How to Get to Hidden Beach in the Islas Marietas: Guide, Permits and Tips (2026 - 2027)
Everything you need to know to visit Hidden Beach: who can take you, how many people get in each day, the requirements and what it costs.
Quick answer: you can only reach Hidden Beach on a tour with an authorized operator that has spots assigned by CONANP. You get in by swimming through a tunnel wearing a life jacket, daily spots are very limited and access normally runs Wednesday to Sunday. Book ahead and check which fees are paid at the pier.
Why is access to Hidden Beach limited?
The Islas Marietas have been a National Park since 2005 and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2008. In 2016 CONANP temporarily closed Hidden Beach because too many visitors were damaging the reef and the sand. Since it reopened, it works with a daily carrying capacity: only a small number of people can enter each day, in small groups and at assigned times.
That is why there are no “walk-in tickets” for the beach: spots are assigned to authorized operators, who share them among their guests. If someone offers to get you in on your own, be careful.
Requirements to enter Hidden Beach
- You must know how to swim. The last stretch is a swim through a natural tunnel; at high tide or with big swells, access may be suspended for safety.
- A life jacket is mandatory, and you must follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
- Be between 12 and 60 years old. Children under 12 and adults over 60 are not allowed in.
- Responsible sun protection: only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed. Even better, wear a UV rash guard.
- Take nothing: no sand, shells, coral or wildlife.
Hidden Beach tour vs. classic tour
Not every Islas Marietas tour goes into Hidden Beach. Here is the difference, with up-to-date prices:
| Hidden Beach tour | Classic tour (snorkel & Nopalera) | |
|---|---|---|
| Enters Hidden Beach | Yes, with a CONANP time slot | No |
| Price per person | Per person (ages 12 to 60): $2,500 MXN | Adults: $1,400 MXN · Children (6 to 11): $800 MXN · Infants (1 to 5): $550 MXN |
| Extra costs (paid at the pier) | Protected Natural Areas bracelet (CONANP) $240 MXN + Port tax $35 MXN | Protected Natural Areas bracelet (CONANP) $240 MXN + Port tax $35 MXN |
| Duration | Full day | 8.5 hours |
| Activities | Everything in the classic tour + 30 to 45 min inside Hidden Beach | Snorkeling, kayak, paddleboard, Nopalera Beach, meals and open bar |
| Restrictions | Ages 12 to 60 only, must know how to swim, limited spots | Open to all ages |
| Best for | Swimmers aged 12 to 60 who want the iconic beach | Families with kids and first-time visitors |
On the classic tour, the CONANP Protected Natural Areas bracelet ($240 MXN) and the port tax ($35 MXN) are paid separately at the pier.
If your group includes children under 12, adults over 60 or people who aren’t confident swimmers, the classic tour is the best choice: snorkeling, kayaking and free time at Nopalera Beach, with the same crystal-clear water and no tunnel swim.
Where do tours depart from?
The Islas Marietas lie off Punta de Mita, in Banderas Bay. Tours leave from Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta de Mita / Sayulita: the further north you start, the shorter the boat ride. Our tours depart at 9:00 AM from the Puerto Vallarta Cruise Terminal, with an alternate pickup at the Nuevo Vallarta pier; details are on each tour page.
Local tips before you book
- Book ahead, especially during holidays and weekends: Hidden Beach spots sell out first.
- Ask what the price includes and what is paid at the pier. A very low price usually leaves out the bracelet or the taxes.
- Check the day of the week: Hidden Beach is normally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Have a plan B: if the sea is rough, CONANP can close access on the same day. The classic tour is still a great experience.
- Bring the essentials: swimsuit on, rash guard, towel, water and a dry bag for your phone.