PUERTO VALLARTA HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Secluded Yelapa by Private Boat — Snorkel Colimilla, Taste Yelapa Pie, Hike to a Waterfall
A 6-hour private boat experience from Puerto Vallarta that combines snorkeling at Colimilla, beach time in Yelapa, the village’s famed pie and a short hike to a waterfall.
Secluded Yelapa by Private Boat — Snorkel Colimilla, Taste Yelapa Pie, Hike to a Waterfall.
This private, six-hour outing from Puerto Vallarta delivers a concentrated taste of Banderas Bay’s quieter coast: a short boat run to Colimilla for snorkeling, time on Yelapa’s sun-worn beach and village, a local slice of Yelapa pie, and a steep-but-brief hike up into the hills to a waterfall before returning to the pier.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Snorkeling at Colimilla (Playa Virgen)
The itinerary begins with snorkeling off Colimilla—also referenced as Playa Virgen—where snorkel equipment is provided and guests can swim from a quiet beach before continuing to Yelapa.
Yelapa Beach and Local Pie
After the water stop the trip spends time ashore in Yelapa village: a chance to stroll the vibrant beach, meet locals and sample the town’s well-known Yelapa pie.
Short Waterfall Hike into the Hills
The tour finishes with an uphill walk from the village to a nearby waterfall—an accessible, photo-ready cascade reached by a walk that can be tiresome for some yet is not long.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Over roughly six hours you’ll ride a private boat south from Puerto Vallarta with a small group, slip into warm bay water to snorkel, stretch your legs on Yelapa’s sand and streets, take a slice of the local pie, and climb a short trail to a waterfall before returning to the pier.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The private experience runs approximately 6 hours and is available daily with departure times at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Meet at one of the chosen pickup places at Los Muertos Pier, Marina Vallarta or Los Peines Pier; exact directions are provided upon confirmation.
The tour includes a private boat for up to seven people, snorkel equipment, bottled water and an ice cooler.
Bring cash for purchases ashore, bio-friendly sunscreen, and beach clothing if you plan to snorkel; note the waterfall walk may be tiresome for some (about a 15-minute walk at a slow pace).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The private tour lasts approximately 6 hours.
Where do we meet the boat?
You can choose pickup at Los Muertos Pier, Marina Vallarta or Los Peines Pier; directions are provided with confirmation.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat for up to seven people, snorkel equipment, bottled water and an ice cooler.
Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?
The tour is not recommended for expecting mothers.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refundable or accepted.
What should I bring for the waterfall hike and snorkeling?
Bring cash for purchases ashore, bio-friendly sunscreen, beach clothing if you want to snorkel; the hike to the waterfall is short but can be tiresome for some.