Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera

Travelers looking for a memorable day on the water in Jalisco will find this Marietas Islands boat tour from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle offers plenty of water-based fun combined with spectacular scenery. This well-reviewed excursion, rated 4.5 out of 5 by 31 travelers, promises a lively 6-hour experience packed with snorkeling, kayaking, a delicious Mexican lunch, and relaxing at Playa la Nopalera.

We love that this trip combines adventure and relaxation—a perfect way to enjoy Banderas Bay’s vibrant marine life while lounging with unlimited drinks. The inclusion of water slides and a variety of water toys makes it especially appealing to families and groups seeking active fun. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full on water activities, which might feel rushed for some.

This tour is best suited for those who want an all-inclusive, lively day at sea with good value, excellent guides, and plenty of chances to see wildlife. If you’re after a quiet, contemplative visit to the islands, this might feel a bit too energetic, but for most, it promises a day of memorable ocean fun.

This experience made our article of La Cruz De Huanacaxtle’s 6 Best Boat Tours & Cruises (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Full-day adventure with snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach exploration
• All-inclusive drinks and tasty Mexican food included in the price
• Experienced guides and water safety supervision ensure peace of mind
• Opportunity to see marine wildlife like sea turtles, rays, and whales (seasonal)
• Comfortable boat with water slides and toys for all ages to enjoy
• Flexible options for meet-up and drop-off locations

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This Marietas Islands boat tour from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is designed to maximize your time on the water, combining scenic cruising with plenty of opportunities for adventure. The six-hour experience is packed with activities, good food, and wildlife viewing, making it a good choice for travelers who want to get the most out of a day in Banderas Bay.

Starting Point and Accessibility

You have three options for where to meet your vessel: Chica Locca Marina, Chica Locca Tours Head Office, or Chica Locca Tours Carlos Co. This flexibility makes it convenient regardless of where you’re staying nearby. The boat departs in the morning, and the tour typically lasts about six hours, providing ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

The Cruise Along Banderas Bay

As your boat heads out, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the coast and marine life. The route along the north shore of Banderas Bay offers excellent scenery—think lush hills, charming seaside villages, and the shimmering ocean. And if you’re visiting between December and April, keep an eye out for humpback whales, which are known to inhabit these waters during that season.

The crew is experienced and attentive, with many reviewers praising the guides’ knowledge and helpfulness. One guest noted, “The staff was very helpful, informative, and attentive.” The boat itself is comfortably equipped, with water slides and plenty of water toys—including kayaks and paddleboards—so everyone has something to enjoy.

Breakfast and Snacks

The tour kicks off with a fresh breakfast of seasonal fruit, muffins, and coffee, setting a refreshing tone for the day. As you cruise, a snack of guacamole and chips is served—simple, tasty, and perfect for sharing on deck. These small touches help make the entire experience feel welcoming and relaxed.

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Visiting the Marietas Islands

The main highlight is the guided visit to the Marietas Islands, a protected marine reserve famed for its stunning biodiversity and unique geological formations. Your guide will lead you on a swim, kayak, or snorkel expedition to Playa la Nopalera, a small, secluded beach within the reserve.

We loved the way the guides make the marine wildlife accessible—many reviews mention seeing sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. One traveler raved, “We saw numerous whales and the snorkeling was incredible.” The wet landing on the island offers a thrilling experience, but it does require some agility. For those who prefer to stay on the boat, there’s still plenty to enjoy with the water toys and scenic views.

The Marine Reserve and Wildlife Viewing

The marine reserve is a protected area, making it a perfect place to see native seabirds like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, as well as a variety of marine life. The guides’ knowledge enhances the experience, helping you identify species and understand the ecosystem’s importance.

While the seasonal whale sightings (December to April) are a bonus, wildlife viewing is good year-round. Guests have reported sightings of sea turtles, rays, and other tropical marine creatures, making it a worthwhile excursion for nature lovers.

Lunch and Relaxation

After a few hours of adventure, you’ll return to the boat for a Mexican fajitas lunch—a hearty and flavorful meal with rice, beans, and tortillas. The all-day open bar is a highlight, offering everything from soft drinks to cocktails, beer, and champagne. Many reviews rave about the plentiful drinks—one guest remarked, “The drinks were plentiful and we were never left wanting.”

Following lunch, you can kick back, swim, or paddleboard at Playa la Nopalera, a tranquil spot for swimming and taking in the scenery. The boat’s water slide and other toys remain available for those still craving fun.

The Return Trip

As the tour winds down, the cruise back to La Cruz is an opportunity to unwind with more drinks, dance, or simply enjoy the rolling ocean views. A professional photographer captures candid moments throughout the day, and those who didn’t pre-book photos can browse a selection of action shots later.

Pricing and Value

At $130 per person, the tour offers solid value given the all-inclusive nature—food, drinks, water activities, and wildlife viewing are included. The reviews repeatedly mention the good quality equipment and attentive staff, which helps justify the cost. It’s an active day, but many guests say they felt it was worth every peso for the memorable scenery and fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a full-day, active adventure in beautiful surroundings. Families, couples, or friends looking for a lively, all-inclusive day on the water will find plenty to enjoy—especially with the unlimited drinks and water toys. If wildlife, snorkeling, and stunning coastal scenery appeal to you, this tour hits all those marks.

However, if you prefer a quieter, less energetic visit focused solely on relaxing or birdwatching, this might feel a bit hectic. The tour is also not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the activities and landings.

The Sum Up

The Marietas Islands boat tour from La Cruz offers a well-rounded, fun-filled day that expertly combines scenic cruising, wildlife encounters, and water-based activities. The knowledgeable guides, good value for money, and lively atmosphere make it a standout choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in Banderas Bay.

It’s a great pick for families, groups, or couples eager for adventure, delicious Mexican food, and a splash of marine wildlife. Expect a busy but rewarding day that leaves you with plenty of stories—and perhaps even a few new sea turtle friends.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the chosen meeting location, but the options are flexible.

What should I bring?
Swimwear and a towel are recommended, as you’ll be snorkeling, swimming, or paddling during the day.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 6 hours, usually in the morning, giving plenty of time for activities and relaxation.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, from December to April, the waters are inhabited by humpback whales, and some guests have reported whale sightings.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a breakfast, Mexican fajitas lunch, and unlimited premium beverages—including cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits—are part of the package.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the wet landing and some water activities may require agility and comfort with water.

What marine wildlife might I see?
Sea turtles, rays, tropical fish, and seabirds like blue-footed boobies are commonly seen.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
It’s conducted within a protected marine reserve, and guides promote wildlife awareness and conservation.

What if I want photos?
A professional photographer is onboard capturing moments. You can reserve this service when checking in and purchase photos afterward if you like.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour promises a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day—perfect for travelers who want a true taste of Mexico’s marine beauty with plenty of fun and good food along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby