Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas) Tours
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Located near Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas) is famous for its 42-mile (68-kilometer) stretch of picturesque coast. Jungle, sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life define this area, which is ideal for watersports and land adventures alike.
The Basics
Most tours exploring Banderas Bay’s terrestrial and aquatic offerings leave from Puerto Vallarta. Explore the bay’s waters on a snorkeling excursion, some of which also include kayaking and a visit to Marietas Islands National Park. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for a scuba diving tour to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves, and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Sailing tours are another option for experiencing the picturesque bay. On land, you can pedal along the coastline on a biking tour, delve into local culture on a taco-tasting tour, or explore the jungle on a day trip to nearby Las Caletas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banderas Bay is a must-see for nature and beach lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor excursions.
- Proof of PADI certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb aquatic or terrestrial wildlife.
When to Get There
April through June is the best time to visit Banderas Bay, when rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists. January through March is the best time for whale watching, although the area tends to be crowded during this time.
How to Get There
Part of the Pacific Ocean, Banderas Bay borders Puerto Vallarta and stretches between Punta Mita in the north and Cape Corrientes in the south. Puerto Vallarta is the main jumping-off point for tours and activities in the area. The closest international airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, located roughly three miles (five kilometers) from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Among the most popular outdoor activities in Banderas Bay, whale watching tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, which travel to the bay in early December for mating and calving. Most of these excursions leave from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Admission: Free
14 Tours and Activities to Experience Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)
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Puerto Vallarta Cruise and Candlelight Dinner Show
Immerse yourself in the magical mysticism of Las Caletas by night with an enchanting evening excursion from Puerta Vallarta. Watch the sun sink into the shimmering sea as you sail to a secluded beach surrounded by rugged rock formations. Dine upon a gourmet 3-course meal by candlelight before watching the renowned Rhythms of the Night show, a stunning spectacle that promises to transport viewers to a spiritual land that time forgot.
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From
$139.00
From
$139.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Luxury Yacht & Snorkel in Puerto Vallarta
The Bay of Banderas and the coastline around Puerto Vallarta are home to some of the most spectacular waters in all of Mexico. On our Luxury Yacht and Snorkel experience, you get to enjoy these scenic seaside destinations in style. Hop aboard a luxury, French-made catamaran and set sail to some of the area’s most beautiful hotspots. Along the way, enjoy delicious drinks and hors d’oeuvres served by our bilingual and friendly crew, and relax on the deck while we take you on a sightseeing tour unlike any other. We’ll stop at some of the region’s best snorkeling spots, so you and your group can get out and take a dip, snorkel, or paddleboard. Be on the lookout for marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and tropical fish—you never know what you might see! From December through March, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring sights of humpback whales in the Bay.
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From
$119.00
From
$119.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Marietas Islands: Snorkel Cruise from Puerto Vallarta
Explore the magnificent marine life of the Mexican Pacific and the Bay of Banderas on an exciting full-day tour from Puerta Vallarta. Snorkel to observe an incredible underwater wonderland; kayak in the warm waters of the Marietas Islands; and watch for exotic birds flying in their natural habitat. Look out for dolphins, whales, giant manta rays, and sea turtles as an experienced guide directs your attention to the wonders of nature on this eco-adventure.
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From
$89.00
From
$89.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Whale Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta doesn’t just have great beaches. It’s also a renowned birthing hub for humpback whales. Get a close-up peek of the larger-than-life marine mammals on this exclusive whaling cruise, which includes entertaining onboard commentary from your guide. You also enjoy free onboard alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, plus a tasty buffet lunch spread and continental breakfast.
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From
$99.00
Price varies by group size
From
$99.00
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Las Caletas Day Tour from Puerto Vallarta
Discover the secluded and sublime Las Caletas nature reserve on an enchanting full-day tour from Puerto Vallarta. Venture to Mexico’s answer to the Garden of Eden during your excursion to the coastal haven of Banderas Bay; stroll through the atmospheric jungle on the hunt for diverse wildlife; experience an authentic cooking class; or let the stress slip away on the golden sands of the beach. Enjoy a light breakfast, fulfilling and flavorsome buffet lunch in addition to an open bar on this family-friendly adventure.
