A favorite snorkeling destination is the underwater park at Los Arcos (also called Las Peñas), a short distance offshore from Mismaloya Beach. The oddly eroded formations jutting out of the bay served as an early landmark for ships. Colorful marine life is particularly evident around these rocks.
Kayakers and experienced divers head for the Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas), off Punta de Mita at the bay's northern end. Tropical fish thrive here, dolphins are frequently sighted, and the islands also are a protected bird sanctuary. Chico's Dive Shop, Paseo Díaz Ordaz #772 at the northern end of the malecón, rents equipment and organizes dive trips to the Marietas; phone (322) 222-1895.
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Sport fishing charters can be booked through your hotel or a travel agent. Rates depend on the size of the boat, where you fish, and whether bait and tackle are supplied. Bring your own refreshments, since most trips don't include them.
Sailfish and blue marlin are normally hooked November through February; smaller game species such as dorado, roosterfish and tuna can be caught seasonally most of the year. A catch-and-release policy is stressed if the fish is not going to be eaten.
Marina Vallarta has more than 500 slips and offers boaters fresh water, as well as cable TV and telephone hookups. Hardware and boating supply outlets are located along the boardwalk of this sprawling complex, which also has an 18-hole golf course, luxury hotels and condominiums. Tour boats and fishing excursions depart from the marina's Maritime Terminal. Boaters can explore a variety of tiny coves and hidden beaches along the shore of Banderas Bay, or drop anchor for awhile off the coast in Nuevo Vallarta.
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Swimming, water skiing and parasailing are some of the many fun things to do outdoors at many spots along the bay. Surfers head for the open waters and bigger waves around Punta de Mita. For those who would rather view the bay than venture into it, a shoreline horseback ride can be arranged through a travel agent.
Rancho El Charro organizes guided 2- to 3-hour horseback riding excursions into the foothills of the Sierra Madre, past jungle plantations and rural villages. Transportation is included and reservations are necessary; phone (322) 224-0114 or (322) 294-1689 for Rancho El Charro.
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There are several 18-hole golf courses in the area. Water comes into play on 11 holes at the Marina Vallarta Club de Golf course. Member privileges are extended to guests staying at certain hotels. Greens fees range from $78 to $142 (U.S.) and include a shared cart. Golfers wishing to play outside peak tourist season should check with the club; phone (322) 221-0073.
The Flamingos Golf Club is about 13 kilometers (8 miles) north of the airport off Mex. 200, in the state of Nayarit. Greens fees (shared cart and a bottle of water included) at this older, par-72 course range from about $49 to $113; caddies are available. (Note: Nayarit observes Mountain Standard Time, which is an hour earlier than Puerto Vallarta and the rest of Jalisco.) Reservations and transportation can be arranged through your hotel, or phone (329) 296-5006.
The Vista Vallarta Club de Golf, 653 Circuito Universidad, Colonia San Nicolas, is about 3 miles inland from Marina Vallarta. There are two courses, one designed by Jack Nicklaus and one by Tom Weiskopf. Greens fees (motorized cart included) range from around $110-$210 (U.S.). For tee times and hotel package information phone (322) 290-0030.
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Most of the resorts provide clay tennis courts for their guests. PV also has two tennis centers: the Canto del Sol Tennis Club in the Hotel Zone; and the Los Tules Tennis Center, near the Fiesta Americana Hotel.