Full Day Tour Isla Marietas with Meals and Open Bar

This experience made our article of 15 Best Drinking Tours In Puerto Vallarta (With Prices).

Introduction

If you’re contemplating a day trip to the iconic Isla Marietas from Puerto Vallarta, this tour promises a blend of marine adventure, scenic views, and delicious food. Although we’ve not personally taken this exact journey, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a lively, activity-packed day that many travelers find memorable.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the combination of water-based activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding—which give you an up-close look at the area’s colorful underwater life and stunning coastlines. Plus, the all-inclusive meals and open bar add a relaxed, social vibe to the day, making it a good value for those looking to combine adventure with comfort.

However, it’s worth noting that the timing and logistical details might be a concern for some travelers, particularly if you need to be back by a certain time or prefer smaller, more private tours. Still, for energetic travelers eager to explore the natural beauty of the Marietas Islands with a lively group, this tour can be a great fit.

This tour suits active, curious travelers who want a full day of marine exploration and social fun, especially those who enjoy guided excursions with plenty of amenities.

Key Points

• Marine and scenic highlights include whale sightings (December to March), caves, and the famous hidden beach.
• Activities like snorkeling and kayaking give you a hands-on experience of the area’s underwater world.
• All-inclusive meals and open bar make for a stress-free, social atmosphere.
• Group size can go up to 80 people, so it’s lively but might feel crowded.
• Timing involves a long boat ride, so be prepared for roughly two hours each way.
• Extra costs like entrance fees and optional upgrades are not included in the base price.
• Safety and guidance are prioritized, with attentive staff ensuring all participants can enjoy safely.
• Reviews show mixed experiences, with many praising the guides and scenery but some noting logistical or service issues.
• Value depends on your priorities—if snorkeling and social drinking appeal, this trip offers solid bang for your buck.

Exploring the Isla Marietas Full-Day Tour

A Scenic Departure From Puerto Vallarta

Starting early at the Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll join a group of up to 80 travelers on a trip that begins at 8:15 am. The journey includes a roughly two-hour boat ride to the Marietas Islands, a stretch that some reviews describe as long but scenic. The boat trip itself is part of the adventure, offering views of the coast and a chance to spot dolphins or humpback whales (December through March).

While some guests mention that the boat’s condition is “shabby,” most appreciate the friendly crew, who focus on safety and fun. It’s a lively atmosphere, with an open bar available during the return trip—after the aquatic activities—offering drinks like soft drinks, juices, and limited alcoholic options.

The Marietas Islands: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Once at the islands, you’ll be greeted by a landscape of caves, coves, and the legendary Hidden Beach. This natural formation, accessible by swimming through a cave, is a major highlight—though one reviewer pointed out that swimming proficiency is needed to reach it. The tour guides are attentive, always mindful of safety, especially near the caves and water.

During the visit, you’ll see vibrant marine life—endless colorful fish and dolphins—and, in season, humpback whales. As one reviewer put it, “You’ll need to be a strong swimmer to get to the hidden beach. It was worth the effort and swimming through the cave was cool.” This suggests that the tour leans toward those who enjoy physical activity and aren’t afraid of a bit of a swim.

Water Activities and Marine Discovery

The tour’s core appeal lies in its water-based options. You can snorkel with provided gear—fins, vests, snorkels—and explore the underwater world. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also available, allowing you to get closer to the coast or just enjoy gliding over the water.

Guests consistently mention that the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe. The underwater scenery, as one reviewer noted, is “colorful and rich,” offering plenty to see if you take the time to snorkel.

That said, some reviews highlight that the water can be choppy, and swimming from the boat to the island requires good stamina and confidence. If you’re not comfortable in the water, these activities might be less enjoyable.

Meals and Refreshments

Included in the price are breakfast and a substantial lunch, with many reviewers commenting on the quality and variety. The food typically includes salads with chicken, tuna, or vegetarian options, satisfying after a morning of physical activity.

The open bar is available during the return trip and later in the day, providing soft drinks, water, and juices. Alcoholic drinks are served after aquatic activities, ensuring safety. Several guests appreciated the generous flow of drinks—one reviewer said, “Drinks are flowing,” and many enjoyed the social atmosphere.

