//1// 'We Love Yelapa' - local residents taking care of their town //2// A burro waiting for its owner in the town center //3// River emptying into the bay //4// One of the few local restaurants //5// Happily beach lounging on my 30th birthday //6// Waterfall behind the town
A DAY IN : YELAPA
HISTORY
Just south of Puerto Vallarta, nestled in a small cove, is the little fishing village of Yelapa. In this cove the El Tuito river, as well as another small mountain stream, empty into the Pacific Ocean and it is said that the name Yelapa means, ‘where two rivers meet the sea.’ The land itself is known as a ‘comunidad indigena’ meaning that it is community owned by its indigenous population and no foreign land ownership is permitted. This, combined with its remote location, makes Yelapa a true jewel to visit – allowing you to enjoy an authentic Mexican retreat in relative privacy.
GENERAL
If you’re looking for a quiet beach vacation then Yelapa should definitely be on your list to visit. The town is very small with few resources for tourists so make sure to confirm with your hotel what they have in terms of food and recreational activities. There is a range of accommodations available from basic palapa huts to higher end hotels – your experience relies largely on what venue you choose.
If staying overnight in a remote and rustic location doesn’t suit your fancy remember that Yelapa makes for an easy day trip from Puerto Vallarta – providing you with a fun boat ride and giving you a break from the crowded beaches in the city.
While there is a road that reaches the town the easiest and fastest way to get there is by boat. Inexpensive water taxi’s leave often from downtown Puerto Vallarta and from Boca de Tomatlan – click here to see the schedule.
MORNING/AFTERNOON/EVENING
Eat/swim/hammock - repeat.
The real draw of Yelapa is it’s natural beauty with its tropical forested mountains tumbling into the sandy shore of the cove. This is the perfect place to spend entire days relaxing on the beach with loved ones.
