Marietas Islands Tour: enter the hidden beach 100% GUARANTEED

If you’re considering a trip to Puerto Vallarta and want to experience one of Mexico’s most iconic natural treasures, the Marietas Islands tour with guaranteed access to the hidden beach might be on your radar. This trip promises a mix of scenic boat rides, snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and an exclusive chance to step onto the famous beach of love, which is known for how tricky it can be to access without the right timing and guides.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the emphasis on small group sizes, limited to a maximum of 8 people per boat. It’s a big plus for anyone who prefers an intimate, less crowded adventure. Also, the guaranteed access to the hidden beach—a rare claim—can really take the stress out of planning, especially if that’s a key highlight of your trip to the islands.

That said, there are a few considerations you should keep in mind. This tour involves swimming about 100 meters to reach the hidden beach, which isn’t suitable for everyone. Plus, the tour’s success heavily depends on weather conditions—rough seas can make some activities more challenging or even prevent access to certain spots, like the hidden beach.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who love a bit of adventure, are comfortable in the water, and appreciate small-group, personalized experiences. If your goal is to see the iconic hidden beach with expert guidance, and you’re okay with some physical activity and variable weather, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Small group experience offers more comfort and personalized attention.
• Guaranteed access to the hidden beach, a rare and sought-after feature.
• Includes snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and scenic stops, making it a well-rounded tour.
• Departure is from Puerto Vallarta, with transport included.
• Weather-dependent activities mean flexibility is key; rough seas may limit some parts of the experience.
• Price point around $164.42 per person offers good value considering the variety of activities and exclusive access.

What’s Included and What’s Not — Setting Expectations

For $164.42, this tour packs in quite a bit. The price covers all the essentials: life jackets, snorkeling gear, non-alcoholic beverages, waterproof bags, and most importantly, entry to the hidden beach. The transportation is by a covered boat, which keeps you dry and comfortable, even in a breezy sea.

However, it’s worth noting that food isn’t included, so bringing your own snacks or meals might be necessary if you’re there for the full three hours. Also, alcohol isn’t permitted on the beaches, aligning with environmental rules and safety guidelines.

The Start and End Points

The tour kicks off at Grimar Adventures in Punta Mita, easily reachable via public transportation or taxi. The meeting point is clearly marked, and reviews suggest most travelers find it straightforward if they follow the provided instructions. The tour wraps up at Punta de Mita pier, so planning onward travel from there makes things simple.

Group Size and Booking Tips

The tour is designed for a maximum of 8 travelers, which is perfect for those who dislike large, noisy groups. If your group is bigger, the operator offers options to divide into multiple boats that go out together—worth asking when booking. Reservations are recommended well in advance because spaces are limited, especially during peak seasons or holiday periods.

The Itinerary — What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Marietas Islands and the Hidden Beach

The main event here is the guaranteed swim to the hidden beach, known as the Beach of Love. Access involves swimming roughly 100 meters through a cave tunnel—an exciting challenge that’s not for everyone. The tour guides are experienced and will assist you through this part, ensuring safety and support.

One review highlights the thrill of the swim: “While accessing the beach requires a strong swim through a cave with active currents, we enjoyed the thrill and felt very safe under Reuben’s watch.” For those with swimming skills and a sense of adventure, this can be one of the trip’s most memorable moments.

However, a couple of reviews note that weather conditions can impact the visibility and accessibility. For example, if seas are rough or jellyfish are plentiful—like one traveler experienced in May—the swim might be overshadowed by discomfort or inability to reach the beach. But the guides are flexible and will adjust plans accordingly.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters

After the swim, you’ll have time to snorkel, swimming with colorful fish in clear waters. The tour provides snorkeling gear, making this a highlight for underwater lovers. Some reviews mention “loads of different fish,” and others appreciated that the guides took the time to point out local wildlife, including Blue-legged Booby Birds and whales.

Scenic Stops: Bufadora and Playa Nopalera

Next, you’ll visit the famous Bufadora—a natural blowhole where seawater shoots up when waves hit it. It’s a powerful display of nature’s force, and many find it fascinating. You’ll also get to walk around or relax at Playa Nopalera, a beach with caves and photo opportunities.

A reviewer appreciated the flexibility here, saying, “We saw whales and had the option to snorkel or go to Cactus Beach,” showing the tour’s adaptability based on weather and conditions.

Photos and Beyond

The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often taking photos of guests on the iconic stone bridge or at scenic spots. One traveler mentioned, “Ask your guide to take cool pictures,” which can be a good idea to capture memories without worrying about your phone in the water.

The Experience Quality and Guides

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—especially Ruben and Chuy—who are attentive to safety and eager to share interesting facts. They’re also quick to spot whales or dolphins, turning an already beautiful trip into a wildlife viewing adventure.

Value for Money

Considering the small groups, the variety of activities, and the access to the hidden beach, many guests feel the tour offers great value. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a curated experience with expert guidance, which enhances safety and enjoyment.

Potential Downsides

The main concern for some is the weather and sea conditions, which can limit access or activity participation. For example, if the sea is too rough, the guides may not allow swimmers through the tunnel to the beach—disappointing if that was your main goal. Plus, some reviews mention difficulty in finding the meeting point, but most found it manageable with proper directions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers comfortable in the water, who seek a personalized, small-group outing. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see the famous hidden beach without the crowds, enjoy snorkeling, and are okay with some physical activity.

If you’re traveling with children under 10 or have mobility issues, that swim might be challenging—so check your abilities before booking. The tour also suits those who want wildlife encounters and scenic views in a manageable timeframe of about three hours.

This Marietas Islands tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and the thrill of swimming through a cave to reach the iconic hidden beach. The small group size, expert guides, and guaranteed access are big draws, making it stand out from larger, more impersonal tours. While weather conditions can influence the experience, most travelers find it an exciting and worthwhile adventure, especially if they’re comfortable with water activities.

If you’re after a personalized excursion that combines nature, wildlife, and a touch of adventure, and don’t mind early reservations, this tour might be your perfect match. It’s a fantastic way to see the Marietas Islands with a knowledgeable guide who puts safety and memorable moments first.

Is this tour suitable for travelers who are not strong swimmers?
While the swim to the hidden beach is about 100 meters and involves some effort, guides are there to assist, and most participants find it manageable if they are comfortable in the water. If you’re unsure, it’s best to assess your swimming abilities beforehand.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, camera or phone for photos, and drinks in thermoses or reusable bottles. Remember, no food or alcohol on the beaches, and avoid bringing bags or backpacks to stay safe and environmentally friendly.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to 8 people per boat, providing a more personalized experience. If your group is larger, the operator offers options to divide into multiple boats that go together.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies heavily on good weather, especially sea conditions. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, activities like swimming through the tunnel or snorkeling might be canceled or postponed. You will be offered a different date or a full refund in case of cancellation.

Can I see whales or dolphins during the tour?
Yes, several reviews mention sightings of whales and dolphins during the trip, especially on the way to the island. Guides are often quick to point these out, adding extra magic to the experience.

Is there an age limit for participating?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years old, and the maximum is 65. The swim through the cave can be strenuous, so children or older travelers should consider their comfort level.

This tour offers an authentic and engaging way to experience the Marietas Islands, especially for those who appreciate small-group adventures and the thrill of reaching the iconic hidden beach. Just remember to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly, and you’re likely to come away with some fantastic memories.