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From
$149.00
From
$149.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Best Tacos After Dark Food Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta
On this 3.5-hour evening walking tour of Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, have your your fill of tacos and other delicious street food. Accompanied by a professional foodie guide, you’ll get a taste of fish tacos along with ‘al pastor’ (marinated grilled pork) and ‘de cabeza’ (beef cheek). Savor traditional specialities like quesadillas and meet a local master of ‘churros’ (Mexican fritters). Numbers are limited to ensure a small-group experience during this leisurely tour.
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From
$55.00
From
$55.00
Whale Encounter Puerto Vallarta
Don’t miss the limited window to go whale-watching off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Instead, spend half a day looking for whales, listening to their song, and immersing yourself in conservation-related research projects, something not offered by many whale-watching excursions. Plus, benefit from the insight of your marine mammal expert guide throughout.
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From
$79.00
From
$79.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Scuba Diving with a 5-Star PADI Center in Puerto Vallarta
Perfect your diving skills in Puerto Vallarta. Delve into the region's renowned waters to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Experienced certified divers have several dedicated dives to choose from, including the technical El Morro and a night dive at Los Arcos National Marine Park.
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From
$109.00
From
$109.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Hatteras 58' Luxury Yacht in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta
Explore beautiful Banderas Bay on a classic motor yacht. After boarding your 58 foot (17 meter) Hatteras at Opequimar Marine Center or Paradise Village Public Pier, explore the natural beauty of Jalisco and Nayarit. Enjoy secluded beaches, unlimited complimentary drinks from an open bar, a delicious buffet lunch, and access to snorkeling gear, a kayak, and a paddle board.
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From
$1,185.00
per group
From
$1,185.00
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Snorkeling in Hidden Beach on Marieta Islands
Take a walk on the iconic Lover's Beach in Banderas Bay. The Marietas Islands are an ecologically diverse sanctuary with a stunning hidden beach nestled just out of sight. Take advantage of a small group format as you journey to the islands in our comfortable boat transportation.
Swim through cave formations and rock archways, admiring the extraordinary terrain and more than 100 species of unique birds and fish that call these islands home.
On your return journey, watch for playful wild dolphins jumping out of the water and putting on a show. Get up-close to see these beautiful creatures from the sea-level perspective of our small boat excursion in an incredible and unforgettable experience.
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From
$149.00
From
$149.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Bike Tour from Puerto Vallarta to El Tuito
Leave the beaches of Puerto Vallarta behind on an advanced-level mountain bike tour to El Tuito. This challenging 53-mile (86-kilometer) ride takes you from the coast to the mountains and back again, and includes lots of climbing. Enjoy incredible views as you climb into the mountains from Puente Horcones to the town of El Columpio. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off in Puerto Vallarta is included.
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From
$197.39
From
$197.39
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Bike Tour from Puerto Vallarta to Las Palmas
Hop on a bike and see the Mexican countryside from two wheels. Set out from Puerto Vallarta for the 70 km ride to Las Palmas. Pass through several picturesque towns along the way and enjoy a yummy lunch. If you have your own gear (pedal/shoe system, helmet, snacks for your specific nutritional needs) please bring it. If not, your gear will be provided.
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From
$128.82
From
$128.82
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Charter Tour - Boat 38'
Head out on a private fishing charter to explore the waters of the Pacific on a 38-foot to 42-foot (11.5- to 12.8-meter) boat. After setting off from either Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta, you'll have the chance to catch fish with the help of a guide and crew. Choose the length of time you want to be on the boat when booking.
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From
$640.00
per group
From
$640.00
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Private Charter Tour - Boat 42' - 46'
Set off on a 42-foot to 46-foot (12.8- to 14-meter) fishing boat to explore the waters of the Pacific on a private fishing charter. After departing either Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta, you'll have the chance to catch fish in Banderas Bay with the help of a guide and crew. Select the length of time you want to be on the boat when booking.
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From
$720.00
per group
From
$720.00
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
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