However, some reviews mention that the open bar has a limited selection and only runs for a few hours, so don’t expect an endless supply of alcohol.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Keep in mind, there are a few optional expenses not included in the ticket price:
– Entrance fee to the Marietas Natural Park (MX$33 per person)
– The Sermaramat bracelet for conservation (MX$180) if you wish to support preservation efforts
– Upgrading to access Playa del Amor (MX$1000), which is not included in the standard tour and requires an extra fee.

Some reviews point out confusion over extra charges or unannounced fees, so it’s wise to clarify what’s included before boarding.

The Long Day and Logistical Tips

The trip lasts about 6 to 7 hours, with some guests noting that the travel time—about two hours each way—can be tiring, especially if you’re pressed for time or need to be back early.

Several reviews mention that late arrivals or miscommunications can lead to frustration. It’s best to arrive on time and pay attention to meeting instructions. If you’re on a cruise or have strict schedules, double-check the timing and extra costs like the hidden beach access fee.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with some describing the experience as “lots of fun” and “a full day of activities.” One reviewer summed it up: “Good staff, fun from beginning to end, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.”

However, some feedback points to disorganization or unmet expectations—such as boat condition, food availability, or the open bar hours. A few travelers felt the boat was “beyond shabby,” and others had issues with communication about fees or itinerary details.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adventurous, social travelers who enjoy active water sports and don’t mind larger groups. It’s also ideal for those who want a full, lively day with food, drinks, and opportunities to swim and kayak.

If you’re seeking a relaxing, intimate experience or a private tour, you might find this one a bit crowded or hectic. Likewise, if your priority is visiting the Hidden Beach specifically, be aware that it involves a fee and limited spots—plus, some reviews mention that access isn’t guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

This Isla Marietas tour offers a dynamic mix of scenic beauty, marine activities, and social enjoyment—all at a reasonable price point. The inclusion of meals and an open bar ensures you won’t need to worry about extra expenses, though understanding the additional fees and timing is key to having a smooth experience.

Most travelers will find value in the guided water activities, the chance to see dolphins and whales, and the chance to explore caves and hidden beaches. The guides’ attentiveness and safety focus are big pluses, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or kayaking.

That said, the long boat ride, the larger group size, and some inconsistencies in service mean this isn’t a perfect, boutique-style outing. It’s best suited for energetic and social travelers who want to pack a lot into a single day and are comfortable with a bit of unpredictability.

For anyone eager to experience the natural wonders of the Marietas Islands, enjoy some lively companionship, and indulge in good food and drinks, this tour offers a lively, memorable adventure—just keep your expectations aligned with the realities of a popular, bustling excursion.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your meeting point is at Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta, and the tour includes a boat ride to the islands.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:15 am, so plan to arrive a bit earlier to check in and avoid missing the departure.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to the islands takes approximately two hours each way, so be prepared for a lengthy trip if you’re sensitive to long periods at sea.

What activities are included?
You can snorkel with provided gear, kayak, and paddleboard around the islands. Swimming through caves and viewing marine life are also key features.

Are meals and drinks really all-inclusive?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are provided, along with an open bar during the return trip. Drinks include soft drinks, juices, and alcohol after aquatic activities.

Is the Hidden Beach accessible?
Access to Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach) costs extra (MX$1000) and has limited availability. It’s not included in the standard tour.

What are the additional fees?
The entrance fee to the Marietas Natural Park is MX$33 per person, payable on arrival. The conservation bracelet costs MX$180 if you choose to support the effort.

Can I do this tour if I don’t swim well?
Swimming proficiency is recommended, especially to reach the Hidden Beach or participate comfortably in snorkeling and cave swimming.

What is the group size?
The tour can host up to 80 travelers, making it lively but potentially crowded during peak times.

To sum it up, this tour offers a solid way to explore the stunning Marietas Islands with plenty of water activities, good food, and social fun. It’s best suited for energetic, sociable travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and a larger group. If you value guided excursions with safety and comfort in mind, and don’t mind the long boat ride, this experience will give you many memorable moments of the region’s beauty.