Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta by Speedboat

If you’re considering a day out exploring Puerto Vallarta’s coast, the Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling tour offers a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and local charm. While I haven’t personally taken it, reviews and info paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting a mix of water activities and cultural sights without feeling rushed or crowded.

Two things that stand out immediately are the personalized service from expert guides and the small-group setting. These features promise a more intimate experience, which can be a real plus when you’re trying to enjoy nature and local flavor without the chaos of larger tours. On the flip side, a potential downside to keep in mind is the weather dependency—like most outdoor excursions, poor weather can impact the experience.

This tour feels well-suited for travelers who love being on the water, want a taste of authentic Yelapa, and appreciate having knowledgeable guides show them around. It’s particularly good if you’re after a balanced mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxation. Families or groups with active, curious travelers will likely enjoy it, but the focus on water activities might not be ideal for those who prefer land-based adventures.

Key Points

• Personalized, expert-guided experience with small groups for a more personalized feel
• Includes multiple highlights: waterfall hike, beach time, snorkeling, and scenic stops
• Good value for the price at $107 per person, considering all the activities and inclusions
• Secluded snorkeling spots offer better marine encounters away from crowds
• Weather-dependent nature can affect the quality of the trip
• Accessible amenities: includes bottled water, a hearty lunch, and safety gear

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour

When you look at a tour like this, the first thing that catches your eye is the itinerary. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded experience in just about four hours, which is enough time to enjoy several highlights without feeling rushed. From start to finish, this trip mixes water, land, and scenic views with the chance to relax and soak in the surroundings.

Departure and Getting There

Participants are typically picked up from their accommodations or meet at the Los Veranos Canopy Tour main office in Puerto Vallarta. The tour starts with a high-speed boat ride—a fun way to kick things off, especially if you love speed and the thrill of being on the water. The boat ride alone is often noted as a highlight, with reviews mentioning how the boat zips along smoothly and offers a chance to get excited for what’s ahead.

Yelapa Village: A Colorful Coastal Escape

Your first stop is the charming village of Yelapa, a place that’s all about laid-back vibes and local charm. The narrow alleys, vibrant houses, and friendly atmosphere make it a refreshing change from the busy city. Here, you’ll get to explore at your own pace and visit the famous Yelapa waterfall. Reviews praise the waterfall as beautiful—an ideal spot for photos or a quick hike to stretch your legs after the boat ride.

Waterfall Hike and Village Exploration

The waterfall hike is often highlighted as a memorable part of the day. It offers a taste of nature’s beauty and a chance to see the lush landscape up close. The guides are described as knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone stays safe while enjoying the scenery. If you’re lucky, weather permitting, you’ll get a good look at the cascade, which is perfect for a quick swim or just admiring the natural beauty.

Snorkeling at Less-Trafficked Spots

The highlight for many is the guided snorkeling session. Unlike crowded beaches, the tour grants access to exclusive spots known for their marine life. Expect to see sea turtles, starfish, octopuses, lobsters, and tropical fish—a real treat if you love underwater life. The snorkeling gear is top quality, designed for comfort and safety, which means you can focus on enjoying the sights rather than worrying about equipment issues.

One reviewer mentioned that the water was a bit cloudy and the fish count lower than expected, which can happen depending on weather and currents. Still, many found it worthwhile, with one noting that the marine life was plentiful and lively. The guides keep a close eye on everyone, making safety a priority, and their local knowledge helps spot marine creatures you might miss on your own.

Beach Time and Water Activities

After snorkeling, you can choose to kayak, float on mats, or simply relax by the water. The included floats and kayaks add a fun element, giving you options if you’re eager to stay active or just unwind. The beach at Madagascar Beach, a secluded spot, is praised for its calm waters and natural beauty. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a seaside lunch and drinks, included in the tour, making for a laid-back dining experience that feels authentic.

Lunch and Refreshments

The included lunch is a simple but tasty affair—sandwich, granola bar, and fish ceviche. One review mentions that the ceviche was a highlight, fresh and flavorful. The sandwiches are straightforward, but enough to keep you energized for the rest of the trip. Be aware that there’s a small port tax of around $2 USD or 33 pesos, which is typical for this kind of tour.

Iconic Los Arcos Stop

On the way back, the boat makes a quick stop at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a well-known natural formation. The views are stunning and perfect for photos. Many travelers appreciate this as a scenic finale, giving a chance to admire the towering granite formations and snap some memorable shots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $107 includes bottled water, life jackets, and the main meal. You also get quality snorkeling gear, which is a bonus because it allows you to stay comfortable and safe underwater. However, there’s a port tax and local fee that you’ll need to cover separately, which adds a bit to the overall cost.

While everything else seems well-organized, remember that the experience is weather-dependent. If rain or strong winds cancel the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The group size is capped at 28 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews paint a generally positive picture. One traveler raved about the “friendly crew” and the guide JC, calling the experience “exceptional” and highlighting the boat ride, Yelapa tour, and snorkeling as memorable. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the dolphin sightings, which added a special touch.

On the other hand, some found the snorkeling conditions less ideal: one review mentioned cloudy water and fewer fish than hoped. The lunch was also noted as simple, but still satisfying for most. The guides’ attentiveness and the scenic stops seem to be the biggest selling points.

This experience is perfect for those who want a balanced outdoor adventure that combines scenic water rides, cultural exploration, and marine life. It’s ideal if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat trips, and intimate visits to local villages. If you’re traveling with friends or a couple seeking a mix of fun and relaxation, you’ll probably find this a great choice.

If your idea of fun leans more toward land-based activities or more challenging hikes, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind that weather can influence the day—so flexible plans are wise.

The Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, marine encounters, and cultural charm. The small-group setting and friendly guides create a relaxed vibe, making it easier to enjoy each stop without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of quality gear and scenic highlights makes the $107 price point reasonable, especially considering the variety of activities packed into four hours.

While the snorkeling conditions can vary depending on weather, most travelers seem satisfied with the marine life and the overall adventure. The quiet beaches, waterfalls, and iconic Los Arcos provide picturesque moments that are likely to stand out in your memories.

In the end, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and authentic day on the water with a knowledgeable crew, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s particularly suited to those who want a taste of everything Puerto Vallarta’s coast has to offer without feeling rushed or crowded.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour starts at the Los Veranos Canopy Tour main office or your accommodation if arranged.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What’s the group size?
The maximum is 28 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and less crowded.

Are the snorkeling gear and safety equipment provided?
Absolutely. The tour includes top-quality snorkeling gear and life jackets for safety and comfort.

What about lunch—is it included?
Yes, a lunch sandwich, granola bar, and fish ceviche are included. You can expect a simple but satisfying meal.

Are there any extra costs?
You’ll need to cover a port tax of about $2 USD or 33 pesos, and an additional fee of $2 per person if departing from Puerto Vallarta, for the marina fee.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Bad weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, active kids who enjoy water and outdoor activities might find it fun. Just keep in mind the boat ride and water activities are the main focus.

In the end, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s coastline in style—an experience most travelers find worthwhile.