Top 10 Snorkeling Spots in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of Mexico's most stunning snorkeling spots, featuring clear waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking underwater landscapes. Whether you're an experienced snorkeler or just starting, these top 10 spots will leave you amazed. Here’s your ultimate guide to snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta!

brown sea turtle
brown sea turtle

1. Marietas Islands
Location: 1-hour boat ride from Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Unique rock formations and abundant marine life

  • Tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays in crystal-clear waters

  • Access to the famous Hidden Beach (with restrictions)
    Accessibility: Daily boat tours available, but Hidden Beach access is restricted.
    How to Book: Book a tour with Vallarta Adventures or Eco Tours Vallarta for an easy and exciting experience.

2. Los Arcos
Location: South of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • National marine park with impressive rock formations and caves

  • A wide variety of fish species in calm waters

  • Suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels
    Accessibility: Boat tours available all day.
    How to Book: Book your tour through Puerto Vallarta Tours or Vallarta Adventures.

3. Yelapa
Location: Accessible by boat
What to Expect:

  • Tranquil village with calm, clear waters

  • Perfect for beginners

  • Colorful coral reefs and tropical fish
    Accessibility: Easily reachable by boat.
    How to Book: Reserve a boat tour through Vallarta Adventures or depart from the Puerto Vallarta Pier.

4. Playa Colomitos
Location: South of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Secluded cove with clear waters

  • Vibrant tropical fish and peaceful surroundings

  • Quieter compared to other beaches
    Accessibility: Accessible by boat or a scenic hike from Boca de Tomatlán.
    How to Book: Book a tour through Vallarta Adventures or local operators in Boca de Tomatlán.

5. Punta Mita
Location: Northern tip of Banderas Bay
What to Expect:

  • Clear waters teeming with marine life, including sea turtles and rays

  • Great visibility and colorful fish species

  • Perfect for a more peaceful snorkeling experience
    Accessibility: Boat tours depart from Puerto Vallarta to Punta Mita.
    How to Book: Arrange tours through Punta Mita Expeditions or nearby resorts.

6. Las Animas
Location: South of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Calm, clear waters perfect for beginners

  • A range of colorful fish

  • Quiet and peaceful, ideal for relaxing
    Accessibility: Boat access from Boca de Tomatlán.
    How to Book: Book a boat tour from Boca de Tomatlán or through local operators.

7. Majahuitas
Location: Accessible by boat
What to Expect:

  • Secluded beach with clear, calm waters

  • Coral reefs and diverse tropical fish

  • Peaceful, less crowded environment
    Accessibility: Boat tours available directly to Majahuitas.
    How to Book: Book a tour with Vallarta Adventures or Majahuitas Eco Tours for an effortless experience.

8. Quimixto
Location: South of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Calm, clear waters and a variety of marine life

  • Ideal for a quieter snorkeling experience

  • Great for those seeking a more peaceful spot
    Accessibility: Reachable by boat or a scenic hike from Boca de Tomatlán.
    How to Book: Tours available from the Boca de Tomatlán pier or local providers.

9. Las Caletas
Location: South of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Well-known eco-tour destination with clear, tropical waters

  • Fish, rays, and abundant marine life

  • Snorkeling paired with activities like kayaking and hiking
    Accessibility: Book a tour to Las Caletas from Puerto Vallarta.
    How to Book: Book your day trip with Vallarta Adventures for exclusive access and a full day of fun.

10. El Eden
Location: Inland, south of Puerto Vallarta
What to Expect:

  • Freshwater rivers and clear pools ideal for snorkeling

  • Quiet and serene surroundings, surrounded by jungle

  • An alternative to ocean snorkeling
    Accessibility: Reachable by boat or land.
    How to Book: Tours are available through Vallarta Eco Tours or at the Vallarta Marina.

Why Puerto Vallarta is the Perfect Snorkeling Destination

  • Diverse Marine Life: From tropical fish to sea turtles and rays, the waters around Puerto Vallarta are filled with life.

  • Breathtaking Underwater Views: The crystal-clear waters ensure excellent visibility for all snorkelers.

  • Convenient Access: Most top snorkeling spots are easy to reach by boat, and many are close to the shore, ensuring a stress-free adventure.

Plan Your Snorkeling Trip Now!
Ready to dive into the best snorkeling spots in Puerto Vallarta? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, these 10 destinations offer the perfect way to explore the underwater world.


Book a tour today with one of our trusted local operators and immerse yourself in Puerto Vallarta’s crystal-clear waters! Check out the tours listed above for more options and exclusive deals.