Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure

Snorkel without the big-tour chaos. This Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure pairs a breezy ride from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán with two real snorkeling sessions and plenty of time to relax. I also love that it runs as a small group (max 10), so the guide can help you get set up safely. One consideration: bus fare and some beach snacks (like coconuts) aren’t included, so you’ll want a little extra budget.

This trip also feels personal fast, thanks to an engaging guide named Elian and a boat captain who knows these waters. You’ll start on a harbor-table wait, cruise south along the coast toward Yelapa, then return with a final hidden-beach stop before eating in town. If weather turns rough, the day can change since the experience depends on good conditions.

Key things I’d watch for before you go

• Max 10 participants means more hands-on help in the water
• Two snorkeling stops (about 30 minutes each) keeps the day moving without rushing
• Snorkel gear + life jacket included, so you don’t lug equipment around
• A boat ride plus hidden beaches along the coastline is the core of the value
• Refreshments at the beach are available, but coconuts/snacks may cost extra

Getting to Boca de Tomatlán from Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone

Your day starts in the Zona Romántica at C. Constitución 363, then the group heads out by bus to Boca de Tomatlán. Expect a winding stretch of road with lush tropical plants—exactly the kind of scenery that makes you understand why Puerto Vallarta is more than beaches and cocktails.

The bus ride is short enough to stay fun, but long enough to change your mood. Once you arrive, it’s a short walk from the bus stop to the shoreline area where the boat operation is readying things.

A practical note: this tour doesn’t include private transportation or bus fare, so if you’re thinking of “included pickup,” plan to handle local transport on your end.

The harbor wait: restaurant views and boat-on-your-timetable pacing

When you reach Boca de Tomatlán, the boat needs a few minutes to be ready. Instead of standing around, you’ll stop at a restaurant setup with a view, where you can relax while things get moving.

This small detail matters more than it sounds. A lot of beach tours waste your time in the sun or in lines, but here you get a calm start—especially helpful if you’re not first in line for everything.

Once you board, you’ll notice the boat is designed for comfort. One review mentioned the boat has a cover, which helps if you want less sun while you cruise out.

Cruising south along the coast toward Yelapa’s hidden coastline

After boarding, the boat heads south along the coastline toward Yelapa for roughly 20 to 30 minutes. Along the way, your guide points out various hidden beaches that you can’t reach any other easy way.

This is where the tour earns its name. Even if you only snorkel for the second half, you still get a scenic coastal ride plus context—why these coves feel tucked away, and why boat access makes all the difference.

This ride is also the part where you’ll feel how small the group is. With a max of 10 participants, the guide can keep track of everyone’s gear and readiness without herding people.

Depending on the time of year, you might also hear whales underwater. One person even reported seeing whales during the day. That’s not something you can bank on, but it’s a nice bonus when nature cooperates.

Two snorkeling stops: Majahuitas Beach and Playa Colomitos

You get two snorkeling locations, with about 30 minutes at each. The plan is simple: gear up, hop in, enjoy the fish, then reset and move on.

Your snorkeling setup is included: snorkel tube and fins, plus a life jacket. That combo is a big deal for anyone who’s new or rusty, because it reduces the mental load. You can focus on floating and breathing instead of wrestling equipment.

At Majahuitas Beach, you’re in for typical Pacific coastal snorkeling with the bonus of variety. In particular, I’d expect schools and close-up encounters—one group specifically called out king angelfish and sargent fish swimming near faces.

At Playa Colomitos, the water can be just as active. People have reported seeing an eel and other species, not just the usual “one fish at a distance” experience. If you want a day where snorkeling actually feels like snorkeling, this two-stop structure helps a lot.

One more thing: safety and help in the water. Reviews highlighted how the guide stayed patient and practical, especially for people who hadn’t snorkeled before or who weren’t as agile getting in and out. You’re not left on your own to figure it out.

And yes, the snorkeling can be that close. One review described encounters so near that people had hands-on moments with gentle marine life like a sea cucumber and starfish. Still, treat anything you see as living wildlife—stay calm, follow the guide’s instructions, and keep distance if asked.

Boca de Tomatlán’s favorite hidden beach stop on the way back

On the return route, you’ll make a stop at one of the operator’s favorite hidden beaches for about 30 minutes. This is your “kick back” window—less gear, more sun-and-snacks.

