Plan your visit
Plan your Los Arcos trip
Organize your transport to Mismaloya, check the best snorkeling hours, and review the marine park rules before you arrive.
Los Arcos National Marine Park
Bahía de Banderas, Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta
GPS 20.545182, -105.292249
Open directionsGetting there
You can reach the park via a full boat tour from Puerto Vallarta, or travel overland to Mismaloya.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Hire a local water taxi (panga) directly from Mismaloya beach or Boca de Tomatlán. | 10-15 mins | $15-$30 USD | Easiest direct access for independent travelers wanting a short, private trip. |
| Tour: Guided snorkeling/diving boat or catamaran tour from the Puerto Vallarta Marina or Los Muertos Pier. | 3-4 hours (round trip) | $40-$80 USD | Most convenient option; usually includes snorkel gear, guide, drinks, and the marine park conservation fee. |
| Bus: Take the local orange bus from Basilio Badillo in downtown PV to Mismaloya to catch a water taxi. | 30-45 mins | ~$1 USD (bus fare) | The most budget-friendly way to reach the departure beaches. |
| Car: Take a taxi, Uber, or rental car along Highway 200 south to Mismaloya. | 20-30 mins from downtown PV | $10-$20 USD | Fastest overland route to the water taxi launch points. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is accessible year-round. The best months for calm waters and high visibility are November to May. Plan to snorkel between 08:00 and 11:00 AM when the ocean is calmest.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
It is strictly illegal to remove any marine flora or fauna.
Always maintain a respectful distance from sea turtles and nesting birds.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules based on transport methods.
Take overland transport to Mismaloya for a direct, private boat ride.
- Take the bus
Board the orange bus at Basilio Badillo in downtown PV ($1 USD).
- Hire a panga
Negotiate a private water taxi at Mismaloya beach ($15-$30 USD).
- Snorkel El Bajo
Explore the shallow reefs while the morning water is calm.
- Pass the arches
Have the captain drive through the 25-meter-high Roca de Los Arcos.
- Return
Head back to Mismaloya beach.
A convenient round-trip boat tour from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
- Boarding
Meet your tour group at the Marina or Los Muertos Pier.
- Cruise south
Enjoy the coastal views as the boat travels 12 km to the park.
- Guided snorkel
Swim with tropical fish. Life jackets are mandatory on tour boats.
- Sightseeing
Listen to the guide explain the history of the granite islets.
- Return to pier
Arrive back in downtown Puerto Vallarta.
What to pack
Bring reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystem. Standard chemical sunscreens are harmful to the reefs. You will also need a quick-dry towel, swimwear, and an underwater action camera.
Carry Mexican Pesos for dock fees, water taxis, and tips. A dry bag is highly recommended to protect your phone and electronics while on small boats or paddleboards.
Easiest way to do it
Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos
3 h 30 min 4.7 (1,754)
- Bus fee
- Life vest
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Permits for National Park
From$48per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you visit Los Arcos Puerto Vallarta without a tour?
Yes. You can take a bus or taxi to Mismaloya beach. From there, hire a local water taxi (panga) to take you directly to the islands. This takes 10 to 15 minutes each way.
Do you have to wear a life jacket at Los Arcos?
Yes, life jackets are mandatory while snorkeling or swimming if you are traveling with a guided tour boat.
What kind of marine life is at Los Arcos?
You can see sea turtles, manta rays, moray eels, and dense schools of tropical fish. Above the water, the islands host nesting seabirds like pelicans, frigatebirds, and blue-footed boobies.