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Experience a private charter from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa Beach and Los Arcos Marine Park. Snorkel vibrant reefs, explore a hidden waterfall, and unwind with an open bar on this unforgettable 7-hour coastal escape.
Experience a private charter from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa Beach and Los Arcos Marine Park. Snorkel vibrant reefs, explore a hidden waterfall, and unwind with an open bar on this unforgettable 7-hour coastal escape.
Book with Vallarta Yacht Rentals
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Vallarta Yacht Rentals · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
A short boat ride south from the bustling shores of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour offers an exceptional day-trip blending coastal beauty, marine exploration, and local culture. This private charter experience, capped at 18 guests, invites travelers to step off the usual tourist trail and discover Yelapa—a laid-back fishing village accessible only by water. With crystalline waters, vibrant marine life, and lush tropical surroundings, this tour uniquely combines adventure and relaxation along Jalisco’s Pacific coast.
Your journey begins at Marina Vallarta, where a professional captain and bilingual crew welcome you aboard a comfortable yacht or cruiser. The first destination is the breathtaking Los Arcos Marine Park, a protected archipelago renowned for its dramatic volcanic rock formations and abundant sea life. Here, guests can snorkel in calm, clear waters teeming with colorful fish and curious sea turtles, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography and first-time snorkelers alike.
After snorkeling, the cruise continues to Yelapa, a serene beach village untouched by road access and embraced by tropical forest. Upon arrival, a short water taxi transports visitors to shore where they can explore sandy beaches lined with palm trees or follow well-marked trails leading to Yelapa's famous waterfall—a cascading plunge perfect for a refreshing dip. The balance of time is yours: wander the village’s quaint streets, connect with local vendors, or relax on the beach in a hammock.
Onboard amenities elevate the experience with an open bar featuring beers, cocktails, sodas, and juice, alongside snacks that keep energy high throughout the day. Water toys such as paddleboards and a floating lilypad island add extra fun between stops. For those wanting to stay connected, high-speed WiFi is available on select yachts, alongside a Bluetooth sound system setting the mood with your favorite tunes.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate scale and seamless blend of nature and culture. Yelapa’s seclusion amidst the Sierra Madre foothills and the fragility of Los Arcos as a marine sanctuary highlight the importance of conservation efforts in this region. The tour encourages responsible tourism practices, including the use of eco-friendly sunblock and minimizing environmental impact.
Nearby Puerto Vallarta offers a convenient base for lodging, dining, and evening activities, allowing visitors to easily combine this peaceful escape with vibrant city life. Whether you’re an ocean lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, the Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour delivers a memorable day framed by stunning Pacific landscapes and genuine Mexican village charm. Discover why this private charter is a standout way to connect with both the water and the spirit of coastal Mexico.
moderate.
7 hours.
Good general fitness recommended to enjoy snorkeling, light walking, and boat transfers comfortably.
Marina Vallarta is the main departure point, accessible by taxi from Puerto Vallarta city center.
Yes, the tour provides snorkeling gear and life jackets for all guests.
There is no official age minimum, but children should be comfortable in water and able to follow safety instructions.
The tour may be rescheduled or refunded if snorkeling or boat transfers are unsafe due to weather.
Snacks and an open bar are included; meals onshore in Yelapa are not covered but options are available locally.
Due to boat transfers and water taxis, the trip is not suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Yelapa has been a fishing village for centuries, preserving traditions sheltered by its isolated coastal location.
Los Arcos Marine Park protects volcanic rock formations and marine life, requiring visitors to practice eco-conscious behaviors like reef-safe sunscreen use.
Vallarta Yacht Rentals is a Puerto Vallarta-based charter company specializing in private yacht and catamaran experiences on Banderas Bay. The company offers a diverse fleet that includes 60-foot Italian-designed Jony Yacht and 60-foot Sea Ray Stella, 44-foot and 42-foot SeaRay and Carver yachts, multiple catamarans, and specially themed cruises. Trips include snorkeling and beach tours to Los Arcos, Yelapa, Las Animas and Quimixto; sunset and whale-watching cruises; and customizable private charters with water toys, paddleboards, and floating platforms. Vallarta Yacht Rentals provides options suited to couples, families, groups, and LGBT+ celebrations, with experiences like the Gay Luxury Sunset Cruise and group-focused catamaran parties such as Tequila Sunrise and Margarita Vibes. Many charters include gourmet appetizers, BBQ lunch options, and open bar upgrades. Private captains and crew manage navigation, safety briefings, and guest service, while air-conditioned cabins and spacious decks accommodate comfort and relaxation. Bookings are organized from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, with departures around popular coastal landmarks and protected marine areas. The operation emphasizes clear itineraries and customizable schedules that match guest preferences for snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, or sightseeing. Safety equipment and local knowledge of marine parks such as Los Arcos are standard for guided snorkeling tours. Vallarta Yacht Rentals is positioned as a reliable local charter provider offering varied vessel sizes and trip types, aiming to create memorable days on the water for visitors to Puerto Vallarta. Reservations, transparent pricing, and optional catering are available to customize each voyage for celebrations, corporate events, and private family outings.
Book with Vallarta Yacht Rentals