Yelapa

An accessible-only-by-boat village south of Puerto Vallarta nestled in a jungle-clad cove with a pristine beach, waterfall, and few vehicles. It offers an escape into bohemian simplicity with palapa restaurants, hammocks, and the kind of natural beauty that makes it a favorite for day trips or extended stays.

Things to do

• Waterfall Swimming — Hike inland through jungle trails to a cascading freshwater waterfall with a natural pool perfect for cooling off.
• Beach Lounging & Hammocks — Relax in a beachfront hammock strung between palm trees while watching fishing boats and enjoying unobstructed ocean views.
• Snorkeling at Nearby Reefs — Take a boat trip to nearby rocky coves and reefs to spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral formations.
• Jungle Canopy Walk — Explore the lush jungle canopy on guided trails to spot wildlife including parrots, iguanas, and native plants.
• Sunset Boat Watching — Sit at a beachside palapa restaurant and watch traditional fishing boats return as the sun sets over the Pacific.
• Visit El Tuito for Artisan Goods — Day trip to the nearby hillside village by foot or boat to browse local crafts, pottery, and handmade jewelry from local artisans.

Food to try

• Ceviche Tostadas — Fresh local catch cured in lime juice, served on crispy tostadas with avocado, cilantro, and jalapeños at beachfront palapas.
• Grilled Red Snapper (Huachinango) — Whole fresh-caught red snapper grilled whole and served with lime, garlic, and fresh tortillas at waterfront restaurants.
• Coconut Fish Soup — A rich broth made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and local vegetables, reflecting the region's Caribbean-Pacific fusion cooking.
• Shrimp Tacos with Garlic — Plump local shrimp sautéed in garlic and served in warm corn tortillas with cabbage slaw and chipotle crema.
• Fresh Fruit Smoothie Bowls — Açai or papaya-based bowls topped with granola and local tropical fruits, popular at casual beachside cafés.

Local customs & good to know

• No Cars, No Rush — Yelapa operates without vehicles; all transport is by foot, boat, or horseback, so adopt a slower pace and embrace the traffic-free simplicity.
• Cash Only Economy — Bring pesos in cash as most palapas and small vendors do not accept cards; ATMs are limited or nonexistent in the village.
• Respect Local Fishing Culture — Support the community by eating at family-run palapas that source from local fishermen, and avoid buying from outside vendors when possible.
• Hurricane Season Awareness — The village can be isolated during heavy rains or rough seas from June to October, so plan accordingly and ask boat operators about weather conditions.