Adventure Brief
Spend a private six‑hour day on the water from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa. Swim, explore a car‑free village, and—during the rainy season—hike to a dramatic waterfall.
6 hours
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Spend a private six‑hour day on the water from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa. Swim, explore a car‑free village, and—during the rainy season—hike to a dramatic waterfall.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off Puerto Vallarta’s marina and the bay opens around you — wind on your face, bunting on the bow, the mainland falling away into green ridges. Six hours on a private boat gives you time: to drop anchor in a quiet cove, feel the surf slap at a crescent of sand, and row toward a village where cars never arrive and pack mules still climb the trails.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to board small boats, walk on sand and uneven trails, and stand during short hikes
Wildlife
History
Originally a small fishing and agricultural settlement, Yelapa developed as an isolated coastal community that retained mule tracks and footpaths rather than paved roads.
Conservation
Tourism here is low‑impact but growing; avoid single‑use plastics, respect local homes, and use reef‑safe sunscreen to reduce environmental impact.
Reserve your spot on the Private Boat Tour to Yelapa today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring cash for the port fee and vendors
Yelapa charges a small port/entrance fee (around $2 USD) and many food stalls are cash-only, so bring small bills.
Watch sea conditions and choose morning departures
Bay winds pick up in the afternoon; a morning departure gives calmer crossings and smoother snorkeling.
Use a dry bag and sun protection
Salt spray and sand will reach personal items — keep phones and documents dry and bring reef‑safe sunscreen.
Wear water shoes for shore landings
Landings can be on sand or rocky cobble; shoes with traction make exiting the skiff easier and protect feet.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps electronics, documents, and clothing dry during boat transfers and beach stops.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin during extended sun exposure and reduces harm to marine life.
summer
Water shoes
Useful for stepping from the skiff onto sand or rocky shorelines and for short waterfall approaches.
Light wind shell or quick‑dry layer
A thin layer blocks spray and cool breezes, especially during early morning or winter crossings.
winter