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Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands

200 Reviews 4.82 out of 5 stars Based on 200 reviews collected by Cool Puerto Vallarta and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 94% of reviewers
94% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Book online or call us

from $65 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Spanish
Instant confirmation

Overview

Enjoy a breathtaking sunset, and witness the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton at Los Arcos—a truly unforgettable experience!
Experience the magic of Los Arcos Marine Geological Sanctuary as the day transitions into night.
As the sun sets, watch the sky transform into a canvas of colors while cruising along the serene waters. After dark, witness the enchanting glow of bioluminescent plankton illuminating the sea—a breathtaking natural phenomenon. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike!

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Alcoholic beverages Beer ( Only to participants the are over the legal drinking age )
  • Carbonated beverages Soda/Pop
  • WiFi on board
See 2 moreSee 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

C. Fco. I. Madero 227
Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Puerto Vallarta (pass by)

We offer two convenient meeting options for our bioluminescence tour. You may meet us at our listed meeting point at the gas station in Zona Romántica, or you are welcome to meet us directly at our Mismaloya Xtreme office on Mismaloya Beach. Your selected meeting point and exact timing will always be confirmed after booking.Tour start times vary by season to match sunset times in Puerto Vallarta. To ensure smooth pickup, relaxed boarding, and the best sunset views, the tour always begins 45 minutes to 1 hour before sunset. For clarity and consistency, we follow a fixed seasonal schedule with only three possible start times, changing four times per year.Seasonal Start TimesNovember 1 – February 28/29: 5:30 PMMarch 1 – May 15: 6:00 PMMay 16 – August 15: 6:30 PMAugust 16 – October 31: 6:00 PMThis schedule allows us to enjoy the sunset before transitioning into the bioluminescent experience—without rushing, delays, or the risk of missing the sunset.
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Playa Mismaloya

Mismaloya, where your journey begins with a captivating nod to the rich history of this enchanting place. As the boat departs from the picturesque cove, your guide shares the story of The Night of the Iguana, the iconic 1964 film that put Mismaloya on the map. You'll hear how the filming brought Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to this sleepy fishing village, sparking international intrigue, romance, and fame that forever transformed Puerto Vallarta into a beloved destination.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Los Arcos de Mismaloya

The Los Arcos Islands—an iconic Marine Geological Sanctuary—rise dramatically from the sea, their rocky arches and caves creating natural silhouettes against the vibrant sky. The Islands come alive with a stunning display of birdlife. Frigatebirds, with their distinctive forked tails and elegant, gliding movements, soar high above, silhouetted against the warm hues of the fading sun. Brown pelicans dive gracefully into the water, their large wings slicing through the air as they hunt for fish in the glowing waters below.As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples, casting shimmering reflections on the ocean’s surface. The boat slows down in a perfect viewing spot to take it all in.Whether guests are sipping on a beverage, snapping photos, or simply soaking up the serene atmosphere, this is the most magical moment of the cruise. The islands, silhouetted against the fiery horizon, create a postcard-perfect view.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Los Arcos de Mismaloya

Experiencing bioluminescence at Los Arcos is like stepping into a natural wonderland of light and magic. As the sun dips below the horizon and the waters around the towering rock formations darken, the true spectacle begins. Tiny, glowing microorganisms light up the ocean like stars scattered across the night sky. Every movement—whether it's your hand gliding through the water or a gentle wave—activates these organisms, creating a mesmerizing glow.Snorkeling inside the dark caves takes the experience to another level. Once inside, the absence of natural light amplifies the bioluminescence. Each kick of your fins sends radiant blue-green sparks swirling around you, as if the water itself is alive. The cool, calm atmosphere of the caves enhances the feeling of stepping into a surreal, otherworldly environment. As you float in the inky darkness, surrounded by the shimmering glow, it’s impossible not to feel a deep connection to nature’s magic.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Q: Will I get seasick on Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5529498P8

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.82
200 reviews

Average 4.82 out of 5 stars based on 200 traveler reviews collected by Cool Puerto Vallarta and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
182
4 stars
6
3 stars
7
2 stars
3
1 star
2
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Puerto Vallarta customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Snacks.
  • Alcoholic beverages. Beer ( Only to participants the are over the legal drinking age ).
  • Carbonated beverages. Soda/Pop.
  • Bottled water.
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment.
The following is NOT included:
  • WiFi on board.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 1..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Sunset and Bioluminescence Boat Tour at Los Arcos Islands will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Puerto Vallarta. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Snacks
  • Alcoholic beveragesBeer ( Only to participants the are over the legal drinking age )
  • Carbonated beveragesSoda/Pop
  • Bottled water
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • WiFi on board

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers

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