Tour to Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo from San Cristobal

Exploring the Chiapas Coast: A Practical Look at the Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo Tour

Thinking about taking a day to explore some of Chiapas’ most beautiful beaches? This tour to Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo from San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a pretty laid-back way to enjoy a different side of the region. It’s a fairly affordable option at around $95 per person, and it’s designed for those who want a taste of seaside life without dedicating multiple days.

What we like about this experience is that it combines two distinct coastal spots—the lively Puerto Arista with its fishing vibe, and Boca del Cielo, known as the “second most popular beach in Chiapas” — giving you a good sense of local beach culture and scenery. Plus, the tour includes comfortable transportation and a worry-free day, which is perfect if you’re not keen on organizing your own transport or logistics.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so budget for some snacks or meals if you’re hungry after the beach strolls. And, since this is a group tour with a maximum of 17 travelers, it’s fairly intimate but still structured, which might not suit everyone if you prefer total independence.

This tour is best for travelers who want a relaxing day at the coast with minimal planning, especially if you’re keen to see both the lively fishing port and the serene beaches—a good fit for those craving natural beauty and a break from cultural sightseeing.

Key Points

• Ideal for a low-stress beach day close to San Cristóbal, with easy transportation included.
• Visit two different beach spots that show contrasting sides of Chiapas’ coast: Puerto Arista’s fishing port and Boca del Cielo’s calm sands.
• Includes comfortable, air-conditioned transport with a knowledgeable driver and liability insurance.
• Flexibility in timing with around 1-hour stops at each location, giving you enough time to walk, relax, and take photos.
• Not much included in the price outside transportation—plan for your own food, drinks, and tips.
• Cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Puerto Arista

This first stop sets the tone for your day. Puerto Arista is a working fishing port, so expect to see boats, local vendors, and lively scenes. The walk along the beach is a simple but scenic way to get a feel for this traditional port town. You won’t find entrance fees, so it’s purely about the experience of being there — watching fishermen at work or just soaking in the sea breeze. We liked the way Puerto Arista retains its authenticity, making it more than just a touristy spot.

The reviews mention the “stunning views,” which are easy to appreciate here. The beach is expansive and often less crowded, perfect if you want to unwind or snap some pictures with the horizon. It’s important to note that this stop is brief—about an hour—so you won’t be spending hours in the sand. Still, it’s enough to get a sense of the local vibe.

Boca del Cielo

The second stop is Boca del Cielo, renowned as a top beach destination in Chiapas. Known colloquially as “the second most popular beach,” it’s quieter than Puerto Arista but offers equally stunning views. Here, you can simply walk along the sand, dip your toes in the water, or sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Travelers often mention the “beautiful scenery,” and it’s easy to see why. Boca del Cielo is praised for its calmer atmosphere, making it suitable for relaxing or a quick swim. Since there’s no entry fee, you can explore freely without worrying about extra costs.

One thing to keep in mind is that your time here is limited—about an hour—so if you’re expecting a full beach day, this might feel brief. But it’s enough to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps take some memorable photos.

What’s Included

The tour provides round-trip transportation in a well-air-conditioned vehicle with a tourist driver—a big plus for comfort, especially after a morning of travel. The price covers liability insurance and seats that are quite comfortable, easing the journey.

However, since food and drinks are not included, plan your own snacks or meals. There are usually vendors around at both stops, but bringing your own water or a light snack might be more convenient. Also, tips are not included, so if you enjoy the service, leaving a little extra is appreciated.

The Logistics

Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour spans approximately 9 hours, giving you enough time to visit both beaches without feeling rushed. The group size is capped at 17 travelers, which strikes a good balance—small enough to feel personal but not so intimate that you’re left out.

Most travelers find the timing just right for a relaxed day—leaving early means you return to San Cristóbal in the evening, hopefully with plenty of photos and stories.

Weather and Cancellation

Weather plays a role in outdoor beach trips, and this tour is no exception. If conditions turn poor, cancellations are handled smoothly with a full refund or rescheduling options. It’s good to keep an eye on the forecast, especially during the rainy season.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip works well for travelers who want a straightforward, relaxing day with minimal fuss. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate natural scenery, enjoy short beach walks, and are happy to explore without a strict schedule. Since food isn’t included, it’s ideal if you’re comfortable bringing some snacks or grabbing something locally.

It’s also a nice choice if you’re staying in San Cristóbal but want to experience the coast without committing to an overnight stay or more complex arrangements. Not ideal if you’re looking for a full beach day or prefer to spend more time exploring local restaurants or water activities.

The Sum Up

For anyone looking to add a seaside pause to their itinerary, this Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo tour offers a straightforward, reasonably priced way to enjoy some of Chiapas’ best beaches. You’ll get to see two very different coastal environments—one bustling with fishing activity and the other peaceful and scenic. The included transport and small group size keep the experience comfortable and manageable.

While it’s not a full day at the beach and doesn’t include meals or extras, the tour’s simplicity is part of its charm, especially if you’re after a relaxed, no-hassle day in nature. It’s especially suitable for those who want a taste of Chiapas’ coast without a lot of planning or expense, and who enjoy natural beauty over structured activities.

If you’re curious about the coast and want a quick, scenic escape from San Cristóbal, this tour could fit the bill perfectly—just be ready for a short but sweet seaside experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transport with a driver and liability insurance, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund, which adds flexibility to your planning.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or buy something locally at the stops.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Each stop lasts about an hour. This gives you enough time to walk, take photos, and enjoy the scenery, but not for a full beach day.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify family suitability, it’s generally a relaxed trip that could be enjoyable for travelers of all ages, especially those interested in scenic walks and beach scenery.

What is the overall value?
Considering transportation, insurance, and the chance to see two different coastal spots without extra expenses, the tour offers decent value for a convenient day trip. Just keep in mind that additional expenses like food are on you.

If you’re after a peaceful seaside experience with easy logistics, this tour is worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape and don’t mind the limited time at each spot.