Nestled in the southernmost cove of the world’s 7th largest bay, lies the peaceful village of Yelapa. Although there is a road which leads to the pueblo, it is most easily accessible by boat. Transportation to the village departs daily from various locations in the Puerto Vallarta area. Yelapa’s tranquillity is ideal for those looking to experience something totally different, while on your Mexico vacation. The beach is covered in a blanket of golden sand, and is a superb place to swim, snorkel, or parasail. If you are not that energetic you can just relax in one of the numerous beach chairs, soak up the sun, and enjoy a cold drink.
Scheduled departures to Yelapa leave daily from different locations in the Puerto Vallarta area. Travel to Yelapa is increasing greatly every year, and space on a water taxi is often limited. It is highly recommended that you purchase your tickets early from them. The price of the Water Taxi is 120 pesos one way, or 250 pesos roundtrip. The price of the Water Taxi trip does include your baggage, but only an overnight bag. It is best to be a little bit ahead of time to ensure that you do not miss the boat, as they do sometimes leave earlier than the scheduled departure time.
Once you arrive in Yelapa you disembark at the “playita” pier, the hotel pier, or directly on the beach. This is just the start of your adventure. Have your picture taken with an iguana, or enjoy a meal at one of the many beachside, or village restaurants. The village restaurants, are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
Take a 20-30 minute walk from the beach, or horseback ride into the village. Horse rentals are located behind “Fanny’s Restaurant” on the beach. You’ll wind your way through the village. As you near the waterfall you will pass by “Javier’s Rosewood Artisans”. Here are displayed, salad bowls, rolling pins, vases, chopsticks, and many other things made of locally grown rosewood. Eventually you will arrive at a breathtaking 150-foot waterfall, which has “Cascada y Bosque Restaurant” at its base. If you so desire, you could have a snack, a soda, or a cold beer. A whistle from the Princesa Tour boat signals that it is time to wander back through the village towards the beach. Or if you like, turn your day trip into a romantic overnighter! If you do we suggest you bring these items listed below.
These are only suggestions and your needs may vary depending on the individual, and your length of stay. You will not be able to purchase any of these there.
- Camera
- Binoculars
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Light sweater
- Bath towel, face cloth
- Hiking boots
Personal Items
- Toothbrush, paste
- Shampoo
- Deodorant
- Dental floss
- Razor, blades
- Personal toiletries
- Bath Soap
- Hair brush
- Nail clippers
First-aid Kit
- Band-Aids
- Insect repellent
- Tweezers
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Tylenol or aspirin
- Antiseptic
- Iodine
- Antacid
- Antibiotic cream
Recreational Items
- Note pad & pen
- Book
- Deck of cards