Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach: Small Groups Tours

Discover the Marietas Islands and Its Hidden Beach on a Small Group Tour

The Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach offer an exciting and diverse day of adventure in Jalisco, Mexico. Priced at $191 per person and lasting around 4 hours, this guided safari explores one of the most stunning spots in the area. The tour is designed for intimate groups of fewer than 9 people, ensuring a personal experience amidst the natural beauty of the islands.

This tour combines multiple activities, from swimming through a marine tunnel to visiting the secret beach that is only accessible a few months each year. It also features snorkeling at Skull Reef, an optional beginner surf lesson, and the chance to fly underwater with the SUBWING Experience. A highlight is the delicious lunch of shrimp ceviche and beers, perfect for relaxing after a busy morning of exploration.

While the tour is packed with activities and unique sights, it is best suited for those comfortable in the water and physically able to enjoy the snorkeling and swimming components. The meeting point at Hotel Ancora Mita is straightforward, but transportation to this spot is not included. This tour offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation, with a strong emphasis on small-group intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and duration: $191 per person for 4 hours of adventure in Jalisco, Mexico.
• Small group experience: Tours are limited to less than 9 people for personalized attention.
• Main highlights: Swim through a marine tunnel, snorkel at Skull Reef, visit the Secret Beach (seasonal), and fly underwater with the SUBWING.
• Wildlife and scenery: Bird watching, whale spotting (seasonal), and the chance to see unique geological features like the Stone Bridge and Marine Geyser.
• Food and drinks: Enjoy a shrimp ceviche lunch and beers at Anclote Beach, included in the tour cost.
• Accessibility: Suitable for non-swimmers and those comfortable in the water, with safety equipment such as flippers and life rings provided.

Starting the Adventure at the Hotel Ancora Mita

The tour begins with a meet-up at the Lobbie of Hotel Ancora Mita. From there, the guide leads a boat journey to the Marietas Islands, setting the scene for a compact, well-organized outing. The small group size ensures that everyone has space to participate comfortably and ask questions about the various stops.

The boat ride itself offers scenic views of the surrounding waters, preparing guests for the day ahead. Once at the islands, the guide provides a safety briefing and necessary equipment, like flippers and life rings, to assist less confident swimmers. The tour’s structure prioritizes safety without sacrificing fun.

Exploring the Hidden Beach via Marine Tunnel

One of the most iconic moments occurs when the guide leads the group through a marine tunnel to reach the Hidden Beach. This secluded cove is famous for its natural beauty, including caves and waterways that visitors can explore on foot or by boat.

The marine tunnel is a highlight for many, offering a unique way to access the beach that is only open a few months each year due to changing sea currents. The guide uses a life ring and flippers to assist guests who may feel unsure about swimming. For those who prefer to stay dry, the view from the water still offers impressive perspectives of the caves.

Snorkeling at Skull Reef and Marine Life Encounters

Snorkeling at Skull Reef provides close-up sights of local marine life. This reef is notable because it is home to fish that harvest their own food, including Damsel-Fish, which can be observed swimming amidst the coral formations.

The snorkeling activity is accessible for beginners, with the guide offering tips to maximize the experience. The reef’s vibrant underwater landscape is a stark contrast to the rocky formations above water, making it a favorite activity for nature lovers and underwater photography enthusiasts alike.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Secret Beach During Peak Season

The Secret Beach is a major draw, but it is only accessible from December to April. This limited availability is due to sea current changes, which can restrict access during other times of the year. When open, the beach offers a peaceful haven with clear waters and soft sands, perfect for relaxing after the boat ride and snorkeling.

Guests should be aware that this stop is dependent on seasonal conditions, so flexibility might be necessary. Its exclusivity and beauty make it one of the standout moments of the tour, especially during the months when it is open.

The Second Crater and the Stone Bridge Formation

Another remarkable feature of the tour is the second crater of Rounded Island, known as the Stone Bridge. This natural rock formation provides excellent photo opportunities and offers insight into the geological history of the islands.

The Stone Bridge connects two parts of the island and is accessible from the boat or water, adding a scenic element to the trip. The guide narrates the formation process, enriching the experience with contextual details that deepen understanding of this unique landscape.

Witnessing the Marine Geyser and Water Jets

The Marine Geyser is a natural spectacle where large jets of water are launched into the air. This phenomenon is both impressive and photogenic, drawing attention to the dynamic marine environment of the islands. The guide points out the geyser’s activity and explains how it contributes to the island’s ecosystem.

This stop offers a moment of awe and a chance to capture stunning photos of the powerful water jets against the sky. It’s an unmissable feature for those interested in natural phenomena.

Whale Watching and Seasonal Wildlife Viewing

From December to April, the tour offers whale watching, giving visitors the opportunity to see humpback whales during their seasonal migration. The guide keeps a lookout and shares insights about whale behavior, adding another layer of wildlife appreciation to the trip.

While not guaranteed, the possibility of spotting whales enhances the overall experience for nature enthusiasts. The tour’s timing during peak whale season maximizes the chance of witnessing these impressive creatures in their natural habitat.

The Subwing Experience: Flying Underwater

One of the most distinctive activities is the SUBWING Experience, which simulates the sensation of flying through the ocean. The device is towed slowly by the boat, allowing participants to glide underwater like dolphins or perform playful acrobatics.

The guide explains how to use the SUBWING and helps newcomers get comfortable. This activity transforms the water adventure into a fun, interactive experience suited for all ages, provided participants are comfortable in the water. It’s a highlight for those wanting to add a playful element to their marine exploration.

Surfing for Beginners at the Best Beach

For those interested in surfing, the tour includes a beginner surf lesson on the best beach to learn. The waves here are friendly and manageable, making it an ideal spot for first-timers. The guide or instructors provide basic instruction, making it suitable even for those with no prior experience.

This activity is optional, and participants can choose to relax instead. The surf lesson adds a unique touch, blending land-based fun with the water activities throughout the tour.

Enjoying a Tasty Lunch by the Water

After a busy morning of exploring, guests sit down for a lunch of shrimp ceviche and cold beers at Anclote Beach. The meal is part of the tour package, providing a satisfying break with refreshing flavors. The ceviche is fresh, and the casual setting offers scenic views of the water, perfect for unwinding.

This well-earned meal caps off the adventure, leaving visitors ready to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The inclusion of food and drinks adds great value and appeals to those who enjoy local flavors.

Practical Details and Safety Measures

The tour emphasizes safety with the guide bringing a life ring and using flippers to assist guests in swimming. A plastic jar with a life jacket is available for mobile phones, allowing guests to keep their devices safe while enjoying the water.

Participants are advised to bring swimwear and sunscreen, and are not allowed to touch marine life. The tour is accessible for non-swimmers and people with mobility issues, but not suitable for children under 10, those with back problems, or travelers over 70.

The meeting point is at the Lobby of Hotel Ancora Mita, with the tour offered in English and Spanish. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This small-group tour suits travelers seeking an active day filled with marine adventures, wildlife sightings, and scenic exploration. It is ideal for those comfortable in the water or eager to try snorkeling and the SUBWING activity.

The tour’s emphasis on seasonal stops like the Secret Beach and whale watching makes it particularly appealing during high season, from December to April. Its limited group size ensures a personal experience, ideal for travelers who prefer more intimate settings over crowded tours.

Final Thoughts on the Marietas Islands and Hidden Beach Tour

This 4-hour safari offers a balanced mix of marine exploration, geological sights, and wildlife encounters at the Marietas Islands. The swimming through a marine tunnel, snorkeling at Skull Reef, and flying underwater with the SUBWING stand out as unique activities that make this tour memorable.

While the seasonal access to the Secret Beach requires some planning, the tour’s variety of activities, including whale watching and the marine geyser, ensures a full day of discovery. The delicious ceviche lunch adds a satisfying culinary touch, rounding out an adventure-packed experience.

It’s a great choice for active travelers who enjoy water sports and natural scenery, especially those who appreciate small-group settings and personalized attention. The tour balances fun, education, and relaxation, making it a rewarding way to explore the stunning Marietas Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a guided safari, swimming through the marine tunnel, snorkeling at Skull Reef, bird watching, visits to the Secret Beach and Stone Bridge, marine geyser experience, whale watching (seasonal), a beginner surf lesson (optional), the Subwing experience, and a lunch of shrimp ceviche and beers.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the Lobby of Hotel Ancora Mita. Transportation to the meeting point is not included.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, usually available in the morning.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can participate, as safety equipment like life rings and flippers are provided, and the guide assists in swimming.

Can I see whales during the tour?
Whale watching is available from December to April. While not guaranteed, there is a good chance to see humpback whales during this season.

What should I bring?
Guests should pack swimwear and sunscreen. Touching marine life is not allowed.

Is the Secret Beach accessible year-round?
No, the Secret Beach is only accessible December through April, due to sea current conditions.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old, and travelers with back problems, mobility issues, or over 70 should consider their comfort level.

How do I book and cancel?
Booking can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby