Whale Watching and Los Arcos 5 Islands Adventure
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Your experience begins with comfortable round-trip transportation from Puerto Vallarta in our private company vehicles. At Playa Mismaloya, you’ll check in at our office, meet your guide, and receive a short briefing before heading out on the water.
We then cruise into the Bay of Banderas, one of the top whale-watching destinations in the world. Whale sightings are guaranteed, and often times humpback whales breach, slap their tails, and swim alongside their calves. Along the way, you may also encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and rays.
Next, we’ll visit the Los Arcos Marine Sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel in waters filled with colorful tropical fish and vibrant marine life. This iconic site, with its dramatic arches and caves, is also home to a variety of seabirds, adding to its magic.
With small groups, expert local guides, whale encounters, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this tour is one of the most unforgettable adventures in Puerto Vallarta.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Playa Mismaloya
Your adventure begins at our Mismaloya Xtreme office, located right on the sands of Playa Mismaloya—one of the most iconic beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Here you’ll check in, meet your friendly local guide, and receive a warm welcome. Before we head out on the water, you’ll have time to use the restrooms, get settled, and enjoy the relaxed tropical atmosphere of this historic beach. Your guide will then give you a safety briefing and introduction to the tour, explaining what to expect and answering any questions so you feel completely prepared.
Bay of Banderas
From Playa Mismaloya, we cruise out into the Bay of Banderas, one of the largest and most beautiful bays in the world. Framed by the Sierra Madre mountains, the bay offers stunning coastal views, hidden coves, and plenty of marine life to discover. This area becomes one of the best places on earth for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate here to breed and give birth, and it’s common to see them breaching, slapping their tails, or swimming alongside our boat. Dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays are also frequent visitors to these warm waters. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the wildlife during our whale watching experience, the local fishing traditions, and the unique role this bay has played in shaping Puerto Vallarta’s history and culture.
What‘s Included
Beer
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Chewy Bars
WiFi on board
Options
Whale Watching and Los Arcos 5 Islands Adventure
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great time all round
domsurfs,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour very friendly tour guides. We went to the five islands for snorkeling and they looked after us with great care and attention
VERY NICE EXPERIENCE
kevinrD7682TC,,Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An unforgettable experience with Mismaloya Xtreme! Seeing humpback whales so close was something I'll never forget. From the start, the team was super friendly and professional. Our guide explained everything about the whales, their behavior and migration, while the captain operated the boat safely. We saw several whales jumping and even a mother with her calf — a magical scene! Also, the bay landscape with the mountains in the background is simply spectacular. 🌴☀️ If you visit Puerto Vallarta, this tour is an absolute “must”. It is rating that they are locals who love what they do and respect nature very much.
The best whale watching tour
omarlehig,,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The experience with Mismaloya Xtreme was just amazing. Since we went out to sea, the team made us feel safe and excited. Watching the whales in their natural habitat was an indescribable sensation, full of excitement and wonder. The guide explained everything with passion and knowledge, making the tour even more special.
A MUST DO!
Peggy F,,Sep 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and want an unforgettable adventure on the water, Mismaloya Extreme is the company to go with! This local team is full of caring, knowledgeable, and fun-loving people who make you feel like family from the moment you step aboard. We spent the day snorkeling at Los Arcos, relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Las Animas, spotting whales, and even enjoying a refreshing swim in the ocean. It was the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation—truly something for the whole family to enjoy. Our personal favorite captain is Arnold Sanchez, who is warm, professional, and makes the trip extra special—but honestly, you’ll be in excellent hands no matter who you’re with. Every crew member goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is safe, comfortable, and having fun. This experience was easily one of the highlights of our trip, and we can’t recommend it highly enough. Whether it’s your first time in the area or you’ve been here many times, Mismaloya Extreme is a must-do! 🌊🐋🐠
Do not miss out on this!
Christy Z,,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We travel to Mismaloya and PV a couple times a year and NEVER miss an adventure with Mismaloya Extreme! We have gone snorkelling, fishing , hiking, whale watching- all amazing! It is always our favourite day and we look forward to it all year. They are flexible and you never feel rushed! The boats are clean and well maintained. Safety is a priority! Arnold Sanchez is amazing! This is a must do excursion! You will get to experience the beauty of PV in a way that can only been done from the water. 💕
Captain Arnold is the man
douglassW7797SK,,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I have been to Mismaloya 14 times I love the place and I love boats. Arnold Sanchez is definitely one of the best tour captains from Mismaloya Beach. I have done many trips with Arnold he has a great captain and has become an excellent friend. He lets me drive his boat whenever I request it. have gone fishing whale watching up to the waterfalls and my very favorite is snorkeling at Los Arcos. I will try to get a video loaded. Arnold's rates are very reasonable and he can arrange pretty much anything you wish from that coastline. He has taken us to the main Pier so we could go on a shopping spree for an hour. He has dropped us off at the marina. We love to go for a coastline Cruise and then stop at Las Animas Beach for some good lunch and more Mexican stories. Oh and they also have fresh oysters there as well. All in all he is an excellent captain reliable reasonable and a super friendly guy! See you next time Arnold we will be down in October!
Best tour in Puerto Vallarta
D5056HWcarlosl,,Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Best whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta, i went with my family and it was incredible Besides a great show by the whales the guide was very friendly and informative and we also got to snorkel at los arcos with hundreds of coloful fish
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