Vallarta: Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Snorkel Adventure

A day at sea can still feel personal. This Vallarta Adventures catamaran tour strings together two tropical spots that you can’t reach the same way as most beach destinations: Majahuitas (sea-only) and Yelapa (a tiny off-the-grid fishing village). You’ll cruise along the coast with a real chance of dolphin sightings, and in winter, even humpback whales can show up.

I especially like the way Majahuitas is built for water lovers. You get a guided snorkeling window with equipment provided, plus kayaking and time to hang out on the beach and explore the cove at your own pace. I also like Yelapa’s mix of slow village wandering and the payoff of the Cola de Caballo waterfall area, where you can cool off and then relax by the river-meets-the-ocean scene.

The main drawback to plan for is pacing and conditions. This is a big group catamaran day, so it can feel busy, snorkeling visibility can vary, and jellyfish stings have happened to some snorkelers.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Sea-only Majahuitas Cove: Accessible by boat, which helps keep the water calmer and the vibe more relaxed.
• Snorkeling time is scheduled: Equipment is included, but the on-water window is limited by the day’s timetable.
• Yelapa feels off-the-grid: No roads in town—expect charm, steps, and a waterfall walk that can get rough.
• Wildlife sightings are possible: Dolphins are common, and winter can bring humpback whales.
• You’ll pay cash fees on top: Expect a MXN$40 port fee plus a USD$20 access fee per person.

Cruising Out of Puerto Vallarta: Boats, Views, and Wildlife Odds

Your day starts with a catamaran ride out of Puerto Vallarta, heading toward two coves that most people only see from a distance. The first thing you’ll notice is how quickly the coastline turns into scenery you can’t really get from land. Think cliffs, green slopes, and stretches of water that look empty—until the boat turns and you see dolphins cutting through the wake.

Wildlife sightings are part of the pitch for a reason. Dolphin encounters are listed as common, and humpback whales can be spotted in winter. I’d treat it like a bonus, not a guarantee, but the cruise is exactly the kind of ride where spotting happens naturally: you’re moving slowly along the coast, with crew pointing out landmarks and things happening on the water.

You’ll also start building the “whole-day energy” early. The boat isn’t just transportation—it turns into a floating hangout with music, drinks, and constant activity. That matters because this tour packs two destinations into a single 7-hour block, so the onboard time is part of the experience, not a gap filler.

Majahuitas Cove: Snorkeling, Kayak Time, and a Beach That Feels Protected

Majahuitas is the star for anyone who wants water time without the crowds of Puerto Vallarta. The big reason it feels special is simple: it’s accessible only by sea. That tends to mean clearer boundaries between “people who came by boat” and the surrounding wild coastline.

When you arrive, you’ll have a structured snorkeling stop with equipment included. The tour is set up for you to feel safe and guided, rather than dropping you in and hoping for the best. You’ll snorkel in clear water with marine life you can actually look at, plus the option to do more water play around the cove.

Kayaking is also included, so you’re not limited to just one shallow, sit-and-watch moment. In practice, this is where you’ll decide what kind of vacation you’re having that day:

• If you want movement, kayaking and beach exploring let you burn energy.
• If you want photos and calm, the cove setting is the kind of place where you’ll keep turning your head because the scenery changes every few minutes.

One honest note: snorkeling conditions can vary. Jellyfish stings have happened to some snorkelers, and visibility can dip depending on the day. If you’re the type who gets rattled by that kind of risk, plan for it anyway—bring protective swimwear (a long-sleeve rash guard can help), and do what the crew suggests once you’re in the water.

Also, don’t expect an all-day snorkel program. The water time is real, but it’s timeboxed so the day can include Yelapa too. If you’re a hardcore reef person, you might find yourself wanting more minutes in the water. If you’re here for variety—cove snorkeling plus a waterfall day—Majahuitas nails that balance.

Yelapa Village: Charming Waterfall Adventure With Real Off-Grid Vibes

After Majahuitas, you’ll shift to the other kind of tropical: the human scale of Yelapa. This tiny community is described as free of roads and surrounded by dramatic natural scenery. You don’t just reach it—you step into it, and the pace feels slower almost instantly.

The Yelapa portion includes a guided visit with about 80 minutes set aside for village time and the waterfall area. What I like about this stop is the way it connects place to activity. You’re not just walking to a single photo spot. You’ll get time to:

• stroll through the fishing village vibe
• browse native artisan handicrafts
• head toward the cascading Cola de Caballo waterfall area

There’s also the chance to jump into refreshing water near the falls. If you’re bringing beach shoes or sandals, this is where you’ll notice the ground changes: you might go from smoother village paths to areas that are less forgiving. Some walking routes can be rough, and one review specifically called the waterfall walk treacherous. Translation for you: wear something you can trust, take it slow, and don’t assume it’s an easy stroll.

This part of the day rewards curiosity. If you like talking to people, wandering, and looking at small details—what’s being sold, how the village is laid out—you’ll get more out of the 80 minutes than if you treat Yelapa like a stop you rush through to get back to the beach.

Cola de Caballo Falls: When Weather Changes the Payoff

Waterfall tours are always weather-dependent, and Yelapa is no exception. The waterfall you’ll go to is Cola de Caballo, and the experience includes time to get refreshed there. But if there hasn’t been rain, the waterfall may run lightly or look less dramatic than you imagined.

That doesn’t automatically ruin the day. Even when the waterfall flow is low, you still get:

• a change in scenery from beach to waterfall terrain
• the cool-down break after walking
• a payoff moment that feels like you earned it

So here’s how I’d plan your mindset: go in expecting an experience, not a guaranteed roaring curtain of water. If the falls are flowing well, you’ll be thrilled. If they’re not, you’ll still come away with Yelapa’s off-grid feel and the refresh element.

