PUERTO VALLARTA ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Beneath the Blue: Snorkeling the Reefs and Hidden Coves of Islas Marietas
A focused, small‑group, five‑hour snorkeling trip from Puerto Vallarta to Marietas Islands National Park—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and the wildlife you’ll likely see.
Beneath the Blue: Snorkeling the Reefs and Hidden Coves of Islas Marietas.
Set off from Puerto Vallarta for a compact, marine‑first outing to Marietas Islands National Park where guided snorkeling puts bright reef fish, corals and invertebrates within reach. Operators keep groups small, provide bilingual guides and onboard refreshments, and aim to maximize time in the water and chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles and nesting seabirds.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Reef Full of Color and Small Creatures
The snorkel portions focus on rocky reefs and coral habitat where guides point out schooling surgeonfish, parrotfish and butterflyfish alongside king angelfish, the Moorish idol and giant damselfish. Expect to see corals, sponges, tunicates and common invertebrates such as starfish and sea urchins.
Small Groups, Guided Snorkels and Onboard Refreshments
This trip emphasizes snorkeling and small‑group attention. Bilingual guides are provided, along with continental breakfast, lunch and a premium open bar after snorkeling; basic snorkel gear (mask and snorkel) is included.
Seabirds, Dolphins, Turtles and an Optional Hidden Beach
Marietas is home to a variety of seabirds — from blue‑footed boobies to frigatebirds, pelicans and waders — and with luck you may see dolphins or sea turtles near the islands. The itinerary can include optional access to the famous Hidden Beach when conditions allow.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
In five hours you move from the harbor onto open water, pause around the Marietas to watch seabirds and scan for dolphins, then make multiple guided snorkel stops over reefs that shelter a wide variety of fish and invertebrates. Time off the water includes a continental breakfast, boat lunch and a premium open bar after snorkeling — all delivered with bilingual guide commentary and small‑group attention.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should sit this one out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a swimsuit and towel, sunglasses and hat, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen and cash for tips and personal expenses. Note the marina entrance and park conservation fees are listed alongside other prep notes.
There is a marina entrance fee (33 MXN per person, approx. $2 USD) and a Marine Park Conservation Fee (220 MXN per person, approx. $8 USD); bring small cash to cover these.
Basic snorkel equipment — mask and snorkel — is supplied by the operator; consider bringing your own camera and biodegradable sunscreen.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The outing lasts approximately 5 hours.
What are the departure days and time?
The experience is available Tuesday through Sunday with a 9:00 AM departure time.
Where do we meet?
Meet at the maritime terminal in Puerto Vallarta; detailed directions are provided with your booking confirmation.
What’s included in the price?
The trip includes bilingual guides, continental breakfast, lunch on the boat, a premium open bar after snorkeling, and mask & snorkel rental.
Are there age or health restrictions?
Minimum age is 6 years; the trip is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with heart conditions or back/neck problems.
Are there additional park or marina fees?
Yes: a marina entrance fee (33 MXN per person, approx. $2 USD) and a Marine Park Conservation Fee (220 MXN per person, approx. $8 USD).
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refundable or accepted.