Thinking about visiting Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta? I’ve returned to Puerto Vallarta since 2021 and later made a home in Versalles. Yelapa is still one of my favorite escapes, whether I go with friends for the day or stay for a long weekend.
Yelapa is a small coastal village tucked into the southern side of Banderas Bay. Most visitors arrive by boat because there is no ordinary road connection into the village center. Once there, you’ll find beaches, hillside paths, local restaurants, and waterfalls whose flow changes through the year.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip to Yelapa or a weekend getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know about how to get to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta with a tour or on your own, and the best things to do once you’re there.
☀️ Spend the day cruising along Banderas Bay with open bar service, fresh food, snorkeling stops, and live entertainment on board before arriving at Yelapa on this all-inclusive mega yacht tour.
How to get to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta
Since there are no paved roads leading to Yelapa, getting to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta is best done by boat. You can take a public water taxi from Los Muertos Pier in the Romantic Zone or from Boca de Tomatlán, a small fishing village south of Puerto Vallarta.
Another option is to join a day tour by yacht or speed boat, which usually includes extras like snorkeling, open bar, and a stop at the Yelapa waterfall. For a full breakdown of tours and experiences, check out my guide to the best Yelapa tours from Puerto Vallarta.
Yelapa yacht tour from Puerto Vallarta
TOUR LENGTH: approximately 7 hours | Current details: confirm the Yelapa and Majahuitas itinerary, food, drinks, and activities when booking | ✅ Book it!
One of the most fun ways to get to Yelapa is on this all-inclusive mega yacht tour. Instead of squeezing into a small panga, you’ll cruise across Banderas Bay in comfort with open bar service, plenty of space to stretch out, and live entertainment on board. Along the way, the crew keeps things lively with music, games, and activities, so the ride itself feels like part of the adventure.
Once you arrive in Yelapa, you can choose how to spend your time. Hike up to the waterfall for a refreshing swim, wander through the charming village, or just relax on the beach with a margarita in hand. On the way back, the yacht makes a stop for snorkeling and water activities, with kayaks, paddleboards, and even floating water mattresses included.
Living in Puerto Vallarta, I’ve been on plenty of day trips to Yelapa with friends. Sometimes for birthdays, sometimes just because we felt like treating ourselves. Honestly, they’ve been some of my favorite memories here. There’s nothing like dancing on deck with the mountains as your backdrop, spotting whales in the bay, or simply soaking in the sun with your best people by your side.
This experience was the best part of our trip! The yacht was nice, the drinks kept coming and the service was impeccable – Erika (read more reviews)
Speedboat Snorkeling & Yelapa Excursion
TOUR LENGTH: approximately 4 hours | Current details: check the selected pickup point, port tax, lunch, and Los Arcos/Yelapa itinerary | ✅ Book it!
If you’d rather skip the big party boats and join a smaller, more intimate trip, this Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling by Speedboat is a great choice. The ride over to Yelapa is quick and fun, giving you more time to actually enjoy the village.
Once there, you can hike to the waterfall, wander the streets, or just stretch out on the beach with a drink in hand. A light lunch with ceviche is included so you don’t have to worry about food.
On the way back, the boat makes a stop at Los Arcos Marine Park, one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic snorkeling spots. The granite islands, underwater caves, and schools of tropical fish make it a highlight in their own right, so it’s a nice bonus to end the trip.
I love this option for days when I want a little adventure without being on a huge yacht. It feels more personal, moves faster, and lets you experience both Yelapa and Los Arcos in a single outing.
Yelapa Water Taxi from Los Muertos Pier
The public water taxi from Los Muertos Pier in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone is a direct option. Go2Yelapa currently lists a minimum travel time of about 55 minutes, but schedules and journey times can change with weather and operating conditions. Check the current departure board before planning the day around a specific boat.
Current water-taxi schedule: Check the Go2Yelapa transport page or the pier board before leaving. Departure times can change with weather and operations, so confirm both outbound and return boats the same day.
