Discover Tranquility at Yelapa, Chimo & Hidden Beaches 2024
Exploring Yelapa Nestled on the Pacific coast, Yelapa is a charming fishing village located approximately 20 miles (32 km) south of Vallarta. Its enchanting allure lies in its exclusivity, accessible solely by boat or a jungle hike – although we advise against attempting the latter. The village is celebrated for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that provides a stark contrast to the bustling energy of more urbanized destinations. The small town until just several short decades ago didn’t even have power or running water – so it’s come a long way since the turn of the millennium. Yelapa’s natural beauty extends beyond its shores, as the lush jungle backdrop hosts a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, parrots, and toucans. The jungle setting has also attracted the attention of popular shows like Survivor and the film “Night of the Iguana,” which were filmed against the backdrop of Yelapa’s captivating scenery. For travelers seeking authenticity and an off-the-beaten-path experience in Mexico, Yelapa is a hidden gem. The village, with its humble population of around 1,500 people, exudes a genuine charm, and its roots stretch back centuries with an indigenous presence that adds to its cultural richness. Yelapa offers more than just sun-kissed beaches; there are enticing waterfall hikes that can be explored on foot or even by donkey, adding a touch of adventure to your visit. We recommend planning a full day to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Yelapa without the constraints of time. While the path to the falls is undeniably stunning, its popularity can lead to congestion, especially around the waterfall pools. Moreover, as the dry season progresses, the scenic appeal diminishes. For enthusiastic hikers seeking alternatives, Yelapa Town offers several rewarding options: Embark on the El Faro Hike For those yearning for breathtaking views of the cove and beyond, the El Faro Hike is an excellent choice. This 4-mile (6.5 kms) roundtrip trek, located behind Playa Yelapa, is considered moderate-strenuous due to steep sections and an elevation gain of 800 feet (244m) in the tropical climate. Explore the Yelapa Tapa Hike If you’re up for the ultimate mirador hike in the vicinity, the Yelapa Tapa trail is your go-to. Spanning 8 miles (13 kms) roundtrip, this challenging hike, favored by mountain bikers, boasts a hefty 2,300 feet (700m) of elevation gain. Make sure to pack accordingly for this adventure! In the not-so-distant past, mules were the primary mode of transportation, weaving through the village and traversing the mountains. While four-wheelers have now taken over for practical purposes, Yelapa’s hardworking mules still grace the village. During your stay, encountering these furry locals is inevitable. Mule rides remain a popular activity, offering a unique way to reach the waterfall or explore the jungle trails, all while immersing yourself in local history. To secure a mule and guide, venture up the path to the waterfall and be on the lookout for a guide with a mule. Alternatively, your hotel, guesthouse, or Airbnb host can readily organize this authentic outing for you. Fun Facts: The town’s name, “Yelapa,” is derived from the Nahuatl word meaning “where the river meets the sea.” Yelapa was once a sought-after destination for pirates. Cars are absent in Yelapa, only quads and horseback/mules are used to get around Secluded Beaches 1. Playa Isabel Located just immediately south from the main Yelapa beach is this gem that not everyone who goes to Yelapa knows about. It’s definitely part of the Yelapa area and is a short walk over from the larger beach where the river meets the ocean. These crystal clear waters will blow you away, and are what traveling south of Vallarta is all about. Seriously, these are the types of beaches that people don’t realize exist in the Puerto Vallarta region. They’re magical. 2. Playa Colimilla This leads us into another incredible hidden paradise that no one talks about. Many people tend to have heard of Yelapa or Majahuitas, but on the way to Yelapa, you may have the opportunity to stop at Playa Colimilla, which is along the coast found just after you pass Majahuitas. This little remove beach is a fantastic quick stop for some snorkeling and secluded beach time. The ability to explore these types of places at your own pace is truly what renting a private boat is all about. There’s no rush on our yacht charters, because you can stay in a certain location for as long as you’d like. Or 3. Pizota Beach & Manzanilla Beach Playa Pizota offers tranquility like no other. All you have to do is look at that photo below to give you an idea of how incredible this location is. Secluded, but still within distance to civilization. In fact, you have the ability to stay at Villa Ndan if you desire warm lodging and a comfortable place to rest your head for the night. Manzanilla beach is right next to Pizota, so if you find yourself at one of these beaches, you may as well explore the other! Both beautiful slices of untouched paradise (for the most part). Chimo Chimo is a small town in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It is located in the Sierra Madre Mountains, about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from the city of Puerto Vallarta. Chimo is a quiet and rural town, with a population of just over 1,000 people. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, and it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Chimo is also home to a number of small farms and ranches, where you can experience the local agriculture and lifestyle. Chimo is known for its peaceful and scenic setting, and it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Our personal recommendation is visiting Happy Hill – Treasure by the Sea Resort. Located about 500 meters from the beach just up the mountainside, Happy Hill provides comfortable accommodation with a coffee bar, freshly cooked meals by their
Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Swimmable 2024?
Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Swimmable? Yes absolutely! Puerto Vallarta, nestled within the Bay of Banderas, boasts a unique advantage – all Puerto Vallarta beaches are considered safe for swimming. This natural shelter from the open ocean significantly reduces the risk of strong undertows, making it a safer option compared to other popular tourist destinations like Cabo (Baja California Sur) and Puerto Escondido Oaxaca). Although this may seem like an odd question, but it’s surprisingly one of the most Google’d questions about Puerto Vallarta. Let’s answer this question and talk more in depth about Puerto Vallartas beaches so you know where the best ones are. Are Puerto Vallarta beaches swimmable? With swimmable beaches lining the entire coast, Puerto Vallarta offers families with young children an array of fantastic options for a day at the beach. From boat access only beaches to the south, to pristine white sands with blue waters to the north – and everything in between. The beaches in Vallarta and its surroundings exude an enchanting charm. While they may differ in character from the waters of Cancun, Vallarta harbors numerous undiscovered gems that have eluded most tourists. In this blog, we’ll embark on an exploration of these hidden treasures together. Are Puerto Vallarta beaches rocky? Many people ask if Puerto Vallarta beaches are rocky. There are a few beaches we consider to be rougher sand, but not rocky like a beach you’d find on the coasts of Canada/United States for example. These beaches include Playa Los Muertos located in Zona Romantica and Sayulita in Nayarit. Personally, the location of Los Muertos beach is fantastic because of it’s walking proximity to restaurants – however in terms of its sand quality and water color, it ranks lowest on our list of Puerto Vallarta beaches. It has a rockier and rougher sand unlike most other beaches in the area. However it offers an incredible variety of amenities from food, parasailing, banana boat ride, jet ski, and more! Sayulita The same can be said for Sayulita. It’s simply just a coarser sand, but overall still a great place to spend time and tan in the sun. However since this beach is occupied by many tourists – it tends to be the dirtiest. I hold an appreciation for both of these locations; however, my critiques stem from a comparison to the exceptionally stunning and tranquil beaches scattered around the Bay of Banderas in Puerto Vallarta. These hidden gems boast crystalline waters and powdery, fine sands that set an incredibly high standard. Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Nice? Many people like to compare Puerto Vallartas beaches to Cancun. There’s no doubt that the Maya Riviera has some unbelievable crystal clear waters and powdery white sand to match. But Vallarta has serene beaches that give Cancun a run for it’s money…you just have to know where to go. Puerto Vallarta beaches get a bad rap simply because the most popular beaches tourists visit are the closest to the downtown core. These beaches have rougher sand, aren’t nearly as wide as other beaches along the coast, and the waters in these regions arent the clearest. So when people talk about the beauty of Puerto Vallarta beaches, they have this picture in their mind of an overcrowded rough sandy beach, while swimming in a cloudy green colored ocean. While this description does somewhat describe the main beaches downtown (Playa Camarones, Los Muertos Beach, Nuevo, Bucerias, La Cruz beaches), this doesnt describe the rest of the beaches that surround these areas both to the north and south. Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Safe? Yes, very. Puerto Vallarta beaches located downtown, the surrounding beach towns, and its beaches are some of the safest places in the entire country. When visiting Puerto Vallarta beaches or beaches located in the neighboring state of Nayarit, the main thing of concern may be having your things stolen when left unattended. It has never happened to us (knock on wood), or anyone we know of, and we’ve lived here for several years now. The police often parole the beaches on their ATV’s here and there as well, so don’t be alarmed if you see them roaming up and down the sand. The local people in Vallarta are often kind and non threatening also, so you shouldn’t feel unsafe while spending time at the beach. Water Safety Regarding the safest of the water, the waves of the ocean can get up to 6-10 feet, but are on the safer side because of their lack of strong undertow. This doesn’t mean they aren’t capable of taking someone under and holding them down though if the conditions are just right. Always be aware of the ocean and never try anything foolish. There are no known dangerous sharks in the area, however there can be washed up blowfish on Puerto Vallarta beaches beach – so don’t go touching those unnecessarily. What Are the Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta? Now for the real meat of the article. Some of these beaches aren’t as easily accessed as others, but if you have a car, or in other cases a boat, you’ll be able to see the true beauty of Mexico’s west coast. If you dont have access to those methods of transport, do not worry – because Vallarta has plenty of spectacular beaches close to downtown (mostly to the south). Colomitos: Colomitos is regarded as on of the smallest Puerto Vallarta beaches on the whole coast. This beach can be accessed by driving to Boca de Tomatlan and hiking on a trail for 1 hour to it’s hidden oasis. The pristine bay and calm waters make it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. If you aren’t up for the hike, a short panga boat ride from Boca de Tomatlan will get you there in about 10 minutes or so. This beach has a small bar for drinks, with tables and chairs as well. With its small surface area, this beach is extremely unique, but can become crowded on Sundays
Majahuitas Beach: Where Serenity Meets Stunning Natural Beauty 2024
How Do You Get to Majahuitas Beach? Majahuitas is a small, secluded beach located about 10 miles south of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The beach is only accessible by boat, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. During the day, Majahuitas is a tranquil and serene paradise, offering visitors the chance to relax and unwind in a pristine natural setting. At night, the beach comes alive with the sounds of live music, dancing, and socializing around a bonfire and tiki torches. Some enjoy spending a full day at Majahuitas, while others stop by on their way to beautiful Yelapa. Either way, when you set your eyes on this small remote location – you’ll see why so many people make a full day of it. Once you arrive at Majahuitas, you can explore the cove and beach, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The cove is small and secluded – the beach is a narrow strip of golden sand, surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation. The water is crystal clear and warm which makes for great for swimming and snorkelling. We can confirm, the snorkeling here is some of the best in the entire Bay of Banderas swimming with all kinds of tropical fish, octopus, turtles, rays, and more! The beach is surrounded by lush jungle and is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and unwind. There are a few small restaurants and bars on the beach, but it is generally quite secluded so it is recommended to bring your own food and drinks. Majahuitas Beach During the day, Majahuitas is a perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding, while the sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and lounging. Visitors can also take a hike along the shoreline or explore the nearby jungle trails. One of the highlights of Majahuitas is the snorkeling. The waters are teeming with colorful fish and other marine life, and visitors can rent snorkeling equipment or take a guided tour to explore the underwater world. Kayaking is another popular activity, with visitors able to rent kayaks and explore the coves and inlets that dot the shoreline. The reason for such beautiful wanters and jungle landscape is because there has been no commercial development here – allowing you to fully immerse yourself in a secluded beach completely unspoiled by human development. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of options as well. Visitors can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, take a stroll along the shoreline, or hike through the jungle to explore the natural beauty of the area. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching, with the beach and surrounding jungle home to a wide variety of birds and other creatures. One of the highlights of Majahuitas is its breathtaking sunsets. As the day comes to a close, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, casting a golden glow over the beach and creating a truly magical atmosphere. Majahuitas Beach Club As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Majahuitas is famous for its beach parties, with live music, dancing, and socializing lasting well into the night. The party is known for its lively atmosphere and the entertainment is usually provided by a DJ, who will play a mix of Latin and international music to keep the party going all night. There’s also often a bar service, where you can purchase drinks and refreshments. Feel free to visit their website if you’re interested in finding out who’s scheduled to perform at the beach club. This certainly is a must-do experience if you have never been to Puerto Vallarta before, or if you have – a wonderful way to meet new people and let loose for a night if going out to a club isn’t your thing. Plan your trip back ahead of time here however, because its secluded, and things can get more complicated to get back to Yelapa or PV in the dark (especially if you don’t speak Spanish). So if you plan to party here, just be prepared with your transportation ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the evening and soak in the atmosphere with peace of mind. One of the most popular activities at Majahuitas is the sunset cruise. Visitors can charter a yacht or catamaran and sail along the coastline, taking in the stunning views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns shades of pink, orange, and red, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. Getting Home From Majahuitas Since the beach is secluded and only accessible by boat, the party does end earlier than other venues so people can get back home at a reasonable time. But that doesn’t mean the festivities need to end for the night! Arriving back in Puerto Vallarta, the city’s vibrant energy welcomes you once more. Whether you choose to continue the night with more revelry, savor a late-night meal at a local eatery, or retreat to the comfort of your accommodations, you can relish in the knowledge that you’ve experienced the best of both worlds—the serenity of Majahuitas and the lively atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta. So, let yourself be whisked away on a boat or yacht, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Majahuitas by day and savoring its captivating allure by night. We make it easy to book a yacht with us and make sure everything is taken care of well in advance so you can relax and soak in the moment. Let the journey back to Puerto Vallarta be a reflection of the memories you’ve created—a blissful and unforgettable experience that will forever hold a special place in your heart.
