Snorkeling feels personal here. You start in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone, ride out to Boca de Tomatlán, then cruise south along the coast toward Yelapa for two snorkeling stops at Majahuitas Beach and Playa Colomitos, plus a short beach break on the way back.

I love how hands-on and safety-minded the team is. Guide Elian takes time with everyone, and captain Brian keeps the ride smooth while you’re getting ready in and out of the water.

One consideration: you may spend extra once you’re there. The tour price covers the boat and snorkeling gear, but bus fare and on-site food/snacks (like coconut) can add up.

Key points before you go

• Max 10 people keeps the vibe relaxed, and you get more personal attention in the water.
• Two snorkeling stops (Majahuitas and Colomitos) means more chances to see fish and sea life.
• Elian + Brian are repeatedly praised for safety, patience, and helping beginners feel steady.
• Boat with a cover helps with sun during the cruise between spots.
• A return beach stop near Boca de Tomatlán adds a stretch of shoreline time, coconuts, and drinks you can buy.

From the Romantic Zone to Boca de Tomatlán by bus

This tour starts right in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone at C. Constitución 363. It’s a convenient meeting point if you’re already walking around Zona Romántica, and it’s close to public transportation.

After you connect with the group, you hop on a bus for the ride to Boca de Tomatlán. This part matters more than it sounds. The route is winding, and you actually get time to look out at tropical scenery as you head toward the coast. It also sets expectations: you’re not just doing a quick swim. You’re moving through the PV coast step by step, then switching to boat time once you reach the harbor area.

When you arrive, you’ll walk a short distance from the stop to the beach area. The boat may take a few minutes to get ready, so there’s a natural waiting period. You’ll likely have a seat at a restaurant table with a good view, and you can relax without feeling rushed. If you like your tours with a little breathing room, this is a nice touch.

Also, the tour language is English, and it runs in a small group. That combination usually makes the whole day feel easier to follow, even if you’re new to snorkeling.

Boat ride south along the Yelapa coastline

Once the boat is ready, you point south along the coast. The ride takes about 20–30 minutes, and this is where the guide’s local knowledge comes into play.

The best part here is that you’re not just staring at water. The guide points out the coastline and mentions hidden beaches along the way. That helps you understand what you’re doing later: snorkeling stops aren’t random. They’re part of a route that makes sense geographically and practically.

A couple details from the on-water experience help explain why people rate this so highly. The boat has a cover, so you aren’t baking in direct sun the whole time you’re traveling between spots. You also get clear instruction for the snorkeling, including help with equipment setup. If you’ve ever wrestled with fins and a snorkel while trying not to panic, you’ll appreciate the patient approach.

And yes, there’s often wildlife interest during this time of year. Some folks report hearing whales singing under the water while snorkeling. That’s not guaranteed, but it’s the kind of bonus that makes the day feel more than just fish-watching.

This is one of those tours where the “in-between” moments are enjoyable too, not only the actual swim.

Majahuitas Beach snorkeling: fish, comfort, and good guidance

Stop 1 is Majahuitas Beach, one of the first places you’ll snorkel. You’ll spend up to about 30 minutes in the water here, which is a solid amount of time: long enough to get your rhythm, but not so long that you start counting minutes.

You’ll be provided with snorkeling equipment (including snorkel tube and fins) and you’ll wear a life jacket. That setup alone reduces stress for first-timers. In reviews, I saw a pattern: people who’d never snorkeled before still did well because the guide made sure they were set up correctly and stayed safe in the water.

What you’re looking for is marine life around you. Reports include king angelfish swimming close, along with other species. A few people even described seeing an eel and additional interesting creatures. Even if you don’t catch sight of the same animals, the overall feel is consistent: clear focus, steady guidance, and lots to watch.

One practical note: most travelers can participate, and the guide adjusts to the group. Reviews also mention patience for people who may not feel as agile as they used to be getting into and out of the boat. If you have any concerns about comfort in and out of the water, this guide approach can be a big help.

If you want a snorkeling stop where the day feels friendly and structured, Majahuitas is typically where that starts.

Playa Colomitos: another swim stop with real sea-life payoffs

Stop 2 is Playa Colomitos, and you’ll snorkel there for up to about 30 minutes as well. This second stop is a big part of the value of the day. Two different snorkeling locations usually means two different chances at seeing fish, different water conditions, and different patches of reef life.

People describing this stop talk about the closeness of fish around them—things like king angelfish and sargent fish swimming near. One of the fun details in the feedback is that some sea life sightings were hands-on in a guided way. For example, reports include seeing creatures like sea cucumber, starfish, and even a baby conch. That kind of moment can really stick with you because it feels personal, not like you’re just scanning from the surface.

You’ll also continue following the same approach to safety and equipment. The guide helps with setup, watches for everyone in the water, and keeps the pace manageable. If you’re traveling with someone who’s nervous about snorkeling, two stops can be a comfort: the second chance is there if the first feels a little overwhelming.

