Best Places to Snorkel in Puerto Vallarta
Heidi KellerAre you looking for the best place in Puerto Vallarta to go Snorkeling?
You’re in luck! As a travel advisor who specializes in cruise travel, I have visited Puerto Vallarta numerous times, as well as booked many clients snorkeling excursions here!
If you’d like to explore the breathtaking underwater world, Puerto Vallarta is a spectacular snorkeling destination.
With crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches, and a consistently warm water temperature, you can’t ask for much more from an excellent spot for snorkeling your way through a trip.
Whether you’d like to take a guided tour, book a private boat tour, or just swim off the beach, you’ve come to the right place. With many spots offering really calm water conditions, Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas offer some of the very best snorkeling spots on the Pacific Coast.
So, let’s dive right in and get all the details you need to plan a beautiful trip snorkeling off the Mexican coast.
Best spots for snorkeling in and around Puerto Vallarta
Las Caletas Beach
Tucked away amongst the Sierra Madre Mountains, this gorgeous little beach is a great snorkeling destination. Only accessible by boat, it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy on a day tour.
This sleepy, beautiful beach is a great place to take a guided nature tour and come face-to-face with macaws and parrots in every color of the rainbow.
Las Caletas has been recognized as one of the top secluded beaches on Earth. Due to its private nature, Las Caletas is considered one of the most romantic beaches in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.
Marietas Islands National Park
Located within Banderas Bay, this bucket list snorkeling destination has an abundance of marine life below the surface and some very special wildlife above the surface.
This National Park is home to some bird species only found here and in the Galapagos Islands, so birdwatchers, take note! You may even spy a glimpse of the gorgeous Blue-Footed Booby amongst these small islands.
Why do the Marietas Islands have such a wide array of stunning wildlife to peep? These uninhabited islands are officially protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
With tourism to these islands booming, it’s become critical to further protect the coral reefs and sea life within this protected area.
Restrictions have been put into place to protect this amazing biosphere, so you’ll have to book an organized snorkeling trip to visit. Still, it’s very much worth your while to explore these spectacular tropical islands.
Majahuitas
Just before Yelapa, you’ll discover beautiful Majahuitas Cove. This sandy gem is chock-full of colorful tropical fish. Not only that, but you’ll also have a good chance of seeing everything from dolphins and whales to sea turtles and more.
Majahuitas is particularly known for octopus, eel, and spotted eagle ray sightings, so grab your gear and enjoy!
Yelapa
Named Yelapa by Indigenous Peoples, its name means “where two rivers meet the sea.” This adorable fishing village and the snorkeling off its beaches will capture your heart.
This sleepy spot is a great choice for travelers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path beach destination. The laid-back vibe of this cutesy village will soothe your wandering soul.
If you visit Yelapa during the rainy season, be sure to check out the gorgeous Yelapa waterfall. The Cola de Caballo, as it’s also called, is most beautiful from July to November, and it’s a stop you don’t want to miss.
Las Gemelas
For a stunning, hidden beach and some of the best crystal clear water visibility in Pacific Coast Mexico, head here. With soft, golden sand under your feet, you’ll be relaxing in no time at this small beach nestled inside a beautiful cove.
Pizota
Do you prefer sleepy, pristine beaches? Known as “The Secret Beach of Puerto Vallarta,” Pizota is a spot to truly get away from it all. Visit this virgin beach, and you’ll find yourself relaxing amongst the quiet palms, listening to the waves lapping along the shore.
Los Arcos National Marine Park
Formerly called Las Penas, this stunning protected biosphere will take your breath away. Located close to Mismaloya, Los Arcos is one of the very best options in Puerto Vallarta for amazing snorkeling.
Los Arcos is home to some of the most sought-after aquatic life for snorkelers, including Puerto Vallarta’s famed giant Pacific manta rays, sea turtles, octopus, and more.
Here you’ll also find plentiful sea caves and tunnels to snorkel. Guided tours may be your best bet if the tunnels are your game plan.
Punta Mita
Located on the north side of Puerto Vallarta, this spectacular coastline is a great spot for a snorkeling adventure. The crystal clear visibility here is great for underwater wildlife viewing.
