Exploring Marietas Islands Hidden Beach from Punta de Mita

This boat trip from Punta de Mita takes you to the Marietas Islands, a small natural reserve off the Mexican Pacific coast, and to its best-known corner: Hidden Beach, also called Playa Escondida or, locally, Lover's Beach. The whole outing is planned as a water-based half day, with a listed duration of 210 minutes and around 180 of them spent on the islands and their surroundings.

Everything starts at the meeting point, where the team introduces themselves and gives you the information you need for the day. You then board the boat and meet the crew, who take care of transportation, explanations and safety. On arrival at the islands you meet the park rangers who look after the reserve, and only then do the water activities begin.

The first stop is snorkeling in an area the operator describes as one of the best in the Mexican Pacific for watching fish and other marine life; the coral reefs are home to plenty of fish. Afterwards you visit Playa Nopalera, a small white-sand beach with prickly pear cactus, where there is time for photos and rest. Next comes Hidden Beach itself, set inside a volcanic crater below sea level that was shaped over millions of years by erosion. The trip closes with a look at the surroundings of the islands, including caves in the volcanic rock and a stone bridge, a crater similar to Hidden Beach.

The islands are also a bird habitat, with more than 80 species reported, among them the blue-footed booby, the emblem of the islands. If you like wildlife, photography, or simply a day on the water with a partner or family, this outing fits well. It is listed as suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible, although it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with poor cardiovascular health.

On the practical side, the price covers carbonated drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, life jackets and all fees and taxes. Alcoholic drinks are not included. The listing does not give a meeting address, so check the details in your booking confirmation before the day.