In short
- Los Muertos Pier water taxis cost 550 MXN round-trip.
- Boca de Tomatlan water taxis cost 120 MXN one-way.
- The boat ride takes 30 to 50 minutes depending on your departure point.
In this article
Because no roads connect Yelapa to Puerto Vallarta, visitors rely entirely on water taxis. Boats run daily on a set schedule. Knowing where to go and how much to pay makes your arrival smooth.
How much does the Yelapa water taxi cost?
A round-trip ticket from Puerto Vallarta currently costs approximately 550 MXN.
If you leave from Los Muertos Pier, a one-way ticket is 350 MXN. If you leave from Boca de Tomatlan, a one-way ticket costs 120 MXN.
Where does the Yelapa water taxi leave from?
Water taxis depart from Los Muertos Pier in Puerto Vallarta or the pier in Boca de Tomatlan.
Los Muertos Pier is convenient if you are staying in central Puerto Vallarta. The boat ride takes 45 to 50 minutes. The Boca de Tomatlan pier is further south. You need a bus or taxi to reach it, but the boat ride to Yelapa is only 30 minutes.
Do I need to book my water taxi in advance?
You do not need to book weeks in advance, but you should buy tickets early on the day of travel.
Boats leave on a set daily schedule. It is highly recommended to buy your tickets early at the pier to secure a spot. Prices and times are subject to change.
How do you pay for the Yelapa water taxi?
You must pay for the water taxi using Mexican Pesos in cash.
There are no ATMs in Yelapa. Bring sufficient cash for your entire trip, including the boat ride. Expect to wade in the water when boarding or exiting the boat, depending on the tide.
Are there alternatives to the public water taxi?
Yes, you can book a private boat or a catamaran day tour from Puerto Vallarta.
Booked tours often cost between $50 and $150+ USD. These full-day options usually include lunch, open bars, and a guided visit to the Yelapa waterfall.
Does the water taxi run year-round?
Yes, water taxis operate all year to support the local population of 700 to 1,500 residents.
The dry season from November to May is the best time to visit. The water is clear, and temperatures are in the 80s. During the summer rainy season, ocean currents can be stronger.
Questions travellers ask
How long is the boat ride to Yelapa?
The ride takes 45 to 50 minutes from Los Muertos Pier in Puerto Vallarta. It takes 30 minutes if you depart from Boca de Tomatlan.
Are there cars in Yelapa?
No, the village is completely car-free. Transportation is by foot, ATV, horse, or mule.
Is Yelapa an island?
No, Yelapa is a coastal village in a cove along the Bay of Banderas. It is simply not connected to Puerto Vallarta by roads, making it accessible only by boat.
