Hidden Beaches Hike and Snorkelling Day Tour Puerto Vallarta
- Duration6 hours
- Daily
- Group
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Overview
This full-day guided adventure explores the wild south coast of Puerto Vallarta, where the road ends and the jungle meets the Pacific. You hike through tropical forest to six secluded beaches, travel along the coast by boat and stop to snorkel in clear coves. Groups are limited to 14 guests, so the pace stays relaxed and your guide has time to explain the plants, birds and local life. It suits active travellers with moderate fitness who want a real hidden beaches day trip away from the crowded hotel strip.
Highlights
- Guided hike through coastal jungle on the south shore of Banderas Bay
- Six secluded beaches that most visitors never reach
- Time to swim and snorkel in calm, clear coves
- Boat fee and bus fee covered, so no separate transfers to arrange
- Small group limited to 14 guests with a live English-speaking guide
- About six hours with a morning start, back in time for the afternoon
Full Description
The south coast of Puerto Vallarta and its jungle trail
South of Los Muertos Pier the coastline turns wild. The foothills of the Sierra Madre drop straight into Banderas Bay, and many beaches here have no road at all, which is why a hidden beaches hike in Puerto Vallarta is such a rewarding day out. Your guide leads the group along forest paths shaded by mango, fig and palm trees, pointing out iguanas, tropical birds and plants that local families still use.
The walking is varied rather than extreme: dirt trail, rocky steps and a few short climbs with sea views. Expect warm, humid weather and take plenty of water. The best time to visit is from November to May, when days are drier and the sea is calm; in the green summer season the paths can be slippery after rain.
Colomitos Beach
Colomitos Beach is a small cove framed by cliffs and jungle, reached by a trail that winds above the water. The sand is golden, the bay is sheltered and the setting is among the most photographed on the coast, so many travellers search for Colomitos Beach in Puerto Vallarta before they arrive. Going with a guide means you find the right path and have time for photos before the cove fills up.
Is Colomitos worth visiting? If you enjoy quiet corners and views over the bay from the trail, yes. The water is shallow and gentle, ideal for a first swim of the day. Bring a towel, sunscreen and a light bag, because facilities on the sand are very limited.
Playa Las Ánimas and the secluded coves
Playa Las Ánimas is a long sandy crescent on the south side of the bay, reached mainly by boat or on foot, and it is the largest beach on the route. Fishing boats rest on the sand and small beach cafes sit under palms, so it is a pleasant place to rest, swim and look back across the water to the mountains.
Travelling between beaches by boat saves your legs and shows you cliffs and rocky shores from the sea. Conditions are usually calmest in the morning, which is why departures are early. If the swell is high, the guide may change the order of the stops to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
Snorkelling in Banderas Bay
Snorkelling fills the second half of the day. In the clear, sheltered coves you can float above rocky reefs where reef fish, parrotfish and sometimes rays pass below. Visibility is usually best in the dry season from November to May. It is relaxed shallow-water snorkelling, suitable for beginners who can swim, not deep diving.
The tour fee covers the boat, the bus and the guide, so please ask us about equipment before your date, and bring your own mask and snorkel if you can. Use reef-safe sunscreen, keep a respectful distance from corals and fish, and follow your guide's advice on currents.
Itinerary
- Meeting and briefingMeet your guide at the point confirmed after booking for a short safety talk and introductions.
- Bus ride to the trailheadA short transfer by bus along the south coast road to the start of the jungle path.
- Jungle hikeWalk through tropical forest with viewpoints over the bay, stopping to learn about wildlife and plants.
- Colomitos BeachSwim, rest and take photos in the sheltered cove.
- Boat along the coastRide between the secluded beaches and see the cliffs from the water.
- Playa Las Ánimas and further covesFree time to swim and snorkel in clear water before heading back.
What's included
- Live English-speaking guide
- Small group limited to 14 guests
- Boat fee
- Bus fee
- Guided hike to six hidden beaches
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Tips
Is this right for you?
Great for
- Families with children
- Travellers who want a proven choice — rated 4.8/5 by past travellers
Think twice if
- You want a private tour — this one is shared with other travellers
- Walking is difficult for you — expect active parts
Not suitable for
- Travellers with limited mobility or who cannot walk on uneven trails for a few hours
- Pregnant women
- Anyone who cannot swim or is uncomfortable in open water
- Very young children, who may find the hike too long
Meeting point
The meeting point is in Puerto Vallarta and the exact location and time are confirmed after booking. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to reach the meeting point by taxi. Departures are in the morning, usually around nine o'clock, and we recommend arriving 15 minutes early.
Important information
- Wear closed shoes or sandals with a firm grip; the trail is uneven and can be slippery
- Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a towel, hat and reef-safe sunscreen
- Bring a refillable water bottle and some snacks, as food and drinks are not included
- Bring insect repellent and a waterproof bag or case for your phone
- A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the walking sections
- The order of stops can change because of tides, sea conditions or weather
- Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them, and ask us about equipment before your date
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the hidden beaches hike cost?
The price depends on the date and the option you choose. The booking panel on this page shows the current price per person, so you can see it before you confirm.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. The tour starts at a meeting point in Puerto Vallarta that we confirm after booking. The boat fee and bus fee during the day are included.
How long is the hidden beaches tour?
About six hours in total, including the hike, the boat ride, swimming and snorkelling time. Morning start times are shown in the booking panel.
How hard is the hike?
It is moderate. The route has uneven ground, steps and a few short climbs, but you can walk at a relaxed pace as a small group. Good shoes and plenty of water make it comfortable.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It suits active older children who can walk for a few hours and swim confidently. Very young children may find the day too long, so please check the details in the booking panel.
What should I wear and bring?
Swimwear under light clothes, grip shoes or sandals, a towel, sun protection, insect repellent, water and a snack. A waterproof bag for your phone is useful.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?
The tour fee covers the boat, the bus and the guide. Please ask us about snorkelling equipment before your date and bring your own mask and snorkel if you can.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, depending on availability. Pick your date in the booking panel; if a date is not shown, that departure is full.
Is Colomitos Beach worth visiting?
Yes, if you like small, quiet coves. It is sheltered, scenic and easy to enjoy with a guide who knows the trail and the best time to arrive.
What is the best time of year for this day trip?
November to May has the driest weather and the calmest sea. The summer rainy season is greener and hotter, but showers can make the trail muddy.
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