← Explore all Puerto Vallarta beaches

Puerto Vallarta beach guide

Islas Marietas

Islas Marietas (Hidden Beach)

Protected volcanic marine sanctuary featuring the iconic sunken crater and coral reefs

Islas Marietas
Islas Marietas
AccessDirect Walk-in
Sand and shoreNatural Coastline Sand & Stones
Water conditionsGentle to moderate waves
Sun and shadeFull Day Sun
Best fitFamily & Calm

About Islas Marietas

A federally protected marine national park 8 km off Punta de Mita. Created by ancient volcanic activity, it was established as a national park following Jacques Cousteau's conservation advocacy.

Islas Marietas is Banderas Bay’s premier offshore marine sanctuary. Its crown jewel is the 'Hidden Beach' (Playa Escondida / Playa del Amor), an enclosed sunlit sand crater accessible only by swimming through a natural sea-level tunnel at low tide. The surrounding reefs teem with Pacific giant mantas, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. Access is strictly regulated by CONANP with daily visitor caps to preserve its pristine ecosystem.

How to get there

Located ~8 km offshore from Punta de Mita. Strictly accessible by federally certified marine guide boats/pangas.

  • Hire a licensed panga at El Anclote harbor in Punta de Mita (15-20 min boat ride) or book an excursion catamaran from Marina Vallarta (1.5h).
  • Take the ATM (Autotransportes Medina) bus from Walmart terminal in PV to Punta de Mita (~55 MXN, 75 min), then walk 2 min to El Anclote pier.
  • Taxi or Uber to El Anclote in Punta de Mita (50-60 min from Downtown PV), then board your boat tour.

Local planning notes

  • Book permits well in advance; Hidden Beach permits are strictly limited by federal authorities.
  • Mandatory lifejackets are required; swimming through the sea tunnel requires basic swimming ability.
  • Morning boat departures experience calmer seas and optimal underwater visibility.

Before you go

  • Flippers are prohibited inside the crater tunnel to protect living coral formations.
  • Park access is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for ecological recovery.

Nearby places and attractions

  • Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach Crater): The world-famous sunlit sand cavern formed by a collapsed volcanic dome. (Inner island crater)
  • El Arco & Volcanic Caverns: Towering volcanic rock archways and caverns popular with snorkelers and divers. (Outer island perimeter)
  • Blue-Footed Booby Nesting Cliffs: Protected rocky crags where colonies of rare blue-footed and brown boobies roost. (Isla Larga cliffs)