yelapa puerto vallarta tour

How to Visit Yelapa From Puerto Vallarta Mexico

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: July 4, 2023  - Last updated: September 12, 2023

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Wondering how to visit Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta? Let me help you! I’ve been living in Puerto Vallarta for three years, and visiting Yelapa is one of my favorite things to do! I’ve been on many day trips to Yelapa, as well as long weekend stays.

If you’re looking for an escape from the city, Yelapa is the perfect place to go. It’s got beautiful hiking trails that lead to secluded waterfalls, unique accommodation options that immerse you in nature, and a gorgeous beachfront to soak in the Pacific Coast sunsets.

The overall vibe in Yelapa is wonderful; some say it’s Mexico’s last authentic beach town.

This guide has everything you need to know about getting to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta, places to stay, and what to do in Yelapa once you’re there.

BEST YELAPA TOUR

Don’t have time to read this guide? This all-inclusive mega yacht tour is the most fun way to visit Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta.

Table of Contents

How to get to Yelapa Mexico

Yelapa is commonly mistaken as an island, but it’s actually connected to the mainland.

There aren’t any roads to Yelapa, so the only way to get from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa is by tour, water taxi, (long) hike, or dirt bike (my friend rode his). But most people opt for a tour or water taxi!

Yelapa Tours from Puerto Vallarta

The easiest way to go on a Yelapa day trip from Puerto Vallarta is on one of these Yelapa tours .

Yacht to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars (700+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   6 hours | ✅  Book it!

A great way to visit Yelapa is on this all-inclusive mega yacht. It’s one of the best catamaran tours in Puerto Vallarta!

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)

You’ll go sailing through the Bay of Banderas, stopping at Playa Las Animas and Yelapa, where you’ll get the chance to swim in the Yelapa waterfalls and snorkeling in the turquoise water. While cruising, you’ll enjoy drinks from a premium open bar!

Majahuitas and Yelapa Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars (500+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 hours | ✅  Book it!

Another great option is this tour that takes you to both Majahuitas and Yelapa.

The first stop is at Yelapa, where you’ll have time to hike to the waterfall or relax on the beach.

In the afternoon, you’ll relax at Majahuitas Beah Club, where you’ll enjoy lunch and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.

Surpassed expectations. The service was above and beyond. Everyone came around to make sure you had a drink when you wanted one and they were very punctual with all activities. – Elia (read more reviews)

Yelapa Water Taxi

There are public water taxis if you want to go on a day trip to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta without a tour.

You can get a water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa from Los Muertos Pier or from Boca Del Tomatlan. You can see the schedule here and book a ferry online here.

Bocas Del Tomatlan is a small town outside Puerto Vallarta, which you can reach by bus from Zona Romantica or a taxi/Uber.

The water taxis to Yelapa run more regularly from Boca Del Tomatlan, and the ride is shorter than from Los Muertos. The water taxi from Boca takes about 30 minutes.

There are some Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa water taxis that leave from Los Muertos Pier, but they run less frequently and are longer and more expensive (380 pesos round trip).

If you’re only visiting Yelapa for a day, make sure you get the last public boat back from Yelapa to Puerto Vallarta, which usually leaves around 5 (confirm with the water taxis when you get off). Otherwise, you will have to pay for a private Yelapa water taxi which is much more expensive.

We had to hire a private boat to take us back from Yelapa to Puerto Vallarta as we missed the last public water taxi, which we paid 220 USD for (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 ride!

It’s a nice boat ride, going along the edges of the southern part of Banderas Bay. It passes small beaches along the way, sometimes stopping to pick up other passengers.

Book a water taxi to Yelapa here !

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!

This one-bedroom holiday home is one of the more luxurious options, with gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and an outdoor patio.

Casa Visit Magica offers beautiful ocean-view apartments with hammocks to enjoy the breeze, comfortable bedrooms, and fantastic reviews.

We stayed at this Los Naranjos, which was an experience in itself. It’s about a 15-minute uphill walk from the beach, or you can take ATVs up there.

