Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Pacific. From the hidden wonders of the Marietas Islands and the vibrant reefs of Punta Mita, to the iconic marine parks of Los Arcos and Yelapa. Expert local guides, premium gear, and family-friendly adventures await.
Bilingual
Guides
15+ Years of Local
Maritime Experience
Premium Cressi
Mares Gear
"Adopt the Blue" Official Marine Conservation Partner
Small-Group Guarantee (Maximum 6 guests per guide)
We guarantee a maximum of 6 guests per excursion, allowing for a more intimate, relaxed, and high-quality experience away from the crowds.
Discover the Best Snorkeling Spots in the Bay
The geographical diversity of Banderas Bay creates perfect conditions for snorkeling year-round. While the Riviera Nayarit coast (Sayulita, Punta Mita, Nuevo Vallarta) offers volcanic rock formations and easy access to the Marietas Islands, the South Bay (Puerto Vallarta, Yelapa) features deep granite caves and protected marine reserves. Water visibility often exceeds 40 feet, showcasing majestic manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish.
1. Marietas Islands Eco-Discovery Snorkel Tour
Explore the UNESCO biosphere reserve, snorkel through vibrant coral ecosystems, and spot the famous blue-footed boobies.
The Marietas are known for their variety of wildlife, both above land and under the water. The islands themselves are home to many endangered bird species, such as the blue footed booby - only found elsewhere in the Galapagos and the Sea of Cortez. As volcanic islands, the Marietas provide interesting rock formations and are home to angelfish, pufferfish, trumpets, trunk fish, and more. While you're there, you should definitely check out the hidden beach!
Depth
Range
3 - 10 ft (1-3m)
Average
Visibility
10 - 30 ft (3-10m)
Marine
Highlights
Coral and a variety of reef fish
Perfect for
Snorkelers
who loves the marine world
1.1 Marietas Islands Eco-Discovery Snorkel Tour + Hidden Beach (only Thursdays)
Experience the most exclusive side of the Marietas Islands with guaranteed access to Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor). Available only on Thursdays and limited to just 5 reserved spaces, this small-group adventure gives you more time to explore the National Park, snorkel its volcanic coastline and marine habitats, and swim through the iconic natural tunnel into Hidden Beach. Unlike our Regular Marietas Snorkel Tour, this experience includes your reserved Hidden Beach access.
Depth
Range
3 - 10 ft (1-3m)
Average
Visibility
10 - 30 ft (3-10m)
Marine
Highlights
Hidden Beach, volcanic formations & tropical marine life
Perfect for
Snorkelers
Seeking guaranteed Hidden Beach access
Important information snorkeling tour in Marietas Islands
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Explore the Marietas Islands National Park on a small-group snorkeling adventure designed for travelers who want to discover the marine life of Mexico's Pacific coast.
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Your experience includes snorkeling equipment, professional guidance, lunch, drinks, transportation from our meeting point to the marina, and the Marietas Islands National Park entrance fee.
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Unlike short beach-based boat trips, Oceano Adventure offers a complete Marietas Islands experience with personalized attention and plenty of time to enjoy the ocean.
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Hidden Beach — Thursdays Only
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Oceano Adventure offers access to Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) every Thursday.
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We have guaranteed spaces reserved for our guests, but Hidden Beach access must be booked separately in advancebecause entry to this protected area is strictly controlled.
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If you want to include Hidden Beach in your Marietas Islands experience, select the Hidden Beach option when making your reservation.
