MAXED OUT MEXICO
2022 ACTIVE & ADVENTURE | 20
FROM PUERTO VALLARTA : WILDLIFE TOURS OF ISLAS MARIETAS NATIONAL PARK
Known as Playa del Amor or Playa Escondida , the focal feature of Islas Marietas National Park may not be one that you recognize by name . But you ’ ll certainly recognize this iconic hidden beach in person . Envision pristine white sands flanked by gently lapping turquoise waters , all concealed within a perfectly round , sinkhole-like cavern . The peculiar crater is said to have been created by military explosive testing in the early 1900s . Today , its desolate setting — reachable only during low tide via a 50-foot channel through the rock — isn ’ t just an Instagrammer ’ s dream . It ’ s also protected by UNESCO as a designated Biosphere Reserve , with a diversity of wildlife at every turn .
You ’ ll start with an hour-long boat ride from Puerto Vallarta . Make sure to book your trip between the months of November and March , when Banderas Bay becomes the breeding ground for nearly 500 humpback whales . You might also spot dolphins , orcas , stingrays and giant manta rays along the way . Upon arrival , even more wildlife can be seen by both land and sea .
Made up of a pair of small uninhabited islands — Isla Larga and Isla Redonda — Islas Marietas National Park is home to over 80 species of birds . Birders shouldn ’ t skip the hiking trail at the northwestern end of Isla Larga for the opportunity to see nesting seabirds , including the blue-footed booby and red-billed tropicbird , while divers will be rewarded with views of otherworldly volcanic formations , from arches and spires to tunnels and caves filled with several different species of colorful coral .
Insider Tip : Because Islas Marietas is an undeveloped natural area , you won ’ t find venues for food and drink . Take advantage of the inclusions at the resort with
PHOTOS
TOP : ISLAS MARIETAS NATIONAL PARK
BOTTOM : BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY a hearty breakfast before your excursion . Many allinclusive resorts also offer premade lunches , snacks and bottled water to go — grab a few staples to build your own perfect picnic lunch .