Los Arcos 5 islands Snorkeling Cliff Jumping and Hidden Beach

Jump first, snorkel after, hidden beach at the end.

This tour hits two big Puerto Vallarta highlights in one go: cliff jumping in Mismaloya and Los Arcos snorkeling with arches and caves. I especially like the way the action starts near the movie-set ruins from Night of the Iguana, and I also like that you get a real guided swim—not just a drop-in. One consideration: water can be rough some days, which can mean fewer people jumping and less-than-crystal visibility.

You’ll be in good hands with English-speaking hosts like Alfonso and Kiki, plus strong guides such as Efrain and Arnold (names I’ve seen repeatedly). The value is hard to ignore for $49 since snorkeling equipment, private transportation, snacks, bottled water, soda, and even beer are included. The trade-off is logistics and timing: from cruise areas, you may spend a lot of time each way, and you’ll want to follow Puerto Vallarta time, not ship time.

Quick hits before you book Los Arcos 5 islands

• Cliff jumping is optional and happens early in Mismaloya, near the abandoned movie-set ruins.
• Los Arcos snorkeling is the main event with guided stops around arches/caves and time in the water.
• Snorkeling gear and drinks are included (snorkel equipment, snacks, soda, bottled water, beer).
• Hidden beach time is short and boat-only, not a full day of beach wandering.
• Visibility and jumping depend on weather—rough water can reduce the experience.
• Meet in Zona Romántica at the Gasolinera Pemex address, and plan extra time if you’re coming from a cruise port.

Why Los Arcos from Mismaloya is a smart Puerto Vallarta combo

Puerto Vallarta has no shortage of water tours. This one stands out because it bundles three different moods into about 3 hours: a quick adrenaline hit, a guided reef swim, and a calm boat-only beach stop. You’re not just touring. You’re doing.

The structure also makes sense. Cliff jumping first means you’re fresh and the crew can manage the group quickly. Then the snorkeling and the Los Arcos arches/caves take over once everyone’s in the water-and-move mode.

Price and included perks: what $49 really gets you

At $49 per person for about a 3-hour outing, you’re paying for more than a boat ride. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, private transportation, bottled water, soda/pop, snacks, and beer (yes, beer is part of the deal).

That matters because it removes the usual little add-ons that inflate “cheap” tours. Even if you only want the snorkeling, you’re already getting gear plus refreshments covered. The group size caps out at 99 travelers, so it’s not a tiny private yacht vibe, but it also shouldn’t be a cattle-car snorkeling stampede.

If you’re the type who hates paying for basics, this package feels like a practical deal.

Price isn’t the only factor: the logistics can be the real cost

Here’s the catch: the meeting point is in Zona Romántica, at a specific Gasolinera Pemex location. That’s great if you’re staying nearby. It can be annoying if you’re starting from a cruise port and don’t live in the same bubble.

Some people have reported long each-way travel time from cruise areas, plus extra time for getting sorted. If you’re on a cruise, build in buffer time and be careful about time zones. One person specifically warned to follow Puerto Vallarta time, not ship time—and that mistake can cost you the whole tour.

Also note: the tour ends back at the meeting point. So you’re not dropping off somewhere closer to your hotel or pier. Plan your post-tour rides accordingly.

Playa Mismaloya stop: movie-set ruins and optional cliff jumping

Your tour begins with transportation picking you up in Zona Romántica and a short drive south along the coast. You’ll reach Playa Mismaloya and get some time near the small shops and places to eat (even if you won’t have long to browse).

Then it’s out to the boat, where the crew explains the Mismaloya area and—because this is Puerto Vallarta—ties it to the abandoned movie-set area from Night of the Iguana. That’s a neat detail because it turns the scenery into a story you can actually picture.

Cliff jumping expectations

Cliff jumping is optional. If you do it, expect more than a “step off and hope” moment. Jump points can include different heights (you’ll see mentions like 15 feet, plus higher options). You may need to climb slippery rock sections first, and a couple of reviews described a hands-and-knees climb over a smaller rock section at the start.

If you’re not a confident climber, skip the jump and focus on the boat-side view and swimming instead. One review also mentioned being offered a life jacket only after asking, so if you’re not a strong swimmer, be proactive and ask early for the safety gear you want.

Los Arcos de Mismaloya: the snorkeling that makes the tour worthwhile

This is the core of the day. After Mismaloya, the boat heads to one of the best cliff-jumping areas and then slows down for snorkeling at Los Arcos.

What you’re likely to see underwater

Los Arcos is a marine sanctuary area, so you’re snorkeling near a living reef ecosystem. In the experiences I read about, the fish sightings can be strong right after you drop in. Names that came up included king angelfish, pufferfish, parrotfish, pufferfish, seahorses, and more—plus schools of surgeonfish and barberfish. Some people even reported seeing a sea turtle.

