Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling

Outty Ranking 74 5.0 · 23 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $36

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

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Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$36
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Outty Ranking

74/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 23 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling worth booking?

Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling is a 2-hour experience in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, from $36 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 5/5 rating across 23 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
74 / 100
Rating
5/5 (23)
Duration
2 hours
From
$36 per person

Discover the stunning marine beauty of Puerto Vallarta on the Los Arcos 5 Islands Snorkeling and Boat Tour. Begin with a convenient pickup from the Pemex station, then set sail from Mismaloya, exploring the region's rich

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the stunning marine beauty of Puerto Vallarta on the Los Arcos 5 Islands Snorkeling and Boat Tour. Begin with a convenient pickup from the Pemex station, then set sail from Mismaloya, exploring the region's rich Hollywood history. Cruise past the iconic Night of the Iguana movie set and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre Mountains. At Los Arcos Marine Park, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life. This small-group tour combines scenic landscapes, local stories, and an unforgettable underwater adventure for an authentic experience of Mexico's natural wonders. - Optional pickup available from Zona Romántica for convenience - Explore the historic fishing village of Mismaloya before snorkeling - Discover the marine sanctuary of Los Arcos with a local guide - Perfect for both novice and experienced snorkelers, all gear included

    What's included

    Included

    • Carbonated beverages
    • Bottled water
    • Use of snorkeling equipment
    • Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)

    Not included

    • On-board WiFi

    What you'll see and do

    1. Zona Romantica

      Meet your guide at the convenient Pemex gas station in Zona Romántica, where you'll board our transportation for the short scenic drive to Mismaloya Beach. You are also welcome to start this tour at Mismaloya Beach if you prefer.

      15 minutes here

    2. Playa Mismaloya

      Upon arrival at Mismaloya Beach, meet your captain and board our comfortable panga. Before departure, you'll receive a brief safety orientation and get ready for your adventure on the bay.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Bay of Banderas

      Cruise along the beautiful coastline while your local guide shares stories about Mismaloya, including the famous ruins from the filming of The Night of the Iguana. You'll also enjoy panoramic views of the lush Sierra Madre mountains before heading toward Los Arcos Marine Park.

      15 minutes here

    4. Los Arcos de Mismaloya

      Arrive at the iconic Los Arcos, a protected marine sanctuary made up of five granite islands. Cruise around the entire formation as your guide points out sea caves, natural arches, nesting seabirds, and explains the area's history and ecology.

      45 minutes here

    5. Los Arcos de Mismaloya

      Jump into the vibrant waters surrounding Los Arcos for a guided snorkeling experience. Explore colorful coral reefs, swim among tropical fish, and discover the underwater caves and rock formations that make this one of Puerto Vallarta's top snorkeling destinations. All snorkeling equipment is provided.

      60 minutes here

    6. Playa Mismaloya

      After snorkeling, relax during the scenic boat ride back to Mismaloya Beach, where the tour concludes. You're welcome to stay and enjoy Mismaloya Beach after the tour. Taxis, the local bus stop, and parking are all conveniently located nearby, making it easy to continue your day or return to Puerto Vallarta.

      15 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Puerto Vallarta

    For your convenience, guests staying in downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Romantic Zone can meet us at the Pemex Gas Station in Zona Romántica, directly in front of the OXXO convenience store.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Your tour finishes at Mismaloya Beach, giving you the option to stay and enjoy the beach, restaurants, or other activities afterward. Taxis, the local bus stop, and parking are all conveniently located nearby, making it easy to plan your transportation.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Black Pearl Vallarta

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 2Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 3Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 4Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 5Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 6Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    10 verified traveler reviews for Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    10
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    D9778FDfabians · August 2026

    Getting to know beaches in Vallarta

    Excellent tour, the guides with a good attitude and proactive, I would undoubtedly repeat the experience with Black Pearl Vallarta

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    S1153OIisaacg · July 2026

    Great tour!

    Great experience, and awesome views. Staff was friendly and really helpful. Big thanks to Luis our driver he was great too!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much! We’re really happy you enjoyed the experience and the beautiful views. Our team always tries to make everyone feel welcome and well taken care of. We’ll make sure Luis sees your kind words—he’ll be very happy to hear them! Hope to see you back in Vallarta soon.

    via Tripadvisor

    alejandragD2100XU · July 2026

    Excellent service

    Very good service and Javier is the best guide if you come with elderly people and children he is excellent also if young people come he has very good conversation and atmosphere

    Response from the operator: ¡Muchas gracias por compartir su experiencia! Javier es un excelente guía y sabe adaptarse a todo tipo de grupos, desde familias con niños y personas mayores hasta jóvenes que quieren pasarla bien. Nos da mucho gusto saber que los hizo sentir cómodos y que disfrutaron de su buena plática y ambiente. ¡Aquí los esperamos nuevamente en Vallarta!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    alisonmY7257RW · July 2026

    An Amazing Snorkeling Experience

    The experience was excellent! The snorkeling tour was amazing, and the views were beautiful. Our guide was very friendly, attentive, and helpful throughout the tour. We had a great time and really enjoyed the experience. I definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed the snorkeling, the beautiful views, and the overall experience. It was a pleasure having you with us and helping you discover this special part of Puerto Vallarta. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!

    via Tripadvisor

    31melyb · July 2026

    Great tour

    I had a great time and a lot of fun!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much! We’re happy to hear you had a great time and lots of fun with us. It was a pleasure having you on the tour, and we hope to see you again on your next visit to Puerto Vallarta!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $36 to $599
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    8
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 74

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)89
    Review evidence (18% weight)45
    Booking momentum (14% weight)37
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)72
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Puerto Vallarta.

    How much does Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling cost?

    +

    Prices start at $36 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Puerto Vallarta usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Puerto Vallarta is not rushed.

    Is Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 23 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Puerto Vallarta, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?

    +

    Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Puerto Vallarta can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Puerto Vallarta and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Puerto Vallarta within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Puerto Vallarta experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Winner 2026 Downtown Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours, Signature Taco Tour in PV with Vallarta Eats, Food & Mixology Tour:Tequila,Tacos, Mezcal and Agave Cocktails. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Puerto Vallarta?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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