Tour Yelapa and Majahuitas with Lunch and Open Bar

If you’re looking for a day trip that mixes stunning scenery, lively water activities, authentic local charm, and good food—all without breaking the bank—then the Yelapa and Majahuitas tour from Puerto Vallarta might just be your perfect match. This experience offers a great blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural insight, framed by the gorgeous backdrop of Banderas Bay. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler eager to escape the crowds, this tour promises a memorable day on the water.

What’s especially appealing is how it balances fun with authenticity. You’ll enjoy superb snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, delicious onboard meals, and a chance to explore a traditional fishing village. Plus, the inclusion of an open bar adds a relaxed, social vibe. However, keep in mind that the tour involves some physical activity, like a short hike to a waterfall, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level. This trip suits those craving a mix of adventure, local flavor, and scenic beauty—ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Key Points

• Beautiful Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and floating islands provide plenty of aquatic fun.
• Cultural Charm: Yelapa’s traditional village and waterfall hike add an authentic touch.
• Excellent Value: Includes breakfast, lunch, water sports, and an open bar for about $81.
• Flexible and Relaxed: Day trip with a laid-back pace, small group size, and free cancellation.
• Stunning Scenery: Jungle cliffs, turquoise waters, and mountain vistas make every moment picture-worthy.
• Accessible for Moderate Fitness: Short hikes and water activities are enjoyable but require some stamina.

An Honest Breakdown of the Yelapa and Majahuitas Experience

The Morning Kickoff at Puerto Mágico

Your day begins around 9:00 am, gathering at the Puerto Mágico meeting point in Puerto Vallarta. This spot is conveniently close to public transportation, making it simple to reach. Once aboard the boat, your crew from Gray Line Puerto Vallarta will greet you with friendly professionalism, setting the tone for a day filled with adventure and relaxation.

The first highlight is the breakfast—yes, a hearty spread of scrambled eggs, pancakes, chilaquiles, yogurt, and granola. It’s a thoughtful start, fueling you up for what’s ahead. As you cruise out into Banderas Bay, the views are already captivating—lush hills, distant sailboats, and the shimmering ocean stretching endlessly.

Majahuitas: A Private Slice of Paradise

Less than an hour into the boat ride, you arrive at Majahuitas, a peaceful cove with some of the clearest waters you’ll see on this coast. This spot is tailor-made for water enthusiasts. The calm, turquoise waters make for perfect snorkeling—marine life, colorful fish, and underwater scenery await those with masks and fins.

We loved the way Majahuitas combines tranquility with activity options. You can paddleboard, kayak, or simply float on an inflatable island, enjoying the serenity of a private beach. The jungle-covered cliffs surrounding the cove add a dramatic backdrop, making it one of those places where nature’s beauty feels untouched.

An added bonus? The water is warm and inviting, encouraging longer dips and lazy floating times. It’s a great way to cool off after the boat ride and work up an appetite for lunch.

Yelapa: Village Charm and Waterfall Wonders

After about three hours, it’s time to head to Yelapa, a village with rugged charm and a slower pace. Accessible only by boat, Yelapa offers a glimpse into authentic Mexican coastal life. The streets are cobbled, and the vibe is laid-back, with local shops and cafes lining the waterfront.

Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch on the beach, featuring local flavors served with a view. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect after a morning of aquatic fun. Many guests report that the food is a highlight, with praise for the quality and freshness.

Post-lunch, you have the option to explore further: a gentle walk through the village, browsing local crafts, or a short hike to the waterfall. The hike is manageable for most, and the reward—cool water cascading down the hillside—is well worth the effort, especially considering the reviews praising its ease and beauty.

The Return Journey: Scenic and Social

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Puerto Vallarta, giving everyone a chance to unwind and enjoy the open bar offered onboard. With drinks flowing, relaxed conversations, and the sun dipping low, it’s one of those moments that feels quintessentially vacation—good company, great scenery, and a well-deserved sense of escape.

Throughout the trip, the group size is capped at 40, which helps keep things intimate and personalized. The tour is designed for all who are comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity, including a short hike and water activities.

What Travelers Are Saying

A particularly positive review from Randall F. highlights “very good tour guides who went above and beyond,” noting that the snorkeling was enjoyable and the waterfall hike was “easy,” making it accessible even for those not looking for a strenuous trek. This reassurance about the manageable nature of the activities makes it clear that the tour is suitable for a variety of fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable with water-based activities.

On the whole, guests seem to appreciate the stunning views, delicious food, and the authentic feel of Yelapa. The open bar and relaxed atmosphere on the way back add to the overall value, creating a fun, carefree day out.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size: Why They Matter

The tour’s start at 9:00 am means you avoid the mid-morning rush, and the full day (around 7 to 8 hours) allows plenty of time to soak in each stop without feeling rushed. The boat ride itself is part of the experience, offering panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the chance to see marine life from the deck.

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the group feels intimate enough to enjoy personalized attention from guides, yet large enough to maintain a lively, social vibe. The moderate physical activity—short hikes, water sports—means most travelers with average fitness can comfortably participate.

Pricing at $81 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions: breakfast, lunch, water activities, and the open bar. It’s good value for a full day of memorable experiences in some of Banderas Bay’s most beautiful spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re after a mix of adventure and authenticity. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy snorkeling and paddle sports but are also happy to relax on a beach and explore a small village. The delicious food and friendly guides make it a smooth and enjoyable experience.

On the flip side, if you’re seeking a very relaxed, purely leisure-focused day without boat rides or water activities, it might be a bit too active. Likewise, those with mobility issues might want to consider the short hike to the waterfall.

Final Thoughts

The Yelapa and Majahuitas tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Banderas Bay special. The combination of stunning scenery, authentic local life, and fun water activities creates a memorable day at a fair price. The inclusion of breakfast, a beachside lunch, and an open bar adds excellent value, making it more than just a boat trip.

While the water activities and brief hikes mean it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness, the overall relaxed pace and friendly guides make it accessible for many travelers. If you want a taste of real Mexico—away from tourist traps, with plenty of picture-perfect moments—this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Puerto Vallarta.

What is included in the price?
The $81 fee covers breakfast, lunch at Yelapa, water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, an inflatable floating island, and an open bar.

Are water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, the water activities are designed for most skill levels. The calm waters of Majahuitas make snorkeling and paddleboarding accessible, and the tour guides are helpful.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure. You might also want a waterproof camera or phone case for photos.

Is there a physical activity involved?
Yes, there’s a short, manageable hike to the waterfall in Yelapa, along with water sports. It’s suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

In sum, if you’re after a day that combines stunning natural beauty, local culture, and fun water activities, with good food and drinks included, this tour is a fantastic choice. It strikes a nice balance between relaxation and adventure, making it a worthwhile addition to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.