Yelapa Beach and Majahuitas Beach Tour with Snorkeling and BBQ in Playa

Explore Hidden Beaches and Local Charm on the Yelapa & Majahuitas Tour

Our review of the Yelapa Beach and Majahuitas Beach Tour with Snorkeling and BBQ in Playa takes you through a well-rounded experience that blends natural beauty, cultural sights, and laid-back relaxation. While we haven’t done this trip ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback paint a picture of an engaging day suited for those craving authentic coastal adventures.

What stands out are the scenic boat ride along Banderas Bay—with its views of the Sierra Madre mountains—and the opportunity to walk through the cobblestone streets of Yelapa, a peaceful fishing village far from the tourist crowds. Another highlight is the chance to snorkel and paddle around Majahuitas, a quiet beach with lively marine life. The delicious BBQ lunch underneath palm trees gives the day a satisfying culinary touch.

However, one thing to consider is the mandatory port and beach club fees, which add to the overall cost, and the fact that swimming in the waterfall can be risky during heavy rains. This tour best fits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and relaxed beach time without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a day that offers a taste of authentic Mexico away from busy resorts, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for those who like a little adventure combined with plenty of chill-out moments.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience: Visit two beautiful beaches with opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing.
• Cultural charm: Walk through Yelapa’s cobblestone streets and see its famous waterfall and colorful murals.
• Value-packed: Includes a scenic boat ride, guided tour, water activities, and a tasty BBQ lunch—good value for the price.
• Additional costs: Expect port fees and beach club admission charges above the ticket price.
• Safety considerations: Water activities require life jackets; swimming at Yelapa waterfall can be dangerous during heavy rains.
• Group size and timing: Max 40 travelers, an 8:30 am start, roughly 7 hours total—plenty of time for both adventure and relaxation.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Scenic Boat Ride

Starting at 8:30 am, the tour kicks off with a boat ride sailing south along Banderas Bay. This segment is often praised for its stunning views of the coast and Sierra Madre mountains. As you glide over the water, you get a sense of the untouched beauty that makes this part of Mexico special. The boat itself is generally comfortable, and the journey sets the tone for a day of discovery.

Exploring Yelapa: A Village Frozen in Time

Yelapa is about soaking in the local vibe. The boat drops you off in a quiet fishing village with cobblestone streets, colorful murals, and an overall relaxed pace. The highlight here is the Yelapa Waterfall, accessible during the rainy season, which earns rave reviews from travelers who love cooling off after the walk. The streets are small, but they pack in character—local shops, murals, and mountain views that give you a glimpse of authentic life.

One traveler noted, “I loved wandering through Yelapa’s streets; it felt like stepping back in time.” It’s a perfect spot for casual exploration, photo-taking, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Keep in mind, the hike to the waterfall can be slippery or potentially hazardous during heavy rains, so check local conditions beforehand.

Optional Free Time in Yelapa

Most travelers appreciate the three hours allocated here—ample time to walk, shop, or just relax by the water. You might find local vendors offering handmade crafts or fresh fruit, and some appreciate taking a dip in the waterfall if conditions permit. These moments can be a highlight, offering genuine local flavor away from touristy spots.

Transition to Majahuitas: Beach Paradise

After Yelapa, the boat heads to Majahuitas, a secluded beach with golden sands and calm, emerald waters. The atmosphere here is described as hippie chic, with laid-back vibes perfect for unwinding. It’s an ideal place to paddleboard, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

For water lovers, this part is particularly appealing. The tour provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and even inflatable bananas for fun in the water. Travelers often comment on the vibrant marine life visible just off the shore, with some noting that the calm waters make for easy and safe paddling.

A Delicious BBQ Lunch

One of the trip’s standout features is the BBQ lunch served under palm trees on the beach. The menu includes grilled ribs, chicken, ceviche, salads, and local desserts—all paired with beer and flavored water. Reviewers consistently mention how tasty and satisfying the meal is, citing it as a perfect way to fuel the rest of the afternoon.

Relaxation and Beach Time

With the meal completed, most guests spend the remaining hours lounging, swimming, or exploring the shoreline. The relaxed ZEN vibe of Majahuitas balances out the morning’s explorations nicely.

Practical Details and Considerations

Cost and Value

The tour costs $135.57 per person, which covers the boat ride, guided tour, water activities, and lunch. However, there are additional mandatory fees: a port tax of MX$33 (~$1.70 USD) per person, and an admission fee of $20 USD for adults (or $10 for children) at the beach club. Including these, the total expense bumps up slightly, but many travelers find it offers good value considering the activities and scenery.

Timing and Group Size

The tour starts at 8:30 am and lasts about 7 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace. With a maximum of 40 travelers, it’s a relatively intimate experience, reducing the feeling of being just another tourist. Arriving 45 minutes early for check-in is recommended.

Practical Tips

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking through Yelapa’s cobblestone streets.
• Carry some cash for port fees, souvenirs, or extra drinks.
• A light sweater may come in handy during winter months.
• Water jackets are required for the water activities, and always follow safety instructions.

What Travelers Say

While there’s no official rating yet, early reviews highlight the good value for money and the delicious food, with many appreciating the balance of adventure and leisure. Some mention that the boat ride can be choppy if wind conditions are high, so pack accordingly if you’re prone to seasickness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy mixing cultural sights with outdoor fun. It’s perfect if you want to see a genuine Mexican village, snorkel in calm waters, and enjoy a relaxing beachside lunch. It’s also ideal for families or small groups looking for a manageable, well-organized day with plenty of water-based activities.

If you’re seeking an exclusive, luxury experience, this might not be your best choice. But for those wanting authentic, budget-conscious adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and leisure, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Yelapa & Majahuitas Beach Tour offers a balanced taste of what makes Puerto Vallarta’s coast so appealing: charming villages, beautiful beaches, lively marine life, and excellent food. It’s a family-friendly, well-organized outing with enough flexibility to make it a memorable part of your vacation.

You’ll love the chance to wander Yelapa’s streets and see its waterfall, snorkel in peaceful waters, and enjoy a hearty BBQ meal with new friends. The inclusion of water sports and cultural sights makes it a well-rounded, satisfying day for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

While the additional fees are a consideration, they’re transparent and typical of guided tours in the area. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour offers good value and authentic fun — and a chance to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful coastline.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a scenic boat ride, guided tour of Yelapa, a visit to its waterfall, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, inflatable bananas, and a BBQ lunch with drinks on Majahuitas Beach.

What are the additional costs?
You will need to pay a port tax of MX$33 (~$1.70 USD) per person and a beach club admission fee of $20 USD for adults or $10 USD for children at check-in.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending back at the meeting point. You get roughly three hours in Yelapa and four hours at Majahuitas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they need to pay the beach club fee and wear life jackets during water activities. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Can I swim at Yelapa Waterfall?
Swimming in the waterfall is possible but can be dangerous during or after heavy rains, so always follow safety notices and local advice.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable shoes for exploring Yelapa, light layers for winter months, and some cash for extra expenses.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Most reviews note the boat ride as enjoyable, with gorgeous views. The boat can get choppy if the weather is rough, so pack seasickness remedies if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of cultural exploration, water activities, and a delicious BBQ lunch in a laid-back setting makes it an all-around satisfying day out.

Is it a good value for the price?
Considering the included activities, meals, and small group size, many travelers feel it offers fair value, especially for a full-day coastal adventure.