Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands

This boat tour takes you to the Los Arcos Islands, a Marine Geological Sanctuary off Puerto Vallarta, to watch the sunset and then see bioluminescent plankton after dark. It lasts about 180 minutes and combines a scenic cruise with snorkeling in the dark.

The trip departs from Mismaloya. As the boat leaves the cove, your guide tells the story of The Night of the Iguana, the 1964 film that brought Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to what was then a quiet fishing village and helped turn Puerto Vallarta into a well-known destination. This first stretch takes about 15 minutes.

Then comes the sunset at Los Arcos, about 45 minutes. The rocky arches and caves stand out against the sky, and the islands are home to birdlife such as frigatebirds and brown pelicans. The boat slows at a good viewing spot so you can take photos or simply enjoy a drink while the sky shifts through pinks, oranges and purples.

After dark comes the bioluminescence, roughly 60 minutes. The water around the rock formations fills with tiny glowing organisms that light up with every movement, whether it is your hand or a wave. The tour includes snorkeling inside the dark caves, where the lack of natural light makes the glow stand out and each kick of your fins sets off blue-green sparks.

Start times follow the season so that the tour begins 45 minutes to an hour before sunset: 5:30 PM from November 1 to the end of February, 6:00 PM from March 1 to May 15, 6:30 PM from May 16 to August 15, and 6:00 PM from August 16 to October 31. You can meet at the gas station in Zona Romántica or directly at the Mismaloya Xtreme office on Mismaloya Beach. Your meeting point and exact time are confirmed after booking.

The price includes carbonated beverages, bottled water, snacks, alcoholic beverages and snorkeling equipment. On-board WiFi is not included. Public transportation is nearby and all fitness levels are welcome, though the tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or for pregnant travelers. Infants must sit on an adult's lap.