Eco Tours Marietas Islands Snorkeling

Visit the amazing federally protected marine sanctuary at the Marietas Islands in Banderas Bay. This cluster of islands is not only a snorkeler's dream destination, but also an excellent destination for bird watchers since a large number of sea birds nest and visit these isles. An assortment of avian species nest on the Tres Marietas rocky face, including egrets, frigates, herons, pelicans, sea gulls, and boobies (the rare Blue-footed Booby have only been known to nest in two places in the world: the Galapagos Islands and the Marietas). The craggy niches and rocky hollows of this volcanically-formed island give these birds outstanding shelter for their eggs and young. 

The bird-watching alone is definitely worth the journey out to the Marietas for nature lovers, but the best aspect of this eco-adventure is the world-class snorkeling. The spectacular waters near the Marietas offer some of the premier snorkeling in Bahia de Banderas, and arguably, the globe. The rocky bottom and extensive coral gardens that encircle the Marietas supply the ideal underwater shelter for an astonishing kaleidoscope of colorful fish and other marine animals, including eagle rays, marine turtles, octopi, and sea horses. Bahia de Banderas is the habitat of more than two hundred and twenty types of fish, including the Angelfish, the Sergeant Major, the Giant Damselfish, the Cortez Chub, the Moorish Idol, and the Rainbow Wrasse, among many other species.

What differentiates this Marietas tour from other trips to the islands is the land-based route that you'll take to these amazing islands. You will first travel to the distant bayside fishing town of Punta Mita in an air-conditioned van. Witness how the native residents of the north shore of Banderas Bay live. Feast on a scrumptious lunch beneath a palapa-style shelter overlooking Banderas Bay. After lunch, enjoy a quick twenty-minute jaunt out to the Marietas Islands for an incredible day of snorkeling.