You can view the most up-to-date schedule here: Los Muertos to Yelapa Water Taxi Schedule
Return public water taxis from Yelapa usually leave in the afternoon around 5:00 p.m., but always confirm before heading out since times can shift with the season. Otherwise, you will have to pay for a private Yelapa water taxi.
We had to hire a private boat to take us back from Yelapa to Puerto Vallarta after missing the last public water taxi, and we paid 220 USD for it (and that was in 2021). It was a costly mistake, but having a private boat while the sun set over the city was an amazing memory.
As of October 2026, Go2Yelapa lists tourist fares of 550 MXN round trip from Los Muertos and 260 MXN round trip from Boca. Treat these as current listed fares, not fixed prices, and confirm the quote and last return before boarding. Missing the public return can mean arranging a much more expensive private boat.
This has been my go-to way of visiting Yelapa. I love catching a morning boat and spending the day hiking or relaxing on the beach, but I now plan around the confirmed public return instead of assuming there will be a sunset boat.
Tips:
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially on weekends or holidays.
- Bring cash, as not all ticket sellers accept cards.
- Sit near the back of the boat if you want a smoother ride.
By Water Taxi from Boca de Tomatlan
Another option is to catch the water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán. The urban bus fare rose to 11 pesos in April 2026, but Boca is a regional destination, so confirm the route and fare before boarding. A taxi or app ride is more direct, although traffic and pickup availability vary.
The big advantage of leaving from Boca is that it cuts the boat ride in half compared to Los Muertos Pier. If you’re prone to motion sickness, this shorter ride can make a world of difference since it only takes about 20–25 minutes to reach Yelapa.
Boca usually offers more departure choices than Los Muertos, but do not assume boats leave hourly or continue until 6 p.m. Check the current pier board and confirm the last return before leaving Boca.
Boca itself is a cute little town worth wandering before your boat. There are beachfront restaurants, colorful boats bobbing in the water, and a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from Puerto Vallarta. Sometimes I’ll plan to arrive a bit early just so I can grab a coffee or ceviche by the beach before heading to Yelapa.
Things to do in Yelapa
Yelapa is just a small fishing village, so don’t expect the same amount of activities you’ll find in Puerto Vallarta. Instead, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Yelapa and reconnect with nature.
Yelapa Waterfall Puerto Vallarta
Yelapa is known for its waterfalls – I have a guide that lists all the waterfalls you can visit in Yelapa.
The most popular one is right in town, just a 15–20 minute walk from the beach. It’s an easy hike, and you’ll pass through local homes and colorful streets before reaching the refreshing pool at the base of the falls.
There are signs guiding you from the pier, and if you get turned around, ask any locals in town where the cascade is, and they will point you in the right direction.
I visited this waterfall at the end of May during the dry season, and it was a bit underwhelming as there wasn’t really any water, but I still enjoyed walking through the town and checking out the gorgeous street art.
If you’re up for more adventure, there’s another waterfall about an hour’s hike from the village. I’ve done this trail, and while it’s a bit more effort, it feels rewarding to reach a less-visited spot surrounded by jungle. It’s the perfect way to spend a few extra hours.
Yelapa beach Puerto Vallarta
Yelapa’s main beach is where I’ve spent countless lazy afternoons. Rows of beachfront restaurants rent out loungers where you can order margaritas, fresh seafood, and guacamole while watching the waves roll in.
I’ve had days where I did absolutely nothing but swim, nap, and sip on drinks here, and honestly, those are some of my favorite Yelapa memories. The energy is completely different from the busier beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
Yelapa Water activities
Water conditions around Yelapa change with wind, swell, rain, and boat traffic. When conditions are suitable, you can rent snorkel gear or a paddleboard on the beach or choose a tour that includes equipment. I once rented a paddleboard for an hour and loved the view back toward the village and mountains, but I would check the flags and local guidance before heading out.
