Puerto Vallarta: Banderas Bay Waterfalls, Snorkeling & Jungle Hike

Summary

Swim under waterfalls hike jungle paths & snorkel near Los Arcos

You’ll hike jungle trails to hidden waterfalls near Banderas Bay, swim in cool natural pools, snorkel among colorful fish at Los Arcos with your local guide, and relax on quiet beaches with fresh drinks in hand. Expect laughter, real conversation, and those small moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the boat rocked gently as we left Puerto Vallarta behind—sunlight catching on the water, pelicans skimming so close I could almost hear their feathers brush the surface. Our guide, Jack (yes, really), waved at a fisherman heading out in the opposite direction and grinned like we were all in on some secret. You could smell salt and something sweet from a vendor’s cart back at the pier. It felt like we were slipping into a different rhythm out here.

We stopped at this tiny beach—Playa del Amor, they call it—which honestly looked like something out of a postcard but smaller than you’d expect. The sand was warm and soft, and there was this weird hush except for kids laughing somewhere down by the rocks. Jack pointed out these blue crabs darting between stones while someone else tried (and failed) to pronounce “ceviche” right—cue group laughter. Then we hiked up through tangled jungle trails, leaves brushing my arms, birds flashing yellow overhead. I’m not much of a hiker but somehow it didn’t matter; everyone just moved at their own pace.

The waterfall wasn’t huge but standing under it felt wild—cold water pounding your shoulders, sun breaking through leaves above. Some folks climbed up for a jump (I watched; maybe next time). There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the rush of water and distant shouts from our group—honestly, I still think about that when I’m stuck in traffic now. Later on, snorkeling near Los Arcos was another world: starfish everywhere, flashes of silver fish darting past your mask. Someone spotted a stingray gliding over sand and suddenly everyone was pointing and laughing through their snorkels.

I didn’t expect to end up eating shrimp tacos with wet hair while watching pelicans dive—but that’s how it goes here. Drinks flowed (open bar means open bar), stories got swapped in half-English half-Spanish, and nobody seemed to care about time or phones or anything else outside Banderas Bay. On the way back to Puerto Vallarta, the light turned gold and people got quiet for a bit—just soaking it in, I guess.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Banderas Bay highlights

• Tour town beach and waterfall
• Swim in natural pool at waterfall
• Join diving show
• Snorkel to mountain cave
• Swim in natural aquarium
• Hike jungle trail to waterfall
• Swim, jump, and climb waterfall
• Visit safe beach with water park
• Relax at the smallest beach, Love Beach
• Snorkel at Los Arcos Marine Park

Top questions

How long is the full-day Banderas Bay tour?

The tour lasts one full day with several stops for hiking, swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and lunch breaks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included during the stop at Los Arcos.

Are drinks included during the day trip?

Yes, mineral water, sodas, beer, and an open bar are provided throughout the day.

Can children join this Banderas Bay experience?

Yes—there are safe swimming areas and activities suitable for children.

Is pickup included from my hotel in Puerto Vallarta?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from Puerto Vallarta’s main pier area.

What fitness level do I need for this tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to hiking and swimming activities.

Can I bring my service animal on this tour?

Yes—service animals are allowed on this experience.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?

No specific mention of vegetarian meals; seafood is commonly served during lunch stops.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling gear for exploring Los Arcos’ reefs; mineral water, sodas, beer and an open bar throughout; plus guidance from friendly locals who know every beach and trail along South Banderas Bay. Lunch stops feature fresh seafood right by the water before heading back to Puerto Vallarta in the evening.