Snorkeling at Los Arcos 5 islands Hidden Beach and Cliff Jumping

If you’re considering a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta that combines adventure, gorgeous scenery, and a touch of adrenaline, this tour might be what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, and what stands out is how accessible and well-organized the experience seems, especially for those who love a mix of snorkeling and some exciting cliff jumps. Plus, the fact that it includes a peaceful hidden beach adds a relaxing finish to the day.

Two things we really like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely invested in making sure everyone has a good time, and the variety of stops, from heart-pumping cliff jumps to tranquil beaches. It’s clear this tour offers a good balance between fun and scenic beauty. However, a potential consideration is that it can be quite crowded at Los Arcos, especially if you’re hoping for a more secluded snorkeling experience, since it’s the most popular spot in the bay.

This experience is best suited for active travelers, anyone who’s comfortable in the water, and those craving a mix of thrill and relaxation. If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and looking for a half-day adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this could be perfect. It’s not the best choice if you’re seeking a very private or slow-paced tour, but if fun, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere appeal to you, keep reading.

Key Points

• Accessible meeting points make it easy to join, even if you’re arriving by cruise ship or local transit
• A well-rounded itinerary includes cliff jumping, snorkeling, and relaxing on a hidden beach
• Guides are knowledgeable and appear genuinely committed to making sure everyone has a good time
• Crowds can be present, especially at the snorkeling spot, but guides do their best to guide guests to calmer areas
• The tour offers good value with included equipment, water, and transportation
• Duration is manageable at about 3.5 hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure without feeling rushed

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This tour packs quite a bit into about three and a half hours, starting with easy pickup options from different points in Puerto Vallarta. One of the most convenient spots is just a block from the cruise terminal—ideal if you’re in port—and the tour includes transportation, so no worries about finding your way. Once on the bus, it’s a short ride to Mismaloya Beach, a charming spot with shops, restaurants, and local flavor. From there, it’s on to the boat, ready for a day packed with highlights.

The first major stop is Mismaloya Beach, where guides share fun facts about the area’s history and its connection to the famous “Night of the Iguana” film set. It’s a lively, picturesque spot, perfect for snapping a few photos and getting ready for the water-based activities ahead.

Next, the focus shifts to Los Arcos de Mismaloya, renowned for its dramatic rock formations, caves, and abundant marine life. Here, you’ll have the chance to climb up and jump off a scenic cliff—something that appeals to thrill-seekers but is totally optional. The jumps range from 15 feet to higher for those feeling brave. The guides are attentive, making sure everyone jumps safely and encourages those who prefer to stay dry.

After the jumps, it’s time to snorkel among arches and caves, swimming through vibrant fish and, if you’re lucky, spotting larger creatures like eagle rays. While some reviews mention the area can be crowded, guides do their best to steer guests to calmer waters, and the equipment provided helps make the most of your underwater experience.

Finally, the tour concludes at a hidden beach accessible only by boat. Here, you can relax, swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the quiet beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind before heading back to Mismaloya Beach, where changing facilities and bathrooms are available.

The Snorkeling Experience: What to Expect

The snorkeling at Los Arcos is often highlighted as a major attraction. Reviewers mention seeing numerous fish and even spotting a spotted eagle ray—an exciting bonus! The guides are friendly and informative, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water. The provided equipment is said to be of good quality, making the snorkeling more enjoyable.

However, it’s worth noting that the area can get busy, especially with other tour groups. The reviews suggest that guides work to guide guests to calmer spots, but if you’re seeking complete solitude, this might not be the best tour for you. Still, the underwater scenery is stunning, and the marine life appears plentiful, making it a worthwhile outing for snorkelers of all levels.

Cliff Jumping: Safe, Exciting, and Optional

One of the tour’s most talked-about features is the cliff jumping near the Night of the Iguana film set. The spot offers jumps of around 15 feet, perfect for those wanting a quick adrenaline rush. For more daring jumpers, higher options are available. Guides are present to ensure safety and encourage those who want to take the plunge.

Reviews are unanimous in praising the guides for their safety measures and friendly attitude. Even if you’re not a seasoned jumper, watching others take the leap can be just as fun. If you’re nervous, you can always skip it—many guests do—but it’s definitely a highlight for those craving some excitement.

The Hidden Beach: A Tranquil Finale

After the energetic activities, the tour wraps up at a secret beach, only reachable by boat. This spot offers a peaceful break from the busy snorkeling and jumping sites. Guests can swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the scenery without the crowds. It’s one of the most loved parts of the trip, according to reviews, because it provides some quiet time and a chance to relax.

Facilities such as rinse-off stations and bathrooms are available at Mismaloya Beach, making it easy to freshen up before heading back. The return trip gives you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic coastline.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Group Size, and Value

At $44 per person, this tour offers strong value, especially considering the included equipment, water, and transportation. The group size is capped at 15, which helps keep things intimate and manageable. Most travelers found the timing perfect—around 2 to 3.5 hours out on the water—and the price reasonable for such a varied experience.

The tour is operated by Mismaloya Xtreme, with friendly guides who keep safety and fun front and center. The reviews mention Alfonso, Ivan, Sebastian, and Kevin as guides who go above and beyond to make guests feel comfortable and well-informed.

The Downsides: What to Keep in Mind

While the experience receives high praise, a few reviews note that Los Arcos can be crowded during peak times. If solitude is your priority, this might be a minor drawback. Plus, it’s best suited for confident swimmers, as some parts involve snorkeling and jumping. The tour doesn’t include WiFi, which isn’t a big deal for most, but worth noting if you rely heavily on connectivity.

A single review mentions a miscommunication about transportation, but the company responded quickly with a refund. It’s important to follow the meeting instructions carefully to avoid confusion.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who love active, outdoor adventures and enjoy a mix of adrenaline and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you want a compact, fun-filled half-day out on the water, with guiding staff who are attentive and friendly. It suits travelers comfortable in the water and looking for memorable moments like cliff jumping and snorkeling.

It’s not the best choice if you prefer very quiet, secluded experiences or aren’t confident swimmers. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those who dislike jumping or snorkeling, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is the pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from three convenient locations, including near the cruise ship terminal, making it easy to start your adventure without hassle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

What’s the cost per person?
It’s $44.00 per person, which includes snorkeling equipment, water, soft drinks, beer, and all fees.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews consistently mention guides like Ivan and Sebastian being friendly, informative, and safety-conscious.

Can kids join?
The reviews mention traveling with teenagers and even younger kids, but the focus on swimming and jumping suggests it’s better suited for those comfortable in the water.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is provided, and the equipment is described as good quality.

What facilities are available at Mismaloya Beach?
There are rinse-off stations, bathrooms, and changing areas, making it easy to freshen up after the activities.

Is the snorkeling safe?
Guides ensure safety, and the waters are generally calm. Still, it’s important to be comfortable swimming and to follow instructions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that combines thrilling cliff jumps, vivid underwater scenery, and a peaceful hidden beach retreat, this tour hits the mark. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add a lot to the experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for most travelers. The overall value is impressive, with all necessary gear and transportation included, so you’re free to concentrate on having fun.

This adventure suits those who love being active and appreciate natural beauty, especially if you’re with friends or teens eager for a mix of excitement and relaxation. It’s a lively, well-organized way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s marine highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While it may get crowded at certain spots, the overall experience promises a memorable day out on the water—one that combines a little adrenaline with a lot of stunning scenery. If that sounds like your kind of trip, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Remember to follow all safety instructions, arrive prepared for water activities, and enjoy one of Puerto Vallarta’s most fun and scenic adventures.