If you’re craving a thrill, parasailing in Yelapa is an unforgettable experience. You’ll get strapped into a harness and lifted high above the bay, soaring over the golden beach with panoramic views of the mountains and Pacific Ocean.
Yelapa Restaurants
Yelapa has locally run beach restaurants and small businesses, but hours and payment options can be informal. Bring cash and check what is open when you arrive instead of assuming every restaurant operates daily.
Fresh seafood is a highlight for me, but menus and the day’s catch vary. Ask what is available rather than assuming every dish was caught locally that morning.
One of the quirkiest Yelapa traditions is the famous “pie ladies.” You’ll see local women walking the beach with trays balanced on their heads, offering slices of homemade pie. Coconut cream, chocolate, lemon meringue – it’s impossible to say no.
Yelapa Town
Wandering the village itself is one of the most underrated things to do. Yelapa still feels like a traditional fishing community, with footpaths, cobblestones, horses, and utility vehicles rather than ordinary through-road traffic. Wear shoes that can handle uneven ground.
Take time to wander around, pet the friendly dogs, talk to the locals, and support the local shops.
A small local museum has operated in Yelapa, but I could not confirm its October 2026 hours or admission. Ask locally before making it a fixed part of your day.
Yelapa Puerto Vallarta hotels
You won’t find any 5-star resorts or big brand names in Yelapa, which is all part of the charm. Here are some suggestions on where to stay in Yelapa!
If you’re planning to spend the night in Yelapa, staying right on the beach makes it extra special. One of my favorite finds is this beachfront villa. It’s got two bedrooms, a kitchen, and space for up to six people, so it’s perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family.
What I love most is how close you are to the water – you can literally walk out the door and be on the sand in seconds. The terrace has gorgeous views of the bay, and having a pool to cool off in after a hike to the waterfall is such a treat. Yelapa already feels like an escape, but staying here makes it even harder to leave.
FAQ: Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa
How long is the boat ride from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa?
Go2Yelapa currently lists minimum travel times of about 55 minutes from Los Muertos and 30 minutes from Boca. Allow extra time for loading, sea conditions, and schedule changes.
How far is Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta?
Yelapa sits on the southern side of Banderas Bay. For planning, the departure point matters more than a straight-line distance: Los Muertos is the longer boat ride, while Boca is closer.
How to get from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa?
Take a public water taxi from Los Muertos or Boca de Tomatlán, or book a tour or private boat. Confirm the departure point, fare, inclusions, and return time before leaving.
Where is Yelapa Mexico?
Yelapa is a coastal village on the southern side of Banderas Bay in Jalisco. Most visitors arrive by boat.
Is Yelapa worth visiting?
Yelapa is a good choice if you want a boat trip, beach time, village paths, and seasonal waterfalls. A day trip works, but an overnight stay gives you more flexibility.
How much is the water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa?
As of October 2026, Go2Yelapa lists tourist round trips at 550 MXN from Los Muertos and 260 MXN from Boca. Confirm the current fare and last return because both can change.
Can you drive to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta?
There is no ordinary road route for visitors to drive into central Yelapa. Water taxi, tour boat, or private boat is the practical way to arrive.
Final thoughts: Yelapa Puerto Vallarta Jalisco
A Yelapa day trip always feels like an escape from the busy energy of Puerto Vallarta. There’s something special about stepping off the boat into a village with no cars, wandering cobblestone paths, swimming in jungle waterfalls, and ending the day with your toes in the sand.
For me, some of my best memories in Mexico have been here, from lazy beach afternoons with friends to hiking out to the quieter waterfall. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, connect with nature, and remember why you came to the coast in the first place.
If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta, make sure Yelapa is on your list. Whether you take a water taxi, book a tour, or spend a weekend exploring, this little village will leave you with some of your best memories in the bay.
Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta? Check out these posts!
- Best Day Trips from PV
- Top Puerto Vallarta Restaurants With a View
- Best Puerto Vallarta Jet Ski Rentals
