Plan your visit
Planning Your Yelapa Trip
Find out how to catch the water taxi, what to pack, and how to structure your day in this remote village.
Yelapa Beach and Village
Yelapa, Cabo Corrientes, 48440 Jalisco, Mexico
GPS 20.4878, -105.4481
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to Yelapa by boat.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Water taxi from Los Muertos Pier in Puerto Vallarta | 45-50 minutes | 350 MXN one-way, 550 MXN round-trip | Boats leave on a set daily schedule; it is highly recommended to buy tickets early at the pier. |
| Boat: Water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan | 30 minutes | 120 MXN one-way | A shorter and cheaper boat ride, but requires taking a bus or taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlan first. |
| Tour: Booked catamaran or yacht day tours from Puerto Vallarta | Full day | $50 - $150+ USD | Often includes snorkeling, open bar, lunch, and a guided visit to the waterfall. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is from November to May. The weather is dry and temperatures are in the 80s. Swimming at the waterfalls is safest during these months.
What to bring
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Yelapa is an indigenous community where outsiders can only lease land.
It retains a unique cultural structure.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to spend your time.
Take the morning boat, hike to the waterfall, and relax on the beach.
- Water Taxi
Catch the morning boat from Los Muertos Pier.
- Town Waterfall
Walk 15-30 minutes to the Cola de Caballo waterfall.
- Lunch
Eat fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
- Beach Time
Rent a paddleboard or buy a slice of pie on the beach.
- Return trip
Catch the late afternoon water taxi back to Puerto Vallarta.
Navigating the Village
There are no cars in Yelapa. You must walk on uneven dirt and cobblestone paths. Always yield to horses, mules, and ATVs. You may need to wade in the water when getting off the boat.
What to Bring
Bring Mexican Pesos because there are no ATMs. Pack water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and bug spray. If you stay after dark, bring a flashlight. Yelapa Packing List
Easiest way to do it
Puerto Vallarta, Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ & Open Bar at Majahuitas
7 h 4.4 (795)
- Beverages aboard the boat
- Snorkeling and kayaking equipment
- BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with refreshing drinks
From$79per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you swim at the Yelapa waterfalls?
Yes, but only during the dry season. Currents become dangerous during the summer rainy season.
Are there ATMs in Yelapa?
No. You must bring sufficient Mexican Pesos for your entire trip.
How long is the boat ride to Yelapa?
The water taxi takes 45 to 50 minutes from Los Muertos Pier. It takes 30 minutes from Boca de Tomatlan.