Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach): How to Visit in 2026

Playa del Amor (also known as Hidden Beach) is a beach inside a crater opening on one of the islands of the Marietas Islands National Park. It was formed by military bombings during World War II and is now one of Mexico's most iconic destinations. It can only be reached by swimming through a natural tunnel from the ocean.

Regulated quota: 116 daily passes

CONANP (Mexico's National Commission of Protected Natural Areas) limits access to Playa del Amor to a maximum of 116 daily passes. Passes are assigned to authorized tour operators and cannot be purchased directly on the island. This means you must book your tour in advance, especially in high season (December to April), when the quota sells out days in advance.

How do you access Playa del Amor?

Unlike other beaches, there is no pier or walking access here. Access is 100% by swimming. The process is as follows:

1. The boat stops a few meters from the island's natural arch.
2. You put on your life jacket and snorkel gear.
3. You swim through a natural tunnel approximately 30 meters long.
4. Emerging from the tunnel, you arrive at the inner crater beach, surrounded by cliffs.
5. Time on the beach is approximately 20-30 minutes.
6. You return swimming back through the same tunnel to the boat.

Requirements to access

Due to conservation rules and the nature of the access, you must comply with the following:

• Knowing how to swim (or being willing to float with a life jacket)
• Wearing a life jacket during the swim (mandatory)
• Not carrying loose objects (cameras without straps are prohibited)
• Recommended age: 8 to 65
• Not pregnant (safety recommendation due to currents and physical effort)
• Not applying sunscreen before swimming (the water is a protected ecosystem, only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed on the boat)

What if the quota is full for your date?

If passes for Playa del Amor are unavailable, your tour is not ruined. Our captains will offer you the following alternatives:

• Panoramic tour: Navigate around the archipelago to take photos of the island from the water.
• Snorkeling at other points: Explore other areas of the park where marine life is equally spectacular.
• Rescheduling: If you have flexibility, we will help you move your tour to another day with availability.

Closed days

The Marietas Islands National Park remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays by official CONANP disposition to allow the ecosystem to rest. No exceptions, even in high season or holidays. Check our tour availability here.

Environmental restrictions

As a protected natural area, there are strict rules for all visitors:

• Do not touch or stand on coral reefs
• No food or drink on the beach
• No restrooms or changing rooms on the beach (you must be prepared from the marina)
• Do not feed the wildlife
• Do not leave trash (everything you bring must return with you)

Best time to visit Playa del Amor

The best moment is early morning (8-10 AM) before wind conditions intensify. There are also fewer groups on the beach, making the experience more intimate and allowing for better photographs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I swim to Playa del Amor without a tour?

No. Access is regulated by CONANP and only authorized tour operators can request passes. The beach has no land access, so it is impossible to reach on foot or swim from the shore.

Is it dangerous to swim through the tunnel?

No, as long as you follow your guide's instructions and wear the mandatory life jacket. The swell inside the tunnel is usually low, but you need to know how to swim or let yourself float calmly.

What if I am not a strong swimmer?

Don't worry. The life jacket will keep you afloat at all times and the guide will be with you to assist. We recommend letting us know when you book so the captain and guide can be prepared to provide personalized attention.

How long do you stay inside the beach?

The time allowed inside the crater is 20 to 30 minutes. You must add the swimming time to and from the tunnel (approximately 10 minutes each way).