A Short Guide to the Marietas Islands: A Must-Visit Destination Near Puerto Vallarta

The Marietas Islands, located just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, are an internationally acclaimed natural attraction. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a unique combination of natural beauty, biodiversity and adventure, and is famous for its stunning Playa del Amor (Beach of Love).

The Islas Marietas National Park offers a variety of options for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, from scuba diving to bird watching and humpback whale watching.

Here is a brief guide to the Islas Marietas National Park and its fascinating natural wonders.

All You Need is Playa del Amor

The highlight of any visit to the Islas Marietas is Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), popularly known as Playa del Amor. This secluded beach is one of the most unique in the world, hidden inside a crater and accessible only through a water tunnel.

Due to its ecological sensitivity, access to Playa del Amor is limited to just over 100 people per day. It is therefore essential to book a guided tour with an authorized tour operator.

If you decide to visit this incredible beach located very close to Puerto Vallarta, it is very important that you consider the following: Access to Playa Escondida depends on the weather and is therefore not guaranteed.

Before you book a tour to the Marietas Islands, and in order to make your trip a pleasant experience, take a few minutes to do some research on the packages offered by each tour operator, the payment method and what is included in the tour, as well as the refund policy.

What to Do in the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands National Park is a small archipelago northwest of Puerto Vallarta. They consist of two islands: Redonda and Larga islands, and two islands called "Los Morros Cuates", a series of rocks and sand shoals and the sea around them.

Swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting Playa Escondida are the main activities. Please note that all food and beverages are provided on board the tourist boats. Consumption is prohibited in the National Park.

• Snorkeling and Diving. One of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Puerto Vallarta is in the Marietas Islands. These waters are a paradise for underwater exploration, with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays and sea turtles. Snorkeling and diving packages for all levels are available on many adventure tours in Puerto Vallarta.
• Bird Watching. The Marietas Islands are home to the iconic blue-footed booby. Other bird species include frigate birds and pelicans. Birding excursions are a great way to see these rare and beautiful birds in their natural environment.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the island's coastline at a more leisurely pace. This is a great way to get closer to the rock formations and hidden coves at your own pace.
• Whale Watching (December through March). During the winter months, the waters around Marietas Islands become Puerto Vallarta's premier whale watching location. Join an ecotour in Puerto Vallarta to see the humpback whales as they jump and play in the ocean.

Wildlife in the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are a protected marine sanctuary with a rich diversity of marine life. Snorkelers and divers will find colorful fish, sea turtles and coral reefs to explore.

On the surface, birdwatchers will find a variety of breeding colonies of more than 90 species of birds. Among them is the famous Blue-footed Booby. The world's largest breeding colony of brown boobies is also found on the Marietas Islands.

The unique ecosystem of the Marietas Islands makes it one of the best places in Puerto Vallarta for eco-tourism.

Preservation and Environmental Protection

As a National Park, RAMSAR site, World Heritage Site and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Marietas Islands are under strict protection. The islands have strict regulations in place for the preservation of the natural beauty and biodiversity of the islands.

The number of visitors to Playa del Amor is limited to a few hundred people per day and all tour operators are required to respect the ecological practices of the area. 

We recommend that you choose a responsible tour operator that follows the Park's guidelines and preferably is authorized by the National Commission of Protected Areas (CONANP). In this way, as a visitor, you will be contributing to the protection of this natural treasure in Puerto Vallarta for future generations to enjoy.

How to Get to the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are located approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the northwest of Puerto Vallarta. Getting to the islands usually involves a boat tour, and there are a number of options to choose from:

• Boat Tours. The most popular way to visit the Marietas Islands is by organized boat tours departing from Marina Vallarta and the Puerto Vallarta Marine Terminal. Snorkeling, kayaking and visits to Hidden Beach are often included on these tours.
• Private Charters. You can charter a private boat to take you to the islands if you prefer a more personalized experience. This allows for more flexibility in how you plan to travel and explore.

What’s the Best Season to Visit the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to go is during the dry season from November to May. During this time, the seas are calm and the visibility is excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Plan to visit between December and March when humpback whales migrate to the area if you're interested in whale watching in Puerto Vallarta.

A unique blend of adventure, natural beauty and ecological importance awaits you in the Marietas Islands. A visit to the Marietas Islands will be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta trip, whether you're snorkeling, bird-watching or exploring the world-famous Hidden Beach. Experience the beauty of this remarkable destination by booking your eco-friendly tour today.