Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta

Boca de Tomatlán, close to Los Arcos south of Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta, located in the center of the Bay of Banderas, is one of the greatest spots to snorkel, housing multiple protected areas that are full of wildlife. Especially during the winter and spring (November to May), you are likely to see turtles, rays and migratory humpback whales, which provide for whale watching opportunities. This is the time that the visibility is the best, thanks to a lack of rain and calmer waters.

We’ve compiled a list of the top spots in Puerto Vallarta to snorkel if you join us for a Gusto Mexico experience or if you decide to venture out on your own.

Los Arcos

On the south side of the bay near Mismaloya, Los Arcos National Marine Park is a stunning protected habitat that provides great visibility and a world of caves and tunnels to explore. Expect to see turtles, octopus, and manta ray at this specific spot. The best way to get to the arches is through an organized or private tour since they are in the middle of the ocean.

Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands has one of the most photographed snorkel spots in the world, Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida). You must take a boat there, since rides vary from 30-60 minutes, but the best part of the longer ride is that during the winter months, you stop to see jumping and breaching whales on the side of your boat. When you’re not busy looking under the sea, be sure to try to spot the blue-footed booby bird - they’re easy to spot with their bright blue feet and legs!

Playa Colomitos

Also located on the south side of the bay, Colomitos is a hidden gem, especially in the fact that it is inaccessible by car. There are only two ways to get there: Hike from Boca de Tomatlan or hire a boat. The hike from Boca de Tomatlan is beautiful along the coast alongside the jungle, but takes about 2-hours to arrive. Hiring a boat is easier as they run every 15-20 minutes by all the beaches. The best part about snorkeling here is that not many people are around and there are plenty of underwater rocks to explore.

Conchas Chinas.

Conchas Chinas

Nestled in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is the last place on our list of must-see areas for snorkeling. It is also the most accessible of the dive spots, seeing as it is just a short drive from downtown. The best snorkeling is found slightly past the rocks jutting out to sea and is where you’ll find hidden boulders and plenty of fish swimming around them. Just be careful because this area is not the safest area to swim in, so make sure to go in the morning when the water is the calmest.

As you head north out of Puerto Vallarta, there are endless snorkeling spots trickled along the coast. On our Sayulita experience, we explore new beaches almost every day! Click the link below for more info!