Yelapa: what to do in the hidden village of Banderas Bay

South of Puerto Vallarta, where the mountains drop straight into the sea, lies Yelapa: a fishing village surrounded by jungle that no road reaches. The only practical way to visit is by sea, so the journey is part of the adventure. Here is what to do in Yelapa and how to make the most of your boat tour.

How do you get to Yelapa?

Yelapa has no road access, so you arrive by boat. On our Yelapa boat tour we depart from Mismaloya Beach, the closest departure point to the south of the bay, which cuts down travel time and leaves you more hours to enjoy. The full trip takes 5 to 6 hours.

Things to do in Yelapa

• Hike to the waterfall: a walk of about 20 minutes past village houses and greenery takes you to the waterfall. It is optional, but well worth it.
• Enjoy the beach: Yelapa cove is calm and perfect for a swim or a rest in the shade of a palapa.
• Try the local food: fresh fish, seafood and the famous homemade pies sold on the beach.
• Stroll through the village: cobblestone streets, no cars, and a pace of life from another era.

Majahuitas and Colimillas: the stops along the way

The tour is not only Yelapa. Along the way we stop at Majahuitas, a clear-water cove perfect for snorkeling among tropical fish, and at Colimillas Beach, a small hidden beach framed by jungle. If you love spots like these, you will enjoy our guide to hidden beaches.

What the tour includes

A local guide, life jackets, snorkel gear and a cooler with water. Check prices and group rates on the Yelapa boat tour page.

What to bring to Yelapa

• Comfortable shoes for the waterfall hike, plus sandals for the beach.
• Cash in pesos: many places in the village do not take cards.
• Biodegradable sunscreen, a hat and a swimsuit.
• A dry bag or waterproof case for your phone during the boat ride.

See our full list of what to bring on a water tour.

When to go?

Yelapa is great all year round. From December to April the sea is usually calmer and the waterfall carries less water; in the rainy season (July to October) the jungle is greener and the waterfall fuller, though it is best to head out early to beat the afternoon showers. If you visit in winter, pair it with a whale watching tour.