one of many fun activities on Marietas Islands. Let us guide you around the gorgeous natural sites and the diversity of aquatic life of Banderas Bay on this exciting tour.

Have a day you won’t forget when you hop aboard our catamaran and go whale and dolphin sighting, take a scuba diving or kayaking excursion, or participate in many more exciting activities. Humpback whales pass through Banderas Bay from December until March during their mating season migration. You can hear these colossal creatures communicate with one another or view them rising out of the sea. We guarantee that encountering the whales in the bay will be an unforgettable experience. And there’s still more. The dolphins that thrive in Banderas Bay all year long will captivate you. You will be able to see these bottlenose dolphins jumping among the waves and view firsthand their intelligence and playfulness in their natural habitat as our catamaran sets off for Marietas Islands. There are boundless opportunities to create a relaxing and fun-filled day once we reach Marietas Islands. You can take a relaxing nature walk and catch sight of tropical birds in their surrounding natural beauty. You can stroll down isolated beaches, discover secluded caverns, take a kayak tour or go on a snorkeling adventure and investigate the aquatic life – such as sea turtles, manta rays, and a variety of tropical fish - in these placid, clear waters. In these surroundings, you can also just relax on a pristine beach and soak up some sun and enjoy the constant breeze.

Our eco-guides will happy to answer all of your questions and help to make this unique experience an unforgettable one.

It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.

• SEMARNAT fee of ~$5.00 per person is not included in price.
• There is NO ACCESS to any land or beaches with this tour.
• Hidden Beach is not part of this tour.
• All cruise ship passengers MUST book this tour directly through their cruise line.
• Tour doesn't operate on Mondays

Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching is always interested in your tour experience with us. We hope you enjoyed your tour and love to hear comments.

I have been to the Bahamas many times, but Marietas Eco Discovery is one of my favorite trips! It includes everything that everyone should do here. As a Bahamas veteran, I can say only the best about this experience!

Thanks to the professional guides! I was a bit worried about kayaking because I had never done it before, but the instructions were great and I had such a good time!

The best way to discover nature! ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Price Match Guarantee

Our Prices are up to 56% cheaper

Simple & Easy Booking

Our professional and local staff is here to help

Top Quality Tours

#1 Tour and Activity Concierge in Puerto Vallarta

No "Coupon" Required

We won't be beat on price!

For reservations book online or contact us at 888-558-3330 for more information

Click Below For Reservations

• UNITED STATES 888-558-3330

Found a better price online? We'll Price Match It.

WE WON'T BE BEAT ON PRICE!

In fact, our prices are up to 56% Cheaper*

Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching is the #1 Whale Watching Tour and Activity Concierge in Puerto Vallarta

To prove it we are matching all online pricing on the tours we offer.

For price matching call

*Current prices are 30% cheaper than cruise lines!

Marietas Islands

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Marietas Islands - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Cart Expires in:

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Marieta island adventure.

$ 734 USD -0%

Google: 4.5 - 17,870 reviews

Free Cancellations

Best Price Guarantee

Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Marieta Islands on this Private Eco-Adventure!

Enjoy a brief boat ride to the Marietas Islands National Pak, keeping an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and manta rays along the way. Once you reach the islands, you enjoy the wildlife above and under the clear waters. Th­is bird-watching, paddleboarding, and snorkeling tour is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the Marieta Islands, and the smaller groups allow us to cater the tour to the group's desires.

It is important to mention that this tour does not visit the Marietas Islands' Hidden Beach. If you are interested in visiting the Hidden Beach, please click on this link.

Marietas Islands Snorkeling tour from Punta Mita

Your Punta Mita vacation is a great opportunity to discover the wonderful wildlife of this well-preserved National Park on   our Marieta Islands Private Tour for $ 734 USD for up to 6 passengers.  Additional passengers at $ 125 each.  Contact our Travel Advisors today  to book and start planning your private Marieta Islands Private tour at  1-888-526-2238  or  [email protected] .

Enjoy unmatched marine life

Come see why Jacques Cousteau fell in love with these islands and started the movement to protect them.  As the premier scuba diving and snorkeling location in the bay, you'll have the opportunity to swim with more than 100 species of fish as well as possible encounters with octopus, lobsters, rays, turtles and more - with colorful coral formations as your backdrop.

About the Marietas Islands

Located just a few kilometers from Punta Mita, these islands. formed by volcanic activity during the Cretaceous period, were designated as a National Park in 2005. An important migratory bird sanctuary, they act as a refuge for at least 92 species of aquatic bird, including the colorful Blue-Footed Booby, which also nest in the famous Galapagos Islands.

During the winter months, you might spot Humpback Whales

Seeing and hearing a Humpback whale breach 25 yards away from your boat is like no other experience. It is truly a jaw-dropping experience that should not be missed. During the winter months, you are likely to see whales during your ride to the islands. Our guides will work hard to locate the whales to add this experience to your already amazing day nature.

Contact our Travel Advisors today  to book and start planning your private Marieta Islands Private tour at  1-888-526-2238  or  [email protected] .

