Best Things to Do in Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta
Discover free activities, natural attractions, boat tours, wildlife, waterfalls, restaurants and jungle adventures in one of Puerto Vallarta’s most historic coastal communities.
Free Things to Do in Mismaloya
Some of Mismaloya’s best experiences do not require a ticket. Explore responsibly, respect local residents and always check ocean, river and weather conditions before entering the water.
Explore Mismaloya Beach and Town
Walk through the beachfront area and local streets, discover family-run businesses, watch boats arrive and experience the everyday atmosphere of this historic coastal community.
Walk Along the Beachfront Boardwalk
Take a relaxed walk along Mismaloya’s beachfront paths and boardwalk areas while enjoying views of the bay, fishing boats, restaurants and jungle-covered mountains.
Swim in the Ocean
Cool off in Mismaloya Bay and enjoy the tropical Pacific water. Enter only when conditions are safe, remain aware of boats and follow any local warnings or recommendations.
Snorkel From the Shore
Bring your own mask and explore near the shoreline when visibility and ocean conditions allow. Stay away from boat traffic and never snorkel alone in unfamiliar conditions.
Visit the Mismaloya River
Follow the community inland toward the river and discover a different side of Mismaloya surrounded by tropical vegetation, freshwater and mountain scenery. Conditions change seasonally.
Enjoy Natural Swimming Holes
Natural pools and rocky sections of the river can provide a refreshing escape from the beach. Avoid entering after heavy rain or whenever water levels and currents appear unsafe.
Watch the Sunset Over the Bay
Find a place on the beach and watch the evening light change over the Pacific Ocean, Los Arcos and the surrounding mountains. No reservation or tour is necessary.
Spot Iguanas, Macaws and Tropical Wildlife
Look for iguanas, macaws, seabirds, butterflies and other wildlife around the beach, river and jungle. Observe from a respectful distance and never feed or disturb wild animals.
Look for Whales From the Shore
During whale season, patient visitors may occasionally see humpback whales or distant splashes from the beach and coastal viewpoints. Sightings from shore are never guaranteed.
Fish From the Shore or Pier
Try casual fishing from appropriate shoreline or pier areas where it is permitted. Keep hooks away from swimmers and boats, respect local fishing rules and remove all line and equipment afterward.
Try Rock or Cliff Jumping
Some nearby coastal and river locations are known for jumping from rocks into the water. Never jump without confirming depth, currents, submerged hazards and current conditions with a knowledgeable local guide.
Photograph Los Arcos From the Coast
Enjoy views of Puerto Vallarta’s famous rock formations from Mismaloya and nearby coastal viewpoints. Morning, afternoon and sunset light each create a different perspective.
Watch Local Boats and Fishing Life
Mismaloya is still an active coastal community. Watch local captains prepare their boats, fishermen return to shore and families continue traditions connected to the bay.
Enjoy a Simple Beach Day
Bring a towel, shade, water and a good book. Relax beside the bay, enjoy the scenery and take a break between swimming, exploring and visiting local restaurants.
Ocean and Boat Activities
Mismaloya is an excellent departure point for discovering Los Arcos, Banderas Bay and the boat-access beaches of Puerto Vallarta’s southern coastline.
Explore Los Arcos by Boat
Travel around the five islands, natural arches and sea caves of Los Arcos while learning about the marine park, wildlife and dramatic rock formations.
Discover Los Arcos →Snorkel at Los Arcos
Join a guided snorkeling excursion to discover tropical fish, underwater rock formations and marine life around one of Puerto Vallarta’s most recognizable natural attractions.
View snorkeling information →Experience Bioluminescence at Los Arcos
After dark, movement in the water can activate tiny bioluminescent organisms and create flashes of light beneath the surface. Visibility depends on natural conditions and moonlight.
Discover bioluminescence →Discover the Southern Coast
Board a local boat and visit beaches and coastal communities such as Colomitos, Madagascar Beach, Las Ánimas, Quimixto, Majahuitas and Yelapa.
Explore the southern coast →Take a Sunset Boat Tour
Watch the coastline and Los Arcos change through shades of gold, pink, purple and blue while cruising across the bay during the final light of the day.
Explore sunset tours →Charter a Private Boat
Create a flexible trip for your family or group with stops for snorkeling, sightseeing, fishing, beaches, restaurants or relaxing on the water.
Compare private boat options →Go Fishing With a Local Captain
Arrange an inshore or offshore fishing trip with a local captain who understands the waters, conditions and fishing areas around Banderas Bay.
Explore fishing trips →Join a Whale-Watching Tour
During the seasonal migration, responsible boat tours offer the opportunity to search for humpback whales while exploring the waters of Banderas Bay.
View whale-watching tours →Scuba Dive Near Los Arcos
Explore beneath the surface with qualified dive professionals. Diving options may be available for certified divers as well as supervised introductory experiences.
Explore diving options →Kayak or Paddleboard in the Bay
Explore the coastline at a slower pace when ocean and wind conditions are suitable. Use proper flotation equipment and remain clear of boats and restricted areas.
View rental and tour options →Jungle and Mountain Adventures
Travel inland from the beach and discover rivers, waterfalls, tropical trails and adventure parks in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains.
Ride an ATV Through the Jungle
Follow mountain and jungle routes with a guided ATV excursion. Tour difficulty, age requirements and driving rules vary by operator.
Explore ATV tours →Zipline Above the Tropical Jungle
Fly between platforms surrounded by jungle and mountain scenery. Review each operator’s age, weight, mobility and safety requirements before reserving.
Compare zipline experiences →Explore the Jungle on Horseback
Ride through tropical trails, river areas and mountain scenery with a local guide. Choose an operator that treats its animals responsibly and matches horses to rider experience.
Explore horseback riding →Explore Jungle Waterfalls
Discover cascades, river routes and natural pools farther into the mountains. Remote areas are best visited with a knowledgeable guide who understands current trail and water conditions.
Explore the waterfalls →Visit El Edén and the Predator Location
Travel into the jungle to discover the river scenery and movie history associated with the filming of Predator near Mismaloya.
Plan a visit to El Edén →Nearby Attractions, Food and Relaxation
Balance outdoor adventures with wildlife attractions, botanical gardens, fresh local food and time to relax beside the ocean.
Visit the Vallarta Zoo
The Vallarta Zoo is located in the Mismaloya valley and can be reached from many local accommodations by walking or taking a short local ride.
View zoo visitor information →Explore Vallarta Botanical Garden
Discover tropical plants, orchids, jungle trails, conservation projects and river scenery during an easy excursion south of Mismaloya.
Plan your garden visit →Enjoy a Massage on the Beach
Relax beside the ocean while listening to the waves and feeling the tropical breeze. A beach massage is an excellent way to unwind after hiking, snorkeling or boating.
Find beach massages →Eat at Local Restaurants
Try fresh seafood, ceviche, grilled fish, shrimp, Mexican dishes and cold drinks at beachfront, riverside and family-run restaurants around Mismaloya.
Find places to eat →Discover Mismaloya’s Movie History
Learn how The Night of the Iguana introduced Mismaloya and Puerto Vallarta to an international audience and how Predator later brought Hollywood into the nearby jungle.
Discover the movie locations →Start Planning Your Mismaloya Adventure
Whether you want a free beach day, a snorkeling trip to Los Arcos, a jungle adventure or a relaxing massage by the ocean, Mismaloya offers activities for every travel style.