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8:30 AM — Meet at your confirmed departure point
Meet your guide and get ready for your Marietas Islands adventure. -
9:20 AM — Arrival at the Marina
Board the boat, prepare your snorkeling equipment and receive a safety briefing. -
9:30 AM — Departure to Marietas Islands
Enjoy the boat ride across Banderas Bay toward Marietas Islands National Park. -
10:30 AM — Arrival at Marietas Islands
Your guide will explain the snorkeling area, marine life and National Park regulations. -
10:45 AM — Guided Snorkeling
Explore the waters surrounding the Marietas Islands and discover tropical fish and other marine life of the Mexican Pacific. -
12:30 PM — End of Water Activities
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1:00 PM — Lunch Onboard
Relax and enjoy lunch and drinks before heading back. -
1:30 PM — Return to Marina
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2:00 PM — Arrival at Marina
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Location: Marietas Islands National Park, Banderas Bay, Mexico
Snorkeling Depth: 1–3 meters (3–10 ft)
Snorkeling Area: Volcanic rock formations and shallow marine ecosystems
Visibility: 3–10 meters (10–30 ft), with seasonal variations
Water Temperature: 19°C–29°C (66°F–84°F), depending on the season
Current: Variable depending on ocean conditions
Marine Life: Reef fish and a variety of Pacific marine species
Experience Level: Suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers
Operations: Year-round, weather and ocean conditions permitting
Is the Marietas Islands National Park entrance fee included?
Yes. The National Park entrance fee is included in the advertised price. No additional entrance fee is added when you arrive.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The price you see includes the National Park entrance fee, snorkeling equipment, guide, transportation from your confirmed meeting point, lunch and drinks.
What exchange rate does Oceano Adventure use?
USD prices are approximate and shown for reference only. All payments are processed in Mexican pesos (MXN), and the MXN price shown is the final price.
Is this a short 2-hour beach snorkeling tour?
No. This is a complete Marietas Islands National Park snorkeling experience lasting approximately 5 to 5½ hours, including transportation to the marina, navigation, snorkeling, exploration and lunch.
How large are the groups?
Oceano Adventure specializes in small-group snorkeling experiences with personalized attention. We do not design our Marietas Islands trips around large groups of 20 or more guests on one boat.
Can I visit Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)?
Yes. Oceano Adventure has guaranteed Hidden Beach spaces every Thursday. Access is strictly controlled and must be reserved separately in advance.
Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
No. Previous experience is not required. Our guides will explain the equipment and snorkeling procedures before entering the water. Participants should be comfortable in the ocean.Your meeting location depends on where you're staying.
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Guests staying in Sayulita meet at our designated Sayulita Meeting Point (Coyote Café), where transportation to La Cruz Marina can be arranged.
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Guests staying in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, Punta Mita or San Pancho usually meet us directly at La Cruz Marina.
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Your reservation confirmation will include the exact meeting point and check-in instructions.
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Please confirm where we will meeting you
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2. Los Arcos National Marine Park
Snorkel among massive granite arches rising from the ocean. Famous for its diverse marine life, underwater caves, and schools of vibrant tropical fish. A small group of granite islands sitting above dramatic rock reefs that are home to various reef fish, such as angelfish and puffers. Every now and then a turtle can be spotted here!
Depth
Range
3–13 ft (1–4 m)
Average
Visibility
10–30 ft (3–10 m)
Marine
Highlights
Reef fish, angelfish, puffers, turtles, rays
Perfect for
snorkelers
All ages who want a relaxed trip into the Bay of Banderas
Important information snorkeling tour in Los Arcos
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Explore Los Arcos Marine Park in Banderas Bay on a small-group snorkeling adventure with personalized attention from Oceano Adventure.
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Los Arcos is one of the most iconic snorkeling areas near Puerto Vallarta, known for its dramatic granite rock formations, protected waters and abundant marine life.
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Your experience includes:
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Small-group snorkeling experience
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Professional guide
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Full snorkeling equipment
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Safety equipment
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Transportation from your confirmed meeting point to the marina
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Light lunch, water and soft drinks
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Personalized attention throughout the experience
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Oceano Adventure focuses on complete ocean experiences rather than short, crowded beach excursions, giving you more time to explore and enjoy one of Banderas Bay's best-known marine environments.
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8:30 AM — Meet at your confirmed departure point
Meet your guide and get ready for your Los Arcos snorkeling adventure. -
9:20 AM — Arrival at the Marina
Board the boat, prepare your snorkeling equipment and receive a safety briefing. -
9:30 AM — Departure to Los Arcos
Enjoy the boat ride across Banderas Bay toward Los Arcos Marine Park. -
10:30 AM — Arrival at Los Arcos
Your guide will introduce the snorkeling area, its dramatic rock formations and the marine life found around Los Arcos. -
10:45 AM — Guided Snorkeling
Explore the waters surrounding Los Arcos and discover reef fish and other marine species of Banderas Bay. -
12:30 PM — End of Water Activities
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1:00 PM — Lunch Onboard
Relax and enjoy lunch and drinks before heading back. -
1:30 PM — Return to Marina
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2:15 PM — Arrival at Marina
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Times are approximate and may vary depending on ocean conditions.
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Location: Los Arcos, Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Snorkeling Depth: 1–4 meters (3–13 ft)
Snorkeling Area: Rocky formations, shallow reefs and protected coves
Visibility: 3–10 meters (10–30 ft), with seasonal variations
Water Temperature: 19°C–29°C (66°F–84°F), depending on the season
Current: Variable, usually mild in the main snorkeling areas
Marine Life: Tropical reef fish, rays and a variety of Pacific marine species
Experience Level: Suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers
Operations: Year-round, weather and ocean conditions permitting
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The price you see includes snorkeling equipment, professional guide, transportation from your confirmed meeting point, lunch and drinks. No surprise charges are added when you arrive.
What exchange rate does Oceano Adventure use?
USD prices are approximate and shown for reference only. All payments are processed in Mexican pesos (MXN), and the MXN price shown is the final price.
Is this a short beach snorkeling tour?
No. This is a complete Los Arcos snorkeling experience in Banderas Bay, including transportation to the marina, navigation, guided snorkeling and lunch.
How large are the groups?
Oceano Adventure specializes in small-group snorkeling experiences with personalized attention. We do not design our Los Arcos trips around large groups of 20 or more guests on one boat.
What is included?
Full snorkeling equipment, professional guide, transportation from your confirmed meeting point, safety equipment, lunch, water and soft drinks are included.
Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
No. Previous snorkeling experience is not required. Our guides will explain the equipment and snorkeling procedures before entering the water. Participants should be comfortable in the ocean.
Do you operate year-round?
Yes. Los Arcos snorkeling operates year-round, subject to weather and ocean conditions.Your meeting location depends on where you're staying.
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Guests staying in Sayulita meet at our designated Sayulita Meeting Point (Coyote Café), where transportation to La Cruz Marina can be arranged.
-
Guests staying in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, Punta Mita or San Pancho usually meet us directly at La Cruz Marina.
-
Your reservation confirmation will include the exact meeting point and check-in instructions.
-
Please confirm where we will meeting you
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Yelapa Expedition: Los Arcos & Majahuitas Snorkeling
Discover the southern side of Banderas Bay on a full-day Yelapa tour from Riviera Nayarit, combining two of the bay's best snorkeling stops with the remote coastal village of Yelapa.
Snorkel among tropical marine life at Los Arcos, continue to the clear waters of Majahuitas, and then cruise to Yelapa, a village accessible mainly by boat. Explore its colorful streets, hike to the waterfalls and enjoy free time to discover the village or have lunch at one of the local beachfront restaurants.
This 8-hour small-group Yelapa expedition is limited to a maximum of 8 guests and is designed for travelers staying in Sayulita, San Pancho, Punta de Mita and Riviera Nayarit who want to explore the southern coast of Banderas Bay without joining a large boat tour.
Depth
Range
3–13 ft (1–4 m)
Average
Visibility
10–30 ft (3–10 m)
Marine
Highlights
Tropical reef fish, rays & diverse Pacific marine life
Perfect for
Snorkelers
All ages, families, and couples looking to connect and create lasting memories in a beautiful, eco-friendly environment.
Important information on snorkeling in Yelapa day trip
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Experience the southern coast of Banderas Bay in a small group of no more than 8 guests.
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This full-day expedition combines snorkeling at Los Arcos, a second snorkeling stop at Majahuitas, and time ashore in Yelapa to explore the village and hike to its waterfalls.
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Included in your experience:
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Two snorkeling stops: Los Arcos & Majahuitas
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Full snorkeling and safety equipment
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Professional guide
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Visit to Yelapa village and waterfalls
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Free time to explore Yelapa
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Light lunch onboard
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Water and soft drinks
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Transportation from your confirmed meeting point
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Maximum 8 guests
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In Yelapa, you'll also have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants at your own expense.
