Punta Mita: Hidden Beach & Marietas Islands Small Group Tour

Summary

Swim through the cave to Hidden Beach then snorkel wild Marietas waters

You’ll swim through a natural tunnel to reach Hidden Beach at Marietas Islands, guided safely by locals from Punta Mita. Relax on soft sand, snorkel clear coves teeming with fish, and share laughs with your small group before heading back by boat—leaving you with that salty skin feeling and a memory that lingers longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

"You sure you’re ready for this?" That’s what Miguel, our guide, asked as we stood shivering a little on the edge of the boat near Marietas Islands. I thought I was — but looking at that dark tunnel leading to the famous Hidden Beach, I felt my heart thump. The water was colder than I expected when I slid in, but there was this salty smell and a weird calm under the surface. Our small group bobbed together like awkward sea otters, laughing nervously. Miguel kept checking on us, counting heads every few minutes — he said it’s only about 80 meters to swim through, but honestly it felt longer with the echo of our splashes bouncing off the rock walls.

I didn’t expect the light inside to feel so soft — it’s like someone dimmed the sun just for us. The sand on Hidden Beach is finer than any I’ve felt before. We had about half an hour there (Miguel kept us on schedule so nobody got left behind), and he took photos with my phone in his waterproof bag — still can’t believe how good they turned out. There were maybe eight of us total, so it never felt crowded or rushed. You could hear birds calling above and sometimes you’d catch this faint whiff of something floral from the plants clinging to the cliffs.

Afterwards we snorkeled around another cove — Playa Nopalera — where schools of tiny silver fish darted past my mask and someone pointed out a pufferfish (I probably squealed too loud). It’s not some luxury thing; you get your lifejacket, mask, and a spot on the covered boat back to Punta Mita pier. No frills but everything you need. My arms were tired by then but I kind of liked that ache. On the way back, one of the crew handed out cold drinks and we watched pelicans glide over the waves. I still think about that swim through the tunnel sometimes — how quiet it got in there before it opened up into sunlight again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour to Marietas Islands and Hidden Beach

• Depart from Punta Mita Pier
• Board boat with shared group
• Sail 15-20 minutes to Marietas Islands
• Swim 80-100 meters through tunnel
• Visit Hidden Beach for 30 minutes
• Guide takes photos and secures phones
• Snorkel with provided equipment
• Visit Playa Nopalera for swimming and exploring
• Return to Punta Mita Pier

Top questions

How do you get to Hidden Beach from Punta Mita?

You depart by covered boat from Punta Mita Pier; after reaching Marietas Islands, you swim 80–100 meters through a tunnel with your guide to access Hidden Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment included in this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for all travelers during your visit to Marietas Islands.

How long do you stay at Hidden Beach?

The stay at Hidden Beach is around 30 minutes before moving on to other activities.

Are there age or health restrictions for this tour?

This tour is for ages 10–64 only and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Can I bring food or drinks onto Hidden Beach?

No food or drinks are allowed on Hidden Beach; only reusable bottles are permitted for environmental reasons.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

No hotel pickup; travelers meet at Punta Mita Pier for departure.

Are photos taken during the tour?

Your guide will transport your phone safely in a waterproof bag and take photos during your time at Hidden Beach.

What’s included

Your day includes shared transport by covered boat from Punta Mita Pier, entrance fees for both Hidden Beach and Playa Nopalera, use of lifejackets and snorkeling equipment, non-alcoholic drinks onboard, plus safe handling of your phone or camera so you can actually get photos without worrying about saltwater ruining them.