If you care about seeing more than just one brief window of marine life, this “two stops” plan is a smart way to spend your morning or afternoon.

The return beach break near Boca de Tomatlán

After Playa Colomitos, you head back. On the way you’ll stop at a beach for about 30 minutes. The details here vary by conditions and timing, but the structure stays the same: short shoreline time, then back to Boca for the meal.

This stop is worth treating as part of the tour, not an afterthought. Reviews mention coconuts and drinks being available on the beach. Some people described a coconut served with lime and spice, and that it’s a separate purchase rather than automatically included in the tour price.

There’s also a practical reality you should plan for. One review noted that getting on and off the boat can be tricky during the beach stop, especially if you have younger kids or if you’re not super steady on your feet. The same feedback said the group had help to carry some people, so it sounds like the crew does what they can. Still, it’s a reason to consider your comfort level if you expect steps, rocks, or a less predictable entry point.

If you pack for a day on the coast, think “be ready for water and movement,” not just a relaxed beach lounge.

Lunch back in Boca: sea-view eating beats rushing

Once you leave the return beach, you head back to Boca de Tomatlán to eat. The tour includes an option for a meal, and it’s something you should check before booking, since inclusion depends on the option you pick.

The idea here is simple: don’t spend the whole day hungry while everyone else is fueled. The pacing is designed so your snorkeling isn’t the only highlight. You finish with food near the harbor, which gives your body time to cool down and reset.

In reviews, the restaurant name El Embarcadero came up as the kind of place where the meal felt like part of the experience. People described the setting as right by the water, and one person even called out a cheeseburger as the best they’d had.

Whether you go big or keep it light, this meal stop is a good fit for how the rest of the day runs. You’re outside, you’re in saltwater, and you’re doing actual activity. Ending with a real meal is what turns the day from a “snorkel and go” excursion into a full outing.

Price, group size, and value for Puerto Vallarta snorkeling

At $54.36 per person, this tour is priced around what most travelers spend for a basic boat-and-snorkel setup in Puerto Vallarta, but it adds a lot that changes the value. You’re paying for the boat trip, snorkeling time, and the equipment. You also get a life jacket and bottled water, and taxes and fees are included.

What’s not included matters. Bus fare is not included, and snacks like coconut aren’t included either. Also, lunch may be included only if you select the meal option.

So the true cost is more like this: base snorkeling + boat time (what you pay), plus local add-ons (what you choose). If you’re the type who likes to try a coconut anyway, decide ahead of time that it’s part of your “vacation math,” not an unexpected surprise.

The small group size (maximum 10) is a major value driver. It usually means:

• faster attention when you need help with equipment,
• less crowding around the guide,
• more chances for the captain/guide to keep an eye on everyone.

In one review, a couple ended up effectively with a private setup. That’s not something you should count on, but it shows how small this can feel when the group isn’t full.

If you want a snorkeling day that doesn’t feel like a factory line, this price-to-experience ratio makes sense.

Who should book this tour (and who should think twice)

This is a good match if you want real snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta without dealing with a huge crowd. It’s especially appealing if you’re a beginner or traveling with someone who’s new, because the guide support is repeatedly described as patient and helpful. The included life jacket and gear setup also make it easier to jump in without extra rentals.

You’ll also like it if you enjoy the coast as part of the plan. The ride south along the Yelapa coastline, the quick stops, and the brief beach break add up to a full day.

Consider thinking twice if:

• you know you’ll be uncomfortable with climbing on and off a boat at a beach stop,
• you’re trying to keep spending tight (since bus fare and food/snacks can add up),
• you strongly prefer a longer time in one place rather than two shorter snorkeling windows.

Also remember the experience needs good weather. If conditions are poor, the tour may be changed or refunded, so you’ll want to be flexible with your schedule.

Should you book Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure?

Yes, I’d book it if you want a small-group Puerto Vallarta snorkeling outing that feels guided and personal. The two snorkeling stops at Majahuitas and Playa Colomitos give you more time in the water across different spots, and the guide support from Elian is a big reason people feel safe and excited instead of rushed.

I’d hesitate only if you’re counting every peso and expect all meals and snacks to be included, or if you’re not comfortable with boat entry during the beach stop. If that’s you, you can still enjoy the day, but plan for extra costs and be realistic about movement.

If you’re looking for an honest balance of boat ride, genuine snorkeling time, and an easy return meal, this is one of the better ways to spend a half day to full-feeling excursion on the PV coast.

FAQ

How long is the Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure?

It runs for about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?

You meet at C. Constitución 363, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What snorkeling gear is included?

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

Is food included?

The tour offers an included meal option, but you need to check which option you book. On the beach, you can find coconuts and drinks, but coconut snacks are not included.

Do I need to pay for transportation to the beach?

Private transportation is not included, and the bus fare is listed as not included. The tour includes a bus ride as part of the experience, but that fare is something you should expect as an extra.

How many people are in the group?

The maximum group size is 10 travelers.

What happens if weather is bad?

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