It’s set in a beautiful jungle setting, but the accommodation is rustic. The rooms don’t have walls, so it truly felt like we were living in the jungle. However, they do provide mosquito nets, and there are clean bathrooms with running water.

Find more accommodation options in 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 home to some of the best waterfalls near Puerto Vallarta.

There are a couple of Yelapa waterfalls that you can hike to. One is just 20 minutes from the pier, and you can easily walk to it by following the signs from Yelapa town.

If you get confused, ask any locals in town “cascada” which means waterfall, 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 pretty underwhelming as there wasn’t really any water, but I still enjoyed walking through the town and checking out the gorgeous street art.

There is a larger waterfall that takes about an hour to reach, which I recently had the chance to visit. It’s a beautiful spot to go swimming!

On my first trip to Yelapa, our group decided to go to an even further waterfall which was quite the adventure. It took us about 4 hours to get there with over nine river crossings, so I wouldn’t do this without a guide (we hired one from Los Naranjos).

While the hike was long, the falls were so wonderful to swim in once we got there. There was no one else around, and we were surrounded by a pristine jungle with macaws flying above.

We climbed up even further to the top of the waterfall, where there were beautiful small pools to swim in.

It took us even longer to get back due to a few wrong turns, so this was a 12-hour adventure!

Yelapa beach Puerto Vallarta

Yelapa feels like a secluded island, so one of the best things to do here is simply enjoying the Yelapa beach and unforgettable sunsets over the ocean.

There’s also a man who walks around with a giant iguana you can take photos with.

Massages are also available on the beach, which is the perfect way to relax.

Yelapa Water activities

During the whale watching season (December to March), you can go whale watching from Yelapa, with great chances of spotting magnificent humpback whales.

The ocean is right there, so it’s a great place to go for a swim or kayak/paddleboard.

If you’re feeling like more adventure, you can also go paragliding in Yelapa for a birds-eye view over the ocean.

With such beautiful water around the beach, Yelapa is also one of the best places to go snorkeling around Puerto Vallarta.

Yelapa Restaurants

There are a few restaurants on the beach where you can order food to enjoy. One unique thing about Yelapa is that the only businesses in town are locally run – you won’t find any chain restaurants here!

The seafood quality is fantastic as the restaurants buy it directly from the fisherman.

We ate at Yelapa Yacht Club after our hike, and the food was terrific. They also had some great live music.

Yelapa is famous for its beach pies, which local vendors sell along the beach for just a couple of dollars in the afternoon.

Yelapa Town

Yelapa is home to charming winding streets decorated with colorful flags and graffiti.

Take time to wander around, pet the friendly dogs, talk to the locals, and support the local shops.

There’s a cultural museum in Yelapa you can visit for only 50 pesos to learn more about the history of this town.

FAQ: Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa

How long is the boat ride from puerto vallarta to yelapa.

The boat from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa takes about 45 minutes to an hour if you leave from Los Muertos Pier or 20 to 30 minutes from Boca de Tomatlan. It varies depending on weather conditions.

How far is Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta?

Yelapa is located approximately 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) southwest of Puerto Vallarta.

How to get from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa?

To get from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa, you can take a water taxi from Los Muertos Pier or go on a guided tour.

Where is Yelapa Mexico?

Yelapa is a charming fishing village on the southern coast of Banderas Bay in Mexico, accessible only by boat.

Is Yelapa worth visiting?

Yelapa is definitely worth visiting for its natural beauty, secluded beaches, waterfalls, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a unique escape from the bustling city life of Puerto Vallarta.

How much is the water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa?

The cost of a water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa can vary, but it is typically around 400 pesos (20 USD) from Los Muertos Pier for a round-trip ticket.

Can you drive to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta?

No, there are no roads for regular cars that connect Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa. The village is only accessible by boat, making water taxi or private boat charter the preferred mode of transportation.

Final thoughts: Yelapa Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

Yelapa, Mexico is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit for travelers in Puerto Vallarta.

With its picturesque beaches, stunning waterfalls, and serene atmosphere, Yelapa offers a perfect escape from bustling city life.

While you can visit Yelapa as a day trip from Puerto Vallarta, I recommend staying at least a night.

