Puerto Vallarta: Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Horseback Ride

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and a touch of adventure, this Puerto Vallarta tour might just fit the bill. Offered by Vallarta Adventures, it promises a balanced mix of exploration, relaxation, and a splash of adrenaline — all within a manageable 6.5 hours. From the moment we read about it, we appreciated how it manages to showcase both the natural beauty and local flavor of Jalisco’s coastline.

What we love about this tour is its diverse itinerary — you start with a lively speedboat cruise, then venture into the charming fishing village of Yelapa, with the option to horseback ride toward a waterfall that’s both scenic and invigorating. The visit to a secluded beach for lunch adds a perfect touch of tranquility, and the chance to snorkel or kayak rounds out the day with fun water activities.

One potential consideration is that the tour includes a lot in one day, which might feel rushed for those who prefer a slower pace. It’s best suited for travelers eager to pack in a variety of experiences rather than those seeking a more relaxed, “do-nothing” beach day. Overall, if you’re craving an active, authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coast with some local flavor, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines boat rides, village exploration, horseback riding, and water activities.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Visit a fishing village and dine on a buffet lunch in a private beach setting.
• Active and Relaxing: Suitable for adventure lovers who also appreciate downtime on the beach.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Equipment for snorkeling and kayaking is provided, making it easy to get in the water.
• Great for Photographers: Stunning scenery, colorful villages, and aquatic views provide countless photo opportunities.

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The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Picking Up and Boarding

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from either Vallarta Adventures’ designated points at Vallarta Adventures Nuevo Vallarta or Puerto Mágico. This helps streamline the start, saving you from navigating local transportation. Once aboard the speedboat, you’re soon on your way to your first destination.

The boat ride lasts about an hour, offering scenic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline. We loved how the boat’s speed added a sense of adventure, and the open-air seating meant we could freely snap photos of the shimmering waters and distant mountains. It’s a lively start that sets the tone for the day.

Yelapa: Charming Fishing Village and Cultural Highlight

Once in Yelapa, the real charm begins. This fishing village is known for its relaxed vibe, colorful boats, and lush surroundings. Here, you get about 1.5 hours to explore on your own or join a guided walk.

What makes Yelapa special is its authenticity—no big hotel chains here, just local life. The tour guides, called caballerangos, are ready to saddle you up for a horseback or mule ride along the scenic Yelapa river. We found this to be a highlight; riding through the verdant landscape with the sound of rushing water and tropical birds overhead is a true escape from modern city life.

Horseback Ride Toward the Waterfall

The horseback or mule ride is carefully managed — your animals are well-trained, making it accessible even for beginners. The ride leads to a waterfall, where the view is both refreshing and invigorating. Though heavy rains can sometimes make swimming under the waterfall unsafe, the journey itself offers fantastic photo ops and a chance to connect more intimately with the landscape.

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Relaxation and Lunch at Pizota

After the horseback adventure, you’re free to unwind on the beach or at one of the small local restaurants. The tour includes a buffet lunch at Pizota, a secluded beach accessible only by boat. The setting feels exclusive, and the fresh seafood or traditional Mexican dishes help justify the trip.

This is a good time to relax, read, or just enjoy the view of fishing boats bobbing in the warm water. For water lovers, snorkeling and kayaking are available, with equipment provided. One guest on a review noted, “Luis and his group were awesome! We had a blast,” which speaks to the friendly, enthusiastic vibe of the guides.

The Hidden Gem: Quimixto and Snorkeling

The itinerary also includes a stop at Quimixto, another small village with a local charm. There’s a guided tour, and you have about 75 minutes for free time, which you can spend swimming, snorkeling, or even taking a cooking class if you’re feeling adventurous. The snorkeling gear is available, and the waters around Quimixto are reportedly quite clear and teeming with marine life.

Return Leg: Scenic Boat Ride Back

After all the activities, you’ll board the boat for another roughly 75-minute ride back to Puerto Vallarta, passing by more beautiful scenery and coastal villages. This journey offers a chance to reflect on the day, snap some last photos, and enjoy the breeze.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced in a way that includes multiple activities—boat rides, horseback riding, lunch, and water sports—offering solid value for a full day of varied experiences. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures that everyone gets personalized attention, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Timing-wise, it’s a well-paced schedule, but be prepared for a busy day if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace. The tour lasts 6.5 hours, which means you’ll want to be ready for a full-day commitment, including some physical activity like riding and walking.

The tour is suitable for most people in good health but excludes pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchairs, children under 10, or those over 250 lbs. It’s worth noting that all visitors go through security similar to an airport, which might be an unexpected hurdle for some.

What to Bring

• Passport or ID for security and identification.
• Comfortable shoes for walking or riding.
• Swimwear and a towel for water activities.
• Biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment.

Authenticity and Reviews

The reviews speak volumes — one verified traveler called it “awesome,” mentioning how much they enjoyed the guides and the fun atmosphere. The emphasis on local villages, traditional activities, and small-group interaction creates an authentic experience that’s more personal than large bus tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxing beach time, this tour hits all those notes. It’s ideal for those who want a day filled with scenic beauty, local flavor, and physical activity, without sacrificing comfort. Families with children over 10, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, diverse adventure will find this trip quite satisfying.

However, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility restrictions or those seeking a laid-back, solo beach day. The physical aspects, like horseback riding and walking, require a moderate level of mobility.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a compelling combination of scenic travel, culture, and active fun — all packed into a manageable, well-organized six-and-a-half-hour window. Its emphasis on small-group experiences and authentic local visits makes it stand out amidst typical tourist offerings.

For travelers eager to see the real Puerto Vallarta—beyond the resorts—this tour provides a genuine glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and simple coastal life. It’s a perfect choice for those who love discovering new places, trying local activities, and enjoying a varied, adventure-filled day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this experience promises memories that go beyond the typical postcard shots.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including pick-up, travel, activities, and return.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, guided tours, horseback riding, snorkeling or kayaking equipment, and a buffet lunch.

Are there any physical limitations to participate?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, or individuals with recent surgeries. Children under 10 are also not permitted.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen for water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, which helps create a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the guide speaks English and Spanish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What happens during heavy rains?
Swimming under the waterfall may be unsafe during or after heavy rain, so the timing of water activities could be affected.

Overall, this tour is a well-rounded, authentic adventure that offers a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural and cultural treasures. It’s ideal for those who want to combine fun in the sun with local flavor and a bit of physical activity—an excellent way to spend a memorable day on the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby