Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Snorkeling, Cliff Jump & Hidden Beach

Summary

Snorkel Los Arcos swim caves cliff jump to hidden beach with locals

You’ll swim beneath Los Arcos’ famous arches, try optional cliff jumping near Mismaloya’s old film ruins, snorkel with tropical fish in quiet coves, and unwind on a hidden beach only accessible by boat. With local guides leading small groups and everything included—snacks, drinks, gear—you’ll feel both safe and free to explore at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you want to jump from there?” That’s what our guide Marco asked me, grinning like he already knew the answer. We’d just pulled up to this wild little cove near Mismaloya, the old movie set ruins poking out behind us. The boat rocked gently and the sun was already hot on my shoulders — I could smell sunscreen and salt, hear someone laughing in Spanish behind me. I hesitated at the edge, then just… went for it. The water hit colder than I expected. My heart was pounding but I came up grinning too. Not everyone jumped — some folks just watched from the boat or floated in the blue water below. No pressure either way.

After that rush, Marco handed out masks and we slid into the water by Los Arcos itself — those arches are bigger up close than they look from shore. Fish darted everywhere; yellow ones mostly, but also these electric blue streaks I couldn’t name (Marco tried to tell me but I forgot immediately). Sometimes you’d catch a flash of silver or a shadow that made you wonder what else was down there. It’s quieter underwater, almost peaceful except for your own bubbles and the distant hum of another boat passing by. At one point I looked up through an arch and saw pelicans circling against the sky — weirdly calming.

The last stop was this tiny beach you can only reach by boat. The sand felt grainy underfoot and warm enough to nap on if you wanted. Some people wandered off to poke around tide pools; others just lay back with a cold beer (included — little detail but it mattered). There wasn’t much talking for a while — everyone sort of melted into their own space. I found myself watching the light bounce off wet rocks and thinking how easy it is to forget time here.

We headed back toward Puerto Vallarta as the day softened out — not quite ready to leave that feeling behind. I still think about that first leap sometimes when things get noisy at home, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and cliff jumping tour

• Meet at Zona Romantica, Puerto Vallarta
• Travel 15 minutes to Mismaloya beach
• Board tour boat and hear Mismaloya history
• Optional cliff jumping near old movie set ruins
• Cliff jump at popular spot or swim
• Snorkel among tropical fish and eagle rays
• Cruise through Los Arcos arches and caves
• Relax at hidden beach accessible by boat
• Unwind in Mismaloya bay at your leisure

Top questions

How long is the Los Arcos snorkeling tour from Puerto Vallarta?

The tour includes transportation from Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya (about 15 minutes), plus several hours on the boat exploring Los Arcos and nearby beaches.

Is cliff jumping required on this tour?

No, cliff jumping is completely optional—you can watch from the boat or swim instead if you prefer.

What’s included in the Los Arcos day trip?

The tour includes pickup in Puerto Vallarta, private transportation, snorkeling equipment use, snacks, bottled water, soda or pop, and beer.

Are non-swimmers or beginners welcome?

Yes—the guides support all levels of swimmers; you can skip activities like cliff jumping if you’re not comfortable.

Does this tour visit a private or hidden beach?

Yes—the final stop is a secluded beach only accessible by boat where you can relax or explore.

Who leads the snorkeling & cliff jumping tour?

The tour is led by passionate local guides who know Los Arcos well and share stories about its history and wildlife.

Are group sizes large?

No—the group size is kept small for a more personal experience with time for questions and exploring.

Can children join this snorkeling trip?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta with private transportation down to Mismaloya beach; all snorkeling equipment provided; snacks plus bottled water, soda or pop, and beer; friendly local guides throughout; plenty of time at each stop including swimming at Los Arcos’ arches and relaxing on a hidden beach before returning at your own pace.