Puerto Vallarta’s best full-day excursions pack serious bang for your buck. I’m especially fond of three standout tours that showcase this region’s natural wonders. The Isla Marietas tour combines comfortable catamaran sailing with incredible snorkeling and tasty Mexican meals. Nature lovers will appreciate the Los Arcos snorkel adventure, where dramatic rock formations and hidden beaches await. For those willing to work up a sweat, the six-beach hiking expedition offers a refreshing escape from the tourist zones, threading through authentic jungle paths. Let’s explore these top-rated tours of Puerto Vallarta.
Key Points
- The Isla Marietas tour offers a full-day experience with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and an open bar, though it has mixed customer feedback.
- The snorkel tour to Los Arcos, Las Animas, and Quimixto provides a 7-hour excursion with snorkeling, lunch, and an open bar.
- The guided hiking tour to six secluded beaches, including Colomitos Beach, offers a 6-hour personalized experience with swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
- Full-day tours in Puerto Vallarta provide engaging ways to explore the region’s natural beauty, with options for snorkeling, hiking, and boat trips.
- Advanced booking is recommended for full-day tours due to their popularity and limited group sizes, with cancellations accepted up to 24 hours prior.
Full Day Tour Isla Marietas With Meals and Open Bar
The full-day Isla Marietas tour provides travelers with a diverse range of activities and amenities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and an open bar. Priced at $115 per person, the tour departs from Puerto Vallarta’s Terminal Maritima API at 9:00 a.m. and includes breakfast, lunch, and a catamaran trip to the Islas Marietas.
While the tour boasts a 3.9-star rating based on 53 reviews, customer feedback is mixed. Positive remarks highlight the friendly staff, opportunities to see marine life, and enjoyable activities.
However, negative feedback cites the long boat ride, limited beach time, additional fees, and poor food quality.
It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for pregnant travelers, those with back problems, or individuals with heart conditions or serious medical issues. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Travelers should be aware of the $33 MXN port fee and the optional $120 MXN Sermarnat bracelet for conservation. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Isla Marietas With Meals and Open Bar Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Tour Snorkel in Los Arcos, Las Animas and Quimixto
Frequently, travelers seeking an immersive full-day excursion in Puerto Vallarta opt for the “Snorkel in Los Arcos, Las Animas & Quimixto” tour. Priced from $90 per person, this 7-hour adventure departs from the API maritime terminal at 10:00 AM, with a maximum group size of 80 travelers.
The tour includes boat transportation, snorkeling equipment, bilingual guides, lunch, an open bar, and a $30 port fee. Highlights include exploring the impressive rock formations of Los Arcos, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to spot colorful marine life, relaxing on the secluded Playa Las Animas, and optionally hiking to a charming waterfall in Quimixto.
Lunch at beachfront restaurants offers a choice of fish, chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this all-inclusive tour provides a convenient and engaging way to experience the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta.
However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or those requiring wheelchair accessibility.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Snorkel in Los Arcos, Las Animas and Quimixto Review
Book now: Check availability
Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel
Travelers seeking an immersive full-day excursion in Puerto Vallarta often opt for the “Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel” tour.
This guided hike offers the chance to explore six secluded beaches, including the renowned Colomitos Beach, the smallest in Mexico. Over the course of 6 hours, you will traverse lush jungle and mountainous terrain, learning about the local flora and fauna along the way.
The tour group is limited to 14 people, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests can look forward to swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters, with the possibility of spotting marine life.
The tour culminates with a delicious local seafood meal. Highly rated by past participants, the knowledgeable and attentive guides receive praise for their expertise.
With a 4.8/5 overall rating based on 133 reviews, this full-day hike offers an immersive and unforgettable way to explore the hidden gems of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
Read our full review: Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t have a minimum age requirement, but some may have restrictions for young children. It’s best to check with each tour operator to determine their policies regarding age limits for participants.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
Yes, you can generally bring your own snorkel gear on the tours. However, some tour operators may require you to use their provided equipment for safety or logistical reasons. It’s best to check with the tour company ahead of time.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy for the tours varies, but most operators allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours in advance. Guests should check the specific policy for their chosen tour to understand the terms and any potential fees.
Is Transportation to and From the Tour Locations Included?
Transportation to and from the tour locations is typically included in the cost of full-day tours. Many tour providers offer convenient pickup and drop-off services to ensure a seamless experience for their customers.
Do the Tours Accommodate Vegetarian or Special Dietary Needs?
Many full-day tours in Puerto Vallarta accommodate vegetarian and special dietary needs. Travelers should inquire about the tour operator’s ability to cater to specific dietary requirements when booking their tour to ensure their needs are met.
Recap
Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural wonders. From snorkeling at Los Arcos and Quimixto to hiking to hidden beaches, there’s something for all. These tours provide meals, open bars, and the opportunity to take in the area’s stunning landscapes and marine life.