Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas)

The basics

The islands are a haven for creatures such as dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. You can see wildlife from a boat, but visitors can only set foot on one area of the government-protected islands, a strip of sand dubbed the Hidden Beach. 

Marietas Islands snorkeling and scuba diving tours from Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta are the most popular ways to experience the islands and their tropical fish and coral reef, and some tour companies sweeten the deal with open bars. Whale-watching tours also run in winter.

Things to know before you go

• Diving and snorkeling tours typically last three to five hours, but some longer options include other activities such as kayaking.

• Many diving tours require PADI certification, but beginner options are available.

• There is a cap on the number of daily visitors, and while you don't need to obtain Marietas Islands tickets, you do need to book your tour in advance.

How to get there

The boat ride from Punta de Mita on the Riviera Nayarit to Marietas Islands National Park takes about 45 minutes. Due to strict government protections, you must take a boat tour from a licensed tour operator.

When to get there

The whale-watching season runs from December through March. For snorkeling and scuba diving, June through September offers the best visibility and warmest temperatures.

Conservation in the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are an MAB Biosphere Reserve, meaning they are part of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere program to improve the relationship between humans and the environment. Because the islands have become increasingly popular, causing interference and possible damage to the ecosystem, the Mexican government authority known as the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) has closed the islands to the public in the past. Enjoy visiting while you can and keep in mind the fragile nature of this important ecological environment.

What is the best way to experience the Marietas Islands?

The best way to experience the Marietas Islands is to immerse yourself in the pristine environment. Go snorkeling or kayaking, or take a boat tour around the islands to witness the beauty of the hidden beaches, limestone rock formations, and diverse marine life.

What is the best time of year to visit the Marietas Islands?

The winter months, from November to April, are the best time of year to visit the Marietas Islands. The water is often an electrifying shade of turquoise this time of year and the gentle ocean breezes offer a refreshing respite from the heat. Winter is also the best time to spot whales off the coast.

What do you see on a Marietas Islands tour?

A Marietas Islands tour guarantees some incredible views of nature and wildlife. The main attraction is Hidden Beach, a sandy beach tucked inside one of the islands. Through the crystal-clear waters, you'll see colorful schools of fish, occasional dolphins or sea turtles, and whales at the right time of year.

Do you need to book in advance to visit the Marietas Islands?

Yes, you need to book in advance. Daily visitor caps mean securing your spot well in advance is a smart move. If you're looking to add a tour to Hidden Beach or other parts of the islands, it's worth booking ahead to avoid disappointment.

How do you get to the Marietas Islands?

To get to the Marietas Islands, one must traverse the waters off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Whether you take a boat tour or kayak, the journey to the Marietas Islands requires a willingness to explore the uninhabited islands.

Can you snorkel at the Marietas Islands?

Yes, snorkeling is one of the most popular activities at the Marietas Islands. Here you can swim through clear waters and catch glimpses of colorful fish, turtles, and other sea creatures hiding in the coves, as well as whales in the winter.

Ways to explore

As a protected reserve, access to the islands is strictly controlled—you will pay a conservation fee as part of any tour, and only 116 people are allowed entry to Hidden Beach daily (on a first-come, first-served basis). Visiting the islands takes anywhere from four to eight hours, with fast motorboats departing from Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita, and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. If you’re not early enough to access Hidden Beach, or if the weather isn’t cooperating, don’t worry; there’s still plenty to see and do. Bird-watching, snorkeling, and kayaking are all popular activities and ideal ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of the islands.

Accessibility

Hidden Beach is only accessible by swimming or kayaking through a tunnel, and accessibility is dependent on which tour boat you take.

Age limits

Children must be 12 or older to visit Hidden Beach.

What to pack

Water, snacks, reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuit

What to wear

Hat, sunglasses, light beach coverups

Not allowed

Swimming without life jackets, alcohol, littering, removing anything from the reserve

Amenities

Good for scuba diving and snorkeling

Address

The islands are accessible by boat, and tours depart from the towns of Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita, and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Typically, you can choose between small 6- to 8-person speedboats or larger 12- to 15-person catamarans, depending on your budget and the size of your group. Make sure to book your tour as far in advance as possible, as they fill up quickly.

Driving

There’s no way to drive to the Marietas Islands.

Public transportation

Public transportation isn’t available to the Marietas Islands.

Best times to visit

The earlier the better, especially if you want to visit Hidden Beach. Beware of operators leaving late in the morning, as the islands close access by 5pm.

Best days to visit

Hidden Beach is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, while the islands are closed to visitors on Mondays.

Best months to visit

Aim for November to May for warm, dry weather.

Special events

From December to March, you can see humpback whales that gather near the islands on a whale-watching excursion.