Ditching the flippers and лишние gear, I opted for just a life vest, leaving my phone and cameras behind. The mission? To dive into the inviting waters surrounding Mexico’s famed Marieta Islands. A flurry of fellow adventurers plunged in ahead – couples, groups of friends, and families, all creating a lively bobbing scene in the clear water. My gaze swept over the landscape, taking in the flat island dotted with rocky outcrops and vibrant green patches, before I propelled myself towards a distinctive horseshoe-shaped opening that promised entry to something special.
Kayaks explore the stunning coastline of Mexico's Marieta Islands, showcasing the natural beauty of this protected paradise.
Navigating through the archway, the ocean’s rush filled my ears, accompanied by what our guide humorously termed “organic trash” – a natural mix of seaweed and plant debris washed from the island itself. Paddling through this natural medley, I ducked into a small cave, using the rocky ceiling to pull myself forward, feeling like a determined salmon heading upstream.
Then, it opened up. There it was, my destination: the legendary Hidden Beach, or Playa Escondida as the locals call it. Words barely capture the sheer awe. Imagine floating in a natural, island-ringed tube, a secret paradise sculpted by nature.
The Marieta Islands owe their existence to volcanic activity, and this unique beach is rumored to be a product of erosion, possibly accelerated by past military testing in the early 20th century when the islands were used as target practice. Formerly known as the Beach of Love, Hidden Beach offers the closest permitted access to the islands’ shores, as landing on the islands is now prohibited to protect their delicate ecosystem.
Just an hour by boat from Puerto Vallarta, these captivating islands feel worlds away. This protected sanctuary is home to over 90 diverse species, fostering an atmosphere of remarkable remoteness and tranquility. Comprising two main islands, the larger Larga and the almost perfectly circular Redondo, the Marietas present a unique geographical charm.
Beneath the waves lies a snorkeler’s dream. A vibrant underwater world unfolds, boasting over a dozen coral species in a kaleidoscope of colors and a breathtaking array of fish, both large and small. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might encounter the islands’ most celebrated resident: the blue-footed booby, the iconic bird famously associated with the Galapagos.
The esteemed Jacques Cousteau recognized the ecological significance of this location. He spent considerable time here studying the humpback whale migration and was the first to catalog the islands’ bird species. Driven by his passion for marine conservation, Cousteau spearheaded a movement to designate the Marietas as a national park, a vision realized in 2005, years after his passing.
Visitors during winter months are often treated to the majestic sight of humpback whales in the Bay of Banderas, historically known as the Bay of Humpbacks. Our guide shared an unforgettable image: “When the baby whales tire, it’s incredible to watch the mothers cradle them, allowing them to rest for a moment in the water.” An experience compelling enough to warrant a return trip.
My current exploration was courtesy of Vallarta Adventures, a tour company renowned for its lively and fun-filled excursions. Traveling solo, it proved an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow adventurers. The Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit region offers a seemingly endless array of activities – from horseback riding through lush landscapes to hiking scenic trails, sailing on the azure waters, and enjoying snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. However, if time is limited, a day trip to the Mexico Marieta Islands is an absolute must.
Hidden Beach is an experience you truly don’t want to miss.
