Meet the Famous Hidden Beach by Speedboat with Snorkeling

This speedboat excursion heads to the Marietas Islands, in Banderas Bay, to reach Playa Escondida, the hidden beach set inside a natural crater. The operator describes the outing as regulated and run with small groups, with expert guides, snorkeling in a protected area and a stop within Marietas Islands National Park. The listing gives a total duration of 300 minutes.

The trip begins with a fast boat ride across Banderas Bay, with views of the coast. Guides talk about the history, geology and wildlife of the islands and explain how to reach Playa Escondida, how to use the snorkeling gear and what the safety rules are. Along the way you may see dolphins and sea turtles and, in season, humpback whales.

At the islands, the guided swim to the beach goes through a rocky passage. The listing is not consistent on the distance: the itinerary mentions a swim of about 100 meters, while the requirements say you must be able to swim 60 meters (200 feet) from the boat, and that it can vary with sea conditions. Confirm this when you book. Time on the beach is limited by federal regulations to 15 to 20 minutes, and access depends on sea conditions and is not guaranteed.

After the beach, the group snorkels in clear water, where you may see tropical fish, sea urchins and occasionally manta rays or sea turtles. Guides point out the birdlife, including the blue-footed booby, and the rock formations, arches and cliffs. On the way back you swim to the boat, get a light snack and take a panoramic loop around the islands before returning to the meeting point.

This is an active outing. Participants should be in good physical shape, and the minimum age is 12 and the maximum 65. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers or for people with back, neck, heart, balance or vertigo problems. Life jackets and helmets are required in the rocky passage, drones are prohibited, and sunscreen, even biodegradable, should not be used because it harms marine life.

Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sun-protective clothing, a light sweater in winter and extra cash for dock fees, the conservation fee and photos. The conservation bracelet (180 MXN per person) and the port tax (33 MXN per person) are not included. The listing gives no meeting point, so ask for it when you book.