Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos

Colomitos Beach is one of the smallest and most photographed beaches south of Puerto Vallarta. Its clear turquoise water, jungle backdrop, and compact cove setting make it feel secluded, even though it is only a short distance from Boca de Tomatlán. Because there is no road access, visitors must choose between hiking, taking a water taxi, or arriving by private boat. The method you choose significantly affects your experience. Some options involve physical effort and heat exposure, while others prioritize speed or comfort. Timing also matters, as the beach fills quickly due to limited space.

Where Is Colomitos Beach and Why Is It Special?

Colomitos is located just south of Boca de Tomatlán along the southern edge of Banderas Bay. It sits between Boca and Las Ánimas, accessible only by boat or via the coastal jungle trail. The hike follows rocky shoreline paths and forested sections overlooking the Pacific. What makes Colomitos distinct is its size. It is often described as one of the smallest beaches in Mexico, with limited sand space that can fill quickly by late morning. The cove’s protected shape often provides clearer water than more exposed beaches, making it a popular snorkeling spot during calm conditions. However, because the usable beach area is compact, early arrival is critical. Once full, visitors may need to wait for others to leave before comfortably settling in.

Quick Comparison: Hike vs Water Taxi vs Private Boat

Choosing how to reach Colomitos depends on your fitness level, budget, and flexibility needs. Below is a clear comparison of the three main options based on typical conditions and regional pricing.

Comparison Table

This side-by-side comparison highlights that each option involves trade-offs in timing, comfort, and control over your return schedule.

Hiking from Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos

The hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos typically takes 40 to 60 minutes, depending on pace and conditions. The trail includes uneven rock sections, narrow jungle paths, and occasional elevation changes. While not technically difficult, it can feel demanding in humid conditions, especially during warmer months when temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F). Proper footwear is essential, as some sections involve loose stones and exposed roots.

Starting before 9:00 a.m. reduces heat exposure and increases the chance of arriving before the beach fills. During the rainy season (June through October), muddy patches and slippery rocks can make footing unstable. Those with knee issues, limited mobility, or low tolerance for humidity may find the hike uncomfortable.

Hike Summary

• Best started early morning
• Requires closed-toe shoes
• Avoid during heavy rainfall
• Not ideal for young children or mobility limitations

Taking a Water Taxi (Panga)

Water taxis depart from the Boca de Tomatlán dock area and operate throughout the day. Boats typically leave when full, which can mean short waits during busy periods. The ride to Colomitos takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on sea conditions. One-way fares generally range from 70 to 150 MXN per person, though prices may vary slightly based on fuel and season.

Return timing is important. Boats operate on informal but limited schedules, and late afternoon departures may become crowded. During high season, particularly between December and March, congestion at the dock increases. Most pangas accept cash only, so carrying small bills is recommended. While this method is efficient and affordable, flexibility remains limited compared to private options.

Going by Private Boat

Arriving by private rental boat offers complete control over timing and route. Instead of coordinating with shared departures, you choose when to leave and how long to stay. Private departures can also include swim stops along the way or brief visits to nearby coves. This option allows you to arrive earlier than most hikers and water taxis, improving your chances of securing space on the beach.

Another advantage is return flexibility. Rather than rushing to catch the last panga or hiking back in afternoon heat, you depart when ready. Combining Colomitos with Las Ánimas or Los Arcos becomes simple when not bound by fixed schedules. For groups seeking comfort and efficiency, private boat access provides a smoother overall experience.

What Most Tourists Get Wrong About Colomitos Access

Many visitors underestimate how quickly Colomitos fills up, especially during weekends and high season. Hiking at midday exposes travelers to peak heat and reduces available beach space upon arrival. Humidity along the jungle trail can feel more intense than expected, particularly between late morning and early afternoon. For special occasions, such as a destination wedding or a romantic getaway, consider booking a wedding yacht rental in Puerto Vallarta, which can give you an unforgettable experience on the water and at the beach.

Another common issue is missing the last convenient return boat from Boca, creating unnecessary stress. Visitors also assume the cove provides full-day shade, but shaded areas are limited and move with the sun. Planning arrival before 10:00 a.m., carrying sufficient water, and confirming return logistics ahead of time greatly improves the experience. Small adjustments in timing and preparation make a noticeable difference at this compact beach.

