Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach: Small Groups Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Jalisco, Mexico, chances are you’ve heard about the famous Hidden Beach — and for good reason. These small-group tours offer a chance to experience one of the most unique natural wonders in the area. We’ve looked into a tour that combines adventure, wildlife, and local flavor, and what stands out is how well it balances excitement with some very memorable sights.

What really catches our eye are two things: first, the chance to swim through a marine tunnel to reach the secluded beach—an experience that feels like stepping into a secret world; second, the optional activities like snorkeling at Skull Reef and trying out the Subwing experience, which let you glide through the water in a fun, almost dolphin-like way. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the tour’s physical demands: you need to be comfortable swimming and be at least 10 years old, so it might not be suited for very young children or travelers with mobility issues.

This tour looks like a fantastic pick for active travelers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a more intimate experience at the Marietas Islands. If you enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and a variety of aquatic activities, you’ll probably find this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: With fewer than 9 people, expect a more personalized experience.
• Comprehensive Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, bird watching, surfing, and even the Subwing make this a full day of fun.
• Seasonal Access: The Secret Beach is only open from December to April, so plan accordingly.
• Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a tasty shrimp ceviche and beers, adding a nice touch to the day.
• Physical Demands: Requires swimming ability and comfort in the water; not ideal for non-swimmers or mobility-restricted travelers.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to plan your trip without pressure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Adventure: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at the lobby of Hotel Ancora Mita, a convenient spot if you’re staying nearby. The small-group format, capped at fewer than nine participants, really enhances the experience by allowing for more interaction with your guide and less waiting or crowding. This intimacy often means your guide can tailor some parts of the tour to your group’s interests or pace.

The Marine Tunnel and Hidden Beach

The highlight for many is undoubtedly swimming through the marine tunnel to reach the Hidden Beach. This is no ordinary beach — it’s a natural cavity with an opening in the rocky formation that only a handful of people get to see firsthand each year. The guide brings a life ring and flippers, which is reassuring if you’re a bit uneasy about swimming or if you’re not a confident swimmer.

One reviewer described the experience as “like entering a secret world,” emphasizing how special it feels to actually reach this secluded spot. The water is calm enough for most swimmers, but you’ll want to be comfortable in the water and ready for a bit of adventure.

Caves, Waterways, and Bird Watching

Once inside the Hidden Beach, exploring the caves and waterways is on the agenda. This part is perfect if you love nature and like discovering hidden corners. Bird watching is also part of the experience, where you might see the famous blue-footed booby birds—a fun detail for those interested in wildlife.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling at Skull Reef

Snorkeling is a major activity here, specifically at Skull Reef, which is notable for being home to a fish species that harvests its own food — the Damsel-Fish. Seeing these fish in their natural habitat adds a layer of authenticity and excitement. “Snorkeling at Skull Reef was a highlight,” reports one traveler, who appreciated the chance to see marine life up close.

The Secret Beach (Seasonal)

Access to the Secret Beach is limited to December through April, due to sea currents. During this window, you’ll get to experience one of the most coveted parts of the tour. It’s a bit like catching a rare glimpse of something only a select few get to see, which makes it all the more special.

The Stone Bridge and Marine Geyser

The tour doesn’t stop at the beaches. You’ll also visit the second crater of Rounded Island, known as the Stone Bridge, and observe the marine geyser, which periodically jets water high into the air. These natural features add variety and showcase the geological wonders of the area.

Wildlife and Whale Watching

Depending on the season, the tour might include whale watching—from December to April, you could spot humpback whales breaching or spouting nearby. If you’re lucky, this will be a breathtaking moment that elevates your day.

Surf Lessons and the Subwing Experience

If trying new things is your style, you’ll love the beginner surf lesson on a beach renowned for friendly waves. It’s ideal for first-timers and a great way to connect with the sea.

The Subwing is a standout feature, allowing you to feel like a dolphin gliding underwater. Towed behind the boat, you can perform simple acrobatics or just enjoy the sensation of floating effortlessly through the water. Several reviews mention how fun and unique this activity is.

Lunch and Relaxation

After a busy morning, you’ll head to Anclote Beach for a well-earned lunch of shrimp ceviche and beers. The food is described as delicious, and it’s a good chance to relax and absorb the day’s experiences.

Addressing Practicalities: Pricing, Duration, and What’s Included

At $191 per person, this tour offers a lot of value given the range of activities packed into four hours. It includes the guided safari, swimming through the marine tunnel, snorkeling, bird watching, visits to the Secret Beach and Stone Bridge, marine geyser viewing, whale watching (seasonal), and optional activities like surfing and Subwing.

What’s not included is transportation to the meeting point, so you’ll need to plan accordingly — the meeting is at Hotel Ancora Mita. The tour typically runs in the morning, providing a fresh start to your day.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus, but it’s not suitable for children under 10, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or non-swimmers. If you’re over 70 or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Tips for Your Trip

Bring swimwear and sunscreen—essential for a full day of water activities. Touching marine life is not allowed, so be respectful of the environment.

The Overall Value and Who Will Love This Tour

This experience genuinely offers a well-rounded introduction to the Marietas Islands. The combination of natural wonders, wildlife, and active water sports keeps the day engaging without feeling rushed. The smaller group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the variety of activities ensures there’s something for all.

The included lunch, especially the shrimp ceviche, adds a satisfying touch that makes the whole day feel complete. The seasonal access to the Secret Beach is one of those details that makes this tour special — it’s a chance to witness something rare, but you should plan your visit between December and April for that.

If you’re someone who loves a bit of adventure, enjoys wildlife, and values intimate, small-group tours, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your trip. That said, if you’re not comfortable swimming or are traveling with very young children, you might want to explore alternative options or plan for a different kind of tour.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to the meeting point at Hotel Ancora Mita is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride there.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and sunscreen. Since you’ll be in the water, waterproof bags or jars are provided for your phones, and touching marine life is not allowed.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, which is perfect for fitting into a day of exploring.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s recommended for swimmers because swimming through tunnels and snorkeling are key parts of the experience. Not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 10 years old are not recommended, as the activities require a certain level of comfort in the water.

Final Thoughts

This small-group tour of the Marietas Islands delivers a well-balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. Its focus on intimate, personalized experiences makes it a standout for travelers who want more than just a boat ride — they want to get close to nature and truly explore. The activities, from snorkeling and swimming through tunnels to trying the Subwing, promise a day packed with fun and discovery.

The inclusion of delicious local food and the possibility of whale sightings during the season add extra layers to this already compelling package. While it’s not suited for everyone, especially those with limited mobility or young children, it’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to see the best of what these islands have to offer.

If you’re ready for an adventure that combines natural beauty with interactive fun, this tour could be just the thing to elevate your time in Jalisco. Just remember to book ahead, check the season for the Secret Beach, and enjoy every minute of your underwater exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: