Mismaloya, a small village located on the coast of the Bahía de Banderas in the Mexican state of Jalisco, is situated approximately 9 miles away from Puerto Vallarta. Between the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and the beautiful Bahía de Banderas, this gorgeous piece of Mexican geography has changed the future and destiny of Puerto Vallarta and its surrounding boat rental destinations. This mystical magical place became famous among tourists and travelers alike after the movie “The Night of the Iguana” was filmed here. Famous director John Houston’s movie has undoubtedly placed Mismaloya and Vallarta in the international spotlight.
Day Trip to Mismaloya Beach
This small sandy beach is located on a beautiful jungle-fringed cove at the point where Mismaloya river runs into the Pacific Ocean. Mismaloya beach lies between Conchas Chinas and Boca de Tomatlán, just past Los Arcos National Marine Park. It is the first supporting destination after Conchas Chinas in Puerto Vallarta. This beautiful setting of sand, sea and palm trees, surrounded by the mysterious mountain jungle boasts beautiful places to explore and amazing things to do.
# El Eden: Mismaloya is said to have been the garden to the Aztec Kings who resided in the capital which is now known as Mexico City. The exuberant green garden – El Eden – is evidence that Mismaloya was once the “Garden of Eden” in ancient times. This exotic attraction located upriver from Mismaloya Beach, is full of fun & adventure centered in the waters of the Mismaloya River. El Eden became famous after Arnold Schwarzeneggers film “Predator” was shot here. You can enjoy swimming in cool water in the natural pool created by the river and canopy tour over the river through the jungle tree tops.
# Zoológico de Vallarta A.C. (Vallarta Zoo)
The Vallarta Zoo is not like any other zoo you’ve visited before. Located between Mismaloya River and Sierra Mountains, this zoo is a perfect excursion for seeing the sites during your day trip. Here you can buy bags of food (carrots, breadsticks, seeds, etc.) to feed the animals, interact with various baby cubs and play with baby tigers.
Water Sports Activities to Enjoy
This beautiful beach with clear and gentle waters is a favorite destination for those who enjoy water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing and fishing.
1. Diving & Snorkeling: Mismaloya is the ecological reserve of Los Arcos, which is located a half mile from the beach. Los Arcos is the deepest area of Banderas Bay, making for an exciting challenge for expert divers and snorkelers. The set of Los Arcos rocks is inhabited by various colorful marine species and birds. At the park you’ll find caves, deep tunnels, arches and a striking reef. Dive to discover the underwater world of Los Arcos and tropical fish species such as spotted boxfish, angelfish, wrasse, snappers, parrot fish, zebra moray eels, yellow tail tuna, sea turtles, manta rays, humpback whales and much more. It is also a protected area for various seabird species including various species of parrots, pelicans and other sea and land birds.
2. Fishing: Mismaloya comes from Nahuatl word ‘Michmaloyan’ which means – a place where they grab fish with their hands. Needless to say, this is a great fishing spot in and around Mismaloya and the Bay of Banderas. You’ll find a variety of fish in the waters surrounding this area including dorado (also called mahi mahi), roosterfish, wahoo, jack crevalle, red snapper, blue & black marlin and more.
3. Water Skiing: Go on a fast, fun and exhilarating ride on skis along the water’s surface while being towed by a motorboat! Enjoy thrilling jet skiing in Mismaloya waters with an experienced instructor who will provide tips to support whatever skiing experience you have. Water skiing is an extremely fun and safe activity that you and your family or group can enjoy in Mismaloya.
Mismaloya is an excellent choice for a day trip from Puerto Vallarta for families, couples, small and or large group. So, if you’re planning to visit Vallarta, or you’re already here in this tropical paradise, take a Puerto Vallarta boat rental trip to the wonderful Mismaloya beach for a memorable and unforgettable experience.
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