Do you know the impressive Marietas Islands and its Hidden Beach? It is also known as Playa del Amor, unique in the world for its peculiar crater shape in the middle of the sea.
Located west of Puerto Vallarta, in Banderas Bay very close to Punta de Mita. The Marietas Islands is one of those magical places in the Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit region. The Marietas Islands are the habitat of many species of birds; such as the blue-footed bird and a very large diversity of fish, as well as dolphins throughout the year and humpback whales in winter.
Because the Marietas Islands are a protected area by Conam, access to Playa Escondida is limited to only 116 people per day and there are two days of the week that it is closed for conservation; Monday and Tuesday, you can only visit from Wednesday to Sunday. So it is important to book in advance.
In Puerto Vallarta alone a small group of tour operators They have permission to take the general public to visit the Marietas Islands, in a completely designated area so that tourists can observe and enjoy the spectacular beauty that can be found here.
As we mentioned before, the Marietas Islands are a protected area, so in order to visit them or access the beach of love you must pay the same amount that is used for the conservation of that protected natural area.
Depending on the tide, the water can be so clear that you can see 10 meters deep, but the best of all are its reefs, swimming in these waters makes you feel at peace, as if you were swimming in a giant aquarium.
History of Love Beach
This amazing hidden beach was not always so calm and safe. It is said that during the 60's, the Mexican government once used the Marietas Islands for bomb and explosive tests, which is what caused the crater that forms the hidden beach.
Playa Escondida was the result of a huge explosion, either due to human intervention or natural causes, what is certain is that it is one of the most precious destinations in Puerto Vallarta for a day trip or diving excursion. .
How do you get to the Marietas Islands?
There is only one way to get there; on boat. You can hire a tour, either public or private, where you will spend the entire day on board a boat. Only some companies are the only ones that are authorized to make this route.
There are several excursions and many start in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta. From here, you'll sail out to the islands, and many tours provide equipment for paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkel in this beautiful place.
If you book the trip in advance, your tour guide will be able to answer the question “Is the Marietas Islands Hidden Beach open?” and help you book a visit to this iconic site.
Even if you don't get a chance to walk Playa Escondida, there are still plenty of interesting features and wildlife to see when you visit. With so many options on how to get to the Marietas Islands, you will be able to book the best adventure for your vacation.
Best time to travel to Islas Marietas
The best season to travel to the Marietas Islands is from December 1 to the end of March because in these months the whales they get to this point.
The only thing you should keep in mind is that during this period the Marietas Islands are very popular among national and foreign tourists who, like you, want to live this magnificent experience. So plan your trip well to get your reservations.
How much does a trip to this place cost?
There are two different tours to the Marietas Islands. One that includes the entrance to Playa Escondida and the tour without Playa Escondida.
Everything will depend on the agency with which you want to take the tour and the time you want to spend on the boat. Whether you prefer it public or private, by boat, yacht or catamaran, the prices are varied and adapt to all needs.
Some tours include continental breakfast, snacks, open bar and music, water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking. Food and open bar can be enjoyed after water activities.
Why are the Marietas Islands important?
The Marietas Islands are important because more than 92 species of native and migratory aquatic and underwater birds nest, take refuge, reproduce and migrate to them.
There are a total of 115 species of fish, sharks and rays in the area that have been described, including 10 species of marine mammals, dolphins and whales among others. The area's coral reefs are home to a total of more than 200 species, and the land portion of the island includes 11 species of iguanas, lizards, rattlesnakes, and tortoises and sea turtles.
If you want to visit Playa Escondida, you must reserve your place in advance and follow the instructions to help with the conservation of the environment.