Travelers who visit the "hidden beach" of Las Marietas, located in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, will discover a narrow tunnel ending with a rock arch which they must swim under to gain access to a cave that leads into the private cove.
Coined Playa del Amor, or “Lover’s Beach” by the locals, the island is also home to a vast array of wildlife, including over ninety species of birds. The white-capped marine swallow, band-tailed swallows, the largest population in the Pacific Ocean of the Laughing Seagull, and the extremely rare Blue-footed Booby are among the birds that will draw Eco tourists and bird watchers alike.
Having the greatest abundance in the Bay of Banderas, Las Marietas is home to 103 of the 159 registered species of reef fish. Lastly, massive humpback whales migrate to the Bay of Banderas from mid-December through early April.
The islands, a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Biosphere are carefully preserved and guarded by the Mexican government. Only certain companies and organizations, such as Punta Mita Expeditions, are authorized to visit the islands and that local law enforcement agencies patrol the islands by boat, making sure that all visitors are wearing approved wrist bands. Under these protections, visitors to the area can enjoy pristine guided boat, snorkeling, or SCUBA excursions and rest assured that the local wildlife are indeed safe in their natural environment.
Riviera Nayarit is also home to other beaches, authentic cuisine, world-class resorts, boutique hotels, and coastal towns.