Remote Hidden Beaches Hike of South Shore (Puerto Vallarta)

Exploring the Remote Hidden Beaches Hike of South Shore in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning natural scenery with a bit of physical activity, the Remote Hidden Beaches Hike of South Shore offers just that. This guided tour takes you along the scenic coastline of Puerto Vallarta, leading to some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the area. From lush jungle paths to crystal-clear waters, the experience promises a genuine connection with nature, combined with cultural touches like tequila tasting and gemstone viewing.

Two things stand out about this tour: firstly, the spectacular views of the hidden beaches and the vibrant marine sanctuary. Many reviews highlight how impressive the blue and green waters are, providing excellent photo opportunities. Secondly, the expert guidance—Abraham, a biologist—adds a layer of knowledge that enriches the experience, especially for nature lovers.

A possible consideration is the physical exertion involved—the hike is about 1.5 hours each way, mostly in shade, but still demanding for those with limited mobility or stamina. The tour also involves some planning with transportation costs and optional activities like lunch and boat rides, which are not included in the base price.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes, scenic outdoor adventures, and authentic local experiences. If you’re seeking a day away from crowded resorts for some genuine exploration, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery of hidden beaches, with clear turquoise waters and lush jungle vistas.
• Expert guide with local knowledge and enthusiasm—Abraham, a biologist, makes the experience engaging.
• Balanced itinerary with hiking, swimming, beachtime, and cultural experiences like tequila and opal tasting.
• Flexibility in dining choice at Playa Las Animas with multiple restaurants to sample local cuisine.
• Cost considerations include transportation, optional meals, drinks, and boat rides—adding up, but still offering value.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off at Basilio Badillo 339A in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica, a lively neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe. From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic 30-minute bus ride along the bay, passing by luxurious villas and resorts cloaked in jungle. The route itself sets the tone—luxury and nature intertwined—offering travelers a glimpse into Puerto Vallarta’s upscale side.

Mismaloya: A Glimpse into Hollywood and History

The journey continues with a brief stop at Mismaloya, an area famous for its connection to the film “Night of the Iguana.” This spot offers a picturesque view of the bay and large hotels perched on the bluff—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere. The stop is brief but adds a dash of local lore to the trip, a nice touch for those interested in the area’s cultural backdrop.

Boca de Tomatlan: Gateway to the Hidden Beaches

Arriving in Boca de Tomatlan, the group walks through this charming fishing village before crossing a footbridge over a river. This marks the start of the hiking portion, which is about 1.5 hours each way. The trail is shaded by jungle canopy—ideal for avoiding the sun—and the path is well-trodden but still offers a true nature experience.

The Beaches: Playa Colomitas, Playa Caballo, and Playa Madagascar

The highlight of the trek is reaching the stunning beaches—notably Playa Colomitas, often regarded as the most beautiful in the area. Its emerald waters and secluded cove are perfect for swimming, with many visitors describing it as an impressive, picture-perfect spot. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, enjoying the scenery, taking photos, or cooling off in the water.

Next, you’ll visit Playa Caballo and Playa Madagascar, each offering their own charms and calmer settings away from crowded tourist beaches. Swimming is popular here, and the tranquil environment makes for a relaxing stop.

Lunch and Beach Time at Playa Las Animas

The final destination is Playa Las Animas, where you’ll have at least 2 hours to relax, eat, and soak up the sun. The beach is lively but not overly crowded, with a variety of restaurants lining the shore. You can choose to eat at your preferred spot or join the guide at his favorite—either way, you’ll have plenty of options to enjoy authentic local fare. Several activities like boogie boards and sailboats are available for rent, adding fun options for everyone.

Return Journey by Boat and Bus

After lunch, you’ll hop on a boat (about 200 pesos) back to Boca, providing a different perspective of the coastline and a refreshing ride. From Boca, a short bus ride (around 10 pesos) will return you to Puerto Vallarta. For the more energetic, there’s an option to hike back—doubling your hiking adventure and soaking in even more scenery.

Bonus Experiences

The tour includes some unique extras: a tequila tasting, featuring up to 10 different expressions, from silver to extra añejos, including dessert varieties like nuts and coffee. Plus, an Opal Experience connects tequila and gemstone culture, giving a bit of local flavor and a memorable souvenir experience.

Analyzing the Value

At $49.50 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the included experiences—hiking, multiple beach stops, boat rides, tequila tasting, and gemstone viewing. The limited group size (maximum 12) ensures a more personal experience, and the expert guide’s insights elevate the trip beyond just a walk along the coast.

However, it’s important to budget for extras: lunch (not included), beverages, and the boat ride (about 200 pesos). While these costs add up, they’re typical for beach excursions in the region and can be managed with some planning. The tour is booked an average of 19 days in advance, so securing a spot requires early planning.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers are unanimous about the spectacular views—many call out the vibrant waters and lush scenery as memorable highlights. The guide Abraham is praised for his biologist background, making the hike both informative and enjoyable. One reviewer notes, “This hike has spectacular views of the hidden beaches. The color blue and green clear water is impressive. I saw a variety of birds, it’s a real hike for those who love hiking!”

Others appreciate the balance of activity and relaxation, with enough time to swim and enjoy the beaches. Some mention the challenging hike but agree it’s rewarding, especially when rewarded with a peaceful beach and good company.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This adventure suits travelers who love outdoor activities and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s ideal for those who want to see untouched beaches and enjoy authentic local environments rather than crowded tourist spots. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those curious about Mexico’s marine and gemstone culture will find this tour particularly rewarding.

It’s less suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those expecting a relaxed, mostly resting day—there’s a fair amount of walking involved. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, the optional costs for food, drinks, and boat rides should be factored into your plan.

Final Words

This tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural touches—a genuine way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s lesser-known beaches. The combination of scenic hikes, tranquil coves, and authentic Mexican experiences creates a memorable day out.

While the physical aspect might be demanding for some, the payoff is remarkable views and a real sense of discovery. For active travelers who value small group sizes and personalized attention, this tour hits the right notes. Plus, the inclusion of tequila and opal experiences adds a delightful cultural layer, making it more than just a hike.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or simply someone seeking a day away from crowds, this trip offers authentic adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the natural splendor of Puerto Vallarta’s coast.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 to 8 hours, including hiking, beach stops, lunch, and transportation.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Basilio Badillo 339A in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica at 9:00am.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a towel are advisable. Since most of the hike is in the shade, sun protection is still recommended.

Are meals included?
No, lunch at Playa Las Animas is not included, but there are multiple restaurants on the beach for you to choose from.

Is physical fitness required?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy the 1.5-hour hike in each direction comfortably.

Can I hike back instead of taking the boat?
Yes, hiking back to Boca de Tomatlan is an option, which doubles the hiking experience and scenery.

To sum it up, this guided hike of Puerto Vallarta’s south shore offers an enriching, active day with stunning views and cultural surprises. It’s perfect for travelers who crave authentic outdoor adventures and are ready to explore some of the most beautiful, lesser-visited beaches the area has to offer.