Islas Marietas Tour: Snorkeling, Kayaking and Nopalera Beach

At a glance: an adventure day in the Islas Marietas National Park aboard a catamaran-style cruise, with breakfast, a grilled lunch, an open bar on the way back, snorkeling, kayak and paddleboard gear, and a stop at Nopalera Beach. This tour does NOT include access to the crater or Hidden Beach.

What you’ll experience

In the north of Banderas Bay, the Islas Marietas National Park is a volcanic archipelago surrounded by coral reefs, crystal-clear water and a rich variety of marine life and seabirds, including the famous blue-footed booby.

The boat ride takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. On the way, our crew gives a short talk about the park’s biodiversity, flora, fauna and CONANP conservation rules.

Once inside the protected area:

• Nopalera Beach: landing on one of the archipelago’s most beautiful outer beaches to walk on the sand, swim and take photos.
• Water activities: snorkeling on the outer reefs (full gear in every size, fins included) and free use of kayaks and paddleboards.
• Birdwatching and rock formations from the boat.

Eco note: to protect the island, climbing up or walking the inland trails is not allowed.

What’s included

• 🍽️ Continental breakfast on board: fresh fruit, yogurt with granola, coffee and sweet bread.
• 🥗 Grilled lunch: chicken, beef, ribs, salads, salsas, guacamole and pico de gallo.
• 🍹 Domestic open bar on the way back: under CONANP rules, alcoholic drinks are served only after leaving the 1.5 km perimeter of the protected area.
• 🤿 Full water gear: snorkels, life jackets, kayaks and paddleboards.
• 🥳 Music and party vibe on board on the way back.

Not included

• CONANP bracelet and port tax, paid at the pier (see current amounts in the booking box).
• Photos and souvenirs.
• Tips for the crew.
• Access to Hidden Beach.

Schedule and meeting point

• Days: Tuesday to Sunday. The park is closed on Mondays.
• Departure: 9:00 AM, returning around 5:30 PM.
• Main meeting point: Puerto Vallarta Cruise Terminal (Puerto Mágico, Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Northern Hotel Zone). Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and ticket exchange.
• Alternate meeting point: Nuevo Vallarta pier, departing at 8:15 AM.

Tips and what to bring

• ✔️ Take motion-sickness medication before boarding: the ride is on open sea.
• ✔️ Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel and a change of dry clothes.
• ✔️ Biodegradable sunscreen (apply before boarding) and sunglasses.
• ✔️ Cash to pay the bracelet and port tax at the window, and for tips.

Weather or tide conditions may limit access to some areas of the islands. Bookings must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Last updated: October 17, 2026