Day trip from:
Puerto Vallarta1 hr

Yelapa

Car-free fishing village with waterfall, jungle, and old Mexico charm—boat access only

Full day
20 MXN(Waterfall entrance. Water taxi roundtrip 500-550 pesos direct from PV, or ~200-240 pesos via Boca de Tomatlán.)
November-May for calmest waters and driest conditions. Waterfall is most impressive after rainy season (October-November). Avoid if prone to seasickness—open ocean crossing can be rough.

Overview

Yelapa is what Puerto Vallarta felt like 50 years ago—a **car-free fishing village** accessible only by water taxi, where cobblestone paths wind through jungle, palapas line the beach, and the signature pie ladies sell coconut and chocolate creations to arriving visitors. Located on the southern shore of Banderas Bay, this remote community of ~1,500 residents offers escape from Puerto Vallarta's bustle while remaining a feasible full-day trip. The **waterfall hike** (about 30 minutes each way, $20 pesos entrance) rewards with a swimming hole surrounded by jungle. From **Los Muertos Pier** in Puerto Vallarta, water taxis cost **500-550 pesos ($28-30) roundtrip** and take 45-60 minutes through open ocean (can be choppy). For half the price, take the **10-peso bus to Boca de Tomatlán**, then a water taxi for just **90-120 pesos one-way**. The beach is swimmable, horseback riding to the waterfall is available, and fresh-caught fish meals at beachfront palapas run $8-15.

Highlights

Car-free village—no roads in, only boat access preserves old Mexico feel
Waterfall hike (30 min each way) with jungle swimming hole—20 pesos entrance
Famous "pie ladies" selling homemade coconut and chocolate pies on the beach
Fresh-caught seafood at beachfront palapas—fish meals $8-15
Budget route: 10-peso bus to Boca de Tomatlán, then 90-120 peso water taxi
Direct water taxi from Los Muertos Pier: 500-550 pesos ($28-30) roundtrip
Swimmable beach with calm water in protected cove
Horseback riding to the waterfall available
Small expat community for those seeking true escape

Practical Information

Suggested Duration

Full day

Entrance Fee

20 MXN

Waterfall entrance. Water taxi roundtrip 500-550 pesos direct from PV, or ~200-240 pesos via Boca de Tomatlán.

Best Time to Visit

November-May for calmest waters and driest conditions. Waterfall is most impressive after rainy season (October-November). Avoid if prone to seasickness—open ocean crossing can be rough.

How to Get There
boat
Location
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