7.5 Hours
Min. 4 years old
Relaxed
Adults
Sea Lovers
1/14
Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ
Discover the UNESCO-protected Marietas Islands National Park, a group of islands created by volcanic activity, rich in marine life. Snorkel through stunning rock archways, admire the impressive rock formations carved by the power of the ocean, and enjoy expert-led birdwatching. In winter, spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Following your adventure, visit the tranquil Majahuitas Beach, a hidden gem near Puerto Vallarta. Unwind on soft sand, swim in clear turquoise waters, and enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch beneath the palms. Enjoy a perfect blend of ecotourism and relaxation.
What to Expect
MARIETAS ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK, MEXICO’S ECOTOURISM JEWEL
Declared a National Park by the Mexican government in 2005, these islands are a protected natural reserve in the Riviera Nayarit, a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers.
Immortalized by the legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2008, the Marietas Islands offer sanctuary to more than 90 mesmerizing aquatic and subaquatic species, setting the stage for ecotourism exploration like no other in Puerto Vallarta!
Enjoy the breathtaking views of these uninhabited islands, admire unique volcanic landscapes and rock formations, swim among colorful fish, and watch rare species of birds.
Together, these elements create the perfect backdrop for a thrilling array of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, bird watching, dolphin spotting, and whale watching (during the winter months), promising a truly unforgettable ecotourism adventure for all.
Our knowledgeable bilingual guides share fascinating insights into the Marietas Islands’ history and unique wildlife, including the rare blue-footed booby, found only in the Galapagos and Islas Marietas.
This all-inclusive Marietas Islands tour features a BBQ buffet at Majahuitas Beach, allowing you to enjoy ocean views and a tropical atmosphere.
Refresh with drinks from our open bar, enjoy the relaxing beach club, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and indulge in snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding at your heart's content.
Experience a unique adventure where nature, discovery, and relaxation come together for an unforgettable day in one of Mexico's ecotourism paradises!
Additional Information
- Swimsuit & towel
- Sun-protective clothing is recommended. Please avoid using sunscreen to help protect corals and marine life.
- Light sweater (during winter months)
- Extra money for dock fees, souvenirs and photos
This group of volcanic islands near Puerto Vallarta, brought to global attention by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, is now a thriving National Park rich in biodiversity. Spot tropical fish, blue-footed boobies, dolphins, sea turtles, humpback whales, and a variety of marine life in their protected natural habitat.
Our Marietas Islands tour brings nature lovers to live an immersive experience that connects you with the heart of these conservation efforts. Jump off the boat and dive into the pristine waters around the islands for guided and unguided snorkeling adventures, paddle through hidden coves on kayak excursions, and bird watching tours to spot endemic birds such as the iconic blue-footed booby.
As one of the select few companies in Puerto Vallarta entrusted with leading boat tours to Marieta Islands National Park, Vallarta Adventures is dedicated to preserving its ecosystem and supporting conservation efforts.Dive into the vibrant and unique ecosystem of Islas Marietas, where many species thrive, from schools of colorful tropical fish and graceful eagle rays, eels, and puffer fish, to sea turtles, manta rays, and playful dolphins. Our Marietas Islands tour is your gateway to these incredible encounters.
In the winter season, on your way to the islands, you might be lucky enough to witness humpback whales in their natural environment. Picture these magnificent giants breaching just feet away from our boat in their feeding and breeding grounds — an awe-inspiring experience you'll want to cherish with your friends and family.
While whale season in Banderas Bay spans from mid-December to the end of March, we're fortunate to encounter wild dolphins year-round. Our spacious catamarans offer the best opportunity to observe these playful and intelligent creatures. They often join us, gracefully swimming alongside our boat, allowing us to marvel at their agility and charm.
For certified divers who want to explore the underwater world of the Marietas Islands and admire the incredible richness of the fauna and flora inhabiting the depths, our Marietas Islands scuba dive tour is perfect. In the company of experienced dive guides from our PADI 5 Star Center, you can have a wonderful and safe experience.Just south of the enchanting Marieta Islands lies the beautiful Majahuitas Beach — a coastal gem adorned with emerald waters, lush tropical greenery, and stylish lounge areas offering breathtaking views.
This is the only boat tour from Puerto Vallarta to Marietas Islands that includes a stop at this secluded beach – we think it’s the perfect way to relax and recharge after a day of thrilling exploration.
Majahuitas invites you to bask in its pristine golden sands, indulge in a refreshing swim, recline on chic lounge chairs and Balinese beds, or continue your exploration with our complimentary snorkel gear. Your visit also includes a delicious BBQ buffet at the beach club.