This secluded beach town is the perfect place to travel to unwind and enjoy Mexico’s pristine nature.

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

Lora Pope is a travel content creator who’s been wandering solo for over a decade. In 2021, she moved to Puerto Vallarta and fell in love at first sight. After visiting 70+ countries, she decided to make it her base and now helps travelers like you make the most of your time in PV.

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This is so helpful I’m trying to plan a last minute trip there right now! How long would you stay is a long enough stay? We’re looking at a week.

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Yelapa and Majahuitas Tour

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Ready to spend a relaxing day in the south part of the bay and experience a little bit of the coastal life of Mexico? Then you won’t want to miss out on this amazing tour that lets you explore the small fishing town of Yelapa, as well as the secluded Majahuitas beach.

Your day begins at one of two pick-up points: Nuevo Vallarta or Puerto Vallarta where we will take a boat over to our first destination: Yelapa.

Upon your arrival, you can choose to spend your time at the beach or take a scenic hike through the town of Yelapa, admiring its unique views that combine the beach, the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains and the Yelapa river, as well as the numerous colorful artwork pieces that adorn its pathways and staircases.

After some exploration time in Yelapa, we’ll head back to the boat and make our way to Majahuitas, an almost private beach, tastefully furnished in a laid-back hippie chic style. Once there, you can spend the rest of the day however you wish, whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, or just simply sun tanning on the beach.

Your day wouldn’t be complete without lunch, open bar on board, and the liveliest ambiance on your way back, thanks to the entertainment show performed by our boat crew.

Visit two coves of Banderas Bay in one day

The Bay of Banderas is home to two of the most picturesque coves of the Mexican Pacific: Yelapa and Majahuitas, located just south of Puerto Vallarta.

Home to sandy beaches, warm ocean waters, and tropical wildlife both on land and in the sea, Yelapa and Majahuitas are everything you’d imagine when you think of a tropical destination.

Cruise with us past picturesque coastal scenery, where dolphin encounters and (in winter) humpback whale sightings are common occurrences, to an area accessible only by sea. Once on land, take a scenic hike in the lively Yelapa or relax on the secluded Majahuitas beach.

Learn more about our Yelapa and Majahuitas Tour below, and book with us now!

Explore Yelapa Fishing Village

Yelapa Mexico, just south of Puerto Vallarta and only accessible by boat, is home to a small fishing community and is a must-see destination for those traveling to Puerto Vallarta.

Our tour will allow you to freely stroll through the town’s hilly narrow roads and pathways, which offer views to spare of the river, the beach, and the tropical vegetation that cover the foothills of the Sierra Madre, where Yelapa is located. Expressive murals and tile artwork cover some of its walls and staircases, making the hike an Instagram-worthy experience.

You’ll find street vendors with colorful displays of arts & crafts, hand-made pieces, and souvenirs, as well as others offering a local famous dessert simply known as the “Yelapa pie”, made of tropical fruits such as banana, coconut, or lime.

If you don’t feel like walking, it’s always a good idea just to chill at one of the traditional beach restaurants, with a beer or a tropical drink on hand, while you enjoy the views of the fishing boats floating on Yelapa’s warm waters.

During the rainy season, one of the town’s points of interest is the Yelapa waterfall, also called “Cola de Caballo”, so if you are taking the Yelapa & Majahuitas tour from July to November, make sure you don’t miss the guided walk to this refreshing waterfall.

Kayak, Paddleboard and Snorkel in Majahuitas

Experience the breathtaking exclusive beach of Majahuitas. With its untouched golden beach and emerald water, it’s the perfect hideaway for a day of snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

Although the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life varies throughout the year due to water temperature, tides, and currents; most of the time, Majahuitas offers a good underwater experience thanks to its secluded location, protected from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For those who don’t want to practice water sports, Majahuitas is also an ideal place for relaxation and sun tanning. Explore all of the hidden corners of this casual beach club, decored in a tasteful hippie-chic style, that will give you plenty of opportunities to take a photo and show off a little bit of your time in Puerto Vallarta.

