Thinking about exploring the stunning Marietas Islands? This Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Paradise Tour + Lunch & Open Bar promises a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation—all wrapped into a six-hour trip. We’ve looked into what this tour offers to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What really catches our eye are the chance to snorkel in protected waters and the opportunity to see humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles—especially if you’re visiting in the right season. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and open bar makes it feel like a good deal for those wanting a full, lively day.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women, so if you’re traveling with little ones or expecting, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, the extra fees—like the Marine Park Conservation Fee and marina entrance fee—are additional costs to keep in mind.

Overall, if you’re seeking a well-rounded day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and enjoying local scenery with some great amenities, this tour could be a solid choice. It’s especially appealing to those who love being on the water and want to keep the trip relaxed yet engaging.

Key Points

Stunning Views & Wildlife: Expect incredible vistas of the volcanic islands, plus sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and whales.
Snorkeling & Kayaking: Complete gear is provided, making it easy to explore the marine life and the calm waters.
Food & Drinks: A tasty lunch plus an open bar after water activities enhance the experience.
Ecological Focus: The tour promotes awareness of conservation efforts, making it more meaningful.
Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve without payment upfront.
Additional Fees: Budget for the Marine Park Conservation Fee (around $8 USD) and marina entrance (about $2 USD).

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Setting Out for the Islands: The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off at either the Maritime Terminal (API) in Puerto Vallarta or Puerto Mágico, giving travelers a convenient starting point. From there, you’ll hop aboard a boat, often with a friendly crew that makes everyone feel welcomed.

The ride itself is part of the fun, since you’re sailing along Bahía de Banderas, appreciating the scenic coastline and ocean views. Many reviews highlight how smooth and comfortable the boat ride is, especially if you’re prone to seasickness—just remember to bring seasick medication if you’re sensitive.

What the Guides Share & What You Can Expect

While the crew provides useful info about the islands and marine life, the tone is relaxed rather than overly educational. They often share interesting tidbits about the marine park status of the islands, emphasizing their ecological importance. It’s a good touch for those interested in conservation or simply wanting to learn a bit more about the region.

Enjoying the Food & Drinks

One of the tour’s highlights is the continental breakfast—sweet bread, coffee, and a fresh fruit cocktail with yogurt and granola. This sets a relaxed tone and helps you start the day without feeling rushed. After water activities, the open bar kicks in with a variety of alcoholic drinks, perfect for unwinding as you cruise back.

Lunch is included, and although details are sparse, reviews suggest it’s a satisfying meal that keeps everyone energized for the day. Expect a well-prepared option that balances flavors, considering this is a tour aimed at providing both fun and comfort.

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The Main Attractions: The Islands & Marine Life

The real magic happens when you reach the Marietas Islands, a designated National Park thanks to their ecological and geological significance. These islands are famous for the secret beach, which is only accessible by boat or swimming, and the incredible diversity of marine life.

You’ll have opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking, with complete equipment provided. Many travelers mention how clear the water is and how abundant the sea life can be, with some seeing stingrays, sea turtles, and dolphins. The chance to observe humpback whales is especially exciting if you visit during the winter season, as you might see these gentle giants breach or spy their fins.

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Snorkeling: The Marine Park’s Best Feature

Snorkeling in the protected waters of the marine park is often described as a highlight. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for beginners and experts alike. The gear is well-maintained, and guides are happy to give tips on how to spot marine creatures.

One review noted, “The snorkeling equipment was complete, and I loved the way the water’s transparency let us see so many colorful fish and rays.” This adds real value to the trip, especially for those keen on exploring underwater life without extra hassle or expense.

Visiting the Secret Beach

Access to the hidden beach is what makes this tour stand out. The beach is described as breathtaking and secluded, a perfect spot for taking photos or just relaxing away from crowds. Be aware that access might involve swimming through a small opening or waiting for calm waters, so comfort in the water is a plus here.

Some reviews mention that the beach isn’t always accessible, depending on weather conditions or tides, so patience and flexibility are key.

Wildlife & Seasonal Sightings

During the winter months, humpback whales make their way to the area, and many guests are thrilled by sightings of these majestic creatures. Dolphins are also common, often seen playing around the boat, adding to the sense of connection with nature.

Sea turtles, including Pacific ridley turtles, are spotted during the trip, giving an extra layer of excitement for wildlife lovers.

The Return & Relaxation

After a full day of activity, you’ll head back on the boat, often enjoying a toast with drinks from the open bar. The relaxed pace and friendly crew contribute to a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and sharing stories about the day’s sights.

Pricing & Value

At $101 per person, this tour offers a lot—snorkeling, kayaking, a meal, drinks, and the chance to see incredible wildlife and scenery. When you consider the additional fees (around $10 USD total for park and marina entry), it’s still a competitive price for a day full of activities and stunning vistas.

Reviews indicate that many find the experience good value, especially since the boat, equipment, and meals are all included. It’s a convenient, worry-free way to tick off multiple highlights in one trip.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, exploring marine environments, and enjoying natural beauty. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity like swimming or kayaking and are comfortable spending time on a boat.

Not suitable for young children under 6 or pregnant women, so families with small kids should consider other options. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities to see whales and sea turtles, this tour checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, engaging day trip from Puerto Vallarta that combines beautiful scenery, wildlife sightings, and good amenities, this Marietas Islands tour is worth considering. The highlight for many is the chance to snorkel in clear waters and visit the secret beach—truly memorable experiences.

The tour’s relaxed vibe, coupled with the inclusion of lunch and drinks, makes it a comfortable choice for unwinding and enjoying a slice of nature’s best. Just remember the extra fees and the limited suitability for very young kids or pregnant travelers.

Ultimately, this trip offers a chance to connect with nature in an accessible, enjoyable way, perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Ready to Book?

Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Paradise Tour + Lunch & Open Bar

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, with most of that time spent sailing, swimming, and relaxing on the islands.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You can meet either at the Maritime Terminal (API) or Puerto Mágico in Puerto Vallarta—both are convenient starting points.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a continental breakfast, snorkeling gear, kayak access, lunch, and an open bar after water activities.

Are there extra fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a Marine Park Conservation Fee (around 180 MXN or $8 USD) and a marina entrance fee (33 MXN or about $2 USD), both paid locally.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, during the winter season, humpback whales are often spotted, along with dolphins and sea turtles.

Is the snorkeling good?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise the clear waters and abundance of marine life, making it a rewarding experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women, mainly because of water activities and boat time.

How is the weather likely to affect the trip?
Since access to the secret beach depends on tides and weather, rough seas or strong winds may limit access or cause delays.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for additional fees or tips.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you love being near water, want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and relaxed amenities, then yes. Just be prepared for the fees and check the weather forecast.

This tour offers an authentic taste of what the Marietas Islands have to offer—stunning views, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back vibe. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without feeling rushed, especially if you’re keen on snorkeling and wildlife spotting.