The Area
Exploring the Marietas Islands
The most popular destination for day-trippers in the Puerto Vallarta area is the Marietas Islands. Every day, a catamaran shuttles a host of eager snorkelers and kayakers on the five-hour roundtrip. Because the islands have been deemed an ecological reserve and breeding sanctuary for the endangered humpback, they have become a favorite spot for whale-watchers. But sea turtles, birds, and dolphins also frequent these warm straits.
