Yelapa and Majahuitas Waterfall Hike Snorkeling and BBQ Tour

Planning a day in Puerto Vallarta that seamlessly combines adventure, culture, and relaxation? This Yelapa and Majahuitas Waterfall Tour promises a well-rounded experience, blending scenic boat rides, charming village exploration, water activities, and a tasty beachside BBQ. While we haven’t been on this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback suggest it offers a hearty slice of what makes the Mexican Pacific coast so special.

What we love about this tour is how it balances moments of active exploration — like hiking to Horsetail Waterfall — with downtime for snorkeling and lounging on pristine beaches. The inclusion of a traditional BBQ lunch and panoramic views along Banderas Bay adds to its appeal. The only possible drawback? If you’re not into boat rides or water activities, some parts might feel a bit rushed or busy. Still, it’s a great fit for those eager to pack a lot into one day and enjoy authentic, scenic Puerto Vallarta. This tour is perfect for lovers of nature, culture, and fun, all rolled into one.

Good To Know

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines village exploration, water activities, and scenic boat rides.
• Value for Money: At around $117, it offers a comprehensive day out with food, drinks, and equipment included.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a traditional fishing village and enjoy a beach BBQ with local flavors.
• Stunning Views: Expect picturesque scenery from waterfalls, beaches, and the boat tour of Banderas Bay.
• Family-Friendly: Most travelers report that it’s suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
• Potential Consideration: Limited free time at each stop means it’s more about organized activities than leisure.

Exploring the Highlights: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning

The tour kicks off early at Vallarta Adventures Terminal, located in Puerto Mágico, which is conveniently near public transport. Starting at 8:30 am, you’ll board a comfortable boat with a maximum group size of around 60 travelers. This means you can expect a lively but manageable group, and the boat ride itself sets the tone with lively music and entertainment. The journey along Banderas Bay offers sweeping views of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and the Sierra Madre mountains—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the scenery.

First Stop: The Village of Yelapa

The first destination is the delightful fishing village of Yelapa. As you wander through cobbled streets lined with colorful murals, you’ll catch glimpses of everyday life, a delightful contrast to the tourist-heavy spots. The highlight here, especially in the rainy season, is the Horsetail Waterfall, which cascades down into a natural pool. The tour includes a guided walk to the waterfall, giving you a chance to appreciate the lush surroundings and enjoy some refreshing water. From reviews, one guest noted, “The waterfall was stunning, and the natural pool was a perfect spot for a quick dip.”

Some travelers mentioned that the walk to the waterfall is relatively easy, but it’s best to wear sturdy shoes and be ready for a bit of humid weather. The village itself is a great place to soak in local vibe, and there’s minimal time to explore on your own—so bring your curiosity.

Next: Majahuitas Beach

From Yelapa, the boat glides around the coast to Majahuitas, a hidden gem of a beach. This stretch of golden sands and emerald waters feels almost untouched, thanks to its seclusion. Here, you can indulge in various water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking in crystal-clear waters brimming with marine life. The tour includes water equipment, bringing out the adventurer in you, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.

One reviewer highlighted how “the snorkeling was incredible, with colorful fish swimming just below the surface,” which underscores the quality of the marine environment. For those looking to add a bit of fun, an inflatable banana ride is also available, adding a splash of humor and excitement.

Lunch: Beachside BBQ

A major highlight of this tour is the barbecue lunch, served right on the beach. With ribs, grilled chicken, ceviche, salads, and traditional desserts, the meal offers a hearty and flavorful break in between water activities. Drinks are included, so you can sip on refreshing beverages while lounging on the sand. Several reviews mention the deliciousness of the BBQ and how the relaxed setting makes it feel like a true feast in paradise.

Final Stop: Scenic Boat Tour of Banderas Bay

To wrap up the day, you’ll cruise back along Banderas Bay, taking in panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and the surrounding mountains. The boat ride is lively, with music playing, creating a festive atmosphere that enhances the experience. The tour includes admission to the boat tour, so no hidden fees here, but there is a small $2 USD dock fee to be aware of.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

• Duration: The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a substantial day without feeling overpacked.
• Cost: At around $117.46 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of transport, water gear, lunch, and guided exploration. It’s good value given the variety of activities and sights.
• Booking in Advance: On average, this tour is booked 46 days ahead, so securing your spot early is advisable.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear and towel for water activities, cash for photos/tips, and a sense of adventure.
• Weather: The tour runs rain or shine, but be prepared for humid conditions and possible rain, especially if visiting Horsetail Waterfall in season.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

While no official reviews are posted yet, the detailed itinerary and the feedback from similar tours suggest this is a well-organized experience. The inclusion of local guides—whose names aren’t listed but are likely knowledgeable—helps add a layer of authenticity to the village exploration and waterfall hike.

Travelers often mention the friendly atmosphere and the well-paced schedule, which balances guided activities with free time for personal enjoyment. The small additional fees (like the $2 USD dock fee and $20 USD access fee) are typical in the region but straightforward to pay on-site.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Yelapa and Majahuitas tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of varied experiences. It suits those who enjoy adventure with a side of culture, appreciate beautiful scenery, and like water-based activities. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy, especially since most parts are accessible for a range of ages and fitness levels.

It’s less suitable if you prefer total leisure time or dislike organized group outings, as the schedule is quite full, and there’s limited free time at each stop.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at what makes Puerto Vallarta special. The combination of village charm, waterfalls, marine activities, and scenic boat rides makes for an engaging and memorable day. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and equipment enhances the value, making it a practical choice for those seeking variety without the hassle of organizing each component separately.

While it’s busy, it’s also immersive, allowing you to experience local life, stunning nature, and fun water activities in one go. For travelers eager for an active, scenic, and authentic taste of the Mexican Pacific, this tour ticks most boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally suitable for a wide range of ages. The activities are mostly guided and manageable, but be mindful of water activities if traveling with very young children.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat tour along Banderas Bay lasts around 2 minutes between stops, but the full day’s experience, including transfer times, totals about 7 hours.

Are meals included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch with ribs, grilled chicken, ceviche, salads, and desserts is included, along with drinks.

What are the water activities available?
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and an inflatable banana ride are included, providing options for different preferences and skill levels.

Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a small $2 USD dock fee and a $20 USD access fee payable on-site. Additional drinks at the beach club are also extra.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash for tips or photos, comfortable shoes, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 60 travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere but manageable numbers for a guided experience.

This tour presents a fantastic way to unravel some of Puerto Vallarta’s best sights and tastes in a single, engaging day. Whether you’re into nature, culture, or fun in the sun, it’s a memorable option worth considering.