Whale watching with Snorkeling and beach Colomitos

If you’re considering a tour that combines whale watching, snorkeling, and exploring a hidden gem like Colomitos Beach, this Puerto Vallarta excursion might catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on the details, it offers a nice mix of marine wildlife, scenic snorkeling, and remote beach beauty.

What we really like about this experience is how it showcases different facets of the local environment: the chance to see whales up close, snorkeling in a vibrant underwater world, and relaxing at one of Mexico’s tiniest and most charming beaches. The fact that it’s only about four hours means it fits well into most itineraries without feeling overly drawn out.

One possible drawback is the limited info about the actual whale-spotting activity—while catching whales is often hit-or-miss depending on the season and weather—and the tour’s dependence on good weather, which could affect your day. Still, it’s ideal for nature lovers, families, or travelers who want a compact adventure that hits the highlights of Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal scenery.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of wildlife, snorkeling, and scenic beaches without spending a whole day at sea. If you’re after a straightforward, reasonably priced outing with good variety, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Combines whale watching, snorkeling at Los Arcos, and visiting Colomitos Beach.
• Short and sweet: About 4 hours, making it suitable for a half-day plan.
• Cost-effective: At $57 per person, it offers good value considering the activities included.
• Limited group size: Max 20 travelers, so it feels more personal than some large tours.
• Weather dependent: The tour relies on good weather, especially for whale sightings.
• Free admission: Both snorkeling and beach stops are free, which adds to the value.

Whale Watching with Viento Negro Tours

The tour begins with whale watching, which is a real highlight if you’re lucky. You’ll board with Viento Negro Tours and spend about an hour trying to spot these majestic creatures. The description mentions that they’ll follow the whales for a while, a detail that suggests some patience and a bit of luck are involved—whales aren’t always predictable, but when they appear, it’s quite special.

From what we gather, this part of the tour is quite straightforward: you get to press your face against the boat’s viewing windows or stand outside to catch the sights. The experience seems to be about patience and appreciation of marine life, which is a wonderful way to connect with nature.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos de Mismaloya

Next, you’ll head to Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a designated national park. This is likely the most visually striking part of the day, with turquoise waters, rocky formations, and abundant marine life. The tour includes a snorkeling session—which could be the best part if you enjoy exploring underwater scenes.

The tour description highlights a brief guided tour around the islands, where you might spot blue-footed birds and boobies—an interesting detail that adds a touch of wildlife observation outside the water. The free admission to this area suggests no extra cost, making it a good value.

If you’re familiar with snorkeling, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see vibrant fish and coral formations. If you’re new to it, don’t worry—gear is usually provided, and the calm waters of the park tend to make for an accessible experience.

Beach Day at Playa Colomitos

The highlight for many might be the visit to Playa Colomitos, the smallest beach in Mexico. It’s a tiny, stunning stretch of sand accessible only by boat, surrounded by lush jungle and mountains. The wooden bridges and waterfall give it a uniquely peaceful vibe, perfect for relaxing or snapping memorable photos.

Spending around two hours here gives ample time to soak up the scenery, dip your toes in the water, or simply enjoy the serenity away from crowds. The tour notes that there are no hotels, cars, or streets—just nature—making it a true escape.

Final Stop and Return

After this peaceful interlude, the tour wraps up back at the starting point. Given the limited duration, it’s a well-contained experience that leaves you feeling like you’ve seen a good slice of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal and marine environment.

Based on the tour details, you can expect a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, underwater exploration, and beach lounging. The group size max of 20 means it won’t be overly crowded, and the mobile ticket convenience makes planning easier.

The tour is priced at $57, which aligns well with the variety of activities offered. Considering that both snorkeling and beach stops are free, the main expense is the boat ride and whale-watching. You’re paying mostly for the experience and the chance to see whales, which, depending on the season, can be a thrilling highlight.

The description mentions the tour is booked on average 12 days in advance, so it’s recommended to plan ahead. The fact that it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can book with some peace of mind, especially if weather looks uncertain.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Combines marine wildlife, snorkeling, and a beautiful secluded beach
– Good value for a half-day adventure
– Small group size enhances the experience
– The stops are free to access, reducing additional costs
– Scenic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and islands

Cons:
– Whale sightings depend on season and weather; not guaranteed
– Limited information on the specific whale-watching success
– Weather-dependent activity, which could cause cancellations or rescheduling
– Short duration might not satisfy travelers wanting an in-depth experience

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a balanced, easy-going outing that hits several highlights without consuming an entire day. It’s great for travelers who want to see whales if possible, snorkel in beautiful waters, and relax on a tiny beach surrounded by jungle.

If you’re traveling with friends or a small family, it offers a good mix of adventure and tranquility. However, if whale-watching is your main goal and you’re visiting outside peak season, be aware that sightings are never guaranteed.

The tour’s affordability and variety make it a compelling choice for those on a budget or with limited time. If you’re after a more comprehensive or exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a well-rounded half-day trip, this one hits most marks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify, the activities—whale watching, snorkeling, and beach visits—are generally family-friendly. Just keep in mind that snorkeling may require some basic swimming ability, and the boat ride could be bumpy if seas are rough.

What should I bring for the snorkeling?
You might find that snorkel gear is provided, but it’s always good to bring your own mask, fins, and snorkel if you have them, plus sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if weather or other plans require it.

How long is the boat ride?
The description doesn’t give an exact boat ride time, but the whale-watching portion is about an hour, which suggests the boat ride to the whale sighting area and other stops is included in the overall 4 hours 15 minutes.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easier to access without a car.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, providing a more personal experience.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a flexible, scenic, and wildlife-rich snapshot of Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal beauty. If you’re someone who appreciates the thrill of spotting whales, the tranquility of snorkeling in a marine park, and the serenity of a tiny jungle-surrounded beach, this could be a lovely way to spend part of your vacation.

While it’s not a guaranteed whale encounter, the combination of activities and the stunning scenery makes it a solid choice for those who want a diverse, memorable half-day adventure. Just keep an eye on the weather and plan ahead to make the most of this charming Puerto Vallarta experience.