From volcanos and bombs to hidden beach - a look at Marietas Islands in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

(taken from visitmexico.com )

Tucked away on the Western coast of Mexico lies the area of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. While perhaps not as commonly well-known as the resort towns of Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, this area is actually a burgeoning tourist destination with plenty to offer, including one of the most iconic beaches in the world - known as Playa Del Amor, Playa Escondida, or more simply, the Hidden Beach.

(taken from visitmexico.com )

This beach is located within the Marietas Islands just off the coast, which are uninhabited by humans but boast an abundance of wildlife. These islands were formed as the result of volcanic activity, but that's not what created the gem of the beach above. Back in the 1900's, the government of Mexico used these islands to conduct military tests including testing bombs. This created a series of caves and tunnels throughout the islands, as well as this incredible beach that is accessible only by swimming or kayaking through a water tunnel during lower tides.

(taken from visitmexico.com )

In the 1960's, Jacques Cousteau led a movement to stop the destruction of the various ecosystems of these islands, and thankfully (and finally) in 2005 the government agreed to stop and instead turned them into a national park. This not only stopped any destruction, but also prevented damage by human habitation, fishing, or hunting.

So, how do you get to this amazing world of wonder? Well, first of all, you need to visit the Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit region. Next, you need to find a certified tour company who is able to lead a group on to this popular and high-demand spot, as the government only allows companies with specific permits to visit in order to avoid leaving too large of a destructive footprint in this pristine area. A lot of these companies also take their role as a conservator seriously by giving back, so it's a great way to support not just a local Mexican business but also keep the area beautiful! Then it's as simple as heading in through the water tunnel via swimming or kayaking, and marveling at the sights! This is a VERY popular tour, in the top 20 sites to see in the area, so it is important to book it in advance.

(taken from visitmexico.com )

As a travel agent, I am often finding myself spending hours on the internet looking at all of the various places I hope to visit - and with a picture this stunning, who could resist? So I am proud to announce that my yearly group trip (open to the public) will be heading to the fantastic Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and will include a chance to head out and see this Hidden Beach in person!! The trip will be the first week of August, with chances to add more days if desired.

(taken from http://www.sheratonvallarta.com/ )

More details will be posted within the next few weeks, but if you are interested in receiving more information as it becomes available, please join our Facebook Event or subscribe to our email list on our website.