Best Time of Day & Season to Visit Colomitos

Timing has a direct impact on your experience at Colomitos. Morning arrival is critical because the beach’s small size means space fills quickly, especially between December and March. Arriving before 9:30 or 10:00 a.m. improves your chances of finding comfortable seating and calmer water conditions. Banderas Bay is typically smoother in the early hours, with less boat traffic and gentler wave activity.

The dry season, generally from November through May, offers firmer trail conditions and lower rainfall, making hiking more predictable. In contrast, the rainy season from June through October increases mud along the trail and can create slippery rock sections. Afternoon sea conditions may also become choppier due to wind shifts across the bay. Planning around both season and time of day reduces physical strain and improves overall comfort.

Who Should Choose Each Option?

Different access methods suit different traveler types. Choosing correctly helps avoid unnecessary fatigue or scheduling stress.

Choose the Hike If:

• You are physically fit and comfortable with uneven terrain
• You enjoy scenic coastal trails and jungle views
• You prefer an active start to the day
• You plan to arrive early before peak heat

Choose the Water Taxi If:

• You are short on time
• You want the most affordable option
• You prefer to avoid physical exertion
• You are comfortable coordinating return schedules

Choose the Private Boat If:

• You are traveling with a group and can share costs
• You want flexibility in arrival and departure times
• You plan to combine Colomitos with Las Ánimas or Los Arcos
• You value comfort, shade, and smoother logistics

Matching the method to your priorities ensures a better overall experience. For a premium experience that combines comfort and flexibility, consider booking a luxury yacht charter in Puerto Vallarta, perfect for enjoying the stunning coastline while having the freedom to explore multiple destinations like Colomitos.

One-Way Strategy: Hike Out, Boat Back

A practical strategy many experienced visitors use is hiking from Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos in the morning, then returning by boat later in the day. This approach combines scenic exploration with energy conservation. Starting early allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures and less crowded trail conditions. By mid-afternoon, heat and humidity intensify, making the return hike more demanding.

Choosing a boat ride back reduces fatigue and avoids walking uphill sections in peak sun. It also eliminates pressure to rush your beach time in order to complete a full round-trip hike. This one-way plan balances physical activity with comfort and works especially well during dry-season months when trail conditions are stable. For many travelers, this combination offers the most logical use of time and energy.

Upgrade Your Colomitos Day with a Private Coastal Experience

For those looking to remove timing constraints entirely, a private coastal experience transforms the day. Instead of navigating Boca’s busy dock or coordinating shared departures, you depart directly from Marina Vallarta and cruise south along the coastline. This route allows you to enjoy panoramic views of cliffs, hidden coves, and calm swim stops before arriving at Colomitos.

Avoiding the return hike means conserving energy, and adding snorkeling stops enhances the experience beyond a single beach visit. Private departures also bypass peak congestion at Boca’s small dock area. With a customized itinerary through Palmara Charters, guests can control the pace of the day, stay as long as desired, and return with a relaxed coastal cruise rather than a fixed schedule. The difference lies in flexibility and comfort rather than simply transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Colomitos hike hard?

The hike is moderate rather than technical. It includes uneven rocks, short elevation changes, and humid conditions. Starting early makes it significantly more manageable.

How much is the water taxi?

One-way fares typically range between 70 and 150 MXN per person from Boca de Tomatlán, depending on season and fuel costs.

Is Colomitos worth it?

For travelers seeking a small cove with clear water and jungle surroundings, Colomitos offers a compact but scenic experience. Early arrival improves enjoyment due to limited space.

Can you camp at Colomitos?

Camping is not officially permitted, and the small size of the beach makes overnight stays impractical. Most visitors treat it as a half-day destination.

How long should you stay?

Two to three hours is usually sufficient, especially given the limited shade and space. Longer stays are possible if arriving early and planning transport carefully.

Final Verdict: Which Option Is Actually Best?

There is no single “best” way to reach Colomitos. The right choice depends on your fitness level, timing, comfort expectations, and group size. Active travelers who enjoy morning hikes may prefer the trail. Budget-conscious visitors with limited time often choose the water taxi. Groups seeking flexibility and added coastal stops may find a private boat more practical.

Morning arrival remains the most important factor regardless of method. Choosing based on realistic expectations, rather than convenience alone, ensures a smoother experience. Whether prioritizing scenic effort, affordability, or comfort, aligning your plan with personal travel style determines which option truly feels best.