🌴 One of the Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

If you're searching for things to do in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll quickly discover that some of the most memorable experiences happen beyond the city itself. Just south of town, hidden between jungle-covered mountains and the Pacific Ocean, lies a small seaside village that feels wonderfully untouched by time: Yelapa.

Unlike other beach destinations in the region, Yelapa is only accessible by boat, which makes the journey part of the adventure. With no roads, no cars, and no busy streets, this quiet village offers a completely different pace of life.

A day trip to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta is perfect for travelers who want to experience nature, relax on a secluded beach, hike to a waterfall, and enjoy fresh local food by the ocean.

This is the story of the day I escaped to Yelapa—and why it might become one of your favorite adventures while visiting Puerto Vallarta.

🚤 The Journey Begins: Boat Ride to Yelapa

I left Barrio Vallarta Boutique Hotel early in the morning, coffee in hand and sunglasses ready, and headed to Los Muertos Pier, the main departure point for water taxis in the Romantic Zone.

The small boats—locals call them pangas—line up along the dock, colorful and gently rocking in the water. After paying the fare, I climbed aboard alongside locals carrying groceries and travelers eager for adventure.

Soon we were speeding across the turquoise waters of Banderas Bay, the breeze warm and salty. Pelicans glided across the surface, and just past Boca de Tomatlán I could swear I spotted a dolphin breaking through the waves.

About 45 minutes later, we rounded a bend in the coastline and entered a peaceful bay surrounded by lush green cliffs.

Welcome to Yelapa.

🏝️ Relaxing on Yelapa Beach

The first thing I did was take off my shoes. Arriving somewhere by boat and stepping straight into warm sand feels like the perfect beginning to a day.

Yelapa’s beach stretches in a soft crescent along the bay, dotted with simple palapas and small beach restaurants. I found a shaded table and ordered a fresh coconut, served cold with a straw straight through the top.

Soon a local vendor walked by carrying trays of the famous Yelapa pie—especially known for its coconut flavor. I bought a slice, and yes, it absolutely lives up to the reputation: creamy, rich, and perfectly sweet.

From my spot on the sand, I watched fishermen repairing their nets while visitors waded into the calm water. Everything felt slower here—in the best possible way.

🌿 Hiking to the Yelapa Waterfall

One of the most popular activities in the village is the Yelapa waterfall hike, which takes about 20 to 25 minutes from the beach.

The trail winds through the village along narrow paths where chickens wander freely, dogs nap in the shade, and locals greet visitors with friendly smiles.

Gradually the jungle thickens and the air grows cooler. Soon the distant sound of water becomes louder until the trail opens to reveal the Yelapa waterfall, a slender cascade flowing into a natural pool.

It’s not the tallest waterfall in Mexico, but it doesn’t need to be. Surrounded by dense greenery and birdsong, it feels like a hidden oasis.

After a swim in the cool water, I floated for a while, listening to nothing but the sounds of the jungle.

🍽️ Lunch with a View of Banderas Bay

After the hike, I returned to the beach and stopped for lunch at a small seaside restaurant overlooking the bay.

I ordered fresh grilled fish wrapped in banana leaf, served with rice and a cold beer. In a fishing village like Yelapa, seafood tastes especially fresh—often caught earlier that same morning.

While eating, I spoke with the restaurant owner, who mentioned that reliable Wi-Fi is still rare in the village.

“It’s a blessing,” he said with a smile.
“People come here to disconnect.”

And he was right—I had barely checked my phone all day.

🌅 Returning to Puerto Vallarta

By late afternoon, the water taxis begin preparing for the return trip.

As our boat pulled away from the beach, the golden afternoon light washed over the village. From the water, Yelapa looked like a hidden paradise tucked between the jungle and the sea.

When the skyline of Puerto Vallarta finally came back into view, I realized I hadn’t bought any souvenirs.

No magnets. No postcards.

But I brought back something better: the memory of a peaceful village where the day revolved around the ocean, the jungle, and simple moments of quiet.

Practical Tips for Visiting Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta

🚤 How to Get to Yelapa

The easiest way to reach Yelapa is by water taxi from Los Muertos Pier in the Romantic Zone. Boats typically run throughout the morning and return in the afternoon.

Travel time: about 40–50 minutes.

Some visitors also depart from Boca de Tomatlán, which shortens the boat ride.

⏰ Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yelapa is between November and May, when the weather is sunny and humidity is lower. Morning departures are ideal because they give you plenty of time to explore the beach and hike to the waterfall.

🎒 What to Bring

A few simple items will make your day trip more comfortable:

• Cash (many places don’t accept cards)

• Swimsuit and towel

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Comfortable sandals or walking shoes

• A small backpack for the waterfall hike

Xtra Tip: Don’t Miss the Famous Yelapa Pie

One of the most iconic local treats is the homemade Yelapa pie, usually sold right on the beach by vendors carrying trays of fresh slices. Coconut is the classic flavor, but you might also find chocolate, lime, or mango.

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🏨 Staying in Puerto Vallarta?

If you're staying in the Romantic Zone, visiting Yelapa is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Puerto Vallarta.

From Barrio Vallarta Boutique Hotel, Los Muertos Pier is just a short walk away—making it easy to hop on a boat and spend the day exploring one of the most peaceful villages along the coast.

Sometimes the best experiences in Mexico begin with a simple boat ride.