The 5 Mexico Island Hopping Tours That Earn Their Price

1.Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,176 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $48Our pick

Meet in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica, ride a local bus to Mismaloya, then take a small boat around Los Arcos’ five islands. Guides such as Guillermo, Bruno, Andrés, Diego, and Sebastián explain the birds, caves, and sea life before a 30-minute snorkel stop and beach time.

“This was so much more than a boat and snork tour. You get to hang out on this awesome little beach with great food. You may even see a whale. Guillermo and his team are so knowledgeable and incredibly helpful. You're in good hands with them”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Holbox: Yum Balam Reserve Classic Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 470 reviews · 3 hours · from $36Best value

Spend about three hours boating around Yum Balam Reserve with a bilingual guide such as Willy, Eddy, or David. Depending on your booking, swim at Yalahau or visit Bird Island, then see Passion Island and Punta Mosquito. Early departures offer calmer water and fewer boats.

“We did the 3 island private tour with Willy and we were very pleased with our experience! He explained everything thoroughly and even talked about the animals we came across. Loved that we booked this tour for our trip in Holbox!”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour and Snorkeling

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 317 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Take a guided public bus ride from central Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya, then cruise around Los Arcos’ five islands and snorkel among fish and coral. English and Spanish guides such as Armando, Andrés, Bruno, and Sebastián explain the wildlife and keep the outing relaxed, focused, and personal.

“The trip was so much fun! We had lovely weather and calm waters and were able to see so many fish. Andreas our guide was awesome, informative and fun. Our boat driver Charlie was great too! We would love to tour with them again!”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Los Arcos 5 islands Snorkeling Cliff Jumping and Hidden Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 295 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $49Top rated

Spend about three hours traveling from Zona Romántica to Mismaloya, then by boat to Los Arcos for optional cliff jumping, snorkeling, cave views, and a small beach stop. Guides such as Alfonso, Diego, Arnold, and Max help keep the outing moving, with drinks, water, and snacks included.

“Came with my husband and 13 year old son and we all loved it! For the cliff diving, they have different heights you can jump from. The snorkeling was amazing. We saw all kinds of different fish and even a sea turtle. Alfonso and Diego were our guides, they both had so much knowledge and were super helpful and friendly. Chito was our captain who was also great! Would highly recommend!!”

Check availability →Read our full review

5.Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise from Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

★★★★★★★★★★3.5 · 74 reviews · 9 hours (approx.) · from $87

Spend about nine hours sailing from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands on a catamaran. You get breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddle boards, music, and bilingual guides. The cruise visits Playa la Nopalera, while Hidden Beach requires a separate reservation and extra payment.

“It was a nice experience and beautiful views. The meals with the open bar and the other services were great. I think it was worth the price.”

Check availability →Read our full review