Private Half-Day Tour with Snorkeling at Animas Beach

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Coastline: A Practical Look at the Private Half-Day Snorkeling Tour

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and craving a break from crowded beaches and bustling streets, this private half-day tour offers a chance to experience some of the most beautiful, secluded spots accessible only by sea. It’s designed for travelers looking for a relaxed, intimate adventure—no large crowds, just your group exploring marine life and untouched beaches.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines snorkeling at Los Arcos de Mismaloya with visits to Playa Colomitos and Playa Las Animas—three distinctly different but equally stunning locations. The feeling of being driven around in a private boat, away from the noise of hotels and traffic, is pretty special.

A potential consideration: since the tour is about four and a half hours long, including travel and stops, it’s not suitable if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or want to include other activities. It’s a good fit for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with some snorkeling thrown in. Families, couples, or friends wanting a peaceful escape will find this perfect, especially if you’re after a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty without the crowds.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate quiet beaches, nature, and marine life and prefer a tailored, private outing. If you love snorkeling and discovering lesser-known coastal spots, this might just be what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with your own group, no sharing with strangers.
• Includes snorkeling at Los Arcos, a notable marine reserve.
• Visits three beautiful beaches—each offering a different vibe and scenery.
• Timing is flexible enough to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed.
• Cost per group makes it practical for small groups or families.
• Focus on natural, untouched beauty—no hotels, no streets, just the sea and jungle.

A Close Look at What This Tour Offers

The Perfect Introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s Coastal Secrets

This tour is well-suited for those who want to explore parts of Puerto Vallarta that aren’t on every tourist map. Instead of sticking to the crowded beaches or tourist-packed spots, you’ll be taken out on a private boat to three of the region’s most charming highlights. We appreciated that the experience is catered to just your group, making it more personal and flexible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

Starting with the famous Los Arcos, this area is a designated national park and a top snorkeling spot. You’ll get about an hour here, which is enough to enjoy the underwater world and see some interesting marine life. According to reviews, snorkeling here is a highlight—”we loved the way the marine life was so accessible, the fish and coral are vibrant.” Plus, a short guided tour around the islands gives you a chance to spot blue-footed birds and boobies, which are quite the local specialty.

This part of the trip is great for those interested in marine wildlife, and the free admission makes it an excellent value. If you’re into underwater exploring, you’ll find the snorkeling gear provided quite adequate. Just remember, since it’s a protected area, don’t expect crowds or loud commercial operators here.

Stop 2: Playa Colomitos

Next up is Playa Colomitos, billed as the smallest beach in Mexico. It’s a real gem—tiny, unspoiled, and accessible by boat. The beach’s charm is amplified by wooden bridges and a small waterfall nearby, perfect for photos or just relaxing in nature. Visitors often mention the beautiful scenery and photo opportunities, and the secluded feel makes it a peaceful stop.

You’ll spend about an hour here. It’s a fantastic place to dip your toes in the water or sit with a drink and enjoy the jungle surroundings. Since it’s small and natural, don’t expect amenities—be prepared for a more rustic experience. It’s ideal if you’re looking to connect with nature rather than lounging around in a resort.

Stop 3: Playa Las Animas

The final stop is Playa Las Animas, which offers a pristine, untouched beach surrounded only by jungle. The beauty here is in its wild, natural state—no hotels, no cars, just pure beach and jungle. It’s accessible only by sea, so it feels like your own private paradise. You’ll have about two hours to relax, swim, or grab a meal at a local restaurant.

Reviews highlight that this beach is perfect for swimming and unwinding in a peaceful environment. The native people and absence of civilization make it feel authentic, away from the hustle. You can also opt to eat at the on-site restaurant, which provides fresh local dishes—an added bonus.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, mountains, and jungle. Traveling in a private boat allows for flexibility—you can ask to linger longer at a spot or move on sooner, which is a plus over bigger group tours.

The boat ride itself is part of the charm—there’s something special about exploring the coastline from the water. It’s a chance to see the natural landscape from close up and appreciate the unspoiled beauty of the area.

The Cost and Value

At $265 per group, the price is reasonable considering it’s private and includes multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a flexible schedule. For small groups or families, it’s quite good value; compared to larger tours, you’re paying for a more personalized experience. The fact that it’s an exclusive trip means fewer crowds and more flexibility.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour lasts about 4 hours and 25 minutes, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule. Its private nature means you won’t be part of a large group, which many travelers find more enjoyable. The tour is accessible for most travelers, and service animals are allowed.

Since the tour is entirely outdoors and involves boat travel, be prepared for sun exposure and bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and water. The boat ride can be bumpy if the sea is rough, so check the weather forecast if you’re sensitive to motion sickness.

Why This Tour Might Not Be for Everyone

While the experience is largely positive, there are some points to keep in mind. The lack of amenities on some beaches—like Playa Colomitos and Las Animas—is part of the charm, but might not appeal to those expecting loungers and bars. Also, the duration means it’s a relatively short snapshot of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline; if you want a full-day adventure or more intense activities, you might look elsewhere.

Plus, since the tour is about exploring untouched natural areas, it’s not suited for travelers seeking hotel comfort or bustling attractions. Those who prefer a more active or social experience might find this too tranquil.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private half-day tour offers a peaceful, scenic escape into Puerto Vallarta’s less-traveled coastal spots. It’s perfect for visitors who value natural beauty, marine life, and tranquility over crowds and commercialized beaches. The flexibility, privacy, and focus on untouched beaches make it stand out, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family looking for a relaxed day outdoors.

If you’re someone who loves snorkeling, photography, or simply soaking in unspoiled scenery, you’ll likely find this experience memorable. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural charm without a hectic schedule or noisy crowds.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since it’s private and flexible. Just keep in mind the beaches are rustic and natural—no amenities or shade, so prepare accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes, including travel time, snorkeling, and beach stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, snorkeling gear, and visits to Los Arcos, Colomitos, and Las Animas. Admission to these locations is free, but any food or drinks at the beach restaurants are extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refundable.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided info doesn’t specify accessibility features, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for details if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, swimwear, towel, hat, and camera. Be prepared for sun exposure and sea spray.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
It’s a private tour for groups up to 4 people, making it ideal for small parties.

This tour paints a picture of Puerto Vallarta’s quieter, more natural side, perfect for travelers wanting to disconnect and enjoy some simple, scenic beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling amid vibrant fish, relaxing on an empty beach, or soaking in jungle views, it’s a peaceful way to experience the coast without the usual crowds.