Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
A trip to the Marietas Islands requires advance planning. The park has strict conservation rules, limited access, and specific closure days.
Islas Marietas National Park & Hidden Beach
Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit
GPS 20.7, -105.5775
Open directionsGetting there
Tours depart from multiple marinas in the Bay of Banderas.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Via authorized tour operator from Marina Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, or Punta Mita. | 15-35 minutes from Punta Mita; 1 to 1.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta. | $79 to $190+ USD (depending on inclusion of Hidden Beach) | Private, unpermitted boats are not allowed to enter the protected areas or approach Hidden Beach. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round, but entire islands are closed on Mondays. Hidden Beach is closed on both Mondays and Tuesdays. The best time to visit is December through March for whale watching and clear weather.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Sunscreen of any kind is banned.
Even biodegradable sunscreen is forbidden. Wear a long-sleeve rash guard.
How the day runs
Most tours follow a similar structure depending on the departure marina.
A typical morning tour from Nuevo Vallarta or Punta Mita focusing on the crater beach and snorkeling.
- Check-in
Arrive at the marina, sign waivers, and pay your cash port and park fees.
- Boat ride
Cruise across the bay. Travel takes 15-35 mins from Punta Mita or up to 90 mins from Puerto Vallarta.
- The Swim
Put on a helmet and life jacket. Swim 80 meters through the sea cave to Hidden Beach.
- Hidden Beach
Spend a strictly monitored 15-20 minutes on the sand inside the crater.
- Snorkeling
Move to the coral reefs on the exterior of the islands for 45-60 minutes.
For those with children under 10 or who do not want to swim through the cave.
- Departure
Board a larger catamaran or trimaran and enjoy a scenic cruise.
- Playa La Nopalera
Visit this beautiful exterior beach for swimming and a short nature trail.
- Marine life
Snorkel the outer reefs or stay on the boat to spot blue-footed boobies.
- Return cruise
Enjoy lunch or snacks on the boat while heading back to the mainland.
Swimming to Hidden Beach
Accessing Playa del Amor requires physical effort. You must swim 80 to 100 meters independently in open water against currents. Park rules mandate a life jacket and helmet. Read our guide on Getting to Hidden Beach for more details.
Age limits apply to the swim. Typically, operators require children to be at least 10 or 12 years old, and cap the maximum age around 60 to 65. If you cannot do the swim, choose a tour that focuses on Marine Park & Islands.
Easiest way to do it
Marietas Islands Snorkel Tour & Hidden Beach
4 h to 5 h 4.8 (1,033)
- CONANP Bracelet
- Conservancy donation fee to Bahia Unida
- Scenic boat ride
- Light snacks: Apples, bananas, and a sandwich
From$99per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you walk on the Marietas Islands?
You can walk on Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach) and Playa La Nopalera. The rest of the island landmass is protected and closed to foot traffic.
What wildlife is on the Marietas Islands?
The islands host colonies of blue-footed boobies. In the water, you can see sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish. Humpback whales pass by from December to March.
Can I wear biodegradable sunscreen at Islas Marietas?
No. All sunscreen and lotions are strictly prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem. Wear a UV-protective rash guard.