Hidden Beach Marietas Islands
Discover Mexico's surreal Hidden Beach, a natural wonder nestled within a crater, accessible only by swimming through a tunnel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Hidden Beach Marietas Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mexico's surreal Hidden Beach, a natural wonder nestled within a crater, accessible only by swimming through a tunnel.
"This place is unbelievable! What an amazing display of wildlife and the beach is incredible!"
Book Tours in Advance
Daily visitor limit means tours sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
Life Vest & Helmet Required
Safety first! Life vests and helmets are mandatory for the swim to the Hidden Beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)
Inside a natural crater
A surreal beach nestled within a crater, accessible only by swimming through a tunnel. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight!
Marietas Islands National Park
Off the coast of Nayarit
Explore these protected volcanic islands, a sanctuary for rare birds and marine life. Offers stunning natural beauty.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Surrounding waters
Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species. Keep an eye out for whales during migration season!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
+1Prepare for the Swim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Daily visitor limit means tours sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
Life Vest & Helmet Required
Safety first! Life vests and helmets are mandatory for the swim to the Hidden Beach.
No Sunscreen Allowed
To protect the ecosystem, sunscreen is prohibited. Wear rash guards or cover up.
Waterproof Phone Case
Protect your phone for those epic shots! A waterproof case is a must for the swim.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Daily visitor limit means tours sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
Life Vest & Helmet Required
Safety first! Life vests and helmets are mandatory for the swim to the Hidden Beach.
No Sunscreen Allowed
To protect the ecosystem, sunscreen is prohibited. Wear rash guards or cover up.
Waterproof Phone Case
Protect your phone for those epic shots! A waterproof case is a must for the swim.
Be Prepared for Currents
The swim can be challenging. Stay strong and follow your guide's instructions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique beauty of the Hidden Beach and the overall experience of visiting the Marietas Islands. The natural formations and wildlife are consistently praised. However, some find the journey long, the access to the beach challenging due to currents, and the strict rules a bit restrictive.
"Beautiful Island right off the coast. Park rangers are controlling access through the cave entrance by handing out helmets. Very scary trying to enter the cave when the ocean currents pulling or pushing you into the cave. Only have 30 minutes once rangers hand out helmets."
Scott Bracken
"Oooh!!!this is certainly a beautiful unique place, hidden in the karst rocks, where the rarest birds of our planet nest .. But!!! Before sailing there, 2 hours in one direction and therefore the same amount in the other direction, from the port of Puerto Vallarta. I urge you to know all the details!!! This beautiful beach is protected by UNESCO and everyone who can protect something ... IT is not available for visiting on any day of the week, be sure to check and ask again, otherwise you will simply be floating on the motor boat around the rocks , and pointing there finger - " see!! -it's over there !! " -"and now it was an Eco tour - pay extra for this wonderful trip"! if you still got on the right day and before the tour, that is, before boarding the ship, the main speaker shouts where and when you will be loaded onto the ship, and that you need to purchase it in the port store before that . .. like a towel, a waterproof case for the phone, sunscreen, etc. That you should know!!! That you can’t just sail there and lie on the beach on your towel, you can’t bring anything to the beach at all from the word- ANYTHING!!!! using a sun blocker is also strictly prohibited, you can stay on the beach for no more than 25 minutes !!! enjoy))) If you come with a tour, you will be sure that you will have to pay extra for delivery from the ship to the beach, even if your tour agent told you that "all inclusive"!! -It's not always true! in general, the place is very unique of course, it's true. but a lot of small unpleasant moments spoil all the magic I tell you!!! But, for general development, and for videos on TikTok, and Instagram, in which this the place has been taking first place in views for many years, it is certainly worth a visit☝️👍🙌"
Mikey M
"Beautiful and a special place. The hidden beach has a limit of 116 visitors per day so you have to reserve this tour in advance if you want to get there. You will get a safety vest and a helmet. You will have to swim inside and you can only stay there 30 minutes maximum. We had to wait 1 hour until it was our turn to go. No plastic bottles/alcohol or sunscreens are allowed in the area. The beach was really nice. Highly recommended."
Mia Sašek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach the Marietas Islands is by taking a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta or Punta de Mita. Tours typically last several hours and include transportation, snorkeling gear, and sometimes lunch.
No, there are no direct flights to the Marietas Islands as they are a protected natural park. You must travel by boat from the mainland.
