Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel

Imagine a day where you leave the crowds behind and explore some of Puerto Vallarta’s best-kept secrets. That’s exactly the promise of the Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel tour offered by VallartaNatureTrips.

This adventure combines scenic hiking through lush jungle and rugged coastline, visits to stunning and nearly secret beaches, and refreshing opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear waters. If you’re looking for an authentic look at the wild side of Puerto Vallarta, this trip delivers.

We’re drawn to this experience for its balance of active exploration and leisurely beach time. The guides’ reputation for being knowledgeable and friendly is a definite plus, along with the opportunity to see six different beaches, each with its own character. Plus, the chance to ride local transportation—public buses and water taxis—adds a bit of adventure and local flavor.

However, this tour isn’t for everyone: it involves some steep, uneven terrain and requires a decent level of fitness. That said, if you’re in good shape and craving an authentic outdoor experience, this tour is a winner.

Who should consider this?

This trip suits active travelers who love nature, small groups looking for a more intimate experience, and those eager to explore areas most travelers never see. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a bit of hiking, don’t mind getting your feet dirty, and want to skip the crowds for a day of raw, natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of 15 Best Full-Day Tours In Puerto Vallarta.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: A mix of hiking, swimming, and local transportation.
• Small group intimacy: Usually limited to 14 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Affordable value: At just $36 per person, it offers a lot of scenery and activity for the price.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights about flora, fauna, and local culture.
• Beautiful beaches: Visit six secluded beaches, including the smallest in Mexico, Colomitos.
• Cultural immersion: Ride buses and water taxis just like locals do, adding to the adventure.

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting in Zona Romantica and the Transportation

The tour begins with a meet-up in front of the OXXO store on Constitución Street—an easy-to-find spot in the lively Zona Romantica. From there, you hop on a local bus, a 30-minute ride that immediately immerses you in local life. This direct connection to the community is part of what makes the experience feel genuine rather than touristy. According to many reviews, riding the bus and water taxi adds a sense of adventure, making the whole day feel like a trip with friends rather than a staged tour.

The Hike from Boca de Tomatlán

Once in Boca de Tomatlán, the real exploration begins. We love the way the guide leads the group along the riverbank, following a trail that climbs through the jungle and offers views of the coastline. The hike lasts about an hour and involves some steep sections, stone stairs, and uneven terrain. Reviewers note that the hike is of moderate to strenuous difficulty, but anyone in decent shape should manage it comfortably.

One reviewer cheerfully describes a guide, Juan, as “Tarzan,” who ensures everyone stays together, even barefoot. The terrain can be rough, so sturdy closed-toe shoes are recommended. Several reviews highlight the importance of good footwear — sandals with straps like Tevas or Chacos are ideal, especially since part of the trail includes scrambling over rocks and steep sections.

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Visiting Colomitos Beach

The first big highlight is Colomitos Beach, known as Mexico’s smallest beach. Its enchanting cove and pristine waters make it a favorite photo spot, and it’s easy to see why many reviewers mention it as a highlight. Here, you get a chance to take pictures, swim, or just relax on the sand before heading forward. Several reviews mention that the guide often encourages taking a dip or snorkeling, which many find refreshingly simple and enjoyable.

The Hidden Beaches and Snorkeling

The tour continues along the coast, with visits to five more beaches, some pass-by points with stunning views, and others where you can swim and snorkel. A highlight for many is the opportunity to snorkel in calm, clear waters, observing marine life in their natural environment. One review mentions a “secret place” where snorkelers can enjoy a quiet, untouched spot, enhancing the feeling of discovery.

If the sea conditions are calm, guides sometimes take the group to a “secret” snorkeling location, which many travelers find memorable. The water is described as quite blue and inviting, a real reward after some challenging hiking sections.

The Last Beach and Local Cuisine

The final destination, Playa las Animas, offers a relaxing spot for lunch and recuperation. Many reviews rave about the local seafood, often a highlight after a day of activity. The tour includes a visit to a reputable local restaurant, Abelardos, where travelers can enjoy a fresh, delicious meal while overlooking the ocean. This break is a well-earned reward for the effort of the hike.

The Return Journey

After lunch, there’s a water taxi ride back to Boca de Tomatlán, which many find a delightful way to end the day—seeing Puerto Vallarta from the water provides a fresh perspective on the bay. The return bus ride completes the approximately 6-hour experience, offering a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For just $36, the price covers the guide, boat fare, and bus fare. It’s an impressive value considering the variety of scenery, activity, and local immersion involved. Food and drinks aren’t included, so it’s wise to bring cash for snacks or additional beverages. Many reviewers mention bringing cash for drinks or snacks at beaches or at the restaurant at Las Animas.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity. You’re not just visiting tourist spots; you’re following local transportation routes, walking through fishing villages, and exploring areas most visitors miss. It’s a genuine way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coastal environment.

Several reviews emphasize the excellent value for money. The tour offers a good mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural experience at a price that’s hard to beat. Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who provide insights into flora, fauna, and local customs — making the experience educational as well as fun.

Who Will Love This?

This trip is ideal for active travelers comfortable with some hiking and scrambling. It suits those who want a true outdoor adventure and don’t mind a bit of rough terrain. It’s also a fit for families with older children or teens, provided they have decent fitness levels. If you’re craving a day away from the crowded beaches and tourist traps, and want to see Puerto Vallarta’s wild side, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel is a refreshing way to experience Puerto Vallarta beyond the usual resorts and seaside strolls. You’ll appreciate the mix of scenic hiking, culture, and quiet beaches that allow you to truly connect with the natural environment. The guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor make the journey smooth and enjoyable, even if the terrain is challenging at times.

The value for money is clear — for only $36, you get a memorable day filled with adventure, spectacular views, and authentic local flavor. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to stay active, love discovering secret spots, and enjoy good company while exploring the coast.

If you’re prepared for some physical activity and looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour might just become one of your favorite memories of Puerto Vallarta.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 9 years old. The hike involves some steep and uneven terrain, which can be challenging for younger or less agile kids.

How long is the hike?
The total trail is about 1.8 miles long, with some sections being quite steep. Expect a mix of walking, scrambling, and climbing.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, water, beachwear, cash, and closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking. Insect repellent is also advisable.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, weather permitting, guides will take you to a calm, private spot for snorkeling, so you can observe marine life in clear waters.

How is the transportation organized?
Participants ride a public bus to Boca de Tomatlán and take a water taxi to the final beach, creating a fun local experience.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a small group—usually up to 14 people—ensuring a personalized experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but there are opportunities to buy snacks and drinks at beaches or at the restaurant in Las Animas.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, usually available in the morning.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

Final Words

This guided hike to hidden beaches in Puerto Vallarta offers more than just beautiful scenery — it provides a genuine connection to local life and unspoiled nature. It’s perfect for those who want to get active, see the lesser-known side of Puerto Vallarta, and enjoy a fun, affordable day outdoors. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and an adventurous spirit, it’s a memorable way to experience the coast that you’ll talk about long after the sand has washed away.

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