Marietas Islands Full‑Day All‑Inclusive Boat Tour: Hidden Beach, Snorkel & Wildlife
Spend a six‑hour day cruising from La Cruz to the Marietas: snorkel coral gardens, paddle to Playa la Nopalera, and—if you book the permit—stand on the rare Hidden Beach. This all‑inclusive tour blends wildlife watching, waterslides and local food with expert guides.
The Experience
Before You Go
Reserve the Hidden Beach permit
Permits are limited and paid in pesos at check‑in—notify the operator after booking to secure one.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
The park prohibits harmful sunscreens; carry reef‑safe lotion to protect coral and comply with guides.
Prepare for sea conditions
Take motion‑sickness medication before departure if you’re prone to nausea; the Pacific can be choppy mid‑day.
Bring cash in pesos
Small purchases, tips and the Hidden Beach permit are paid locally—ATMs are limited at the marina.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Playa la Nopalera — a quieter snorkel cove on the islands' leeward side
- •Snorkel coves and reef ledges east of the main islets, where fish congregate in shallow gardens
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Green sea turtle
Conservation Note
Strict permit limits, no‑drone rules and reef‑safe sunscreen policies help minimize visitor impact; follow guides and avoid touching coral.
The Marietas are volcanic islets later used for military target practice in the 20th century; they were designated a protected national park to preserve marine life and seabird colonies.
Photographer's Notes
- • Foredeck of the boat during approach
- • From a paddleboard near Playa la Nopalera
- • Atop the anchored boat for wide seascapes and action shots
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral while complying with park guidelines.
Water shoes or reef bootsEssential
Protects feet on rocky entries and when stepping off inflatable platforms.
Snorkel mask (travel or prescription)
Better-fitting masks improve underwater visibility and comfort; rentals are often available onboard.
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and a light layer safe from splashes during ocean play.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and where does it depart?
The tour is approximately 6 hours and departs from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle (with meeting options in Sayulita and Nuevo Vallarta).
Do I need a permit for the Hidden Beach?
Yes—Hidden Beach permits are limited, must be reserved in advance and paid in pesos at check‑in; notify the operator after booking to reserve one.
Is food and drink included?
Yes—the tour is all‑inclusive with premium open bar and a cooked lunch; vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑free options are available if requested.
Can I bring my drone or fly one over the islands?
No—drones are prohibited under federal regulations to protect bird nesting areas and flight paths.
What wildlife might we see?
Seasonally you can see humpback whales (Dec–Apr), sea turtles, rays and tropical reef fish year‑round; crew keep a lookout and will stop if animals appear.
Are children and non‑swimmers allowed?
Yes—the trip is family‑friendly and suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and life vests are provided for non‑swimmers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Nayarit
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; swimmers should be comfortable in open water for short snorkel swims.
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