Charter South to Majestic Mayto in 2024
Charter South to Majestic Mayto Mayto may just be the biggest hidden gem that remains close to Puerto Vallarta. While millions of people flock to the shores of Puerto Vallarta each year, its only in the hundreds of people per year that manage to find Mayto. It begins with most simply unaware of this hidden oasis tucked around the point of Banderas Bay – but when more people do in fact realize what this place is like. It may not be hidden for much longer. Tehaumixtle Before we get to Mayto, let’s talk about a destination you’ll likely come across before arriving to Mayto. The charming little fishing town of Tehuamixtle. Tehuamixtle is a small fishing village situated on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in the municipality of Cabo Corrientes. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere, pristine beaches, and authentic Mexican charm. Here are some key features and attractions of Tehuamixtle that are worth the trip to experience: Beaches: Tehuamixtle is blessed with gorgeous sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Playa Tehuamixtle, the main beach, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning sunsets. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and offers a serene and secluded setting. Stay within the inlet however, as the nearby waters are far too strong for 99% of swimmers and have a dangerous under-toe. Fishing Village: Tehuamixtle has maintained its traditional fishing village vibe, with local fishermen going out to sea daily to catch fresh seafood. Visitors can witness the vibrant fishing activity and experience the authentic coastal lifestyle. Fresh Seafood: Tehuamixtle is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes. Visitors can savour an array of fresh catches, including shrimp, red snapper, lobster, and octopus, prepared in traditional Mexican recipes. You can bet anything you eat here will be caught that same day – cant beat that freshness! Whale Watching: Tehuamixtle is part of the migration route for humpback whales. During the winter months (December-March), visitors have the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures as they pass by the coast. Whale-watching tours can be arranged to observe these incredible marine mammals up close. However if you’re chartering your course towards Mayto, you will likely see whales along the way during those months. There’s also a high chance of viewing turtles and dolphins swimming on the surface. Ecotourism: The surrounding area of Tehuamixtle is rich in natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for ecotourism. Explore the lush jungles, hike through scenic trails, and discover hidden waterfalls in the nearby Sierra de Vallejo. Talk to us at Palmara Charters to learn more about Tehuamixtle. It’s possible to reach here by car, at only 100km away from Vallarta, it will take approximately 2 hours and 40 mins drive to reach Tehuamixtle. Mayto Mayto is another picturesque coastal village located in the Cabo Corrientes municipality, Jalisco. It is known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and peaceful ambiance. Its still relatively unknown by most, so development hasn’t quite hit Mayto yet. But thats changing as we speak. Luckily there is accommodation there once you arrive, feel free to check out the Hotel Mayto. Of course if you’re taking a boat you can stay overnight on the vessel. Here are some highlights of Mayto you won’t want to miss out on: Playa Mayto: Mayto boasts an expansive and untouched beach known as Playa Mayto. This long stretch of golden sand offers a tranquil escape away from the crowds, perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and swimming in the azure waters. Turtle Sanctuary: Mayto is home to a sea turtle sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and protection of these endangered creatures. Visitors can participate in turtle release programs and learn about the efforts to preserve their natural habitat. Bird Watching: Mayto is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The village is surrounded by diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, estuaries, and tropical forests, attracting a wide variety of bird species. Birdwatchers can spot colorful tropical birds and migratory species in their natural habitats. Star Gazing: The night sky above Mayto unfolds an awe-inspiring spectacle, offering a celestial panorama untouched by the lights of Vallarta. On certain nights, the fortunate observer might be treated to a breathtaking display of thousands of stars, visible to the naked eye. This magical moment alone justifies the entire journey to Mayto. In a world dominated by bustling and densely populated cities, we often overlook the stars that quietly dot our skies. The inability to see them amidst the city lights causes us to forget about their existence. However, I believe there’s no greater act of self-reflection than gazing into the vastness of space and time, appreciating the brilliance of the starry night sky. Mayto serves as a sanctuary for this purpose, a majestic haven for relaxation and reconnection with nature. It prompts a gentle reminder of what truly matters – the tranquility of life, a rare commodity in a world where the rat race propels us forward at breakneck speeds, often causing us to lose sight of our purpose on this planet. For me, it’s the serenity, the nocturnal expanse, and the ability to peer into the boundless ocean, moonlight shimmering across its surface, that provide the perfect backdrop for deep introspection. Mayto, even during the daylight hours, extends a warm invitation to revel in its natural beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling, fishing, or indulging in delectable cuisine (especially aboard our yachts), Mayto ensures you feel not just comfortable but truly at home in its more secluded embrace. While you have the option to drive to Mayto, sailing on a yacht or boat presents the optimal mode of transportation, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the extraordinary experience. Surfing and Water Activities: The beaches of Mayto offer excellent opportunities for surfing, bodyboarding, and other water sports. The consistent waves and relatively uncrowded beaches make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. Natural Beauty: Mayto is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, with lush vegetation, towering palm trees, and scenic landscapes. Nature lovers