Boca de Tomatlan
This quaint fishing village is a beautiful place to enjoy some snorkeling. Here, you’ll find soft, golden sand and mild waters, so bring your swimming and snorkeling gear.
Colomitos Beach
This hidden gem is located on the south side of the bay, and here you’ll find huge schools of colorful fish swimming about, just offshore. Bring along your mask, fins, and snorkel, and make an afternoon of it at this beautiful, tiny beach.
Concentrated around the beach’s rock formations, you’ll find schools of colorful fish.
To get to Colomitos Beach, hire a water taxi, or book a snorkeling tour through Ecotours Vallarta. If you feel like a walk, take the lovely Colomitos Beach trail from Boca de Tomatlan.
Hiking your way to this pretty little spot is a great way to further explore. But don’t forget plenty of water and electrolyte drinks.
🐠Pro Tip: Never, ever touch any part of a coral reef. It only takes a split second to damage coral reefs, but many years to repair the damage. Do your very best to steer clear of any accidental bumps.
Understanding the beach flag system in Puerto Vallarta
Anytime you plan to enjoy water sports or swimming in the ocean, it’s important to be sure you understand the beach flag system.
Why? Because, though the flags don’t guarantee safety in the water, they’re often a good indicator of whether or not riptides or other potentially dangerous conditions are present.
Understanding sea conditions is an important part of having a safe and enjoyable time snorkeling.
🚩 Click here to check out all of the beach flags and what they mean.
🦈 Pro Tip: The dangerous marine life present in the case of a purple flag does not indicate sharks. Sharks present that are considered a hazard would instead be indicated by a red (or possibly even a double red) flag hung.
What sea life might you see snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta Mexico is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts looking for an animal-filled holiday. The coast of Puerto Vallarta is jam-packed with an abundance of marine life.
From majestic humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins, to the tiniest of coral reef dwellers, you’ll find it all here.
Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as often the most exciting underwater finds are discovered with patience and attentiveness.
Throughout Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find a huge array of different types of fish. In fact, you’ll find over 150 different species here. From giant schools of jacks to colorful parrotfish and angelfish, whales, dolphins, sharks, and more.
With so many great spots for snorkeling across the coast, be sure to watch your step in the shallows to avoid stepping on sea urchins. These spiked creatures are quite painful to bare feet when accidentally tread upon.
Whales in Puerto Vallarta
One very special marine animal Puerto Vallarta is famous for is the humpback whale. Whale season in Pacific Coast Mexico runs from early December to mid to late March.
So, if whale-watching is on your bucket list, go ahead and book that winter trip to beautiful Puerto Vallarta.
Humpback whales aren’t the only type of whale you have the chance to see here. Puerto Vallarta is also home to blue and grey whales, so keep your eyes peeled.
Morning is often one of the very best times for whale sightings, though some tours also head out mid-day.
Though these majestic creatures can sometimes be seen from the sandy shores, booking a whale-watching tour is sure to get you up close and personal with them.
Additionally, there’s typically a marine biologist who educates you about the different whale species and more.
Tours are also an excellent option for families.
🐳 Pro Tip: If you suffer from motion sickness, be sure to book an early morning tour, when the sea is likely to be more calm.
Dolphins in Puerto Vallarta
You can be sure that dolphins are among the list of awesome marine creatures you might see in this area.
Several different types of this intelligent mammal can be found in Puerto Vallarta, including bottlenose, spotted, spinner, and rough-toothed dolphins.
The very best time for spying abundant numbers of dolphins in Puerto Vallarta runs along the same timeline as whale season.
So, pack your bags for a trip between December and March for your best shot at dolphin spotting.
Majahuitas Cove is one of the best places to explore if you’re hoping to see dolphins.
Puerto Vallarta Sea Turtles
Are you a fan of sea turtles? Several different varieties can be found here along the Mexican coast.
Among these shell-housed animals, you’ll find Leatherback, Hawksbill, Prieta, and lovely Olive Ridley turtles.
For an absolutely epic bucket-list memory, plan your Mexican vacation around the annual hatching of the gorgeous Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
Hatching around July of each year, the smallest species of sea turtles can be seen emerging from the sand and heading out to sea.
