Marietas Islands are a tiny archipelago composed of 2 small islands and 5 large rocks is a “Natural Protected Area: and features the best reefs for scuba diving and snorkeling in Banderas Bay.  It´s also the nesting ground of the rare blue footed booby.

Los Arcos is one of the most popular landmarks of Banderas Bay. A set of unique rock formations in The South Shore, The area has been declared  “National Park”.  This is a remarkable spot for snorkeling and scuba-diving.

The South Shore begins at Boca de Tomatlan, and has the most beautiful beaches, surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest jungle: Quimixto, Las Animas, Yelapa and Colomitos.

Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays in the world. The Bay is divided between the two Mexican States of Jalisco and Nayarit.

The North Shore – State of  Nayarit, includes  Marina Nuevo Vallarta, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta de Mita. Mexico’s newest and most luxurious resort destination.

Puerto Vallarta is set at the heart of Banderas Bay in the largest protected bay on the planet. It was formed when an ancient volcano exploded and the caldera was flooded. You can see the circular outline formed by mountains ringing the bay on three sides. The fourth side of the circle is completed by underwater mountains that break the surface of the ocean at the Marietas Islands. Volcanic reefs connect the islands to the mainland, all but closing off the bay from the Pacific.
There are only two deep water channels connecting the Pacific Ocean to the bay, and both of these are patrolled by dolphins who do not allow sharks to enter the bay which is a calving ground for Dolphins, Humpback whales, Wright whales and other marine species in Winter. Thanks to geology and the vigilance of the dolphins, Banderas Bay is virtually shark free!
The South Shore - State of Jalisco, includes Puerto Vallarta, Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlan.  The villages south of Boca, including  the popular beaches of Las Animas, Quimixto, Yelapa and Chimo are all cut off by the Sierra Madre Mountains and mainly accessible by boat.  

Due to climate and other factors, the bay is a natural paradise, especially for water-sports and bird-watching. Hot spots for scuba diving and snorkeling include Chimo, Tecomate, Las Animas, Quimixto, Yelapa, Colomitos and especially Los Arcos National Park. The aforementioned beaches, all but Los Arcos are also excellent for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. Most provide access to food and beverages.
On The North Shore, Marietas Islands provides the best spots for scuba-diving  and snorkeling, nearby beaches such as El Anclote in Punta de Mita, Punta del Burro and Destiladeras are the perfect cruising grounds. Boating is essential to enjoy Banderas Bay at its best..
                                                                                               
Whale watching during the winter months December through February can be enjoyed all around the bay. Humpback Whales migrate each winter for mating and rearing their young. Dolphin families live in Banderas Bay year round.
Sport-Fishing is also a popular sport in Banderas Bay. The Anual International Fishing Tournament is held every autumn, and is the largest in Mexico. The whole bay is hot for fishing, but Chimo has been praised for huge Marlin and Yellowfin Tuna. Giant 250 Pound Vallarta-Tuna can be caught at “Corbeteña”