Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa las Animas

Introducing the Half Day Tour with Snorkeling in Colomitos and Playa las Animas

If you’re considering a water-based adventure during your visit to Puerto Vallarta, this tour promises a day filled with sunshine, sea, and some good old-fashioned fun. It combines snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and lively onboard entertainment, making it tempting for those looking for a lively, social outing.

What we appreciate about this experience is how it offers a mix of sightseeing and active water fun, all wrapped into a manageable half-day. Plus, the inclusion of a free bar and music onboard adds a festive touch. On the flip side, potential travelers should think about the mixed reviews regarding the snorkeling quality and the organization, which could impact overall enjoyment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, beach relaxation, and casual water activities. If you’re after a quiet, intimate snorkeling experience or a seamlessly organized trip, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you’re in Puerto Vallarta seeking a lively group outing with some gorgeous scenery, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Balanced mixture of snorkeling, beach time, and onboard entertainment
• Includes lunch and unlimited drinks on the boat, adding value
• Potential organization issues reported by some travelers
• Snorkeling and kayaking options available, but quality may vary
• Beautiful scenery at Los Arcos de Mismaloya and Playa las Animas
• Longer beach stay (around 3 hours), ideal for relaxation and foodie adventures

What to Expect from the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

The Meeting Point and Starting the Adventure

The tour begins at Puerto Mágico, a lively port area with cafes, shops, and free parking—perfect for a relaxed start. Arriving at 11:30 am ensures you’re ready for a prompt departure at 12:00 pm. The fact that the check-in point is within a bustling, well-equipped area means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics too much, especially if you’re staying nearby.

The Scenic Sail Along Puerto Vallarta’s Coast

The first leg of the journey takes you from Puerto Mágico to the Muelle de Playa Los Muertos, a brief 30-minute cruise. While this segment is free of charge, it offers a chance to admire the city’s skyline and the sparkling bay. It’s a great warm-up and provides some initial glimpses of Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant coastline.

Next, the boat heads towards Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a highlight of the trip. Known for their dramatic rock formations rising from the water, these arches are a favorite photo spot. The 20-minute stop here is perfect for capturing some memorable shots, and the experience of seeing these natural sculptures up close is quite striking.

The Main Water Activities: Colomitos and Snorkeling

The tour’s real draw for many is the stop at Colomitos, a tiny beach often called Mexico’s smallest. The water activities here— snorkeling or kayaking—are meant to be the highlight, especially if you enjoy exploring marine life.

However, it’s worth noting that the snorkeling quality has received mixed reviews. One traveler described it as the “worst snorkeling I have ever been on,” which suggests that the marine environment might not always meet expectations. Also, the snorkeling equipment is included, but with limited time (around 40 minutes), it’s more about a quick splash than a deep underwater adventure.

Playa Las Animas: Sun, Sand, and Local Cuisine

After water activities, you’re whisked away to Playa Las Ánimas—a well-loved beach destination. The boat ride to the beach is approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, or explore. The tour includes a visit to a designated restaurant where you can indulge in local seafood and seafront dishes, a highlight for many travelers who enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine with a view.

This longer beach stay balances out the lively onboard atmosphere with a chance to unwind. The setting is idyllic, with soft sand and vibrant surf, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

The Return and Onboard Festivities

As the day winds down, the boat leaves Playa Las Ánimas about 1.5 hours before returning to port. The return trip is more than just transportation—it’s a party, with music, an open bar, and fun contests onboard. For those who enjoy socializing and lively atmospheres, this part of the trip can be quite enjoyable.

However, some reviews mention that the organization could be smoother. One traveler noted issues with rescheduling and refunds, which hints at possible logistical hiccups during the operation. Still, the onboard entertainment aims to keep spirits high.

Practicalities and What You Should Know

Pricing and Value

At $57.51 per person, the tour offers a decent value for a lively half-day experience, especially considering the included lunch, drinks, and water activities. But travelers should remember there’s a dock tax of $33 MXN (~$1.75 USD), which isn’t included in the price and adds to the total cost. Extra food or drinks on the beach, photos, and tips are also expenses to keep in mind.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 60 travelers, the tour can feel more like a party than an intimate adventure. If you prefer smaller groups, this might feel crowded, especially during peak times. The large group size contributes to the lively, energetic mood onboard but can be overwhelming for those seeking a quieter experience.

Timing and Duration

The tour runs from 12:00 pm for about 6 to 7 hours. Expect to spend most of this time on the water or at the beach, with some stops for sightseeing. The schedule allows ample time at Playa Las Ánimas—an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Transportation and Accessibility

Starting at Puerto Mágico and ending back at the same point makes logistics straightforward. The area is accessible by public transportation, and the port is equipped for visitors. Kids under 2 are free, making it a family-friendly option, though the lively environment might be less suited for very young children.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

While the tour touts snorkeling and beach time, reviews suggest that the snorkeling may not always meet expectations. One traveler called it the “worst snorkeling I have ever been on,” indicating that marine visibility or marine life might be underwhelming. That said, the scenery at Los Arcos and Playa Las Ánimas is still impressive and worth seeing.

The inclusion of authentic seaside food and the opportunity to relax at Playa Las Ánimas can be the real highlight for many. The lively onboard atmosphere, with music and drinks, makes for a fun social outing but might not appeal to those looking for a peaceful, nature-focused experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works well for travelers who enjoy social settings, lively boat rides, and casual water activities. If you’re after a quick, fun day involving scenic views, some snorkeling, and plenty of on-board entertainment, you’ll likely find this tour satisfying.

However, if snorkeling quality or organized logistics are high priorities, you might want to explore other options. It’s also best suited for those not expecting a quiet, serene beach day or a top-tier snorkeling expedition.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour combines plenty of lively fun with scenic vistas and beach relaxation. Its strengths lie in the overall atmosphere—music, drinks, and the beautiful views at Los Arcos and Playa Las Ánimas. For food lovers, the included seaside lunch adds tasty value to the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.

On the downside, the mixed reviews about snorkeling and organizational hiccups mean you should go in with realistic expectations. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize social gatherings and a festive vibe over a pristine marine environment or small-group exclusivity.

If you’re in Puerto Vallarta and looking for a half-day outing with plenty of social fun, this tour offers good value. Just be prepared for a lively crowd and some variability in the experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 2 are free, and the tour is generally family-friendly, especially those who enjoy lively, social environments.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers snorkel or kayak activities, lunch, an open bar on board, use of snorkeling equipment, and restroom facilities onboard.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a dock tax of $33 MXN per person, and additional expenses might include extra food or drinks on the beach, photos, and tips.

How long is the beach stop?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours at Playa Las Ánimas, plenty of time to relax, swim, or explore local eateries.

What is the quality of snorkeling like?
Reviews suggest snorkeling quality can be inconsistent, with some travelers disappointed by marine visibility and marine life.

Is the tour group large?
Yes, with up to 60 travelers, it tends to be a lively, bustling environment.

When does the tour start and end?
It departs at 12:00 pm and lasts about 6 to 7 hours, returning to the starting point in Puerto Vallarta.

Is transportation arranged?
Yes, the tour starts at Puerto Mágico and ends back there, making logistics straightforward.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available if done at least 24 hours in advance, but last-minute changes are not accepted.

In the end, this tour offers a fun, social way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s coast, with some caveats about snorkeling and organization. It’s best for those who enjoy a lively, group-oriented vibe and are happy to accept some variability in the experience.