🤿 Water & SeaYear-round (calmer May–Nov)✓ Free cancellation
Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach
Boat to a protected island park: snorkel, kayak and blue-footed boobies
Vallarta Adventures★ 4.8 (1,038 reviews)$99USD per person
What it is
Boat to the UNESCO-protected Marietas Islands. Snorkel, kayak, and — permit allowing — swim into the Hidden Beach. Blue-footed boobies. Book 3+ days ahead in high season.
Good to know
⏱About 7 hours, door to door.
📍Meet at Marina Vallarta pier, 8:30am.
👶Minimum age 6.
🥾Some walking on uneven ground — closed shoes help.
💦You can get in the water or stay dry — your call.
🌊Open water — take motion-sickness medication beforehand if you're prone to it.
📅Best Year-round (calmer May–Nov).
✓Free cancellation on the operator's site, usually up to 24 hours before.
💳Reserve now, pay later where the operator offers it.
How the day flows
01
📍Meet & check-in
Marina Vallarta pier, 8:30am
02
🧭Board & cross the bay
Quick safety briefing aboard before heading out onto Banderas Bay.
03
⏱Main experience (~7 h)
Boat to a protected island park: snorkel, kayak and blue-footed boobies · 7 h.
04
✓Return & booking note
Return to the starting pier or drop-off. Most departures include free cancellation up to 24 h prior.
Is it safe?
A full-day boat trip to a protected national park. The Hidden Beach has a reported daily visitor cap and may be closed on the day, so treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee. Seasickness and sun are the main practical risks.
•The Marietas are a protected national park. Access to the Hidden Beach has been limited since it reopened: it was widely reported as 116 visitors a day with short visits per group, and only through authorized operators. Rules change, so check with the operator and CONANP for the current limits.
•Seasickness risk is high on the crossing. Take medication the night before and the morning of, and sit near the back of the boat.
•Wear a life jacket while snorkeling or kayaking, and use reef-safe sunscreen only. Do not touch or stand on the coral, and do not feed or chase the birds.
•Getting into the Hidden Beach can involve swimming. Only do it if you are a comfortable swimmer and the guide says conditions are fine.
•Conditions are calmer from May to November, but weather and swell can still cancel or change a trip.
November — the dry season begins and Festival Gourmet runs mid-month. Whale season opens in December.
Common questions
Is Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach safe?
A full-day boat trip to a protected national park. The Hidden Beach has a reported daily visitor cap and may be closed on the day, so treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee. Seasickness and sun are the main practical risks.
How much does Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach cost?
It starts around $99 USD per person. The exact price depends on the date and group size — check the operator's page.
How long is Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach?
Plan for about 7 hours including transport to and from the meeting point.
When is the best time for Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach?
Year-round (calmer May–Nov). Outside that window it may not run, or conditions won't be as good.
Who is Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach good for?
It suits couple, family, groups of friends. Minimum age 6.
Where do I book Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach?
Use the Book button on this page — it goes to the operator or Viator, where you pick a date and pay. Vallarta Pro doesn't take payment or a booking fee.
