Islas Marietas National Park: planning guide
Small Pacific islands off Punta de Mita, Nayarit. Hidden beach, snorkeling, and strict visitor limits to protect seabirds.
Islas Marietas National Park is in Nayarit, Mexico. The nearest town is La Peñita de Jaltemba — roughly 51.3 km (31.9 mi) out, about 1 hr 7 min of driving.
When to go
Best window: December through April, the drier and less humid stretch. Shoulder season: May and November.
June to November is the wet and hurricane season — heavy rain, high humidity, and occasional storm closures.
Heat and humidity are constant. Plan activity for early morning and carry more water than feels necessary.
Closest towns and cities
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| La Peñita de Jaltemba | 51.3 km (31.9 mi) | 1 hr 7 min |
| Las Varas | 70.9 km (44.1 mi) | 1 hr 28 min |
| Zacualpan | 75 km (46.6 mi) | 1 hr 32 min |
| Compostela | 92.9 km (57.7 mi) | 1 hr 49 min |
| San Blas | 98.5 km (61.2 mi) | 1 hr 54 min |
| Tepic | 115 km (71.5 mi) | 2 hr 9 min |
| Villa Hidalgo | 122 km (75.5 mi) | 2 hr 14 min |
| Amatlán de Cañas | 123 km (76.6 mi) | 2 hr 16 min |
Where Islas Marietas National Park sits
Official Islas Marietas National Park site — hours, closures, and fees.
Drive times from Islas Marietas National Park
Islas Marietas National Park sits close enough to Isla Isabel National Park, Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park, and Lago de Camécuaro National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Isla Isabel National Park | 131 km (81.6 mi) | 2 hr 23 min |
| Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park | 244 km (152 mi) | 4 hr 2 min |
| Lago de Camécuaro National Park | 363 km (225 mi) | 5 hr 47 min |
Parks close by
- Isla Isabel National Park
A tiny volcanic island off Nayarit in the Pacific. Frigatebirds, boobies, and a remote research and diving outpost.
- Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park
A snow-capped volcano on the Colima–Jalisco border. High forest, alpine zones, and views toward active Volcán de Colima.
- Lago de Camécuaro National Park
A spring-fed lake surrounded by ahuehuete cypress in Michoacán. Short shaded walks and paddle boats on clear green water.
- Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park
A steep ravine with springs and cloud forest above Uruapan, Michoacán. Short walks along the Cupatitzio River through lush canyon walls.
Common questions
Where is Islas Marietas National Park?
Islas Marietas National Park sits in Nayarit, Mexico. La Peñita de Jaltemba, about 51.3 km (31.9 mi) away — roughly 1 hr 7 min of driving.
When is the best time to visit Islas Marietas National Park?
Generally December through April, the drier and less humid stretch, with May and November quieter on either side.