Volunteers teach participants about this amazing animal, then you’ll have the chance to help release a turtle. Before your little buddy swims out upon the waves, you’ll have the chance to name it and make a special wish for this sweet creature. It’s memory-making in nature you surely won’t forget.
Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling: Spotted Eagle Ray
Puerto Vallarta is one of the best spots for catching a glimpse of these absolutely stunning, speckled rays. Reaching up to 20 feet in length, with up to a 10-foot wingspan, these graceful behemoths will have you mesmerized.
One of the best places for spotted eagle ray spotting is within Los Arcos National Marine Park. These docile creatures are not aggressive, and only sting in defense. But, as always, be sure to respect the sea life, as you’re visiting their home.
Giant Manta Rays
Want to chance to see the largest rays in the world? Yep, Puerto Vallarta has them.
These gorgeous giants can grow to be nearly 30 feet long! Though their size may be awesome, these gentle giants are not aggressive. Filter feeders by design, These graceful rays prefer plankton, and watching them glide through the sea is a bit of magic.
With a massive array of diverse marine life and colorful fish, the protected water of Los Arcos National Park is one of the top places for spotting one of the world’s largest fish.
Moray Eels in Puerto Vallarta
Ah, the moray eel. These snake-like creatures are often found, slinking around the coral reefs offshore. One of the very best spots to view moray eels is within the gorgeous Los Arcos National Park.
This park features some of the deepest water in Banderas Bay and is a prime spot for peeping many different ocean-dwellers.
One of the biggest misconceptions about these slinky reef-dwellers is that they are aggressive to humans. The opening of their mouth you often see is simply how moray eels breathe, and is not an aggressive behavior.
These slimy-looking creatures are typically not aggressive towards humans unless specifically threatened. So, don’t be afraid to observe these fascinating creatures underwater.
🤿 Pro Tip: Wear reef-safe sunblock, or even better, wear a rash guard so you won’t need sunscreen at all!
Coral reefs and the marine life surrounding them form an extremely delicate ecosystem. It’s important to respect wildlife and do your very best to protect these organisms.
🤿 Read more: Best guided snorkeling tours in Puerto Vallarta
FAQs about snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
What equipment do I need for snorkeling?
If you decide to book a snorkeling trip, your trip cost will include all the equipment you need for snorkeling.
If you want to have the freedom of just heading out in the warm waters off the beach on your own, you’ll only need a few items. Be sure to bring a snorkel/mask set and a pair of fins.
How can I protect my skin from the sun while snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean?
Sun safety is key while snorkeling. If you’re not careful, you’ll likely end up with a completely sunburned back, shoulders, neck, and arms. Be sure to sport a rash guard or pack on the sunblock.
Where will you find the best visibility near Puerto Vallarta?
For exploring crystal-clear waters, head to Boca de Tomatlan Beach. This gorgeous beach is a great place to strap on your snorkel gear and just head off alongside the sandy shores.
Another great choice for excellent visibility is Los Arcos National Marine Park.
What are the best ways to stay safe while snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta Mexico?
The best ways to stay safe while snorkeling are to be aware of surf conditions, and understand the meaning of beach warning flags, stay hydrated, wear sun-protective clothing, and reapply sunblock throughout the day.
When is the best time of year to snorkel in Puerto Vallarta?
For an abundance of marine animals, the Bay of Banderas is teeming with life from July to November. And, of course, the summer months offer the warmest waters.
For excellent visibility, head here a bit later in the year, around October or November or beyond. Fall and winter months definitely bring great snorkeling, as well. Overall, snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta is excellent year-round.
Does Puerto Vallarta have a rainy season?
Yep, they sure do. While it doesn’t take away from the beautiful snorkeling, the rainy season runs from June to the middle of October.
Final Thoughts on Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta
Whether you decide to book a guided or private tour, or simply grab your mask and fins and swim off the beach, Puerto Vallarta is an excellent destination for snorkeling. With endless beautiful beaches from which to choose, and a wide variety of marine life to enjoy, you’ll most surely find the right spot for your underwater adventures.
