Mismaloya: Stand-Up Paddleboard & Snorkeling to Los Arcos

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and looking for a way to connect with the ocean’s beauty? This stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and snorkeling tour at Mismaloya offers a relaxed but memorable way to experience the stunning scenery and marine life of Los Arcos. While I haven’t personally done this tour, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded, nature-focused adventure that’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate a smaller, more intimate setting.

One thing I really like about this experience is how it combines paddleboarding—a gentle, fun activity that doesn’t require prior experience—with the chance to snorkel in a protected marine park. The fact that the group size is limited to just six participants means you’ll likely get more personalized attention from your guide, which many find makes the experience more enjoyable. On the flip side, it’s not the best choice if you get seasick easily or prefer a more structured, high-energy activity.

In general, this tour suits travelers who want a calm, scenic, and interactive nature experience. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in wildlife viewing and want to avoid large crowds. If snorkeling or paddleboarding is your thing, and you enjoy discovering marine environments at a relaxed pace, this could be a great option.

Key Points

• Small group vibe allows for personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.
• Unique route through the arches of the national park makes for memorable views and photos.
• Combination of paddleboarding and snorkeling offers variety and the chance to see marine life up close.
• Stunning scenery of Mismaloya Bay and Los Arcos enhances the entire experience.
• Duration of 2.5 hours makes it a manageable half-day activity.
• Accessible for beginners with a brief safety lesson included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Mismaloya SUP & Snorkel Tour

If you’re considering this tour, knowing what to expect can help you prepare and make the most of your time. From start to finish, it seems designed to maximize your connection with nature while keeping things relaxed and manageable.

The Beginning: Safety, Equipment & Introduction

Your adventure kicks off at Playa Mismaloya, a charming spot just south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Here, you’ll start with a quick safety briefing and equipment overview—no long, complicated instructions, but enough to get you comfortable with paddling and snorkeling gear. The equipment provided includes paddleboards, masks, snorkels, life vests, and leashes. Fins are not included, so if you have your own, bringing them could boost your comfort level in the water.

Paddleboarding through the Arches

Once ready, your guide will lead you on a roughly 5-kilometer paddle in the calm waters of Mismaloya Bay. We’ll pass through the famous stone arches of Los Arcos, which are not only a striking geological feature but also a haven for birds and marine animals. The guide’s local knowledge really shines here, with some reviews mentioning how guides take the time to point out interesting fauna and snap photos of guests—definitely a plus if you want memories to take home.

Paddleboarding in such a unique setting is a highlight for many. The water in the bay tends to be tranquil, making it accessible even for those new to SUP. We loved the way the landscape offers a natural sculpture—these rock formations seem to tell stories just by their shapes. For some, paddling through the arches feels almost surreal, a quiet moment to connect with nature.

Rest and Snorkeling Break

After about 40 minutes of paddling, you’ll take a break in an area equipped for swimming and snorkeling. This is a great chance to rest, enjoy the scenery, and jump into the water with your snorkel gear. Expect to see marine fauna around the stone reef, which is protected as part of the national park. One reviewer shared that they observed a whale swim right towards them, which is pretty exceptional and underscores the richness of this environment.

The 30-minute break also allows for some sunbathing, taking photos, or simply soaking in the views. The snorkeling spot is described as beautiful and teeming with marine life, so bring your curiosity and a bit of patience.

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Scenic Return and Final Tour Highlights

Following snorkeling, the guide will lead a shorter paddleback, with scenic views along the way. The total activity lasts around 2.5 hours, which is just enough time to enjoy a full taste of both paddleboarding and snorkeling without feeling rushed. You’ll end back at Mismaloya Beach, where you started, feeling refreshed and energized.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $65 per person seems quite reasonable considering the equipment, guide, and access to such a beautiful marine environment. The tour includes paddleboarding equipment, snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel), a life vest, and a leash. You’ll want to bring your own sun protection—a hat and sunscreen—plus swimwear and perhaps a towel.

Keep in mind that fins are not included and there’s no hotel pickup, so plan accordingly. Personal belongings can be left on the guide’s truck, which is convenient and keeps your hands free for paddling.

Worth noting

• The tour is conducted in English, Spanish, or French, catering to travelers from different backgrounds.
• Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Considerations

This activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and since it involves being in the ocean, it’s good for those who are comfortable with water activities and aren’t prone to seasickness.

The Experience from the Reviews

Among the two reviews, one stands out for its glowing praise: Elaine from Canada called it a “well before the hoards of other travelers” experience, appreciating the small group size and extra attention from the guide. She mentioned a whale swimming towards them, which is pretty remarkable and suggests that marine encounters here can be quite special.

The guide’s knowledge and willingness to take photos seem to be a recurring theme, making this tour not just about activity but also about capturing memories. Many find that paddling through the natural rock formations and observing the abundant birdlife makes for a truly memorable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, nature-focused adventure. It’s great for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous schedule or large crowds. If you’re a beginner to paddleboarding or snorkeling, you’ll appreciate the safety briefing and small group setting. It’s also ideal if you enjoy wildlife watching and scenic views.

However, if you’re looking for a high-energy or highly structured activity, or if you need to be in the water with fins, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, those with severe seasickness or who prefer land-based adventures may want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
The provided data doesn’t specify age restrictions. Given the gentle nature of paddleboarding and snorkeling, it’s probably suitable for older children, but it’s best to check with the tour provider directly.

Are there any health restrictions?
Pregnant women are advised not to participate, and since it’s an ocean activity, those prone to seasickness should take precautions.

Can I bring my own snorkel or fins?
Fins are not included, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Personal belongings can be left on the truck provided, so you can easily carry extras.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and possibly a towel. Personal belongings should be kept safe on the truck.

How long is the activity?
The total activity lasts about 2.5 hours, including paddling, snorkeling, and breaks.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. You’ll need to meet at Mismaloya Beach or arrange your own transport.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and activity-filled glimpse into the marine environment of Los Arcos, this paddleboard and snorkeling tour offers a lot of value. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure a more personal experience, and the chance to paddle through iconic rock formations is genuinely memorable.

It’s a good pick for adventurous beginners, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful break from busy tourist spots. Just remember to pack your sun protection, be comfortable in the water, and enjoy the incredible views of Mismaloya and its marine treasures.

This tour balances activity with relaxation, offering a meaningful way to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coast. For those who love being on the water and exploring marine life at a gentle pace, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: