Puerto Vallarta Bay Tour and Snorkeling: Yelapa, Majahuitas & Hidden Beaches
Spend a full day skirting Bahía de Banderas to snorkel at rock arches, explore tiny coves like Colomitos, and hike to Yelapa’s waterfall. This guided boat tour mixes reef time with beach hopping—perfect for travelers who want a big-picture introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and comply with local conservation best practices.
Morning departures are calmer
Waves tend to pick up after noon—choose an early start for smoother snorkeling and better visibility.
Carry cash for villages
Small restaurants and vendors in Yelapa and Quimixto are often cash-only; bring small bills.
Protect your camera gear
Use a waterproof housing or a dry bag—spray is constant on open boats and at surf-swept beaches.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Colomitos’ narrow bay and tidal pools—great for quiet snorkeling early in the morning
- •A cliff viewpoint near Playa Madagascar with broad bay panoramas and fewer visitors
Wildlife
- •Tropical reef fish and angelfish
- •Seasonal humpback whales (winter months)
Conservation Note
Parts of the bay, including rock arches and nearshore reefs, are protected—visitors are asked to use reef-safe products and avoid touching corals to reduce damage.
The bay has long supported fishing villages and was a site of early Spanish contact; many coastal settlements transitioned to small-scale tourism in the 20th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat looking back toward the Arches of Mismaloya
- • Shoreline at Playa Madagascar for wide bay panoramas
- • Yelapa waterfall path for intimate jungle and cascade shots
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems visited on the tour.
Personal snorkel maskEssential
Comfort and fit improve your time observing reef life and prevent leaks.
Water shoesEssential
Useful for rocky beaches, reef entries, and the short hike to Yelapa waterfall.
Light sun shirt or rash guardEssential
Provides sun protection during long periods on deck and while snorkeling.
Common Questions
Where does the tour meet?
Meet at the maritime passenger loading area in downtown Puerto Vallarta—arrive 30 minutes before departure with your ticket.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkel masks, fins, and life jackets are provided; you may bring your own mask for better fit.
Can non-swimmers join?
Non-swimmers can participate but must wear a life jacket and stay within guide-designated areas; inform staff in advance.
Are there restroom facilities?
Basic facilities are available at larger stops like Yelapa; boats usually have small on-board options depending on size.
What should I bring for Yelapa?
Bring cash, a towel, water-resistant shoes for the trail, and a small dry bag for valuables.
What happens in bad weather?
All sales are final and tours run in most conditions; the operator manages safety and may alter the itinerary if conditions become unsafe.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 hours
Location
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—able to climb short beach trails, swim 50–100 m, and get on/off a small boat.
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