Not every day will be identical, though. A couple of factors matter:

• Rough water can make visibility worse and can limit how many people jump.
• Busy times can mean multiple boats at once, which doesn’t ruin it, but it can make the water feel more crowded.

Caves and arches: why the boat route matters

It’s not only about who can swim fast. The crew also cruises through the iconic arches and caves so you get close-up views from the boat. That gives you scenery even if you don’t want to push your swimming limits.

Some people described snorkeling across multiple areas and even passing through caves/under-arch areas. So you get a bit more variety than a single “one reef stop” setup.

Snorkeling time feels different depending on the pace

Most accounts describe the crew as efficient—often keeping things moving so you spend more time actually in the water. A couple of reviews praised this no-nonsense pacing, while a few others said it felt rushed at first or that instructions were brief.

My advice: treat this as an active tour. If you want slow and detailed, tell the crew you’d like extra help with mask clearing or where to put your body in the water. On a busy day, a calm request early goes a long way.

The boat-only hidden beach stop: relaxing, not disappearing

After Los Arcos, you head to a beach only accessible by boat. The idea is a short, scenic break where you can swim, relax on sand, or check out rocky edges.

Here’s the practical truth: it’s “hidden” in the sense that you can only get there by boat, not that it’s a deserted stretch of paradise. Some people found it small and a bit crowded when multiple operators unload. Others still liked it for a quick swim and a chance to rest.

So I’d file this stop under:

• Short recovery time
• Photo moments
• A final swim if your reef appetite isn’t maxed out

If you’re expecting long beach strolling, bring your expectations back to earth. This stop is more about a calm finish than a full beach day.

Pace, safety, and who this tour fits best

This tour is built for people who like movement. The overall plan is quick: pick-up, boat work, jumping (optional), snorkeling, then the boat-only beach, then back to the meeting point.

Safety basics you should assume

You’ll hear a safety talk, and life jackets are used. One review complained about life jacket availability for cliff jumping for a weaker swimmer, but another described snorkeling with life jackets being mandatory in their session. That means you should assume you’ll be wearing one at least for parts of the activity.

Also: don’t treat the jump like a casual backyard stunt. Even experienced swimmers described the climb and rock handling as the hard part. If you’re unsure, watch from the boat and enjoy the snorkeling instead.

Who will love it

This works really well if you:

• Want snorkeling plus a thrill activity in the same half-day window
• Like guided reef time with people helping you find better spots
• Prefer a “get in the water and go” pace

Who might want a different style of tour

Consider a calmer option if you:

• Want lots of instruction and slow pacing for beginners
• Are sensitive to crowds and boat traffic
• Struggle with rock climbing or you’re very risk-averse about the jump section

One family-related comment pointed out that the cliff-jumping time can be brief depending on who’s participating and on water conditions, so plan for the possibility that you’ll do snorkeling no matter what, but cliff time may vary.

Your best game plan: how to get the most from the tour

If you want this to feel like a win, do three things:

First, arrive early at the Gasolinera Pemex meeting point in Zona Romántica and double-check the exact address. This is the biggest way to avoid the most painful outcome: being in the wrong place when the boat leaves.

Second, pack for sun and salt air. You’ll be in the water and on a boat. Bring a cover-up, and if you’re prone to getting cold, consider that too—boat wind is real.

Third, think like a snorkeler, not a diver. The crew helps you get in good spots, but your comfort matters. If you need help clearing your mask or you’re new to snorkeling, ask for pointers before jumping in.

Should you book Mismaloya Xtreme’s Los Arcos tour?

Yes, if you want a fast, fun half-day that mixes optional cliff jumping and guided Los Arcos snorkeling with snacks and drinks included. At $49, the package value is strong because you’re not buying the essentials separately.

I’d pass or switch if your top priority is crystal-clear water with lots of space and a long beach hang. Visibility and crowding can change day to day, and the schedule is intentionally active.

If you’re on your first Puerto Vallarta trip and you want one water adventure that checks multiple boxes, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the Los Arcos 5 islands snorkeling and cliff jumping tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Gasolinera Pemex Puerto Vallarta, Carr. Costera a Barra de Navidad 380, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?

Snorkeling equipment, private transportation, soda/pop, bottled water, snacks, and alcoholic beverages like beer are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is cliff jumping required?

No. Cliff jumping is optional.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

Is WiFi available on board?

No, WiFi is not included.

What happens if weather is poor?

This 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 and get a refund?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

FAQ

Is this tour family friendly?

Most travelers can participate, and the experience includes optional cliff jumping plus snorkeling and a short beach stop, so it can work for families. Still, water conditions and who chooses the jump can affect how much time people spend in each activity.