Puerto Vallarta beach guide
Los Arcos National Marine Park
Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos
Iconic granite sea arches and protected national marine park teeming with tropical reef life
About Los Arcos National Marine Park
Located 11 km south of Puerto Vallarta, this protected marine sanctuary is Banderas Bay’s premier destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.
Los Arcos de Mismaloya is a cluster of towering granite islands rising majestically from deep waters. Declared a National Marine Park in 1984, the submerged volcanic caves, canyons, and drop-offs (including the famous 'Devil's Canyon') create a thriving marine ecosystem. Snorkelers and divers can encounter eagle rays, sea turtles, moray eels, octopus, and massive schools of king angelfish.
How to get there
Located along Highway 200 South in the scenic South Shore corridor.
- Take the orange Mismaloya / Boca bus from Basilio Badillo & Constitución in Romantic Zone (10 MXN).
- 10-25 min drive south along Highway 200.
Local planning notes
- Hire a private panga from Mismaloya beach for the shortest and most flexible boat ride.
- Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard in Mismaloya and paddle 15 minutes out to the arches on calm mornings.
- Early morning (8:30–11:00 AM) offers the calmest waters and best underwater visibility before catamaran crowds arrive.
Before you go
- Marine-access only; landing on the islands is strictly prohibited to protect nesting wildlife.
- Wear a life vest and stay aware of boat traffic inside the snorkel zone.
Nearby places and attractions
- El Submarino & Devil’s Canyon: Iconic underwater tunnels and deep vertical reef walls famous worldwide for scuba diving. (Around granite islands)
- Las Calaveras Cave: Shallow sea cave inhabited by schools of cardinalfish, damselfish, and eagle rays. (North islet)