Explore the Marietas Islands and Playa Escondida with a 6.5-Hour All-Inclusive Tour

The Marietas Islands and Playa Escondida Tour offers an engaging experience for those who love the sea and outdoor activities. Priced at $206.40 per person, this 6-hour 30-minute adventure departs from Puerto Vallarta and includes breakfast, lunch, drinks, and equipment. It caters especially to swimmers eager to explore Mexico’s famous hidden beach and enjoy activities like snorkeling and kayaking.

This tour provides a well-rounded day of natural beauty and fun, with adventure and relaxation woven together. The inclusion of meals, drinks, and all necessary gear ensures a smooth experience without surprise costs. The tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who are comfortable swimming, as accessing the Playa Escondida involves a short swim. Keep in mind that the tour operates in good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t favorable.

Key Points

Duration: Around 6 hours 30 minutes from start to finish
Cost: $206.40 per person, all-inclusive
Highlights: Snorkeling, kayaking, visits to Marietas Islands, Playa la Nopalera, and Playa Escondida
Access: Requires a short swim to reach the hidden beach
Includes: Breakfast, lunch, beverages (including alcohol), and snorkeling equipment
Departure Point: Cacao Mágico, Puerto Vallarta

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Starting Point and Tour Schedule in Puerto Vallarta

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at Cacao Mágico located on Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio. The meeting point is easy to find in the Zona Hotelera, making logistics straightforward. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, so transportation logistics are convenient for those staying nearby.

Visiting the Marietas Islands and Hidden Beach

The Marietas Islands are the first major stop, where the focus is on exploring the known and lesser-known beaches. You’ll be equipped with snorkeling gear and paddleboards, which are available for use during the four hours on site. The hidden beach is a standout feature, accessible after a quick swim with a life vest, offering a unique photo opportunity.

The adventure at the islands involves observing marine life and enjoying the tranquility of this protected area. The admission ticket to the islands is included in the price, allowing access to the natural beauty and diverse underwater scenery.

Discovering Playa la Nopalera

After exploring the Marietas Islands, the tour makes a 30-minute stop at Playa la Nopalera, one of the beaches of the second island. This paradise-like beach offers fantastic photo opportunities with its striking crescent shape and scenic views. Its calm sea provides a peaceful atmosphere for relaxing or taking more photos in a less crowded environment.

The seclusion and beauty of this beach let visitors enjoy a quiet moment amid nature, making it an excellent break from the more active snorkeling and kayaking.

Access to Playa Escondida and Swimming Tips

The most daring part of the tour is visiting Playa Escondida, which requires a 100-meter swim with a life vest. This activity demands comfort in the water and a basic swimming ability. The beach itself is well worth the effort, offering a picturesque setting perfect for photographs and enjoying the seclusion of one of Mexico’s “wonders of the world.”

The swim involves a short, manageable distance, but travelers should be prepared to feel comfortable with water activity. On-site, the beach provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and leisure, with plenty of natural charm.

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Included Food, Drinks, and Equipment

The tour provides a light breakfast featuring seasonal fruit, juice, coffee, and water, fueling you for the day ahead. After the island visits, a light lunch with sodas and water is served on board, along with an open bar including alcoholic beverages.

Guests receive snorkeling equipment for exploring underwater life, and kayaks are available to paddle around the scenic areas. This all-inclusive setup means no extra charges for gear or drinks, making for a hassle-free experience.

Practical Details: Group Size and Cancellation Policy

The activity is limited to a maximum of 32 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size without feeling crowded. The meeting point is flexible, and the tour operates with confirmation received at the time of booking.

Cancellation is straightforward, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund is provided.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Puerto Vallarta Adventure

The Marietas Islands and Playa Escondida Tour appeals to those who enjoy sea activities like snorkeling and kayaking, along with stunning natural scenery. The all-inclusive setup, with meals and drinks included, makes it a convenient choice for a full day of fun.

The access to the hidden beach is a highlight, though it requires swimming ability, so it’s best suited for active, water-confident travelers. The scenic stops at Playa la Nopalera and the opportunity to see marine life elevate this experience beyond a simple boat trip.

However, travelers should be aware of the port tax of MX$32, not included in the price, and keep in mind that the swim to Playa Escondida might not suit everyone. The tour’s good weather requirement also means plans could change based on weather conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Marietas Islands and Playa Escondida Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive day of exploration, adventure, and relaxation in one of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal areas. The combination of sightseeing, water activities, and excellent food and drinks makes it a strong option for active families, couples, or groups seeking an engaging day.

The main draw is undoubtedly the hidden beach, accessible only by swimming, making it a memorable feature. The scenic beaches and marine encounters further enrich the experience, providing plenty of photo opportunities and peaceful moments.

While the swimming requirement and weather dependence are considerations, the overall package delivers good value for those eager to explore the Marietas Islands in comfort and style.

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Marietas Islands and Playa Escondida Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Access to Playa Escondida involves a 100-meter swim, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with water activities. Non-swimmers may enjoy snorkeling and the beaches, but reaching the hidden beach could be challenging.

What is included in the tour price?
The $206.40 fee covers breakfast, lunch, beverages (including alcohol), snorkeling equipment, and admission tickets for the islands and beaches.

How do I cancel this tour if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Cacao Mágico in the Zona Hotelera of Puerto Vallarta, simplifying transportation arrangements.