Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa las Animas

Exploring the Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa las Animas: A Straightforward Look

If you’re considering a boat-based adventure in Puerto Vallarta that offers a mix of scenic views, water activities, and good food, this half-day tour might catch your eye. It promises a fun-filled day with snorkeling, kayaking, beach relaxation, and an open bar. As with many tours, it has its highlights and some serious caveats, so let’s break down what’s really on offer.

What we like about this experience is the beautiful scenery along the route, especially at spots like Los Arcos de Mismaloya, which are truly photogenic. Plus, the all-you-can-drink bar and lively atmosphere make for a social, high-energy vibe on the boat—perfect if you’re looking to unwind and meet people. On the flip side, a notable concern is the inconsistency in reviews, especially regarding the snorkeling quality and overall organization.

If you’re after a fun, accessible tour that includes good food and a chance to see some iconic sights, this could work well, especially if you’re okay with some unpredictability. It might be less ideal if you’re a serious snorkeler or want a more exclusive, well-organized experience.

Key Points

• Scenic route with stops at Los Arcos de Mismaloya and other iconic spots
• Includes snorkeling and kayaking at Colomitos, Mexico’s smallest beach
• Relaxing beach time with a nice restaurant and food in Playa las Animas
• Lively atmosphere with open bar, music, and contests
• Price point around $57.51 per person for a 6-7 hour adventure
• Possible inconsistency in snorkeling quality and tour operation

A Closer Look at What This Tour Offers

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off at Puerto Magico, where you check-in and get set for the day. It’s a straightforward start with free parking and some shops or cafes if you want to grab a quick snack beforehand. From there, you’ll set sail toward Muelle de Playa Los Muertos, a short stop that offers a chance to take in the spectacular bay views. It’s more about the scenery than the activity, but it’s a great way to start feeling the ocean breeze.

Next, the boat heads to Los Arcos de Mismaloya, an eye-catching formation of massive rocks rising from the water. We’ve seen many travelers remark on how photogenic these arches are, making it a good spot for pictures. The tour spends about 20 minutes here, enough to snap some shots and marvel at the natural beauty. This part is definitely worth it if you love landscape views.

The highlight for water lovers is the stop at Colomitos, Mexico’s smallest beach. Here, you have the option to snorkel or kayak, which is a neat chance to explore marine life in a more intimate, less crowded setting. However, here’s where some find the experience less satisfying than expected. One reviewer called it the “worst snorkeling I have ever been on,” highlighting it might not be the best if your main goal is great underwater sightseeing. The snorkeling equipment is included, but the actual quality and biodiversity of the marine life are not guaranteed.

After getting your fill of water activities, you’re transferred to Playa Las Animas for about three hours. This stretch is probably the most relaxing part, with a designated restaurant for lunch. The food is a highlight — most guests love the idea of enjoying tasty seaside dishes with a view. The beach itself is a nice spot to unwind, swim, or just soak up the sun. Keep in mind that extra activities on the beach and additional food or drinks are not included, so budget some cash if you want to explore beyond the basic meal.

The final stop is the Bay of Banderas, where the return trip kicks off with the party already in full swing. The boat’s open bar, music, and contests are designed to keep the energy high. It’s a lively way to end the day, and about an hour and a half are dedicated to this ongoing celebration.

Transportation, Group Size, and Duration

The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting at noon from Puerto Magico. You’ll share the boat with up to 60 travelers, so it’s a fairly sizable group, which can mean lively social interactions but also less intimacy. The trip is all about having fun in a social setting, so don’t expect a quiet, secluded experience.

The transportation between spots is by boat, with some walking involved at the start and during the beach transfers. The timing at each stop seems designed to give a taste rather than an in-depth exploration, so if you like more time or a more exclusive experience, this may not be your best fit.

Cost and Value

At $57.51 per person, the price isn’t bad considering the length and inclusions — lunch, open bar, snorkeling, and sightseeing. For travelers on a budget, it offers a decent mix of activities and scenic moments. But it’s important to remember that extra expenses like dock taxes ($33 MXN), additional food or drinks, and optional activities are not included. If you’re a serious snorkeler or want to dive into more personalized experiences, this tour might feel a bit superficial.

What the Reviews Say

The single review available paints a less-than-glowing picture. The reviewer was disappointed with the snorkeling, calling it the worst they’d experienced, and was surprised to find that the booking process was handled by a different company than the operator on the day. They also mentioned some issues with rescheduling and refunds, which is worth considering if your plans change.

However, other travelers seem to appreciate the scenery and lively atmosphere, especially the views at Los Arcos and the relaxed vibe on the boat. The food and drinks are generally viewed as positive highlights, with many noting the fun of the open bar and music.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a fun, social outing that combines sightseeing with casual water activities and good food. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the buzz of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline in a lively setting. However, if your priority is serious snorkeling or a more exclusive, quiet experience, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a lively group atmosphere and don’t mind some unpredictable elements.

Final Thoughts

This half-day tour offers a snapshot of Puerto Vallarta’s coast—beautiful rock formations, a tiny beach, and a chance to chill with drinks in hand. The route covers iconic landmarks, and the combination of water activities and good food makes for a relaxed, enjoyable outing. Still, it’s not without its flaws; snorkeling quality varies, and some may find the organization inconsistent.

If you’re looking for a bustling, lively experience with scenic views and a relaxed vibe, this could be a good pick. Just keep your expectations in check about the water activities and be prepared for a crowd. It’s a solid option for travelers wanting to tick off must-see sights while having a good time.

FAQ

• What’s included in the tour?
  You get lunch, an open bar, snorkeling or kayaking in Colomitos, use of snorkeling equipment, and restroom access on board.

• How long is the tour?
  The entire experience lasts about 6 to 7 hours, starting around noon and returning in the late afternoon.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at Puerto Magico and returns there after the final party at the Bay of Banderas.

• Is there a dock tax?
  Yes, there’s an additional dock tax of 33 MXN per person, payable on the day.

• Can children join?
  Yes, children aged 0-2 can join free of charge, but note that alcohol is only served to those over 18.

• Are there any restrictions?
  Use of life jackets is mandatory during water activities. Most travelers can participate, but safety is key.

• What about the weather?
  Since it’s a boat tour, weather conditions can affect the experience; check the forecast and dress appropriately.

• Is the snorkeling good?
  Reviews are mixed; some find the marine life underwhelming, so don’t expect a top-tier snorkeling adventure.

• How lively is the atmosphere?
  The tour is designed to be fun and energetic, with music, contests, and an open bar, making it a lively experience.

• Can I reschedule or cancel?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, but last-minute changes are not accepted.

If you’re after a day filled with scenic sights, a splash of water fun, and a lively vibe, this tour offers a decent package. Just be aware of the potential for crowded spots and variable snorkeling quality, and you’ll have a good time.