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8:30 AM — Meet at your confirmed departure point
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9:20 AM — Arrival at Marina La Cruz
Board the boat, prepare your snorkeling equipment and receive a safety briefing. -
9:30 AM — Departure from Marina La Cruz
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10:30 AM — Los Arcos
Arrival at Los Arcos for the first 30-minute guided snorkeling session. -
11:00 AM — Departure from Los Arcos
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11:20 AM — Majahuitas
Second 30-minute snorkeling session in the clear waters of Majahuitas. -
11:50 AM — Light Lunch Onboard
Enjoy our included light lunch and drinks before continuing south. -
12:10 PM — Departure to Yelapa
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12:30 PM — Arrival in Yelapa
Disembark and begin exploring this remote coastal village. -
12:30–4:00 PM — Yelapa & Waterfalls
Walk through the village, visit the waterfalls and enjoy free time to explore, relax on the beach or have lunch at one of Yelapa's local restaurants. Restaurant meals are not included. -
4:00 PM — Departure from Yelapa
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5:00 PM — Arrival at Marina La Cruz
Times are approximate and may vary depending on ocean conditions.
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Route: Los Arcos – Majahuitas – Yelapa, Banderas Bay, Mexico
Snorkeling Depth: 1–4 meters (3–13 ft)
Visibility: 3–10 meters (10–30 ft), with seasonal variations
Water Temperature: 19°C–29°C (66°F–84°F), depending on the season
Snorkeling Sessions: Two guided sessions of approximately 30 minutes each
Experience Level: No previous snorkeling experience required; participants should be comfortable in the ocean
Group Size: Minimum 4 guests to confirm departure – Maximum 8 guests
Duration: Full-day expedition, approximately 8 hours
Yelapa: Walking and light hiking are required to explore the village and visit the waterfalls
Conditions: Route and snorkeling locations may be adjusted according to weather and ocean conditions
Operations: Year-round, weather and ocean conditions permitting
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The advertised price includes snorkeling equipment, professional guide, transportation from your confirmed meeting point, light lunch, water and soft drinks. Restaurant meals in Yelapa are optional and paid directly by each guest.
What exchange rate does Oceano Adventure use?
USD prices are approximate and shown for reference only. All payments are processed in Mexican pesos (MXN), and the MXN price shown is the final price.
What makes this Yelapa tour different?
This is an 8-hour small-group expedition from Riviera Nayarit, combining snorkeling at Los Arcos and Majahuitaswith a visit to Yelapa village and its waterfalls. Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 guests.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes. Mask, snorkel, fins and required safety equipment are included for both snorkeling stops.
Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
No. Previous experience is not required. Our guides provide instructions before entering the water. Participants should be comfortable in the ocean.
Is lunch included?
A light lunch, water and soft drinks are included onboard. In Yelapa you will have free time to choose a local restaurant for a larger meal if you wish. Restaurant meals are not included.
Is the Yelapa waterfall visit included?
Yes. You'll have time to explore Yelapa and walk to the waterfalls. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are recommended.How many guests are required?
A minimum of 4 guests is required to confirm departure. Each expedition is limited to a maximum of 8 guests.Your meeting location depends on where you're staying.
-
Guests staying in Sayulita meet at our designated Sayulita Meeting Point (Coyote Café), where transportation to La Cruz Marina can be arranged.
-
Guests staying in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, Punta Mita or San Pancho usually meet us directly at La Cruz Marina.
-
Your reservation confirmation will include the exact meeting point and check-in instructions.
-
Please confirm where we will meeting you
-
Make Yelapa Your Private Adventure
Looking for a more personal way to explore Banderas Bay?
Turn the Yelapa Expedition into a private boat adventure exclusively for your family or group. Enjoy Los Arcos, Majahuitas and Yelapa at a more relaxed pace, with the boat and crew dedicated entirely to you.
Perfect for families, couples, groups of friends and special occasions looking for a full-day private experience from Riviera Nayarit.
Private departures available for groups of up to 8 guests.
