Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Snorkel Tour & Private Beach Stop

Summary

Snorkeling at Los Arcos with dolphins nearby and hidden beaches

You’ll start your day spotting dolphins near Marina Vallarta before heading out for snorkeling at Los Arcos with expert guidance. Expect clear water, colorful fish, and time on a quiet beach—all with snacks and gear included. If you love real moments more than perfect ones, this tour is probably your style.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sunlight bounced off the water as we left Marina Vallarta—almost too bright to look at, like someone spilled silver everywhere. Our guide, Martín, pointed out a couple of pelicans drifting near the Ameca river. He said sometimes dolphins show up for breakfast here, and right then (I swear), two fins broke the surface. Everyone stopped talking for a second. The boat ride was quick but not rushed; you could feel that salty air sticking to your skin already.

I’d never used snorkel gear that actually fit before, but Martín took his time showing us how to adjust everything—he even laughed when my mask fogged up immediately (“That’s normal! Just spit in it,” he said). The water around Los Arcos was colder than I expected but clear enough to see these tiny electric-blue fish darting around. There was this moment where I just floated there, hearing nothing but my own breath and the distant chatter from another group. It felt weirdly peaceful.

After snorkeling, we had the option to stop at a small beach—honestly, I didn’t catch the name because I was too busy peeling off my wetsuit and grabbing an apple from the snack bag. The sand stuck everywhere (still finding it in my bag), but nobody cared much. We sat around sharing stories about what we saw underwater. One guy tried to describe a fish he spotted in Spanish; Martín corrected him gently and everyone laughed—it felt easy being there together.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and wildlife tour at Los Arcos

• Depart 9 am from Marina Vallarta
• View dolphins at Ameca river
• Travel past downtown Puerto Vallarta
• Spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays, whales
• Arrive at Los Arcos National Park
• Receive snorkel gear and instructions
• Snorkel and enjoy wildlife watching

Top questions

What time does the Puerto Vallarta snorkel tour at Los Arcos start?

The tour departs around 9 am from Marina Vallarta.

Is snorkeling equipment included in this tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear and life vests are provided for guests.

Can I see dolphins or whales during this tour?

Dolphins are often seen near the Ameca river in the morning; whales may be spotted during winter months.

Is there food or drinks included?

Snacks like granola bars, apples, bananas, sandwiches, and bottled water are included.

Does this tour include access to a private beach?

If you book the private option (up to 4 people), there’s an option to visit a beach and spend time there.

Where does the boat leave from?

The boat departs from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.

Are permits or park fees included?

Yes, all necessary permits for Los Arcos and conservancy donation fees are included.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

The minimum recommended age is 8 years old.

What’s included

Your day covers all permits for Los Arcos, use of snorkel equipment and life vests, bottled water plus snacks like fruit and sandwiches—and if you pick the private option, you’ll get extra beach time before heading back to Puerto Vallarta’s marina.