Sea Safari & Beach BBQ at secluded Pizota jungle beach

Exploring Puerto Vallarta with the Sea Safari & Beach BBQ Tour: An Honest Look

Looking for a day trip that combines boat rides, cultural sights, outdoor activities, and a tasty beachside lunch? The Sea Safari & Beach BBQ at the secluded Pizota jungle beach promises just that. This tour offers a chance to see some of the most charming coastal villages, enjoy horseback riding, and relax on a pristine beach—all in one package.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation. The guided tours through Yelapa and Pizota are insightful, giving you a taste of local life, while the waterfalls and natural pools bring a refreshing break from the sun. Plus, the beach BBQ with beverages sets a perfect scene for unwinding after a busy morning.

However, a key consideration is that this trip involves multiple activities that require a moderate level of physical fitness. The boat ride, horseback riding, and walking to waterfalls might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with back, knee, or heart issues.

This tour suits travelers who want a bit of everything—scenery, culture, and fun—without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s particularly well-suited for active visitors who enjoy outdoor adventures and appreciate a good meal in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines boat trips, village visits, horseback riding, and beach relaxation.
• Authentic local experiences: Visiting fishing villages like Yelapa and Pizota provides a glimpse into authentic Mexican coastal life.
• Diverse activities: From snorkeling and kayaking to waterfall swimming and horseback riding, there’s something for all.
• Great value: For $169, you’re getting a full day of guided exploration, lunch, and multiple activities—well worth the price.
• Group size: Usually capped at 28 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Moderate physical activity: Suitable for those in decent shape, with some considerations for certain health issues.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Departure and Speedboat Ride

The adventure kicks off early, with a meeting point at Vallarta Adventures’ terminal in Puerto Vallarta. Setting out at 8:00 am, you’ll board a speedboat that zips across Banderas Bay, giving you a thrilling start. This ride alone is a highlight for many, as it offers sweeping views of the coastline and a rush of ocean air.

Travelers often comment on the fun boat ride and the excellent way it transports you from the busy city to the more secluded spots. As one reviewer mentions, “the boat ride was fun,” and many appreciate the quick, scenic transit that avoids long drives.

Exploring Yelapa and Quimixto

The first stops are the fishing village of Yelapa and Quimixto. Yelapa is a charming place where cobblestone streets meet lush jungle. Here, you might see local artisans making tortillas or salsa, giving you a true sense of how people live in this quiet corner of Mexico. Walking through, you’ll get to see the town’s natural beauty and peaceful vibe.

At Quimixto, you can expect a more lively scene with options to snorkel or relax on the beach. Some reviews highlight the beautiful views and the opportunity to enjoy local foods or simply unwind.

The Horseback Ride and Waterfall Swim

One of the tour’s key attractions is the guided horseback ride along a river trail, which offers a different perspective of the landscape. Reviewers describe this as “a short trip through Yelapa,” with the horses being well-matched and friendly. The ride itself is a fun way to connect with nature, but it’s worth noting that the trail can be dusty and narrow, so don’t expect a smooth, wide-open trail.

The horseback riding leads to a cascading waterfall, which is particularly stunning during the rainy season. Visitors often admire the natural pools where they can swim and cool off. One review notes, “the waterfall was perfect,” emphasizing how refreshing and beautiful this part of the trip is.

Pizota Village and Beachside Lunch

After the water adventure, you’ll visit Pizota, a remote beachside village accessible only by boat. This is arguably the trip’s highlight — a pristine, secluded beach with soft sand and turquoise waters. Many reviews rave about the relaxing nature of Pizota, describing it as an ideal place to unwind.

The beach BBQ buffet is a major draw, with grilled meats, fresh salads, and beverages served at tables right on the sand. Tour guides often mention the delicious food and the opportunity to enjoy a beachside open bar. Some travelers mention that you can engage in snorkeling or kayaking, adding a bit of adventure before heading back.

Additional Activities and Free Time

The tour is flexible enough to allow some free time for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging in the sun. The calm waters around Pizota and neighboring beaches make these activities accessible, though some reviews note that rougher waters later in the day can limit kayaking or paddleboarding.

End of the Day and Return

After a full day of exploration and relaxation, the boat ride back completes the experience. Most find the return journey a relaxing end to a busy day, with the sunset views often making it memorable. The trip wraps up back at the meeting point around 2:30 or 3 pm, offering a satisfying but not overly long day out.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Voices

Many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides, describing them as “friendly and personal,” who go out of their way to enhance the experience. One reviewer, Tyler, said, “the tour guide had great knowledge of the areas we visited,” which adds a layer of value beyond just sightseeing.

Food and beverages consistently earn praise—the buffet lunch and open bar seem to hit the right spot after a morning of activity. “Great food, attentive staff,” is a common refrain, and some note the opportunity to enjoy chips and guacamole overlooking the waterfall — a simple pleasure that makes the trip special.

However, not every aspect is perfect. Some travelers express disappointment about horseback riding, mentioning that it was “just a short trip,” and others have concerns about the horse health, highlighting the importance of the tour company’s animal care practices.

Safety and Suitability

The tour emphasizes safety equipment and requires participants to have a moderate physical fitness level. It’s not recommended for children under 10 or for those with certain health issues like heart disease or back problems. The maximum weight limit of 118 kg (260 lbs) is in place to ensure safety during horseback riding and water activities.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is not inclusive of hotel pickups, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point.
• Port fees of MX$40 should be paid cash at the port.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so pack appropriately.
• Due to the nature of the activities, water shoes are highly recommended, as noted by several reviews.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those craving an active, varied day in Puerto Vallarta, this tour provides a solid mix of scenic boat rides, authentic village visits, outdoor adventure, and beach relaxation. The price point of $169 seems reasonable given the number of different experiences packed into this roughly 6.5-hour trip.

If you love exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, enjoy engaging with local culture, and want a mix of adventure and leisure on your holiday, this could be a good fit. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and tasty lunch make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re okay with physical activities and some travel time.

On the flip side, if you’re seeking a completely relaxed, no-fuss beach day or have mobility issues, this might be less suitable. The tour’s multiple activities do require some effort, and weather or water conditions can influence certain parts of the day.

All in all, this tour is well-rated for good reason—it’s a lively, authentic way to see some of the best bits of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline with a friendly group and expert guidance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for ages 10 and up. The activities involve moderate physical effort, so children should be comfortable with outdoor adventures.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling or kayaking gear?
No, safety equipment is provided. However, bringing your own water shoes is recommended, especially for water activities.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, plus water shoes for water-based parts of the tour. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point in Puerto Vallarta.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8 am and ending in the early afternoon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available if canceled early enough.

What if I have health issues?
This tour is not suitable for those with heart disease, back, spine, or knee problems, or for individuals over 118 kg (260 lbs). Always consult your doctor if unsure.

In the end, the Sea Safari & Beach BBQ tour offers a lively, varied day that showcases the natural beauty and local charm of Puerto Vallarta. It’s a good pick for active travelers eager to see multiple sights and enjoy some downtime in a beautiful setting.