The boat ride from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the tour operator and sea conditions.
While you can charter private boats, most visitors opt for organized tours due to the protected nature of the park and the specific access requirements for the Hidden Beach.
No, the Marietas Islands are uninhabited and not set up for overnight stays. All visits are day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary, but generally range from $80 to $150 USD per person, often including boat transport, snorkeling, and access to the Hidden Beach. It's essential to confirm what's included.
Yes, absolutely! Access to the Hidden Beach is strictly limited to 116 visitors per day, so booking your tour well in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
The islands are accessible during daylight hours, but specific tour times vary by operator. The Hidden Beach access is managed by park rangers and can be subject to weather conditions.
Yes, visitors can only stay for a maximum of 30 minutes on the Hidden Beach. Sunscreen, plastic bottles, and alcohol are prohibited to protect the environment.
The Marietas Islands National Park limits access to the Hidden Beach to approximately 116 visitors per day to preserve its delicate ecosystem.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming to the Hidden Beach, snorkeling in the surrounding waters, bird watching (especially for the Blue-footed Booby), and enjoying the unique volcanic landscapes.
It requires a moderate level of swimming ability. You'll swim through a tunnel, and currents can be present. Life vests and helmets are provided for safety.
Bring a towel, a waterproof phone case, a hat, sunglasses, and wear swimwear. Remember, sunscreen and plastic bottles are not allowed.
While children can visit the islands, the swim to the Hidden Beach might be challenging for very young children or non-swimmers. Check with your tour operator for age recommendations.
The islands are a nesting ground for various seabirds, including the famous Blue-footed Booby. You might also spot dolphins and whales during migration season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many tours offer lunch and drinks, but it's best to confirm with your tour operator when booking. Some may offer snacks or have options to purchase food.
No, the Marietas Islands are uninhabited and a protected national park, so there are no restaurants or food facilities on the islands themselves.
While some tours might allow you to bring snacks, bringing plastic bottles and alcohol is strictly prohibited to protect the environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hidden Beach itself is incredibly photogenic. The boat ride offers great views of the islands, and the surrounding ocean provides a stunning backdrop.
Yes, you can take photos inside the Hidden Beach, but remember to be quick as your time there is limited to 30 minutes. A waterproof case is recommended.
Drones are generally not permitted in national parks and protected areas like the Marietas Islands to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.
A waterproof camera or a smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views of the Hidden Beach and the islands.
Professional photoshoots are typically not allowed due to the limited access and the park's conservation efforts. Focus on capturing personal memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that offer more relaxed snorkeling opportunities or focus on wildlife viewing if the swim is a concern. Many tours provide lunch, which can be a plus for families. 💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples and Honeymooners
+1 The journey itself, with potential whale sightings and beautiful ocean views, adds to the romantic ambiance. 🌊 Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of the Hidden Beach
+1The access to this stunning spot is through a narrow tunnel that connects the open ocean to the crater. This natural gateway is what makes the beach so exclusive and requires visitors to swim through it. The contrast between the rugged exterior of the island and the serene, sun-drenched interior of the Hidden Beach is truly breathtaking.
+1Due to its fragile nature and the need for conservation, the Marietas Islands National Park strictly controls access. This ensures that the unique ecosystem and geological features are preserved for future generations. The limited daily visitor numbers are a testament to the importance of protecting this natural wonder.
+1Navigating the Marietas Islands Tours
+1When choosing a tour, consider whether you want a group or a private experience. Private tours offer more flexibility and a personalized touch, which can be ideal for couples or small groups seeking an exclusive adventure.
+1 Some tours also offer the chance to see whales during their migration season, adding another layer of excitement to the trip. It's crucial to understand what each tour package includes, especially regarding access to the Hidden Beach. Some tours might only circle the islands, while others guarantee the swim to the beach. Always confirm the itinerary and inclusions to ensure you get the experience you're looking for.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
+1Visitors are prohibited from using sunscreen, bringing plastic bottles, or consuming alcohol within the park boundaries. These regulations are in place to protect the marine life and the rare bird species that inhabit the islands, such as the Blue-footed Booby.
By choosing responsible tour operators and respecting the park's guidelines, visitors can ensure that the beauty of the Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach can be enjoyed for years to come. The limited daily access is a key part of this conservation effort, ensuring that the environment is not overwhelmed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit