Planning a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This 7-hour catamaran tour to the Marietas Islands and Majahuitas Beach promises a blend of spectacular scenery, water activities, and a relaxed beachside meal. While it’s an adventure packed with potential, understanding what’s included—and what’s not—helps ensure it matches your expectations.
We particularly like the stunning views of the rocky islands and the chance to snorkel and paddle in calm waters. The beach BBQ at Majahuitas, a secluded gem, adds a tasty touch to the day. On the flip side, some travelers have found the tour crowded, with limited activity time and occasional issues with organization.
This makes it best suited for those looking for a lively, social day on the water rather than a quiet, nature-focused escape.
Whether you’re after a fun group experience or simply want to enjoy the scenic coast, this tour can deliver. But if your priority is a relaxed, intimate encounter with nature, you might want to consider other options or arrive prepared for the social scene.
Key Points
- Scenic Highlights: Rocky caverns, archways, and marine life at the Marietas Islands
- Secluded Beach: Majahuitas offers a stunning, quiet spot for swimming and relaxing
- Activities & Equipment: Snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard gear are included
- Food & Drinks: Beach BBQ and an open bar on the return trip
- Tour Length & Group Size: Seven hours with a capacity for up to 180 people, so expect a lively atmosphere
- Note on Hidden Beach: The tour does not visit the famous Hidden Beach, focusing instead on ocean exploration and wildlife
What to Expect on This Tour
Starting from Puerto Vallarta, you’ll board a comfortable catamaran that takes you out into the Islas Marietas National Park. The vessel is designed for stability and ease, ensuring a smooth ride—though with a capacity of around 180 people, it can feel quite crowded, especially during peak times.
Once on the water, the crew provides snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard equipment—perfect for exploring the calm, turquoise waters around the islands. We loved how the guides emphasized safety while helping you spot marine life. Expect to see various fish and possibly whales, as some reviewers noted sightings of whales close to the boat.
The highlight of the morning is exploring the rocky caverns and archways. While the tour does include brief visits, some travelers, like Benjamin from Canada, have felt the experience was somewhat rushed and less intimate than hoped. The turbid waters in some areas may limit underwater visibility, making snorkeling less spectacular than in clearer conditions.
After the island exploration, you’ll cruise to Majahuitas Beach. This is a true highlight—one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches on the Pacific Coast. The beach BBQ serves up standard but tasty grilled fare, with refreshing drinks to cool you down. The sand is soft, and the waters are perfect for a swim—though, as some reviews mention, access to water sports gear can be limited when many guests are involved.
On the ride back, enjoy the open bar and the lively atmosphere, which many find adds to the overall enjoyment. Be aware, though, that some reviews note the focus on music and drinks can overshadow the natural beauty and water activities.
The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Practical
What we liked:
The knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery make this a memorable trip. The secluded Majahuitas Beach offers a quiet, picture-perfect setting that’s hard to beat on the Pacific Coast. The inclusion of snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard gear at no extra cost means you can try different ways to enjoy the water without additional fees.
What’s less ideal:
The crowded nature of the tour can diminish the experience for those seeking tranquility. The limited activity time—with much of the tour spent transferring between locations—can leave little room for truly immersed exploration. Also, the organization and timing have received mixed reviews, with some travelers feeling the schedule is overly tight and the emphasis on music and drinks overpowering the natural wonders.
Value considerations:
At $89 per person, the price includes most water activities, a beach BBQ, and an open bar—decent value for a full day of activity. However, additional fees like the port fee (MXN$40) and conservation fee ($20 USD) add to the expense. For those seeking a relaxed, nature-focused experience, this tour might feel a bit commercialized.
The Itinerary in Detail
The day begins at the Puerto Vallarta marina, where you’ll board your catamaran. The boat’s capacity of 180 means it’s a lively scene, with many fellow travelers eager for fun. Once onboard, the crew directs everyone to their seats, and soon you’re heading out towards the Marietas Islands.
The first part of the trip involves transit time—a significant portion of the 7 hours is spent cruising back and forth, which some travelers find a bit tedious. That said, the views during the sail are pleasant, and whale sightings reported by some add an unexpected thrill.
Once at the islands, you can choose to snorkel with provided gear in waters that may be murky, as some reviews describe, or kayak and paddleboard. The rock formations are impressive—rocky archways and caves that beg to be photographed. While some guests mention the crowd can make it hard to get close to the best spots, guides do their best to keep everyone engaged.
The highlight for many is Majahuitas Beach. Here, you’ll disembark onto a stretch of pristine sand, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the BBQ. The food is described as tasty but standard—think grilled chicken, rice, salads—served in a casual, beachside setting. The open bar provides drinks like beer, soda, and perhaps some tequila, which many enjoy on the boat ride back.
The return trip features more music and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere. Guides often put on performances or jokes, which some travelers find entertaining, while others might prefer a quieter ride.
Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
While this tour is undoubtedly designed for max enjoyment and socializing, it does have elements that feel authentic. The natural beauty of the islands and the secluded beach are real treasures. The guides’ knowledge about the marine life and geography adds educational value, even if brief.
However, some reviews highlight that the tour feels more like a party than a deep nature experience. The emphasis on music and drinks means that, for those seeking tranquility or a more intimate encounter with nature, the experience might fall short.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Your Day Out
- Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
- Wear comfortable shoes and swimwear, and bring a towel.
- Sun protection is key—sunglasses, sun hat, and a jacket in case of wind.
- Expect additional costs: port fee (MXN$40) and conservation fee ($20 USD), payable at check-in.
- The tour does not visit the Hidden Beach, so don’t expect that specific highlight.
- Children aged 4-11 get a discounted rate, while those 12+ are considered adults.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best suited for groups wanting a lively day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for water activities, socializing, and enjoying scenic views. Families with older children, friends, or couples looking for a fun, active excursion will likely find it enjoyable.
If you’re after a quiet, contemplative experience with lots of natural solitude, you might find the crowds and party atmosphere less appealing. Also, if your main interest is the Hidden Beach, know that this tour does not include it, so plan accordingly.
The Sum Up
The From Vallarta: Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ at Majahuitas tour offers a spirited way to enjoy some of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal scenery. The stunning landscapes, marine life, and secluded beach are genuine highlights, especially for travelers who enjoy water sports and social experiences.
The organization and pace may not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more tranquil or in-depth nature encounter. The value for money is fair, considering the included activities, food, and drinks, but be aware of extra fees.
This tour provides a fun-filled day—ideal for those who want a lively, social adventure with plenty of visual and water-based highlights. If you’re looking for a vibrant, activity-packed outing that combines scenic beauty with a relaxed party vibe, it’s likely to satisfy.
From Vallarta: Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ at Majahuitas
FAQ
- Does the tour visit the Hidden Beach? No, this tour does not include visiting the Hidden Beach.
- What is included in the price? The tour includes snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard equipment, a beach BBQ lunch, and an open bar on the way back.
- Are there any extra fees? Yes, a port fee (MXN$40) and a conservation fee ($20 USD) are payable at check-in.
- How long is the tour? The total duration is approximately 7 hours.
- Is transportation provided to/from my hotel? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
- Can children participate? Yes, children aged 4 to 11 are eligible for a reduced rate; children 12 and up are considered adults.
- What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunglasses, sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a jacket.
- Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
- What language is the tour conducted in? The guides speak both Spanish and English.
This tour offers a lively look at Puerto Vallarta’s coast, with plenty of opportunities for fun and photo-worthy moments. Just pack your sense of adventure—and maybe a little patience for the crowds.
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