What's included in this tour

• Snorkeling equipment
• Paddle board
• Life jacket

What do you need to know before you book

• Life Jackets are mandatory
• People who suffer from heart disease, back or spine problems cannot participate in this activity
• Expectant mothers are restricted from this tour
• Due to federal regulations, and in an effort to protect the flight path of endemic birds, drones are prohibited in this tour. 

What to bring

• Light Sweater

CALL AN ADVENTURE ADVISOR

Toll Free from USA & Canada

1.888.526.2238 or SEND US AN EMAIL

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• From the USA or Canada:
• +1-888-526-2238
• Direct or within Punta Mita:
• 322-226-8413
• Site Policies
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• Reservation and Cancellation Policies
• © 2022 Vallarta Adventures S.A. de C.V. All Rights Reserved
• Skype: The Adventures Group
• [email protected]
• Whatsapp: +52 1(322) 182-0870 Telegram:
• COVID-19 Protocols
• About Punta Mita
• Events Calendar
• Explore Tours
• Special Offers

• Vallarta Snorkeling

Marietas Eco Discovery

888-558-3330

• Guaranteed Low Price
• No Booking Fees
• Hassle Free Reservations
• RESTRICTIONS
• Visit the World-Famous Marietas Islands for the Ultimate Vallarta Eco Tour Experience
• Kayak, Snorkel and Explore the Marine Sanctuary of Marietas
• See Why Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau Fell in Love with These Islands 
• Explore the Sealife and Waters That Surround Marietas Islands

Tour Summary

This fabulous eco-excursion will provide you and your family and friends with the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and diverse aquatic life in the world. Be sure to look for Bottlenose Dolphins frolicking in the water as we cross Banderas Bay on route to the scenic Marietas Islands for a day of ecological discovery. During the winter, be on the watch for gargantuan Humpback Whales which migrate seasonally from chillier climates. On this fantastic eco-tour, we want you to observe the remarkable sampling of wildlife that resides in Banderas Bay. Our fully-appointed catamaran will transport you over the spectacular waters of Bahia de Banderas to the federal wildlife and marine reserve at the Marietas Islands. As the motorized cat approaches Las Tres Marietas, be on the lookout for leaping dolphins, breaching whales, jumping rays, and surfacing sea turtles. After reaching the Marietas Islands, you may participate in any number of ecologically themed activities. This unforgettable day of exploration includes an assortment of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching. Observe tropical birds, migratory birds and sea birds as you move around the islands. You may see a Red-billed Tropicbird, the endangered Green Macaw, or even the rare Blue-footed Booby, which is only known to nest on the Galapagos Islands and Las Tres Marietas. The visibility around the Marietas is excellent for diving and snorkeling. Divers from all over the globe travel to Puerto Vallarta just to dive sites like the Marietas and Los Arcos. While diving or snorkeling, you'll be amazed by the vast numbers of vibrantly hued fish that reside in this locale.

It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.

• SEMARNAT fee of ~$5.00 per person is not included in price.
• There is NO ACCESS to any land or beaches with this tour.
• Hidden Beach is not part of this tour.
• All cruise ship passengers MUST book this tour directly through their cruise line.
• Tour doesn't operate on Mondays

Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling is always interested in your tour experience with us. We hope you enjoyed your tour and love to hear comments.

I have been to the Bahamas many times, but Marietas Eco Discovery is one of my favorite trips! It includes everything that everyone should do here. As a Bahamas veteran, I can say only the best about this experience!

Thanks to the professional guides! I was a bit worried about kayaking because I had never done it before, but the instructions were great and I had such a good time!

The best way to discover nature! ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Price Match Guarantee

Our Prices are up to 56% cheaper

Simple & Easy Booking

Our professional and local staff is here to help

Top Quality Tours

#1 Tour and Activity Concierge in Puerto Vallarta

No "Coupon" Required

We won't be beat on price!

For reservations book online or contact us at 888-558-3330 for more information

Click Below For Reservations

• UNITED STATES 888-558-3330

Found a better price online? We'll Price Match It.

WE WON'T BE BEAT ON PRICE!

In fact, our prices are up to 56% Cheaper*

Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling is the #1 Snorkeling Tour and Activity Concierge in Puerto Vallarta

To prove it we are matching all online pricing on the tours we offer.

For price matching call

*Current prices are 30% cheaper than cruise lines!

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HIDDEN BEACH TOUR

MARIETAS ISLANDS REVIEWS

From experienced visitors to ocean lovers looking for a great time at las Marietas Islands Tour or the Hidden Beach Snorkeling. From Warm waters, white sand and amazing wildlife, couples and families feel the instant sense of coming to a magical place full of warm people and tropical beauty. Join us and Book your Marietas Islands Tour now!

MARIETAS ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Marietas Islands National Park … Where recently declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO MAB, protecting 44 species of flora and fauna found in different risk categories. Sanctuaries for reproduction, feeding and resting of some migratory seabirds like the blue-footed booby birds.

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HIDDEN BEACH SNORKELING … (Monday and Tuesday is closed, access under strict control and restrictions; respecting the maximum number of persons allowed per day. Set by CONANP)

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