PUERTO VALLARTA HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A day among carless alleys, jungle waterfalls and coral-fringed coves
An 8-hour excursion from Puerto Vallarta (starting at $75) that combines snorkeling at Majahuitas, kayaking and a guided walk to Yelapa’s Cola de Caballo waterfall—ideal for travelers 6 and up.
A day among carless alleys, jungle waterfalls and coral-fringed coves.
Set against the emerald flank of the Sierra Madre, this boat-run day trip threads together two very different coastal moods: the open, fish-rich shallows of Majahuitas Cove and the timeless, carless village of Yelapa, where a river meets a wide beach beneath a curtain of tropical forest and a cascading waterfall. Expect snorkeling and paddling in clear water, a guided hike to the Cola de Caballo falls, fresh local food and long beach hours—an intentional blend of nature, culture and easy-paced adventure.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Majahuitas Cove: snorkeling in clear, fish-rich water
Majahuitas Cove is a primary marine stop on the itinerary where guests snorkel among local fish populations, with guides providing equipment and spotting marine life.
Kayaking and paddleboarding over sandy-bottom shallows
Single and double ocean kayaks (and paddleboards) are available so you can paddle over clear, sandy-bottom waters and watch marine life below.
Yelapa beach and the Cola de Caballo waterfall
The carless village of Yelapa offers beach time, local gastronomy and a guided walk to the Cola de Caballo waterfall where you can swim, browse artisan handicrafts or simply rest on the sand.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing moves at a deliberate, marine-first pace: morning boat time to reef and cove, surface swims and guided snorkel, midday paddles and beach hours, then a land excursion through Yelapa to a jungle waterfall. Meals, a national open bar after snorkeling and beach-club access are woven into the rhythm, letting you alternate activity with long periods of seaside downtime.
THE ROUTE
Majahuitas Cove: snorkeling in clear, fish-rich water
Majahuitas Cove is a primary marine stop on the itinerary where guests snorkel among local fish populations, with guides providing equipment and spotting marine life.
THE MOVEMENT
Kayaking and paddleboarding over sandy-bottom shallows
Single and double ocean kayaks (and paddleboards) are available so you can paddle over clear, sandy-bottom waters and watch marine life below.
THE PLACE
Yelapa beach and the Cola de Caballo waterfall
The carless village of Yelapa offers beach time, local gastronomy and a guided walk to the Cola de Caballo waterfall where you can swim, browse artisan handicrafts or simply rest on the sand.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day trip suits — and who should be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and any personal medication; guests should not carry or wear valuables during active segments and will not be allowed to wear jewelry in the water.
The tour provides snorkel equipment, kayaks and paddleboards; continental breakfast, a lunch with six menu options and a national open bar on board after snorkeling are included. Optional activities on the beach and certain beverages at restaurants are not included.
Expect an approximately 8-hour schedule with a morning departure and late-afternoon return; the tour includes beach club access, a guided waterfall walk and insurance on board.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the excursion and when does it run?
This is an eight-hour outing with a morning departure and a late-afternoon return (scheduled departure at 9:00 AM and return around 5:00 PM).
What are the rates?
Rates are $35 for ages 6–11 and $75 for ages 12 and up.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes—snorkel equipment is provided as part of the tour.
Can children join the tour?
Children aged 6 and older may participate; guests under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian participating with them in the open-water program.
Are there health or fitness restrictions?
Guests must consider fitness and medical history: those with cardiac, respiratory, epilepsy, diabetes, asthma or similar conditions should exercise caution and consult a physician before participating in snorkeling or swimming activities.
Will I need to sign anything or avoid certain items?
Guests must sign a waiver to participate; do not wear jewelry in the water and avoid carrying valuables during active parts of the excursion.