Sunset Boat Tour & Bioluminescence Adventure at Los Arcos Islands
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience one of Puerto Vallarta’s most unique natural spectacles — a breathtaking Pacific sunset followed by glowing bioluminescent waters in a single tour.
Swim among sparkling blue light created by microscopic plankton in a protected marine area, far from crowds and city lights. Our experienced local guides ensure a safe, well-organized, and truly immersive nighttime adventure.
We operate in small groups of maximum 11 guests to provide a more personal, relaxed, and high-quality experience.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
To bring: towel, sweater (it gets chilly)
Wearing: bathing suit (under comfortable clothing), sandals (best) or sneakers
What To Expect
Playa Mismaloya
Meet your guide and receive a welcome drink on the beach to set the tone for a magical evening
Bay of Banderas
As the boat moves through the Bay of Banderas, the sunset becomes one of the highlights of the evening. The sky fills with warm colors as daylight fades, and the ocean slowly darkens around you. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable moment on the water, offering a beautiful transition from the daytime cruise to the nighttime experience.
Options
Sunset Boat Tour & Bioluminescence Adventure at Los Arcos Islands
What‘s Included
All fees and taxes
Soda/Pop
Life vest
Alcoholic Beverages
Public transportation
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
50 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The best part of our trip
Ashlynn D,Jun 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was such an amazing experience. Diego and Gustavo were so kind and knowledgable. Not only was it incredibly beautiful, but it was also educational and enriching. I couldnt recommend it enough! Definitely bring some opened toe shoes, bug spray, and a towel for afterwards.
The tour was a great way...
Victor M,Jun 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was a great way to experience something unique in Puerto Vallarta. The bioluminescence was interesting to see, and the trip was well organized and easy to enjoy. Our guide, Bruno, did an excellent job throughout the evening—he was friendly, professional, and made sure everyone felt comfortable and informed. The small group size was a nice touch, and overall it was a worthwhile experience that I would recommend to others visiting the area.
Great tour!
jonathanwV9712RW,Jun 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience! Tour guide and boat captain made it a fun experience.
So worth the wait.
Drew B,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was bummed out our first time was rained out but the team worked with us to be able to come out another day and it was worth the wait! The sunset ride was beautiful, the history behind the island was neat, our kids loved to swim in the Bioluminous water, and Diego was an awesome tour guide along with the captain who let us in his boat for the first tour ride. Special moment. Thank you and would recommend!
I recommend mucho!
NorthStar30800350870,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The experience was amazing, I had never seen anything like this, the most beautiful evening walk I've ever seen, the effect of bioluminescence is something that everyone in life has to know, very well worth it...
Great time
Amanda C,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Enjoy the experience. Go even if scared. Diego was a wonderful guide. I don't know what else to tell ya
Worst experience ever don’t risk life
Mounika B,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00I was excited to experience the bioluminescent water tour, but unfortunately it was not what I expected. My biggest concern was the boat itself. It sits extremely low in the water, and considering the Pacific Ocean can have strong waves and tides, the ride felt unsafe and very uncomfortable. The boat traveled at high speed, and I felt every wave and impact throughout the entire trip. I have been on many boat tours before and generally do not experience motion sickness, but this ride was overwhelming. My child even became sick and vomited during the tour. For families with children or anyone prone to anxiety or panic, this experience could be very stressful. I was shaken and uncomfortable for several hours afterward. In my opinion, a larger and more stable boat would make this activity much safer and more enjoyable for families. As for the bioluminescence itself, the experience did not match the expectations that were set. We were told that splashing the water would reveal the glowing effect, but what I saw were only small dots of light. The photos also did not accurately represent the actual experience. The bioluminescence phenomenon is fascinating, but I believe the tour operator needs a more professional and family-friendly boating setup. Adventure doesn’t have to feel unsafe. Unfortunately, I would not recommend this tour based on my experience.
Recommended!
Pioneer15212394523,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Exelente experiencia! The guide was very knowledgeable and helpful at all times. The bioluminescence was very much visible. 10 points!
Totally recommendable.
mariazC2556MK,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Bruno was always very attentive. Excellent service, I totally recommend it.
It included everything that was mentioned...
MarcoAntonio G,May 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It included everything that was in the description. We passed through the nature reserve and swam in a cave to see the luminescent plankton.
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Operated by Vallartanaturetrips