Full Day Tour Isla Marietas with Meals and Open Bar

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and curious about the Isla Marietas adventure? We’ve taken a close look at this tour to help you figure out if it’s a good fit for your travel style. Designed to showcase one of Mexico’s most stunning marine parks, this experience offers a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and good food—all wrapped into a full day’s outing.

What really draws us in are the chance to see dolphins, whales, and marine life in their natural habitat and the opportunity to explore the caves and hidden beaches of the islands. Plus, the inclusion of meals and an open bar makes it feel like a relaxed, all-in-one trip. That said, some travelers might find the timing and some hidden costs a bit tricky, so it’s worth knowing what to expect.

If you’re someone who loves marine adventures, stunning scenery, and a bit of socializing over drinks, this tour could be right up your alley. But if you prefer a more private or less scheduled experience, you might want to explore other options. Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day of fun and nature.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a catamaran ride—plenty of ways to explore the waters.
• Enjoy meals and an open bar—making the day more relaxed and social.
• Timing can be long, with some reviews noting a 2-hour ride each way and a full schedule.
• Clear costs for park entry and optional extras—but be aware of additional fees like the conservation bracelet or Playa del Amor access.
• Guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, adding value through their knowledge.
• Some travelers mention that the boat and amenities may seem a bit aged, so manage expectations if comfort is a priority.

The Experience in Depth

Starting Out: Meeting Point & Timing

The adventure begins early, at the Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta, with a start time of 8:15 am. It’s a good idea to arrive a little earlier to handle check-in smoothly. The tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, including transportation, boat rides, and plenty of water-based activities.

The group size can go up to 80 travelers, so if you prefer smaller, more intimate groups, this might feel a bit crowded. On the plus side, most travelers find the guides friendly and attentive, which makes a big difference on a busy day.

The Journey to Isla Marietas

One of the common points in reviews is the long ride—about two hours each way. While the scenic views can be enjoyable, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to long transfers. Some travelers note that the boat ride can be a bit rough or “shabby,” especially if the seas are choppy, so packing seasickness remedies or choosing a more comfortable boat might be wise.

The Main Attraction: Isla Marietas

Once you arrive, the stunning beauty of the islands becomes apparent. The hidden beach (Playa del Amor) is the star of the show, though access is not included in the base price and costs about MXN 1000. The boat anchorings and cave explorations are what make this tour special. As one review mentioned, “swimming through the cave was cool,” and that’s a highlight for many.

However, some travelers remark that getting to the hidden beach requires swimming proficiency, especially since you might need to swim out from the boat or through caves. The water can be extremely choppy, and not everyone might be comfortable with that. If you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll probably enjoy the challenge; if not, it’s still fun to enjoy the views from the boat or relax on the beaches.

Marine Life & Water Activities

We love the mention of endless fish and dolphins, which are common sightings here, as well as humpback whales between December and March. The guides do their best to keep you informed, and most reviews praise their professionalism.

On the water, you’ll have snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and kayaks at your disposal. The snorkeling is a major highlight — you’ll love discovering the colorful underwater world if conditions are calm. From reviews, it’s clear that some feel the snorkeling is short or limited, but still worthwhile.

Food, Drinks, & Additional Perks

Included in the tour are breakfast and lunch, with most reviewers saying the food is good. Expect salads with chicken, tuna, or vegetarian options, and plenty of drinks to keep you hydrated and happy. The open bar, however, has some caveats. It’s only available during the return trip, and the selection and volume of alcohol can vary — some travelers say it’s not as extensive as expected.

One of the most appreciated aspects is the fun, flowing drinks and good food, which help make the day feel less rushed. Keep in mind, tips are not included, and there is an optional conservation bracelet you can purchase—necessary if you want to access certain areas, like Playa del Amor.

Notable Downsides & Caveats

Some reviews highlight disorganization, such as arriving late or miscommunication about fees. One reviewer pointed out that the boat and amenities might seem aged, which could affect comfort. The timing is also quite tight for those with a strict schedule, like cruise visitors who need to return by a certain time.

A few travelers mention extra fees and confusing policies, like the need to pay MXN 33 for park entry or MXN 180 for the conservation bracelet. Not all of these costs are included upfront, so it’s worth budgeting a bit more.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy water sports and marine life. If you’re comfortable swimming and keen to explore caves, beaches, and underwater scenery, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also a good choice if you want meals and drinks included and don’t mind a longer day with some group camaraderie.

However, if you prioritize luxury, comfort, or a private experience, you might find this tour a bit hectic or crowded. It’s also less ideal if you’re only interested in visiting Playa del Amor, as access to the beach costs extra and requires effort.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Isla Marietas tour offers a packed itinerary of breathtaking scenery, marine adventure, and good food. The inclusion of snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a catamaran makes it a well-rounded experience for water lovers. The guides are generally well-reviewed for their friendliness and knowledge, which helps bring the experience to life.

The long transfer time and the occasional mention of dated boat amenities or disorganization mean this isn’t for everyone. But for those who enjoy active, social days exploring nature, it’s a solid choice that promises plenty of fun and memorable moments.

In the end, this tour balances adventure and relaxation—perfect for travelers eager to see the best of the islands and enjoy good food and drinks in a beautiful setting. Just be prepared for some extra costs and a busy schedule, and you’ll likely come away with some fantastic stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that swimming proficiency is recommended for accessing certain areas like the hidden beach. Younger children should be comfortable in the water and supervised closely.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The round trip is approximately two hours each way, so plan for a total of about four hours just in transit. This is a common point in reviews, so be prepared for a longer transfer.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, breakfast, lunch, an open bar on the boat (during the return), paddleboards, and kayaks are included. Park entry fees and optional extras like the conservation bracelet are extra.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the conservation bracelet costs MXN 180, and access to Playa del Amor costs MXN 1000. The park entry fee is MXN 33 per person.

What’s the quality of the food and drinks?
Most travelers report the food is good, with salads and a variety of beverages. The open bar is only available during the return trip, and the selection can vary.

How crowded does this tour get?
With up to 80 travelers, it can feel busy, especially at popular spots like the hidden beach. Guides try to keep things organized, but expect some hustle.

Can I go to Playa del Amor?
Access is not included in the base package and costs about MXN 1000. It involves swimming and some effort, so be prepared.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
You can still enjoy the boat ride, the views, and the beaches, but some reviews suggest that snorkeling is a highlight, so consider whether you’re comfortable in the water.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations later than that are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you’re looking for a full day of water-based adventure, good meals, and social drinking, it’s a solid pick. Just stay mindful of the long transfers and extra costs. For a more private or relaxed experience, explore other options.

In sum, this Isla Marietas tour from Puerto Vallarta delivers a lively, scenic, and fun-filled day. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see the islands’ natural beauty, enjoy water activities, and indulge in good food and drinks. Just keep your expectations aligned with the realities of group tours—sometimes hectic, sometimes a bit dated, but almost always memorable.