But why limit your Majahuitas experience? Explore our family-friendly Majahuitas Beach Day tour on Sundays or immerse yourself in the beats of the best DJs and EDM artists against the backdrop of this serene beach at the Majahuitas Beach Party on Saturdays — an unforgettable fusion of music and natural beauty.Experience the Marietas Islands like never before – whether you're plunging into the crystalline waters surrounding the islands, paddling through the rocky caverns along the coast, or unwinding on the Balinese beds at Majahuitas Beach Club, our Islas Marietas tour promises an unforgettable ecotourism adventure for all.
What’s more, getting there and back is half the fun when you voyage with Vallarta Adventures! Onboard our catamarans, you'll enjoy an open bar and friendly guides and crew.
Not only will our experienced bilingual staff attend to all your needs, making sure you always have a refreshing cold beverage in hand, but they will put on a spirited and entertaining performance on the way back to Puerto Vallarta – it is sure to put a smile on your face.
From visits to the coastal villages of Sayulita & San Pancho to the colonial town of San Sebastian del Oeste, we offer unforgettable excursions and day trips to make the most of your time in beautiful Puerto Vallarta. Please contact us to learn more!Majahuitas is the ideal Mexico beach destination wedding venue for couples seeking a private, unforgettable setting. Tucked away from the busy city, and renowned to be one of the most pristine beaches near Puerto Vallarta, it offers serenity and natural beauty, making it the perfect spot for your special day.
With the breathtaking Sierra Madre mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, Majahuitas provides a stunning location for your beachside ceremony. Its golden sands and picturesque views of Banderas Bay set the stage for an extraordinary wedding experience.
Trust the Adventure Weddings team to make your dream beach wedding a reality in this magical destination.
No, this tour does not include a visit to the Hidden Beach, also known as Playa del Amor. If you want to see and experience the famous "Lover's Beach," make sure to book our popular Marieta Islands Hidden Beach tour.
While the Marietas Eco Discovery tour is a sea excursion designed to explore the ocean and wildlife around the Marieta Islands, the Marieta Islands Hidden Beach tour offers exclusive access to this famous hidden beach sanctuary.The Marietas Islands sit 22 miles west of Puerto Vallarta, 17 miles from Nuevo Vallarta, and 5 miles south of Punta Mita, off the coast of Nayarit in the Mexican Pacific.
Access to Marietas Islands is only possible by boat. Vallarta Adventures is an authorized operator for Islas Marietas National Park tours.
The boat ride to Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta takes approximately an hour and a little bit less from Nuevo Vallarta.
Vallarta Adventures has one departure point in Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal and one in Nuevo Vallarta. Make sure you choose the one that is the closest to where you are staying.The Marietas Islands were formed by volcanic activity over 60,000 years ago and consist of two main islands: Isla Redonda and Isla Larga. In our Marietas & Majahuitas tour, you'll be able to explore the geological formations and learn about the history of the Marietas Islands, including their volcanic origins and key geographical features.
The ecosystems of the Marietas Islands are essential for the reproduction of marine species such as humpback whales and dolphins. They serve as a crucial breeding ground for over 100 bird species, including the blue-footed booby and the world's largest breeding colony of brown boobies.
The area, protected from human activity, supports a diverse marine ecosystem with 115 different species of fish and 12 species of coral, making it a prime location for snorkeling and diving.The Marietas Islands are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and are protected under strict regulations to preserve their natural beauty and biodiversity. Legal protections prevent fishing and hunting in the Marietas Islands, preserving their unique ecosystems.
In 2012, the Mexican government stopped issuing new permits for tour operators to access the Marietas Islands, limiting the number of visitors and helping to protect the fragile marine environment. Sunscreen is prohibited in the Marietas Islands National Park to prevent damage to the coral reefs and marine life, highlighting the conservation efforts in place.Absolutely. Snorkeling is a highlight of the Marietas Islands tour. Our guides offer illustrated boards showcasing local marine species, and we provide life jackets, snorkel gear, and masks for your safety and enjoyment.
Absolutely! You will be using your life jacket at all times, which will help you feel more comfortable during the snorkeling session. Our experienced guides will show you how to use the equipment and help you find the optimal locations for your snorkeling tour.
Unfortunately, federal regulations prohibit free diving. Only snorkeling is allowed, and a life jacket is required at all times.
If you are interested in exploring the bay's deeper waters and the Marietas Islands, please consider our scuba diving trips and certification programs.We have wetsuits available upon request during the winter season. However, the crystal blue waters of the Marietas Islands tend to stay relatively warm year-round.
The safety of our guests is our number one priority, which is why we have safety measures in place during all tours offered at Vallarta Adventures. Our bilingual crew is well-versed in safety protocols and undergoes regular training in first-aid and safety measures to guarantee your safety throughout our tours.
Each of our vessels is also equipped with life jackets, lifeboats, and other essential rescue gear in case of an emergency.As a very limited number of tour companies are allowed to give tours of the islands, we feel a strong responsibility to help protect them - and you help by joining us.
For each guest, we donate a portion of the proceeds to the Marietas National Park, providing additional funds to help protect and study the islands and make sure they remain a safe refuge for marine and wildlife.