Guide to Travel Yelapa, México
Downtown Yelapa
About Yelapa, Jalisco
Yelapa is a stunningly beautiful coastal village in Jalisco, Mexico, located just south of Puerto Vallarta. Nestled between lush jungles and white sand beaches, Yelapa offers breathtaking views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore miles of pristine coastline on foot or by boat, go swimming or snorkeling in the warm tropical waters, take leisurely strolls through colorful markets filled with local crafts and food vendors, and enjoy some delicious Mexican cuisine from one of many beachside restaurants. Whether you're looking for a secluded romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family vacation destination, Yelapa has something for everyone!
Exploratory Glory YouTube Channel
Yelapa, Mexico
History of Yelapa
Yelapa has been inhabited for thousands of years, dating back to at least 400 BCE when it was part of the Aztec Empire. In 1525, Spanish explorer Francisco Cortés de Buenaventura arrived and claimed the region for Spain, establishing a settlement called San Nicolás Acatlán. The village was later renamed “Yelapa” by its first mayor Don Narciso Guerrero Pacheco after his hometown in Michoacán.
Over centuries of habitation, Yelapa has become an important cultural center with strong ties to fishing and subsistence farming. Today it remains a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque setting and vibrant culture.
How to Get to Yelapa
There are no roads leading to Yelapa, therefore the easiest and most convenient way to get to Yelapa is by boat. You can take a water taxi from the marina at Puerto Vallarta, which will bring you directly to the village in about 45 minutes. Once in Yelapa, there are no cars, only horses and a few ATVs, so you’ll have to walk everywhere.
What to do in Yelapa
There is no shortage of things to do in Yelapa. Aside from beaches, markets, and trying new cuisines you can also visit a local turtle sanctuary to learn more about their conservation efforts, go kayaking among mangrove forests, hike up nearby waterfalls for stunning views of the village below, or head out into ocean depths to spot whales and dolphins. No matter how you decide to spend your time here, you're sure to leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Tuito River
Swim in the Tuito River
The Tuito River is a popular destination for visitors to Yelapa. This stunning river offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities, from kayaking and swimming in its calm waters to hiking along the banks. The area around the river is home to diverse wildlife like ocelots, toucans, parrots, coati, and even crocodiles! Plus, you can also explore ancient cave systems or partake in bird watching – perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Cascada de Yelapa
Waterfalls in Yelapa
There are two beautiful waterfalls in Yelapa. The first one, Cascada de Yelapa is easily accessible and takes only a short ten-minute walk from town. This waterfall is stunning, to say the least, and is perfectly tucked away in the lush jungle. It stands a proud 40 meters high and cascades down the mountain into a small pool that is perfect for cooling off.
The second waterfall, Yelapa Falls can only be reached by hiking an hour through the jungle. This waterfall, though slightly less impressive is still well worth a visit as you will get an up close and personal visit with the jungle and all of its interesting creatures. Hiking to this waterfall is an adventure that should be on everyone's bucket list. The trek takes you through dense jungle terrain, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys around every bend. Along the way, you may spot some wildlife, including jaguars, coati, and various species of birds and reptiles. Although challenging at times due to steep inclines and muddy paths, the journey is worth it.
Yelapa Waterfall Hike YouTube Video
Beaches in Yelapa
The beaches of Yelapa are some of the most beautiful in all of Mexico. Located on the south coast of Jalisco, they offer visitors a chance to experience stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters.
The main beach, Playa Yelapa, is one of the best-known spots in Yelapa. It's known for its stretch of golden-colored sand that stretches along a picturesque bay – perfect for taking in breathtaking views while relaxing on the shoreline. There's also plenty to do here including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding – so it’s no wonder why this spot is popular among both locals and tourists alike!
Other beaches nearby include Playa Caballo which offers visitors more seclusion as well as great fishing opportunities; Playa Mismaloya which provides amazing sunsets; and Playa Las Animas which has several restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes. All these beaches come packed with activities such as horseback riding, ATV tours and even camping if you're looking for an extended stay!
Boat Tours in Yelapa
A boat tour of Yelapa is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Jalisco's south coast. Boat tours can take you around nearby islands, through mangrove forests, and along the stunning coastline – giving you an up-close look at some of Mexico’s most spectacular landscapes.
As you journey along the coast, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins, sea turtles, and various species of birds. You may also spot rocky cliffs covered in lush vegetation that stretch out into the ocean – it's hard not to be mesmerized by these unique scenes!
There are a variety of boat tour operators available in Yelapa offering different kinds of excursions depending on what kind of experience you're looking for. Whether it's snorkeling trips or sunset cruises - there's something for everyone here!
For those wanting to explore more than just what lies beneath the waves - several companies offer fishing charters that will take visitors out into open waters where they can try their luck with rod and reel while taking in beautiful views from above deck.
Hotels in Yelapa
Yelapa has plenty of great accommodation options to choose from! For those looking for luxurious amenities, the Casa Vieja Hotel offers stunning views and upscale accommodations. The Mar y Tierra Boutique Hotel provides visitors with an intimate retreat close to nature, while El Sueno de San Juan features modern rooms with all the conveniences one could need on vacation. Those looking for more economical stays can check out La Perla Hostel or Eco-Albergue Campamento – both offering comfortable lodging at great rates.
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