What do you need to know before you book

• Please be aware that  you must be at the check-in point 30 minutes prior to departure . Boarding will be closed 10 minutes prior to departure time.
• Child prices apply to children ages 4 to 11
• Children 12 years and older are considered an adult
• Due to federal regulations, and in an effort to protect the flight path of endemic birds, drones are prohibited in this tour. We appreciate your attention to this important policy.

Included/Excluded

• Boat ride to Yelapa and Majahuitas
• Deli-style lunch
• Open bar on board
• Snorkeling and kayaking equipment
• Light sweater (winter months)
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Extra cash for dock fees, photos and souvenirs

Activity's Location

What if i have never snorkeled before.

Not a problem! Our guides will show you how to use the equipment and take you to the best snorkel locations.

I know how to snorkel and would like to free dive. Can I do this?

Unfortunately federal regulations prohibit free diving. Only snorkeling with a life jacket is permitted.

Do you provide wet suits?

Yes wetsuits are available by request during the winter months.

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Boat Cruises and Tours in Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita

The best all-inclusive tours in the bay of banderas.

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime! Join us for an unforgettable day on the water and enjoy one of our signature All-Inclusive Boat Tours. We offer public tours to the Marietas Islands, Yelapa Falls, Half Day Snorkeling Excursions and Sunset Cruises. Chica Locca Tours also offers private boat tours for any size group including; weddings, stagette, birthdays or any special occasion. 

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Let’s make it personal, give Gil the owner a call. He loves to help plan the best customized option that is perfect for your family and friends.

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• Best beaches

Located just 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta and 25 minutes from Boca de Tomatlan, Yelapa is a peaceful fishing village nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. 

A haven of privacy and tranquility, Yelapa is accessible only by boat.  Its bohemian and relaxed atmosphere is known to have attracted a large number of artists and musicians who have made this secluded village their home.

Many have found inspiration in Yelapa's lush tropical surroundings, the ever joyous song of the stream that runs through the village, and the rich flora and fauna that inhabit the nearby mountains. 

The beach in Yelapa is gently lapped by emerald green waters with gentle waves.  It is ideal for swimming and other water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paragliding, parasailing, and even sport fishing.

After a refreshing dip in the ocean, there is nothing better than soaking up the sun under the shade of a palapa.  Comfortable lounge chairs are usually available at one of the quaint beachfront restaurants for a minimal food and beverage charge.  Most offer traditional Mexican dishes and fresh seafood, best enjoyed with an ice-cold cerveza . 

Yelapa also has several small boutique hotels offering luxury beachfront accommodations, yoga retreats, alternative therapies, detox programs, individual or group meditation, and other holistic treatments.

Don't miss a visit to the Yelapa Museum of Art, History and Culture, a worthy addition to the town's cultural scene since 2019. Conveniently located in the heart of Yelapa, this nonprofit museum houses a variety of historical and cultural artifacts. It also features a permanent photographic exhibit by renowned American artist Lisa Law.  

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YELAPA & MAJAHUITAS TOUR

Get on board our double decker catamaran for a great cruise in Puerto Vallarta, we will depart to the beautiful Majahuitas beach .  Here you can jump in to the water for a great snorkeling trip and swim among the diverse underwater flora and fauna.  After your refreshing swim we will then part to Yelapa, a beautiful fishing village, surrounded by nature and full of incredible views, golden sand beach and very friendly people.  

On the beach you can enjoy many different extra activities, besides laying under the warm sun you can also enjoy additional activities (at an extra cost) like get refreshing drinks, enjoy a mule riding tour, and some other beach activities.  But if you are looking for adventure you can join a walking tour to the waterfalls and once there you can let the cool water refresh you.

Then we are going back to the beach club where you can do some watersports, we have available kayaks and paddle boards .  By now you might have worked some appetite, for you lunch will be ready at the beach restaurant.  On our way back we will enjoy some great activities with the fun crew, get ready for some fun and games.  A great day in Puerto Vallarta!

Cruise Passengers:   This tour is available as a shore excursion if your schedule allows!

Runs:  Daily at 10:00AM.

