How to Visit the Marietas Islands: Océano Adventure Tours

Explore the Marietas Islands: A Hidden Gem in Nayarit, Mexico

The Marietas Islands, located off the coast of Riviera Nayarit, are one of Mexico’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Known for their crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and the famous Hidden Beach, these islands are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, snorkelers, and scuba divers alike.

History of the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are a group of uninhabited volcanic islands situated in the Bay of Banderas, just off the coast of Punta Mita. Formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, these islands have developed into a thriving marine ecosystem.

Interestingly, the islands were once used as a military testing site by the Mexican government in the early 20th century. Explosions and bomb testing inadvertently shaped the landscapes, creating unique caves, rock formations, and the world-famous Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach)—a stunning, crater-like beach hidden inside the island.

After years of environmental activism, most notably by Jacques Cousteau, the Mexican government declared the Marietas Islands a protected national park in the 1960s, prohibiting any further military activity. Today, the islands are part of the Islas Marietas National Park, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve dedicated to preserving the rich biodiversity of the region.

Interesting Facts About the Marietas Islands

Home to Unique Wildlife – The islands are a sanctuary for over 90 species of birds, including the famous blue-footed booby, found in few places outside the Galápagos Islands.
Protected Marine Reserve – The surrounding waters are teeming with dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish, making it a top snorkeling and diving destination.
Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) – This secluded beach is only accessible by swimming through a narrow tunnel, making it one of the most exclusive and breathtaking locations in Mexico.
Seasonal Whale Watching – From December to April, visitors can witness majestic humpback whales migrating through the bay.

Snorkeling & Diving at the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Mexico. With their crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, this is a paradise for ocean enthusiasts.

What You Can See While Snorkeling & Diving

Vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Playful dolphins swimming near boats.
Elegant manta rays gliding through the waters.
Schools of colorful tropical fish surrounding the reefs.
Graceful sea turtles making their way through the bay.

How to Visit the Marietas Islands: Océano Adventure Tours

If you want to experience the beauty of the Marietas Islands safely and responsibly, Océano Adventure offers guided tours that provide access to the islands while preserving their delicate ecosystem.

Our Marietas Islands Snorkeling & Hidden Beach Tour

Departure Point: Sayulita, Nayarit.
Duration: Half-day tour.
Includes:
- Boat ride to the Marietas Islands.
- Snorkeling gear and safety equipment.
- Guided snorkeling adventure to explore the reefs and marine life.
- (Optional) Entry to Hidden Beach (subject to permit availability).
- Expert guides who provide insights into the history and wildlife of the area.

Travel & Accessibility

Distance from Sayulita: Approximately 45 minutes by boat.
Nearest Airport: Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) (about 40 km from Sayulita).
Nearby Cities: Punta Mita, Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta, and Puerto Vallarta.

Best Time to Visit the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands can be visited year-round, but the best time to go depends on what you want to experience:

December to April: Best for whale watching and cooler, clearer waters.
May to October: Warmer waters and fewer crowds, great for snorkeling and diving.

Why Choose Océano Adventure?

At Océano Adventure, we are committed to offering safe, fun, and eco-friendly ocean experiences. Here’s why we are the best choice for your Marietas Islands adventure:

Certified PADI Dive Center – We follow international safety standards for diving and snorkeling.
Expert Guides – Our team consists of PADI-certified professionals with over 10 years of experience.
Top-Rated on TripAdvisor & Google – Our customers love our commitment to safety, quality, and personalized service.
Eco-Conscious Tourism – We strictly follow conservation guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystem of the islands.