Islas Marietas National Park

Islas Marietas National Park is a group of small, uninhabited volcanic islets off the Nayarit coast of Mexico near Punta de Mita and within the Bay of Banderas, noted for distinctive coastal geology and marine biodiversity. The islands are best known for a cavernous beach known as the “Hidden Beach” carved into one of the islets.

The site is popular for snorkelling, diving and boat excursions that explore the reefs and sea caves around the islets; wildlife includes reef fish and seabirds and the shallow reefs attract recreational snorkelers. Many visitors book half-day boat trips from Punta de Mita or Puerto Vallarta to reach the islands.

The islands are volcanic in origin and their present appearance has been shaped by marine erosion and human activity; they are protected as a national park and marine reserve to conserve breeding seabirds and reef habitats. Protection measures include regulated visitor numbers and restrictions on anchoring and fishing around the islets.

The islets lie offshore from the Nayarit coast, reachable by boat from nearby coastal towns including Punta de Mita and from the Puerto Vallarta area on the opposite side of the bay.

• Access restrictions: Access to the islands and the Hidden Beach is regulated by park authorities; licensed boat tours depart from Punta de Mita and Puerto Vallarta and entry to the beach is limited and often scheduled.
• Activities and equipment: Snorkelling and swimming are the primary visitor activities; bringing or renting snorkel gear and reef-safe sunscreen is recommended because much of the attraction is underwater.

What to See #

• Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor): A small interior beach formed inside a collapsed volcanic crater; access is via a short tunnel from the sea and the site is often subject to timed entry and park regulations.
• Reefs and dive sites: Fringing coral and rocky reefs surrounding the islets provide snorkelling and diving sites with visible marine life and underwater topography protected within the park.