Bioluminescence by Kayak or SUP to Los Arcos, Puerto Vallarta
About Bioluminescence by Kayak or SUP to Los Arcos, Puerto Vallarta
This night tour by Paddle Zone takes you out by kayak or stand-up paddleboard toward Los Arcos, the rock formations off the south shore of Banderas Bay, to see bioluminescence in the water. Every paddle stroke can set off small flashes of light around you, and with no engines it is quiet enough to hear the sea at night. It has a 4.9 rating from about 400 reviews.
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours. There is no hotel pickup, but an air-conditioned vehicle takes the group from the meeting point outside Vibin Bar & Grill, Calle Morelos 527 in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Arrive 10 minutes early. Guides speak English and Spanish, and beginners get SUP or kayak instruction.
What’s included
- Digital photos of the experience
- Beach bonfire after the tour (if conditions allows)
- Life jacket
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Fruit and refreshments
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Professional local guide
- SUP or Kayak instruction for beginners
- Bottled water
- Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard Equipment
- Snacks
- Beach club facilities (restrooms and showers)
- Hot chocolate
Meeting point
We will meet outside Vibin Bar & Grill, located at Calle Morelos 527 in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Our Paddle Zone vehicle will be waiting in front of the establishment. Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time to avoid delays in departure.
What to expect on the day
After meeting downtown, you ride in the Paddle Zone vehicle to the beach club, which has restrooms and showers. Your guide hands out life jackets and kayaks or paddleboards and gives beginners a short lesson. Snorkel gear is also provided. You then paddle out in the dark toward Los Arcos, moving through the water to light up the bioluminescence.
Back on shore, the group warms up with coffee, tea or hot chocolate, plus fruit, snacks and refreshments, around a beach bonfire if conditions allow. Digital photos of the experience are included before you ride back to downtown.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: air-conditioned transport from downtown, professional local guide, kayak or SUP equipment and beginner instruction, life jacket, snorkel gear, beach club facilities, bottled water, fruit, snacks and refreshments, coffee or tea, hot chocolate, a beach bonfire if conditions allow, and digital photos. Prices start from about $94 USD per person.
- Not included: gratuities.
What to bring
- Swimwear and quick-dry clothes you do not mind getting wet.
- A towel and a dry change of clothes for after the paddle and showers.
- A light layer for the bonfire and the ride back at night.
Tips for a better day
- Be on time: the vehicle waits outside Vibin Bar & Grill, and arriving 10 minutes early avoids delaying the group.
- Kayak or SUP: a kayak is the steadier choice if you have never paddled at night; instruction is given either way.
- Skip the camera stress: digital photos are included, so you can leave your phone safely ashore.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: reasonably fit travelers who want a hands-on, quiet night on the water and a rare look at bioluminescence.
- Consider another option if: you would rather see Los Arcos in daylight without paddling. The Los Arcos boat and snorkel tour takes you there by boat.
Restrictions
Travelers need at least a moderate level of fitness and must be able to get on and off the kayak or board on their own. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or limited mobility. Service animals are allowed and specialized infant seats are available. The listing does not state a minimum age.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Bioluminescence by Kayak or SUP to Los Arcos, Puerto Vallarta
How long is the bioluminescence tour in Puerto Vallarta?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours including transport from downtown.
Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle leaves from outside Vibin Bar & Grill, Calle Morelos 527 in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Hotel pickup is not included.
Do I need kayak or paddleboard experience?
No. SUP or kayak instruction for beginners is included.
Can I choose between kayak and SUP?
Yes, the tour is offered by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and the equipment is included.
What is included in the price?
Transport, guide, kayak or SUP gear, life jacket, snorkel gear, beach club facilities, snacks, hot drinks, a bonfire if conditions allow and digital photos.
Are there any extra fees?
The listing only mentions gratuities as not included.
What should I bring for a night kayak tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a dry change of clothes and a light layer for after the paddle.
How fit do I need to be?
You need at least a moderate fitness level and must be able to get on and off the kayak or board independently.
Is it safe if I am pregnant?
It is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.