Looking for the best snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta?
Start with Banderas Bay.
Beyond Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, the coastline hides rocky reefs, secluded coves and marine environments that make getting into the water one of the easiest ways to add a little adventure to your vacation.
From Los Arcos to the Marietas Islands, here are a few of our favorite places to snorkel around Puerto Vallarta.
Snorkeling at Los Arcos
Just south of Puerto Vallarta, Los Arcos is one of the bay’s most recognizable natural landmarks.
Its dramatic rocky islets rise directly from the ocean, while underwater the area offers colorful fish and marine life. Ecotours currently offers a dedicated Los Arcos snorkeling tour, as well as tours that combine Los Arcos snorkeling with other activities.
It’s a particularly convenient option if you want a nature experience without spending an entire day away from Puerto Vallarta.
Wild Dolphins + Snorkeling
Why choose between wildlife watching and snorkeling?
Ecotours Vallarta’s Wild Dolphins & Snorkeling Combo begins by searching for wild dolphins with biologists and naturalists in Banderas Bay, then continues to Los Arcos Marine Park for snorkeling.
You may see dolphins feeding, traveling or playing before changing masks and jumping into the water to discover another side of the bay.
It is an excellent choice for travelers wanting several classic Puerto Vallarta activities in one outing.
Snorkeling at the Marietas Islands
For a longer adventure, head north toward the Marietas Islands.
The protected archipelago is known for volcanic rock formations, marine life and seabirds. The surrounding reefs are home to colorful tropical fish, and sea turtles may also be encountered in the area.
Ecotours Vallarta’s current tour catalog features Snorkeling at Islas Marietas among its main nature adventures.
Hike First, Snorkel Later
You don’t necessarily need to begin your snorkeling adventure on a boat.
The Hiking and Snorkeling Combo explores the tropical coast south of Puerto Vallarta on foot, following a mountain trail toward tiny Colomitos Beach before finishing with a snorkeling session. Ecotours describes pufferfish, angelfish and sea turtles among the marine life that may be encountered.
It’s a great combination if your idea of a perfect day includes both jungle and ocean.
Which Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling Trip Should You Choose?
Choose Los Arcos if you want an easy half-day marine adventure.
Choose Wild Dolphins & Snorkeling if wildlife is your priority.
Choose the Marietas Islands if you want a longer day exploring one of the region’s most famous natural destinations.
Or choose Hiking & Snorkeling if you’d rather earn your swim with a walk through the tropical forest first.
Whichever you choose, snorkeling gives you a chance to discover something visitors cannot see from Puerto Vallarta’s beaches:
the natural world beneath Banderas Bay.