Puerto Vallarta Southern Coast

Things to Do in Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta

Discover Los Arcos, tropical beaches, jungle waterfalls, local restaurants, historic movie locations and unforgettable ocean adventures along Puerto Vallarta's southern coast.

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Adventure, Nature and Local History in One Place

Mismaloya brings together many of Puerto Vallarta's most memorable experiences. From snorkeling around the islands of Los Arcos to visiting jungle waterfalls and exploring beaches accessible mainly by boat, there is something here for families, couples and adventurous travelers.

Ocean and Snorkeling Adventures

Boat tours, reef scenery, Los Arcos views and coastal trips that begin close to Mismaloya Beach.

Jungle, Beaches and Waterfalls

Green mountains, river stops, hidden coves and southern beaches make Mismaloya a natural activity base.

Local Culture and Movie History

Learn about The Night of the Iguana, the area's film legacy and the local stories that shaped Puerto Vallarta.

Best Activities

The Best Things to Do in Mismaloya

Use this local guide to compare ocean adventures, beaches, jungle trips, seasonal wildlife, restaurants and history around Mismaloya Puerto Vallarta.

Natural Landmark

Explore Los Arcos de Mismaloya

See five protected granite islands, dramatic sea caves, seabirds and one of the most recognizable coastal landmarks near Puerto Vallarta.

Discover Los Arcos

Ocean Adventure

Go Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Swim above rocky reefs and look for tropical fish in one of the best-known snorkeling areas along Puerto Vallarta's southern coast.

View Snorkeling Options

Beaches

Discover Boat-Access Beaches

Visit beaches such as Colomitos, Madagascar and Las Animas while exploring a coastline where jungle-covered mountains meet the ocean.

Explore the South Coast

Night Experience

See Bioluminescent Plankton

On suitable nights, movement in the water can create flashes of blue-green light for a memorable after-dark ocean experience.

Learn About Bioluminescence

Jungle Adventure

Swim Near a Jungle Waterfall

Explore nearby communities such as Quimixto and enjoy a walk or optional ride through the jungle toward a refreshing waterfall.

Explore Waterfall Adventures

Movie History

Discover El Eden and Predator History

Visit the jungle area known for its connection to the filming of Predator, river swimming, tropical scenery and outdoor activities.

Learn About El Eden

Local History

Discover Mismaloya's Movie History

Learn how The Night of the Iguana helped introduce Mismaloya and Puerto Vallarta to an international audience during the 1960s.

Explore the History

Beach Day

Spend the Day at Mismaloya Beach

Enjoy swimming, beachfront restaurants, local boat activity and views toward Los Arcos from Mismaloya's historic bay.

Explore Mismaloya Beach

Food and Drink

Eat at a Local Beachfront Restaurant

Try seafood, Mexican dishes and cold drinks while enjoying views of Mismaloya Beach and the surrounding mountains.

Find Local Restaurants

Guided Experience

Explore the Coast by Boat

Visit Los Arcos, sea caves, snorkeling areas and remote beaches with local captains who know Puerto Vallarta's southern coastline.

Compare Boat Tours

Seasonal Wildlife

Look for Humpback Whales

During Puerto Vallarta's whale season, boat trips may offer the opportunity to observe humpback whales in Banderas Bay.

Learn About Whale Season

Nature

Explore the Vallarta Botanical Garden

Discover tropical plants, walking paths, river scenery and a peaceful natural setting a short drive south of Mismaloya.

Plan Your Garden Visit

Featured Attraction

Los Arcos: Mismaloya's Most Famous Natural Attraction

Located just offshore from Mismaloya, Los Arcos is a protected marine area formed by five rocky islands. Visitors come to see the caves, seabirds, dramatic rock formations and underwater life surrounding the islands.

Five rocky islands
Three well-known sea caves
Tropical fish and seabirds
Boat and snorkeling experiences
Sunset and photography opportunities

View Los Arcos Tours Ask About Current Conditions

Choose Your Day

Choose Your Type of Experience

Mismaloya can be relaxed, adventurous, historic or ocean-focused. Start with the kind of day you want, then choose the activity that fits your group.

Ocean

Snorkeling, boat tours, beaches and Los Arcos.

Jungle

Waterfalls, river swimming, hiking and tropical scenery.

History

The Night of the Iguana, Predator and local Mismaloya stories.

Relaxation

Beach days, local restaurants, sunsets and peaceful coastal views.

Plan Before You Go

Helpful Planning Information

Best Time to Visit

Mornings may offer calmer conditions for snorkeling and boat departures, while afternoons can bring beautiful coastal light and sunset views. Whale watching is seasonal, bioluminescence depends on darkness and natural conditions, and ocean conditions can change quickly.

Ask locally before snorkeling or boating
Confirm whale watching dates before booking
Plan night experiences around moonlight and weather

Getting to Mismaloya

Mismaloya is south of central Puerto Vallarta. Visitors can arrive by public bus, taxi, rideshare, private transportation or tour pickup. Local boats depart from Mismaloya Beach for Los Arcos, nearby beaches and other coastal experiences.

Public transportation and taxi access are available
Tour pickups may vary by operator
Beach departures depend on weather and ocean conditions

Ask a Local for Transportation Help

Traveler Questions

Things to Do in Mismaloya FAQs

What is Mismaloya best known for?

Mismaloya is best known for Los Arcos de Mismaloya, Mismaloya Beach, film history connected to The Night of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta's southern coast scenery and easy access to ocean and jungle activities.

Can you snorkel from Mismaloya Beach?

Snorkeling conditions vary. Many visitors take a boat toward Los Arcos or another appropriate snorkeling area because reefs, visibility, waves and safety conditions can change.

Do I need a tour to visit Los Arcos?

Los Arcos is offshore and is typically visited by boat. Travelers should use an appropriate local boat or organized experience, especially if they plan to snorkel, enter caves or explore beyond the beach.

Are the southern beaches accessible by road?

Some beaches south of Puerto Vallarta are primarily reached by boat or hiking trail. Access can vary by beach, weather, ocean conditions and the route you choose.

Is Mismaloya suitable for families?

Many Mismaloya activities are family-friendly, including beach time, restaurants, boat rides and some nature experiences. Suitability depends on age, swimming confidence, weather and the selected tour or activity.

When can you see whales near Puerto Vallarta?

Humpback whale watching is seasonal in Banderas Bay. Visitors should confirm current dates, responsible viewing rules and tour availability before booking.

Can bioluminescence be guaranteed?

No. Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon affected by moonlight, weather, water movement, plankton levels and other conditions. Ask about current visibility before planning an after-dark ocean experience.

How can I get help choosing an activity?

Send a WhatsApp message with your dates, group size, interests and comfort level in the water. A local recommendation can help you choose between Los Arcos, boat tours, beaches, restaurants, waterfalls and history stops.

Local Help

Need Help Planning Your Day in Mismaloya?

Tell us what kind of experience you are looking for and receive local suggestions for tours, beaches, restaurants and activities.

+52 322 247 7159

Ask a Local on WhatsApp View Mismaloya Tours