Playa del Amor is a hidden beach located within Banderas Bay just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Playa del Amor is secretly hidden on the Las Marietas Islands by solid rock formations, and has crystal waters and a sanctuary for birds. Playa del Amor is majestic, and is so close to Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta that taking a boat tour is one of the greatest pleasures while on vacation in Banderas Bay. It is one of the best beaches to go to where you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and watch nature in action. You will be left speechless when you see the hidden beach that is located in a crater.

Banderas Bay’s Hidden Beach

The magical Las Marietas Islands were formed naturally by a volcano over thousands of years, and is now currently the home to hundreds of birds, marine life, and the blue footed boobies.

Vacationers can enjoy a full day of activities while you can watch birds eat and build their nests on the rock of volcano and the islands are covered in lush green before heading to the hidden beach at the center of the islands.

Jacques Cousteau

This area was found, then made famous by Jacques Cousteau, who is a famous oceanographer and explorer. The islands are now popular for diving, whale watching, snorkeling, and much more. You won’t be disappointed at Las Marietas, because the waters are crystal clear, and you will be able to see the tropical fish swimming, seahorses, eels, and all eco-friendly activities occurring. There are a few excursions that offer tours of the area to look for pods of humpback whales when they make Banderas Bay their home from November thru May.

While the top adventures when visiting the Marietas Islands are watching birds, scuba diving, and swimming, you must make your adventure complete by going to explore the hidden beach that rest between two islands. It is just a short swim to reach, and you will swim through a rocky tunnel, then you can sunbathe without being disturbed, because you are protected and hidden by the rock walls. While you are there you can play in the sands while the waters gently splash you, and afterwards go for a swim and explore the caves.

How the Marietas’ Hidden Beach was formed

In the 1960’s, before the area was a protected sanctuary, the Mexican government used to use the deserted islands as their testing location where they would test bombs and all types of explosions. A large explosion made a roof in the island, creating the main attraction – the hidden beach. Thanks to the protests of local residents, the islands were given protected status and today only licensed tours can take you to the island or fish around its shores.