Expect refreshments here. The tour description mentions coconuts plus alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with beer and water. In the real world, some of the coconut treats can cost extra, so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pay when you order them.

One person described the coconut experience with lime and spice, plus coconut meat served afterward with seasonings. Another mentioned fresh fruits and juices at the stop. Either way, this break helps you recover after snorkeling and makes the day feel fuller without adding more complicated activities.

A small planning tip: use this stop for rehydration and a quick rinse if you can. You’ll be headed back to eat later, and being comfortable now makes the meal part easier.

Lunch time back in Boca: choose the meal option

After leaving the hidden beach stop, you’ll return to Boca de Tomatlán to eat. The tour notes an included meal option if you select it while booking.

If you do choose lunch, one review pointed to a restaurant called El Embarcadero right by the water. They specifically mentioned a cheeseburger that stood out for flavor and satisfaction, which makes sense after a day that’s equal parts sun, saltwater, and movement.

If you don’t select the included meal option, you’ll need to plan accordingly. The tour description doesn’t frame it as a long sit-down with unlimited choices, so having the meal option set up ahead of time is the low-stress move.

Price and value: what $54.36 covers and what to budget

The price is $54.36 per person, for a trip lasting about 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.). For that, you’re getting the core logistics that usually cost money on the ground: boat trip, snorkeling equipment, and a life jacket.

You also get bottled water, and all taxes and fees are included. That matters because a lot of cheap tours look good until you add the real costs at the end.

What’s not included is also important:

• Private transportation / bus fare
• Snacks like coconut at the beach stop

So the value depends on how you’re getting there. If you’re already planning local transit and you’ll keep beach snacks modest, the price looks strong. If you assume everything is covered and then decide you want extra coconut treats, the final cost can creep upward.

The small-group cap (max 10) also changes the feel. That kind of limit usually means better assistance in the water, not just a nicer vibe on paper.

Who should book this snorkeling tour (and who might skip it)

This works well for people who want a real coastal boat day without a huge crowd. If you want a guide who stays on top of setup, especially for beginners, this is the kind of tour that tends to make snorkeling feel doable.

It also suits snorkelers who already know what they’re doing. Two snorkeling rounds mean you get repeated chances to spot fish and eel-like shadows, instead of one short window that gets eaten by traffic and waiting.

If you’re hoping for nonstop lounging with zero movement, you might find the structure a little active. You’re on and off the boat, you swim twice, then you do a beach stop, then you eat. It’s not difficult, but it’s not just “sit and float all day” either.

And keep in mind the weather requirement. The tour depends on good conditions, so if forecasts aren’t great, be ready for date changes.

Practical tips so your day runs smoothly

Because snorkeling equipment is included, you don’t need to pack fins and a snorkel. You’ll still want to show up ready to move, since you’ll be getting on and off the boat and entering the water during the two snorkeling periods.

Bring a clear expectation about food and snacks. Lunch depends on the meal option you choose, and coconut/snack items at the beach stop can cost extra. If you like budgeting, think of this tour as boat + snorkel included, with snacks as optional.

Also, plan on the day being English-led. The tour lists English as the offered language, and the guide presence is a major part of why people say the experience feels safe and fun.

Finally, remember the end point returns you to the same meeting area. That keeps things simple in the Romantic Zone, where it’s easy to get dinner right after.

Should you book Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure?

If you want Puerto Vallarta snorkeling that feels personal, this is a solid choice. You get two snorkeling stops instead of one, the group size is small (max 10), and the guide and captain support the whole day—from setup on the boat to helping with entry and exit.

It’s also good value for the price because snorkeling gear, a life jacket, bottled water, and the boat trip are included, and taxes/fees are covered too. Add in the coast cruise toward Yelapa and a hidden beach break, and the day feels well-rounded.

Only book if you’re okay with two realities: you’ll handle local bus fare/transport on your end, and some beach snacks like coconuts may cost extra. If that fits your style, you’ll likely come away thinking this was more than a quick swim—it’s a proper hidden-coast day with real sea life time.

FAQ

How long is the Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure?

It runs about 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.).

What snorkeling gear is included?

You get snorkeling equipment, including the snorkel tube and fins, plus a life jacket.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at C. Constitución 363, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico and ends back at the same meeting point.

What isn’t included in the price?

Private transportation or bus fare isn’t included, and snacks such as coconut aren’t included.

How many people are in the group?

The tour has a maximum of 10 participants.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid won’t be refunded.