Top 3 Must-Visit Islands Near Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is the gateway to some of the most beautiful and biodiverse islands along the Pacific coast of Mexico. These three islands offer something for everyone, whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for a peaceful escape. 

Explore the vibrant marine life of Los Arcos de Mismaloya, discover the hidden treasures of the Marietas Islands, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Isla Cocinas. From snorkeling in crystal clear waters to spotting rare wildlife and enjoying pristine beaches, each island offers a unique experience. 

Dive into this quick guide and discover the top islands near Puerto Vallarta that should be on every traveler's bucket list!

Los Arcos National Marine Park

Los Arcos National Marine Park lies in the heart of Banderas Bay, just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This marine sanctuary is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, known for its stunning natural rock formations and vibrant marine life. 

A Haven for Wildlife

Los Arcos de Mismaloya Marine Park is renowned for its rich biological diversity. It hosts an array of marine species, including brightly colored tropical fish, mantas, sea turtles and even dolphins. A popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving in Puerto Vallarta, the underwater caves and tunnels formed by the giant granite arches provide the perfect habitat for these creatures. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the towering rock formations as nesting sites for seabirds including pelicans, frigate birds and blue-footed boobies.

Featured Activities

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and underwater caves. The crystal clear waters allow you to get up close and personal with a variety of marine life.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding. Enjoy breathtaking views of the rock formations and surrounding natural beauty as you glide through the calm waters around Los Arcos (The Arches.)
• Bird Watching. Take your binoculars and observe the fascinating bird species that call Los Arcos de Mismaloya home.
• Boat Tours. Take a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta to Los Arcos to explore the area, often combined with visiting nearby beaches like Las Ánimas and Yelapa.

How to Get There

Los Arcos de Mismaloya is located about 6 miles (10km) south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. You can get to this marine sanctuary by:

• Boat. The majority of visitors choose to take boat tours, which are easily accessible from the Los Muertos Pier and the Puerto Vallarta Marine Terminal located in the North Hotel Zone.
• Public Transportation. You can take a public bus from the Romantic Zone (at the corner of Constitucion Street and Basilio Badillo Street) to Mismaloya Beach, and then arrange to take a boat to the Los Arcos area.
• Car. Head south on Highway 200 if you prefer to drive. Parking is available at Mismaloya Beach. From there you can take a boat to Los Arcos.

Best Time to Visit

Los Arcos de Mismaloya Marine Park can be visited all year round. However, the best time to explore this protected area is during the dry season, from November to April. The waters are calmer and the visibility is at its best for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Combining stunning natural beauty with opportunities for adventure and wildlife viewing, Los Arcos de Mismaloya Marine Park offers an unforgettable experience. Los Arcos is a destination not to be missed when visiting Puerto Vallarta, whether you are an experienced diver or just looking for a scenic day trip.

Marietas Islands

A true gem of the Pacific Ocean, the Marietas Islands are a stunning group of small, uninhabited islands just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The Marietas Islands offer an extraordinary experience for nature lovers and adventurers, known for their unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and a hidden beach. 

A Wildlife Preserve

The Marietas Islands are part of a National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making them a protected area that is teeming with wildlife. The islands are famous for their abundance of marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales (on a seasonal basis), and a wide variety of tropical fish. In addition, the islands are home to more than 90 species of birds, including the iconic blue-footed booby, which is typically found in the Galapagos Islands. The volcanic origin of the islands has created natural caves, arches and tunnels that provide perfect habitats for both land and sea animals.

Featured Activities

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. The crystal clear waters around the Marietas Islands are ideal for snorkelers and divers. Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with schools of fish, and discover underwater caves.
• Hidden Beach (or Playa del Amor). Hidden Beach, a secluded sandy cove inside a crater accessible only by swimming through a tunnel at low tide, is one of the most famous attractions at the Marietas Islands. "Playa del Amor" is a must-do for anyone in search of a unique and peaceful beach experience.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding. Take in stunning views of volcanic rock formations and see marine life up close as you paddle through the calm waters around the islands.
• Bird Watching. Bring your binoculars to spot rare species of birds such as the blue-footed booby, frigate birds and pelicans that nest on the islands.
• Seasonal Whale Watching. The waters around the Marietas Islands become a playground for humpback whales from December through March. During this season, many tour operators offer whale watching excursions departing from the Puerto Vallarta Marine Terminal.