Departs From :  Maritime Terminal.  Exact directions will be provided with your confirmation.

Duration :  8 Hours Approximately.

• Scenic Coastline Cruise of Puerto Vallarta
• Friendly English-Speaking Tour Guides
• Continental Breakfast
• Lunch at a Beach Restaurant
• Open Bar on Board the Boat
• Guided Walk to the Waterfall (Optional)
• Free Time for Exploring or Beach
• Snorkeling Equipment
• Paddle Boards & Kayaks*

*There are only 4 Kayaks and 4 Paddle Boards. To ensure you enjoy both activities, everyone in the tour group will have 10 minutes on each.

You'll Need:

• Biodegradable Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
• Walking Shoes
• 30 Pesos (About $1.50) Port Fee
• Extra Cash for Drinks, Beach Activities, etc.

Optional at the beach: Rent a Mule to the Waterfall (Approx. $20.00) . Beach Activities Available for an Extra Cost.

TO ADD THIS TOUR TO YOUR CART, CLICK "BOOK NOW"  

• 9:15 AM Check-In at Marina
• 10:00 AM Scenic Coastline Tour
• 11:30 AM Snorkeling at Majahuitas
• 12:15 AM Depart for Yelapa
• 12:30 AM Waterfall Visit (Optional)
• 1:00 PM Lunch (If No Waterfall)
• 3:00 PM Lunch (Waterfall Visitors)
• 4:30 PM Cruise Back to Puerto V.
• 6:00 PM Arrive Back to Marina

Our Advice: We recommend to skip the mules and walk to the waterfall. In rainy season, the waterfall is a must-see, very beautiful. In dry season, not so much. If you prefer, you can skip the waterfall and spend more time exploring Yelapa or being on the beach.

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Best Things to Do Off the Resort in Puerto Vallarta

P uerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s greatest beach destinations. Except these days, it is so much more than just a great beach town.

What was once a sleepy fishing village has transformed into a world-class city by the sea. One of the rare combinations of coastal getaway and amenity-packed city, the energy in Puerto Vallarta is unlike anywhere else in Mexico.

Packed with restaurants, bars, beach clubs, and activities, there is never a shortage of activity in this Pacific Coast jewel. It also happens to have some of the best resorts in Mexico. But if travelers come to Puerto Vallarta and opt to never leave their hotel, they may be missing out on what makes Puerto Vallarta so special.

One of the safest cities in Mexico, the allure of Puerto Vallarta is what waits to be discovered along its cobblestone streets, up its mountain roadways, or down along the coastline. Get ready to discover the best of Puerto Vallarta with this roundup of the best things to do off the resort.

Puerto Vallarta’s Best Neighborhoods

Puerto Vallarta is a fairly large place these days, especially when you remember that it started as a small fishing village and beach town. If you’re venturing off of the resort, these are the neighborhoods that you may want to know.

The Marina: Home to several hotels and resorts, and the place where all the cruise ships come in, Puerto Vallarta’s Marina is well-stocked with restaurants, shops, and tour operators. It’s a very safe and walkable area, but because its primary focus is tourism you may be paying a lot more for food and activities in the marina.

Las Glorias and Versalles: These two neighborhoods are just a few minutes away from the Marina, but have a much more local vibe. Separated by the main road, Las Glorias is the neighborhood directly on the beach, while Versalles is a bit more residential. Las Glorias is essentially Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone. Both, however, have been expanding their offerings at a rapid rate to include some of the best restaurants and bars in Puerto Vallarta that are outside the resort walls.

Cinco de Diciembre: This beachfront neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, toes-in-the-sand restaurants, and a mix of local and expat residents. “Cinco,” as it's known, is the beginning of the original Puerto Vallarta. It’s here you’ll find the start of the historic homes that climb up the mountainsides, funky restaurants, and lots of shopping.

Centro: Centro is where the world-famous Malecon begins. It’s also where you will find Puerto Vallarta’s main square and its most famous church, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. The Malecon is lined with art sculptures and has some of the city’s most iconic views.

