Adventure brief
Marietas Islands by Ecotours
Spend 5 unforgettable hours with Vallarta Best Tours at Mexico’s Marietas Islands, home to rare seabirds and vibrant marine life. Snorkel, birdwatch, and ride the waves in this protected national park close to Puerto Vallarta.
Located in the vibrant Bahía de Banderas on Mexico’s Pacific coast, the Marietas Islands stand as a rugged, wild sanctuary, just a short boat ride from San Vicente, Nayarit. Vallarta Best Tours offers a focused 5-hour excursion to this intriguing cluster of islets, known for their unique geological formations and rich biodiversity. The islands are perhaps most celebrated for their hidden beach, Playa del Amor, carved by ocean waves through volcanic rock, and their role as a protected national park since 2005.
What sets this trip apart is the blend of thrilling ocean travel with intimate wildlife encounters. Guests board a swift, safe boat to cruise across the turquoise waters, arriving ready to spot a variety of seabirds, including the peculiar blue-footed boobies—whose comical gait and vibrant feet captivate visitors—and the impressive frigate birds, famous for their bold wing span and bright red throat pouch. Snorkeling here reveals an underwater world bustling with tropical fish, sea turtles, and vivid coral formations.
Vallarta Best Tours provides all necessary gear, plus refreshments, ensuring comfort between adventures. This trip is suitable for families and nature lovers eager to engage with Mexico’s coastal ecosystems without the long haul to more remote destinations. The experience perfectly balances adventure and accessibility.
Boarding the fast boat, you’ll feel the salty spray during the journey, while the protected park lets you dive into its crystal-clear waters and observe wildlife in a pristine environment. Vallarta Best Tours stands out in the local outdoor scene by delivering these immersive encounters with professionalism and respect for the delicate habitat. Whether you seek birdwatching, snorkeling, or simply to witness one of Mexico’s most distinctive marine environments, the Marietas Islands tour captures the spirit of Pacific coast adventure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear water shoes for rocky shorelinesessential
Footwear with good grip helps navigate volcanic rock areas near the hidden beach.
- 02Bring reef-safe sunscreenessential
Protect marine life while enjoying snorkeling under the sun.
- 03Use a hat and sunglasses on the boatinfo
The boat ride can be exposed to direct sunlight; sun protection is important.
- 04Pack a waterproof camerainfo
Capture underwater scenes and seabirds without worrying about splash damage.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem from harmful chemicals.
summerEssentialWater shoes
Provide grip and protection on volcanic rocks and uneven shorelines.
EssentialSnorkel mask and fins
Essential for viewing underwater life comfortably and efficiently.
EssentialWaterproof camera
Ideal for capturing vibrant marine life and island landscapes without water damage.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach), Underwater caves near the islands
Local fauna
Blue-footed booby, Magnificent frigate bird
Historic heritage
Declared a national park in 2005, the Marietas Islands protect vital breeding grounds for seabirds and marine species.
Mindful exploration
Strict visitation limits and no-touch policies help preserve the sensitive ecosystems of this protected marine area.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the boat approaching the islands, At Playa del Amor inside the hidden beach, Sea-level snorkeling views
- Subjects
- Seabirds in flight or perched, Underwater marine life, Volcanic rock formations and hidden beach
- Best times
- Early morning for soft light and calm seas, Golden hour for warm tones
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are snorkeling skills required for this tour?
Basic snorkeling skills are helpful but not required, as guides provide equipment and safety instructions.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and up can participate, making it a great family-friendly outing.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely spot blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and colorful tropical fish during snorkels.
Are refreshments provided during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes soft drinks, juices, granola bars, and sandwiches to keep you energized.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations 48 hours in advance receive a full refund; less than that, no refunds apply.
How rough is the boat ride to the islands?
The ride typically takes around 30 minutes on a fast, safe boat; sea conditions vary but are usually calm.