Plizio Visual Lab
Marietas Islands
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Island
The Marietas Islands are a group of small, uninhabited volcanic islands located a few miles off the coast of Punta de Mita in Nayarit. They are famous worldwide for the 'Playa del Amor,' also known as the Hidden Beach, which is a remarkable sandy cavern with a massive open-air roof created by volcanic activity and erosion. The islands are a protected national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, serving as an important nesting site for over 90 species of birds, including the rare blue-footed booby. The surrounding waters are part of a thriving marine reserve, offering exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities where visitors can see giant mantas, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful tropical fish. During the winter months, the area around the islands is a prime spot for whale watching, as humpback whales congregate in the Bay of Banderas to mate and give birth. To protect the delicate ecosystem, the number of visitors is strictly limited, and access to the Hidden Beach requires swimming through a short tunnel at low tide.
- Location: Mexico
- Top sights: Playa del amor · Snorkelling · Hidden Beach
- Nearby: Punta Mita (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 35 | 15 | 1 | 10 | 140 | 331 | 377 | 362 | 153 | 38 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
These isolated volcanic islands are exclusively reachable by authorized boat tours departing from nearby coastal towns like Punta de Mita or Puerto Vallarta. Access to the famous Hidden Beach is strictly regulated and requires advance booking and a specific permit.
Best season
The most favorable conditions occur from November to May when the weather is generally dry, sunny, and the ocean surface is calmer. Winter months also bring the incredible opportunity to spot migrating humpback whales during the boat transit.
Terrain & paths
The islands consist of rugged volcanic rock formations, marine caves, and delicate coral reefs beneath the water surface. Entering the hidden beach crater involves swimming through a narrow, dark tunnel where ocean currents can sometimes be strong.
What to bring
Reef-safe sunscreen is absolutely mandatory to protect the fragile marine ecosystem around the islands. Visitors should bring a quality swimsuit, a waterproof action camera, and a dry bag for any personal belongings kept on the boat.
Parking
Since the destination is completely offshore, vehicles must be parked at the designated marina or harbor where the boat tour departs. Many commercial tour operators offer secure parking facilities as part of their comprehensive excursion packages.
Safety
Swimming into the hidden beach requires a mandatory life jacket and basic swimming proficiency due to the surging tides. Guides will strictly cancel the swim access if ocean swells become too dangerous for navigating the access tunnel.
Time needed
A standard tour usually lasts half a day, encompassing the scenic boat ride to the islands and time spent snorkeling. The actual permitted time inside the Hidden Beach itself is heavily restricted, typically limited to twenty or thirty minutes per group.
Geography
Facts
- In the early 20th century, the islands were used as a military testing ground, which contributed to some of their unique rock formations.
- Jacques Cousteau led a campaign in the 1960s to protect the islands from further military and industrial use.
- The islands are home to one of the few colonies of blue-footed boobies outside of the Galápagos Islands.
- Access to the 'Hidden Beach' is limited to a specific number of people per day to prevent environmental degradation.
- The islands are part of the 'Islas del Golfo de California' UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Marietas Islands (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the hidden beach?
You must swim through a tunnel to enter the cave.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, the number of visitors is strictly limited.
Best time of year to visit?
Winter months offer the best conditions for whale watching.
Is snorkeling allowed there?
Yes, the sea around the islands is a protected area full of life.
Can you visit the islands all year round?
Tours depend heavily on sea conditions and weather.
Marietas Islands: where is it located?
Marietas Islands is located in Mexico.
Marietas Islands: what is there to see?
Highlights include Playa del amor, Snorkelling, Hidden Beach.
Marietas Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Apr.
Marietas Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Marietas Islands are a group of small, uninhabited volcanic islands located a few miles off the coast of Punta de Mita in Nayarit.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Mexico →
Nearby cities
Tepic
The capital of Nayarit, located in an agricultural region.
San Blas
A historic port town featuring colonial ruins, rich birdlife, and endless sandy beaches.
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
An authentic fishing village on the Riviera Nayarit home to one of Mexico's most modern marinas.
Los Ayala
A quiet, family-friendly gem on the Riviera Nayarit, known for its gentle waters and lush jungle backdrop.
Lo De Marcos
A quiet Mexican fishing village on the Riviera Nayarit, known for its pristine beaches and authentic traditional atmosphere.
Punta Mita
An ultra-exclusive peninsula known for its world-class resorts, private villas, and two legendary golf courses.
Chacala
An untouched coastal area in Jalisco, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
Sayulita
A vibrant surfing village with a hippie-chic vibe, colorful streets, and a pulsating international community.
San Pancho
The cultural capital of Nayarit, known for its community projects, polo, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Sayulita.
Bucerías
A charming coastal town with a traditional Mexican feel, cobblestone streets, and a thriving art scene.
Boca de Tomatlán
A charming fishing village south of Puerto Vallarta, known as the gateway to secluded southern coves.
Nuevo Vallarta
An exclusive resort destination featuring luxury resorts, extensive canals, and one of the longest sandy beaches in the region.
Puerto Vallarta
A popular resort city on the Pacific coast, surrounded by mountains and the Bay of Banderas.
San Mateo
A hidden gem on Jalisco's Costa Alegre, offering pristine nature and direct access to the beautiful Chamela Bay.
Careyes
An exclusive eco-luxury resort on the Costalegre in Jalisco, known for its unique architecture and Playa Rosa beach.