Zona Romantica: Finally, at the end of the malecon you will arrive at Zona Romantica, or the historic downtown of Puerto Vallarta. The oldest part of the city, and certainly its most beautiful, Zona Romantica has the iconic cobblestone streets, the iconic Los Muertos Pier, and the most famous beaches in Puerto Vallarta. It’s also the most popular neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta for dining and nightlife.

Best Activities in Puerto Vallarta 

Being a full-fledged city on the sea means Puerto Vallarta has so many fantastic things to do. Of course, you’ll find lovely beaches but chances are your resort has one of those. If you want to venture off of the resort, these are the best activities in Puerto Vallarta.

The Malecon

One of Puerto Vallarta's most important attractions is the Malecon. The pedestrian-only walkway hugs the coastline from Centro all the way down to the Zona Romantica. Along the way, you'll have the best views of the Bay of Banderas, as well as the jungle-covered mountains, historic homes, and colorful street art. The Malecon is the buzzy heart of Puerto Vallarta and has something happening at all hours of the day (and night).

Bay of Banderas

Central to the identity of Puerto Vallarta is the massive Bay of Banderas. The entire essence of the city thrives on this gorgeous body of water. One of the best things to do off of the resort in Puerto Vallarta is to get out on the water, whether it's a water taxi from Los Muertos Pier down to the more isolated beaches, a sunset cruise, or an adventure visit to Islas Marietas, a group of protected islands.

If you're visiting between December and March, keep your eyes peeled for whale sightings.

Mirador Cerro de La Cruz

If you want a little bit of exercise that pays out in spectacular views, consider a hike to the Mirador Cerro de La Cruz. High above Centro, this bird's-eye perch has sweeping views of the city, bay, and across the bay to Punta Mita.

Magical Towns

Puerto Vallarta has several Magical Towns that are within an easy driving distance for a day trip. If you don't want to drive yourself, plenty of local tour operators offer day trips. The most popular is San Sebastian del Oeste, an old mining town up in the mountains.

The temperature here is much cooler, the tops of the trees blanketed in fog, and a landscape of beautiful churches, ranches, and abandoned mines. Travelers can also explore Talpa de Allende, known for its famous church, and Mascota, a Sierra Madre village shrouded in pine and oak trees.

Another option is to head north to the neighboring state of Nayarit to visit the now world-famous Sayulita. This Magical Town has long been a favorite among surfers and backpackers, but in the past few years has exploded to have art galleries, restaurants, and bars. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, but it is one of the top attractions near Puerto Vallarta.

One of Puerto Vallarta's best beaches is one that can't be seen from town. You'll have to hop a water taxi and take a 45-minute boat trip south to the tiny village of Yelapa. This beachfront town is only accessible by boat and is home to rustic restaurants, guesthouses, and a crescent-shaped beach with gentle, blue-green water.

Zona Romantica

A trip down to the Zona Romantica is a must for any visit to Puerto Vallarta. The most beautiful neighborhood in the city, this is the spot to visit for the best Instagrammable photos of cobblestone streets, white historic buildings and red terracotta roofs.

Many of the city’s top restaurants and bars are here, and it has some of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular beaches.

One of the top reasons to come to Puerto Vallarta is to try the food. Local specialties include seafood, birria, ceviche, and much more. Several tour companies offer local food tours to many different restaurants and street carts. One of the best foodie experiences is Vallarta Food Tours’ Versalles Tour.

This experience takes you out of the main tourist areas and into the local neighborhoods to try some of the restaurants and local eateries that are shaking up the foodie scene in Puerto Vallarta.

Islas Marietas

The government-protected Islas Marietas is a group of uninhabited islands known for its rare wildlife. Local tour operators, like Boca Chicca or Vallarta Adventures, can arrange snorkel trips, paddle boarding, or even a visit to the hidden beach located inside one of the islands.

Getting Around Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a very easy city to get around, and one of the safest in Mexico. Taxis are abundant and offer rates that are calculated by neighborhood zones. Uber is also available in Puerto Vallarta, and usually for a much lower rate than local taxis.

Once you’re in any neighborhood, it’s very easy to walk around. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even walk from neighborhood to neighborhood and get a feel for them all.