What to Bring to the Marietas Islands: Checklist 2026

Q: Can the crossing to the Marietas Islands cause seasickness?

By departing from Punta de Mita, the crossing takes 15 to 20 minutes, in contrast to the 2-hour navigation from Puerto Vallarta. For individuals sensitive to motion, taking Dramamine 30 minutes before boarding is recommended.

Complete Guide: What to Bring to the Marietas Islands in 2026

Visiting Playa del Amor at the Marietas Islands is a top attraction in Puerto Vallarta. However, as a UNESCO-protected National Park, the rules are strict.

After 12 years operating tours from Punta de Mita, we have identified the most common tourist mistakes. This is our recommended list so you can prepare for your trip with factual information.

1. Essentials: What you must bring

✅ Swimsuit already on: The Punta de Mita Marina does not have changing rooms or public restrooms. You must arrive ready to board.
✅ Microfiber towel: Takes up less space and reduces drying time compared to cotton towels.
✅ Cap or hat: Solar radiation in the Mexican Pacific is high. A strap is recommended to prevent the wind from blowing it away.
✅ Sunglasses with a floating strap: Wind and waves can knock them off. A strap prevents losing them at sea.
✅ Cash for tips: The suggested tip for the crew is 10% to 15% of the tour value. There are no ATMs in the area.

2. Sun Protection: Park Regulations

The Marietas Islands ecosystem is fragile. Regular sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which contribute to coral bleaching.

🧴 Biodegradable sunscreen (Reef-Safe): This is a park requirement. Brands like Stream2Sea, Raw Elements, or Thinksport comply with the standard.
⚠️ Apply it BEFORE boarding: Applying sunscreen inside the National Park is not allowed, regardless of whether it is biodegradable or not.
❌ Regular sunscreen: CONANP personnel check backpacks and may remove unauthorized products.

3. Tech and Photography

Documenting the trip is possible, provided safety measures are followed.

📱 Camera or GoPro: They must have a mandatory wrist strap. If the device falls into the water at Playa del Amor, recovery is practically impossible.
❌ Drones: Prohibited. They require a special CONANP permit that takes months to approve. Authorities retain unauthorized equipment.

4. Prohibited Items

❌ Food and snacks: Food is not allowed to prevent alterations to the local wildlife's diet.
❌ Alcoholic beverages: Not permitted on board or on the beach.
❌ Pets: They cannot enter the national park.
❌ Cigarettes and vapes: Smoking is prohibited on the boat and in the park.

5. Services included in the tour

Full snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, and fins).
Certified life jackets.
Hydrating drinks and ice on board.
Authorized guide and CONANP pass processing.

Choose your Playa del Amor tour

15-min ride, guaranteed CONANP permits. Choose the boat that fits your group.

Small Boat (2-4 guests)Medium Boat (5-10 guests)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if there is bad weather or rain?

Safety is the priority. If the Port Captain closes access to the park due to wave conditions, the date will be rescheduled at no cost or a 100% refund will be issued.

Do the boats have a bathroom?

Yes, the boats have a marine toilet. It is recommended to use it before arriving at Playa del Amor, as there are no sanitary facilities on the island.

Can the crossing cause seasickness?

By departing from Punta de Mita, the crossing takes 15 to 20 minutes, in contrast to the 2-hour navigation from Puerto Vallarta. For individuals sensitive to motion, taking Dramamine 30 minutes before boarding is recommended.

Can you swim at Playa del Amor?

Yes, swimming and snorkeling are permitted. However, the time spent on the beach is limited to 20-30 minutes by CONANP regulations for ecosystem protection.