Nestled along Mexico’s Pacific coastline, Puerto Vallarta beckons travelers with its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture, and a hidden world beneath the waves that’s equally captivating. For snorkelers and divers, the waters surrounding this picturesque destination hold a treasure trove of marine wonders waiting to be explored. From vibrant coral reefs to encounters with majestic sea creatures, here’s a guide to the top ten snorkeling and diving sites near Puerto Vallarta. Dive in and discover the underwater marvels that await adventurers in these aquatic realms.
Note: We may earn a small commission from the affiliate links below.
1. Punta de Mita
Accessible and diverse, Punta de Mita offers fantastic snorkeling and diving experiences. Swim with sea turtles, explore underwater caves, and witness the beauty of the area’s coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Punta Mita from Puerto Vallarta is by car. You can drive north along Highway 200, which follows the coastline, towards Punta Mita. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Another option is to take a public bus from Puerto Vallarta to Punta Mita.
Many transportation companies in Puerto Vallarta offer shuttle transfer to Punta Mita, providing convenient and comfortable transportation for travelers. This option is ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free journey with door-to-door service.
2. Los Arcos Marine Park
Los Arcos Marine Park boasts incredible biodiversity and stunning rock formations. Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, eels, and octopuses. Snorkelers can explore the surface to witness colorful marine life and the park’s iconic underwater arches and caves.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Mismaloya and Los Arcos is by car or taxi. From downtown Puerto Vallarta, you can drive south along Highway 200 towards Mismaloya. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi for a direct ride to Mismaloya and Los Arcos. Another option is to take a public bus from Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya. Buses depart from the downtown area and travel along Highway 200 towards the south. Look for buses with signs indicating “Mismaloya” or “Boca de Tomatlán.” Once you reach Mismaloya, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to Los Arcos, a popular snorkeling and diving spot located just offshore.
For a scenic and adventurous option, you can take a water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya and Los Arcos. Water taxis depart from the Los Muertos Pier or Playa Los Muertos and offer transportation to various destinations along the coast, including Mismaloya and Los Arcos. This option allows you to enjoy stunning views of the coastline and avoid traffic on the highway.
The easiest way to visit is by guided tour. These tours not only get you where you need to be, they also typically include the snorkeling gear you need to fully enjoy the day trip from Puerto Vallarta.
3. Majahuitas and Quimixto
For those seeking a more secluded experience, these coastal spots offer calm and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Explore shallow reefs teeming with marine life, including vibrant fish and playful sea turtles. These areas also boast a variety of corals and underwater rock formations waiting to be discovered.
How to Get There
One of the most popular ways to reach Majahuitas and Quimixto from Puerto Vallarta is by joining a boat tour. These tours often include snorkel and dive gear. Water taxis can be found at the Maritime Terminal or along the Malecón (boardwalk) in Puerto Vallarta. Prices and availability may vary depending on the season and demand, so it’s a good idea to inquire locally.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore Majahuitas and Quimixto by hiking or horseback riding from nearby beaches such as Boca de Tomatlán. There are scenic trails that lead to these villages, offering opportunities to immerse yourself in the lush tropical surroundings. You can kayak from Boca de Tomatlán to Majahuitas and Quimixto, enjoying a more active and eco-friendly way to reach these destinations. Some tour operators in Puerto Vallarta even offer guided kayak tours.
4. Yelapa
Lesser-known but equally enchanting, Yelapa offers snorkeling opportunities amid serene surroundings. Dive beneath the surface to encounter schools of colorful fish and unique rock formations, or snorkel along the coastline for glimpses of marine life in their natural habitat.
How to Get There
One of the most common ways to reach Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta is by taking a water taxi. Water taxis depart from the Maritime Terminal and the Los Muertos Pier. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Water taxi services are usually available throughout the day, but schedules may vary, so it’s a good idea to inquire locally.
Another option is to join a boat tour that includes a stop at Yelapa. These tours often depart from the Maritime Terminal or various beach locations in Puerto Vallarta.
You can hike to Yelapa from nearby beaches such as Boca de Tomatlán. There are scenic trails that lead to these villages, offering opportunities to immerse yourself in the lush tropical surroundings. The hike can take a few hours, so be prepared with proper footwear, water, and sun protection. You can also kayak from Boca de Tomatlán, enjoying a more active and eco-friendly way to explore the coastline.
5. Islas Marietas National Park
Home to the iconic Hidden Beach, Isla Marietas also offers fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. Encounter a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and even humpback whales during the winter months.
How to Get There
Getting from Puerto Vallarta to Isla Marietas for a day trip involves a combination of land and water transportation due to the island’s remote location. The most common way to visit Isla Marietas is by booking a guided tour from Puerto Vallarta. Many tour operators offer boat tours to the islands, departing from the marinas in Puerto Vallarta or nearby towns like Sayulita and Punta de Mita. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, and sometimes lunch or snacks. Or, you could make your way to Sayulita or Punta de Mita by car or bus and hire a private boat to take you to Isla Marietas.
Grab Your Gear For Snorkeling and Diving in Puerto Vallarta
Plan your trip! Tell us what you think below in the comments. You can also contact us and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest so you never miss a post!
