
Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 138 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 $33 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 138 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 86 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (138)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $33 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 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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 138 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
138 verified traveler reviews for Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Snorkeling, whale watching, and boat tours
We’ve used Jack Sparrow’s tours a half a dozen times. They are always fun and professional. Kevin has been our captain the last couple times, we always have fun and learn something too. I highly recommend them!
via Tripadvisor
Awesome service
Excellent service, great experience!! 10/10
via Tripadvisor
Awesome
Very awesome! And Fun! Captin was very friendly!
via Tripadvisor
Fun boat ride
Great experience, would definitely recommend to anyone looking to get an experience.it was a great
via Tripadvisor
Increíble!
Amazing!!! So much wildlife! Thank you.
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
- $33 to $599
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 48
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 86
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
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?
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Prices start at $33 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?
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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?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 138 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Puerto Vallarta, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?
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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?
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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?
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Around 48 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?
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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?
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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?
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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, Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours, Signature Taco Tour in PV with Vallarta Eats. 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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
What is included in Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?
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Included: Carbonated beverages; Bottled water; Use of snorkeling equipment; and Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.). Not included: On-board WiFi. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?
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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 is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos 5 Islands & Sea Cave Snorkeling?
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Across 138 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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