Marietas Islands

Never has a bombing ranged looked so beautiful than at Mexico’s Marietas Islands. Here off the coastline of Nayarit outside of Puerto Vallarta, these two volcanic, bird-covered rocks hold hundreds of scars caused by years of bombing by Mexico’s early military. Thanks to conservationist’s efforts, however—most notably Jacques Cousteau—the Mexican government agreed to protect the islands, rather than blow them up. Today, what remains of the islands above and below water is nothing short of astounding. Schools of colorful reef fish swarm in Technicolor clouds on the reefs, and sea turtles, dolphins, and enormous manta rays are regularly spotted near shore.  In winter, snorkeling takes place to the sound of Humpbacks singing and crooning in the distance, and it isn’t uncommon for a breaching whale to interrupt your commute. Farther offshore, pelagic fishermen in search of trophies troll for wahoo, mahi, and marlin, while endangered birds such as Blue Footed Boobies colonize the wave battered rocks. Visitors aren’t allowed on shore since the islands are formally protected, but one exception is “Hidden Beach,” where it’s believed that the explosion of military ordinance blew a hole right through the middle of the island to create a world-class beach. 

Practical Info

The Marietas Islands can be accessed from numerous points along Mexico’s Mainland coast. Punta Mita is the closest point, but tours also operate from Sayulita as well as Puerto Vallarta. For snorkeling and scuba diving, June-September has the best visibility and also the warmest temperatures, and the best season for spotting whales is from the beginning of December-March.