How to Get There

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.

Best Time to Visit

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.

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Strict conservation measures are in place to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Marietas Islands due to their popularity. Access to Hidden Beach is regulated. Visitors must follow guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment. It's important to choose eco-friendly tours that have sustainability and respect for the natural environment as a priority.

The Marietas Islands are a paradise just waiting to be explored, offering the perfect blend of adventure, wildlife and unspoiled natural beauty. A visit to this remarkable destination is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories, whether you're diving in crystal clear waters, discovering hidden beaches, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the islands.

Isla Cocinas

Located in the pristine region of Costalegre on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Isla Cocinas is a secluded island known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Located just a few hours south of Puerto Vallarta, Isla Cocinas is an ideal destination for those looking for an adventure off the beaten path, surrounded by crystal clear waters and unspoiled landscapes. 

A Hotspot For Biodiversity 

One of the most ecologically diverse areas in Mexico, Isla Cocinas and the surrounding Costalegre region are home to a wide variety of marine species. The island is home to a variety of marine species, including sea turtles, manta rays and tropical fish, and is surrounded by the vibrant Pacific Ocean. Dolphins and whales are also frequent visitors. This is especially true during migration season. A paradise for birdwatchers, the island's lush vegetation is a sanctuary for many species of birds. On land, you'll find unique species of plants that are native to this coastal environment.

Featured Activities

• Snorkeling and Diving. Isla Cocinas is surrounded by clear, calm waters, making it the perfect place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and get up close and personal with an array of marine life.
• Sunbathing. The island's sandy beaches are unspoiled and often deserted, offering a tranquil escape where you can relax, sunbathe and take in the beauty of nature.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding. Explore hidden coves and take in the stunning coastal scenery as you glide through the turquoise waters surrounding the island.
• Hiking and Exploration. Although Isla Cocinas is small, there are trails and areas for hiking that offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding islands.

How to Get There

Isla Cocinas is located approximately 110 miles (177 km) south of Puerto Vallarta, and getting there involves a combination of traveling by land and sea. Here's how to get to this secluded piece of paradise:

• By Car. From Puerto Vallarta, through the towns of El Tuito and Tomatlán, head south on Highway 200. Traveling to the nearest coastal town, Chamela, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. The bay of Chamela is the gateway to Isla Cocinas.
• By Boat. Once you have reached the bay of Chamela, you can hire a local boat (panga) that will take you to Isla Cocinas. The price for a group of up to six people is around 2,500 MXN. The boat ride offers stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands and takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
• Guided Tours. Consider booking a tour that includes transportation from Puerto Vallarta to Chamela Bay and a boat ride to Isla Cocinas for a hassle free experience. Snorkeling, meals and guided activities on the island are often included in these tours.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from November to May, is the best time to visit Isla Cocinas. During this time, the weather is warm and the seas are calm. This is ideal for water activities and relaxing on the beach. If you're interested in whale watching, you should plan your visit between December and March, when the humpback whales are migrating through the region.

Preserving and Respecting the Environment

Isla Cocinas remains a natural paradise as a remote and largely undeveloped island. Visits to this island are strictly limited to two hours per person. Respect for the environment during your visit is of the utmost importance. Practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Avoid disturbing wildlife and be mindful of the delicate ecosystems both on land and in the water. The choice of eco-friendly tours and the respect of local guidelines will be an important contribution to the preservation of the beauty of this unique destination for future generations.

Why Should I Visit Isla Cocinas?

Isla Cocinas allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. Isla Cocinas provides an unforgettable experience that connects you to the natural beauty of Mexico's Pacific coast, whether you're snorkeling in crystal clear waters, relaxing on a secluded beach, or exploring the island's rich biodiversity.

Los Arcos de Mismaloya, the Marietas Islands and Isla Cocinas are unique natural wonders located very close to Puerto Vallarta. These ecosystems are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna species. So try to minimize your ecological footprint, respect the environment around you and contribute to the preservation of these micro-destinations the next time you decide to visit these 3 spectacular islands near Puerto Vallarta.