Marietas Islands and Hidden Beach

The Marietas Islands are, without a doubt, one of the most dreamed-of destinations in Puerto Vallarta. And tucked within this archipelago hides a gem that has traveled the world: Hidden Beach, also known as the Beach of Love. In this guide we tell you what the Marietas Islands are, how this remarkable beach came to be, how you can visit it and what our Marietas Islands tour includes.

What are the Marietas Islands?

The Marietas Islands are a small volcanic archipelago sitting at the mouth of Banderas Bay, off the coast of Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit. Formed thousands of years ago by volcanic activity, they are today such an important sanctuary of biodiversity that they were declared a protected national park, as well as a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve.

This protected status is no small detail: it is exactly why the crystal-clear waters, reefs and wildlife here are so beautifully preserved. Seabirds, corals and tropical fish thrive side by side, along with occasional visitors like manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins. Visiting the Marietas is, in short, a chance to glimpse a living, carefully protected ecosystem.

Hidden Beach

The undisputed star of the archipelago is Hidden Beach, famous around the world for its one-of-a-kind shape: a stretch of golden sand tucked inside a crater in the rock, with the sky peeking through a large circular opening overhead. This opening is believed to have formed through the natural erosion of the waves over thousands of years, creating an intimate, sheltered spot completely hidden from view out at sea.

Precisely because it is so hidden, the only way in is by swimming or kayaking through a natural tunnel that connects the open sea with the inside of the crater. That blend of beauty, exclusivity and adventure is what has made it one of the most photographed beaches on the planet.

How do you visit Hidden Beach?

Here is the part that raises the most questions. Because it sits within a protected national park, access to Hidden Beach is strictly regulated by environmental authorities. There is a limited daily visitor quota and official permits are required to enter. You cannot get there on your own: only authorized operators can take you, and always accompanied by guides.

That is why booking ahead matters so much. Spots sell out fast, especially in high season, and access to the beach depends on the day's tide conditions. Booking your Marietas Islands tour early is the best way to secure your place and avoid being left out. We handle all the paperwork and permits so your only job is to enjoy it.

What does the tour include?

Our Marietas Islands tour is designed so you can enjoy the full experience in complete comfort. Here is what it includes:

• Cruising aboard a comfortable 33-foot boat, perfect for groups.
• A snorkeling session on the park's reefs, gear included.
• A stop at Nopalera Beach, a beautiful sandy spot to relax and swim.
• Food and drinks on board throughout the trip.
• Trained guides who look after you and share the story behind the place.

The experience lasts around 5.5 hours, plenty of time to cruise, snorkel, enjoy the beach and, if conditions allow, make it into Hidden Beach.

Wildlife and the best time to go

The Marietas are a paradise for nature lovers. The blue-footed booby, a striking seabird, nests on the islets, and in the water you will spot schools of colorful fish, starfish and, if you are lucky, turtles or manta rays. Between December and March it is also common to see humpback whales on the way out to the islands, an unforgettable sight.

The best time to visit is from November to May, when the weather is more settled and the sea tends to be calm. That said, the archipelago is wonderful nearly year-round; what matters most is availability and the tide conditions on the day of your visit.

Responsible tourism: let's protect the park

Visiting a protected natural area is a privilege that comes with responsibility. We ask that you never touch or stand on the corals, leave no trash behind, use biodegradable sunscreen and always follow your guides' instructions. These small gestures are what keep the Marietas the wonderful sanctuary we enjoy today, so future generations can experience them too.

If you love time on the water and want something different to round out your trip, we also recommend our getaway to Yelapa, a dreamy coastal village with waterfalls and postcard-perfect beaches. And if you have any questions about dates, availability or transfers, we are just a message away on our contact page.