Sail to Playa Escondida in Puerto Vallarta with Food and Snorkeling

Thinking about a day out on the water that combines adventure, scenery, and some well-earned relaxation? This Sail to Playa Escondida tour from Puerto Vallarta might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveller reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded experience filled with memorable sights and enjoyable activities.

What we love about this tour is how it balances spectacular views with great food and fun water activities. You’ll get to see the famed Marietas Islands’ dramatic rock formations, savor delicious meals onboard, and snorkel in clear waters teeming with marine life. Plus, the visit to the hidden beach—a rare chance, limited to just 116 visitors daily—is a real highlight.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves some swimming, around 75 meters in open water, so good swimming skills are essential. This experience suits travelers who enjoy adventure with a touch of pampering, and who are comfortable in the water.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and rock formations at the Marietas Islands provide excellent photo opportunities.
• The tour offers delicious onboard meals and unlimited drinks, making it a relaxing day.
• Water activities like snorkeling and kayaking give you a closer look at marine life.
• Limited access to Playa Escondida makes the experience more exclusive and intimate.
• The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, fitting well into a full-day adventure.
• It’s best suited for travelers with moderate swimming skills and good physical fitness.

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be Just Right

If you’re considering a boat trip from Puerto Vallarta that combines breathtaking scenery with some fun in the water, this Playa Escondida tour could be a great choice. It promises a day filled with beautiful vistas, tasty food, and ocean adventures—all wrapped up in a manageable six to seven hours.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the chance to visit the famous hidden beach and the inclusion of meals and open bar onboard. These add a sense of indulgence to what might otherwise be a straightforward sightseeing trip. On the downside, the swimming requirement and limited time at the beach might be considerations for more leisure-focused travelers or those not confident in their swimming abilities.

This experience is best suited for adventurous souls who enjoy exploring natural beauty with some activity involved. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate good food and lively atmosphere—think games, dancing, and fun contests on the way back. If you’re looking for a day that balances nature, fun, and flavor, this tour could be just what you need.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Puerto Magico

Starting at Puerto Magico, this meeting point offers a lively setting with cafes, shops, and boutiques. You can arrive early to grab any last-minute essentials or souvenirs before the trip begins. Plus, the free parking makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Stop 2: Bay of Banderas

Once aboard, the boat heads out into the Bay of Banderas, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking coastline views as you cruise toward the islands. The journey itself, lasting about an hour and a half, combines scenic vistas with a relaxed vibe. Many reviews highlight how the smooth sailing and onboard breakfast—bread, coffee, fruits, and juice—set a pleasant tone for the day.

Stop 3: Marietas Islands

This is the main event. The imposing rock formations, carved over millennia, create a dramatic backdrop for your water activities. The guides are knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the islands, which adds an educational element to the trip.

You’ll receive instructions on snorkeling and kayaking, and with the provided equipment, you’re ready to explore the crystal-clear waters. Many travelers appreciate the short but sweet window inside Playa Escondida—about 15 to 20 minutes—due to federal regulations, but it’s enough time to soak up the dramatic scenery and snap a few photos.

The Hidden Beach: Playa Escondida

The real draw is the hidden beach, accessible only by swimming through a tunnel or opening in the rocks—an adventure in itself. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day, adding a sense of exclusivity. Travelers often describe this as a “bucket-list” moment, with some mentioning it’s more about the experience than lounging on the sand.

Nopalera Beach and Marine Life

You’ll also visit Nopalera Beach, which offers a more relaxed spot away from the crowds. Snorkeling here provides a chance to see colorful fish and perhaps even a glimpse of marine creatures. The guides are attentive and eager to share insights, making the water activities more engaging.

Return Journey: Fiesta on the Water

On the way back, the party atmosphere kicks in—music, dancing, and games keep the mood lively. The open bar features alcoholic beverages for those over 18, while other guests enjoy soft drinks. Many reviews mention how this spirited part of the trip feels like a celebration of the day’s adventures.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a lot for the price of $182.46 per person. You get breakfast and lunch, both well-reviewed for their quality—fresh bread, fruits, salads, and pasta al pesto. The unlimited drinks enhance the relaxed, festive vibe, while the entrance to Playa Escondida and Nopalera makes this a truly immersive experience.

Water activities—snorkeling and kayaking—are included, along with the use of equipment. The boat is equipped with restrooms, and you’ll also receive a conservation bracelet, indicating eco-awareness.

Extras like souvenirs, photos, and tips are not included, so budget accordingly if those are important to you. Remember, activities might change depending on weather and sea conditions, which could influence the schedule or availability.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Suitability

Launching at 9:00 am, the tour allows you to make the most of your day without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience without feeling cramped.

The tour is designed for adults and teens aged 12-65, with an emphasis on swimming skills. You’ll need to swim approximately 75 meters in open sea, so strong swimming ability is a must. The use of life jackets throughout water activities ensures safety, but it’s still important to be comfortable in the water.

Navigation-wise, the trip is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness—you’ll be walking, swimming, and paddling but nothing overly strenuous. The timings are well-paced, giving enough time at each stop without feeling overly rushed, but the limited time at Playa Escondida means you should savor the moment.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

While reviews are currently sparse, the few available note the tour’s stunning scenery and delicious food as standout features. One quote mentions how the “rock formations are truly impressive” and the “food was fresh and plentiful”.

Many travelers enjoy the party atmosphere on the return trip, describing it as lively and fun, especially with games and music. The limited access to Playa Escondida was appreciated for its exclusivity, making the experience feel more special.

Some concerns include the swimming requirement—not suitable for non-swimmers—and the short time inside the hidden beach, but most agree these are minor compared to the memorable sights and friendly vibe.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Sail to Playa Escondida trip offers a lively, scenic, and delicious day that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities and a festive atmosphere, as well as those who appreciate good food and stunning landscapes. The limited access to the hidden beach makes this a more exclusive experience, ideal for anyone looking to tick off a bucket-list destination.

If your idea of a perfect day involves crystal waters, natural scenery, tasty meals, and lively company, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers seeking a social, fun-filled outing.

However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or prefer a more relaxed, beach-only experience, you might want to consider other options. Still, for those ready for a full-day adventure packed with activity, scenery, and flavor, this trip offers a compelling blend of all.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Puerto Vallarta?
The tour starts at Puerto Magico, which is accessible by public transportation and has free parking. The trip begins at 9:00 am from this meeting point.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, including time for activities, meals, and the return journey.

What should I bring for water activities?
You should be comfortable swimming, as you’ll swim about 75 meters in open water. A life jacket is provided and mandatory during water activities. Bringing a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes might be helpful.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages onboard.

Can I visit the hidden beach if I don’t swim well?
No, swimming is required to access Playa Escondida, which involves swimming through a tunnel or opening. Excellent swimming skills are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, and participants should have good swimming skills. It’s best for active, confident swimmers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities may vary or be canceled without notice based on weather and sea conditions. Always check the weather forecast and communicate with the tour provider if needed.

In sum, this Puerto Vallarta boat adventure offers a lively, scenic, and culinary-filled way to explore some of the region’s most beautiful spots. With its combination of nature, activities, and good cheer, it promises a day full of memorable moments—especially if you’re eager to experience the famed Marietas Islands in style.