Marietas Islands

the Marietas Islands are a protected volcanic archipelago in Banderas Bay, famous for the “Hidden Beach” (Playa del Amor) tucked inside a collapsed crater. Located about 22 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, these uninhabited islands are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with wildlife like the rare blue-footed booby and humpback whales (in winter).
Visiting the Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)
Access to this iconic spot is strictly regulated to protect the ecosystem.

Permits & Capacity: Only 116 people per day are allowed inside the Hidden Beach. Reservations must be made weeks in advance through authorized tour operators.
The Entrance: You cannot reach the beach by boat. You must jump into the open ocean and swim roughly 60–80 meters (200 ft) through a narrow rock tunnel during low tide.
Restrictions:
Helmets and life jackets are mandatory.
No fins or snorkels are allowed during the swim to avoid coral damage.
Time Limit: Your stay is restricted to 15–30 minutes.
Closures: The Hidden Beach is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Top Things to Do
If you don’t visit the Hidden Beach, the surrounding National Park still offers world-class eco-adventures:

Snorkeling in coves filled with tropical fish, sea turtles
Wildlife Watching: Spot blue-footed boobies nesting on cliffs year-round. From December to March, you can often see humpback whales during the boat ride.
Other Beaches: Visit Playa Nopalera, a beautiful beach on the exterior of the islands accessible to more visitors.
Best Time to Visit: November to May offers the best visibility for snorkeling and calmest seas.
What to Bring: Biodegradable sunscreen (though it may be prohibited in some areas), a towel, and cash for the mandatory CONANP conservation fee (approx. 85–180 pesos).
Physical Requirements: You must be a confident swimmer for the Hidden Beach tour. It is generally not recommended for children under 4 or adults over 65
we leave from ZR at 9 am

tour includes:
-transportation (zona romantica-punta mita)
-beer,water
-life jackets
-access to playa del amor fee (hidden beach)
-national park fee
-snorkeling gear
-tour around the islands
-national parks fee
-CONANP fee
-waterproof bag (so you can take you own pics)

this tour requires to swim approximately 50 mts from the boat to the beach,
we do have a tours guide with us to help with a wheel lifebuoy