Islas Marietas

A protected marine reserve featuring dramatic rocky islands with hidden beaches, sea caves, and abundant marine life visible just offshore from Puerto Vallarta. The islands are a prime spot for snorkeling, diving, whale watching, and boat tours discovering unique geological formations and wildlife.

Things to do

• Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida) Exploration — Swim through a natural rock tunnel to discover a secluded sandy beach nestled inside a sea cave on Isla Marieta Sur, accessible only by water.
• Snorkeling at Coral Reefs — Explore vibrant underwater ecosystems around the islands where colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays inhabit shallow reef areas.
• Scuba Diving Deep Exploration — Descend to deeper waters to encounter larger marine species including leopard rays, groupers, and occasional hammerhead sharks in the protected reserve.
• Whale Watching (Seasonal) — During winter months (December to March), observe humpback and blue whales migrating through the Pacific waters surrounding the islands.
• Guided Boat Tour of Geological Formations — Navigate around dramatic sea arches, rock formations, and sea caves by boat to observe the islands' unique volcanic geology and wildlife.
• Bird Watching and Wildlife Observation — Spot frigatebirds, boobies, herons, and other seabirds nesting on the protected islands, along with marine iguanas and sea lions in their natural habitat.
• Sunset Boat Cruise from Puerto Vallarta — Experience an evening departure from nearby Puerto Vallarta with views of the islands silhouetted against the Pacific sunset.

Food to try

• Fresh Ceviches — Puerto Vallarta restaurants near the marina serve ceviches made with local Pacific fish, shrimp, and squid cured in fresh lime juice with cilantro and peppers.
• Huachinango a la Sal (Red Snapper Baked in Salt) — A traditional coastal preparation where whole fresh-caught snapper is encrusted in sea salt and baked, common in waterfront restaurants serving boat tour operators.
• Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp) — Fresh local shrimp sautéed in abundant garlic, butter, and lime, reflecting the region's abundant Pacific shrimp harvest and coastal cooking traditions.
• Fish Tacos with Fresh Catch — Street vendors and casual restaurants near the Puerto Vallarta marina serve tacos filled with grilled or fried fresh fish of the day, topped with cabbage slaw and crema.
• Agua Fresca de Jamaica — A refreshing local beverage made from hibiscus flowers, served cold and lightly sweetened, perfect for cooling off after water activities in the tropical climate.

Local customs & good to know

• Protected Reserve Regulations — Visit only with licensed operators and authorized tour guides, as the islands are a federal marine reserve with strict environmental protections and visitor limits to preserve wildlife.
• Seasonal Access Considerations — Summer months (June-September) may bring choppy seas and reduced visibility; plan visits during dry season (November-April) for optimal snorkeling and diving conditions.
• Respect Local Navigation Knowledge — Boat captains know critical tide times, current patterns, and safe routes through the rocky passages; follow their guidance closely and trust their expertise navigating these protected waters.
• Leave No Trace Philosophy — Local culture and regulations emphasize leaving the islands untouched—never remove shells, coral, or rocks, and avoid touching or feeding marine wildlife to maintain the reserve's ecological integrity.