Beach Time by the River Meets the Sea

Once you’re done with the waterfall area, Yelapa gives you the kind of beach relaxation that’s almost hard to describe until you’re there. The town sits in a natural cove setting, and there’s a river that streams into the ocean. That river-meets-sea detail is one of those small geographic features that changes how the beach feels: the area around it tends to look lush and “made for lingering.”

You also get time to sit, swim, and take in the green mountains backdrop. This isn’t a resort beach with a bunch of built infrastructure. It’s more like a natural amphitheater where you can breathe for a bit before returning to the boat.

Practical tip: this is also a good time to organize your day’s small needs. You’re out of the water (or near it), you’re in shorts and sun, and you’ll want your essentials accessible—towel, dry clothes, and any cash or small purchases you plan to make in town.

Lunch, Open Bar, and the 7-Hour “Full Package” Rhythm

The tour includes a deli-style lunch, plus an open bar on board. It’s not just about eating—it’s how the day is structured. You’re going to be on the move, in and out of boats, and spending time in sun and water. Having a planned meal matters because there aren’t tons of casual grab-and-go options built into the sea-only stops.

On the boat ride back, the energy shifts fully into entertainment mode: music, dancing, and a show atmosphere. Crew members are described as fun and attentive, and it’s the kind of onboard vibe that helps turn what could be a long return trip into a celebration.

If you’re traveling with family, this rhythm can be a plus. One review specifically mentioned it worked well for multi-generational groups, with some people snorkeling while others used the beach time at stops.

Just don’t plan this day like a “slow vacation.” It’s more like a well-run adventure day where the entertainment and snacks fill the gaps so you don’t feel stranded between activities. The downside is real too: some people felt it was rushed and wanted more free time at Yelapa or more snorkeling time at Majahuitas.

Boat Size, Port Reality, and What to Pack

This is a big-group catamaran day. One review mentioned a boat with 100+ people, and that kind of scale affects your experience. It can be great—lively, social, and energetic—but it also means you should expect lines, busy docking moments, and a little crowding when everyone hits the stairs at once.

Port logistics are also worth your attention. A review advised arriving early to make navigating the port easier, suggesting that earlier arrival helps you get your bearings faster before the boat boarding rush.

Here’s what I’d pack based on what can realistically hit you on a day like this:

• Swimwear (and something protective in case of jellyfish risk)
• Towel (you’ll likely want your own for comfort)
• Water-friendly shoes or sandals you can use on uneven paths
• Sunscreen (you’ll be out on open water and on beach time)
• Cash in small amounts for any purchases or extra fees

Also, bring patience. When you’re managing a day across two stops, you’re going to feel the timing. If you hate “moving schedule” travel, you may feel stressed. If you like guided days where you don’t have to plan transport and timing yourself, this tour can feel like a win.

Guided Crew Energy: Names You Might Hear on the Mic

A huge part of why this tour gets strong ratings is the crew style. Multiple reviews highlight that the staff were fun, attentive, and good at keeping people engaged even during the boat ride. Names that came up include Chi, Omar, Alejandro, Emberto, Chewey, and Chai (spelled a couple ways).

The crew doesn’t just count down the minutes. They tend to narrate the cruise, point out landmarks, and turn the return trip into an onboard party. If you want a day where you talk to people, take photos, and laugh a bit while you’re at sea, the crew energy is a real value-add.

You’ll also want to pay attention during snorkeling and kayaking time. Even when you’re confident in the water, having clear guidance keeps things smoother—especially if conditions change.

Price and Fees Breakdown: What You Really Pay for This $99 Day

The advertised price is $99 per person, which already signals a value-focused day: two destinations, lunch, open bar, and water activities with equipment provided. But the real cost picture isn’t only the $99.

Plan on these add-ons:

• MXN$40 port fee paid in cash before boarding
• USD$20 access fee per person paid in cash at check-in

Also not included:

• transportation from your hotel
• gratuities

So your best move is to budget for the $99 plus the cash fees. If you’re comparing tours, don’t only compare the headline price. Look for whether snorkeling, meals, and onboard drinks are genuinely included and then add the inevitable local fees.

Pickup is also tied to specific check-in locations, including Vallarta Adventures Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Magico. You’ll need to redeem your reservation at a Vallarta Adventures check-in desk.

Should You Book This Vallarta Waterfall and Snorkel Day?

If you want a single-day mix of sea-only beach time, guided snorkeling, and a real change of scenery to the Cola de Caballo waterfall area, I’d book it. This tour works best when you’re okay with a busy schedule and you’re traveling for variety, not for maximum time in just one place.

Skip it if you need a very slow pace, if you strongly prefer long unstructured beach time at one stop, or if mobility is a concern—this tour is noted as not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

If you’re a first-timer to Puerto Vallarta and you like the idea of seeing more than the marina strip, this is a fun, well-run way to do it.

FAQ

How long is the Vallarta Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas snorkel tour?

It lasts about 7 hours.

Where are the pickup locations?

Pickup is available at Vallarta Adventures Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Magico.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes deli-style lunch, an open bar on board, and snorkeling and kayaking equipment.

Are there extra fees I should pay on the day?

Yes. You must pay a MXN$40 port fee in cash before boarding, and there is a USD$20 access fee per person paid in cash at check-in.

Is transportation from my hotel included?

No, transportation from your hotel is not included.

What activities can I expect at Majahuitas?

You’ll have a snorkeling stop with equipment included, plus time at Playa Majahuitas for lunch and free time. Kayaking equipment is also included.

What do you do in Yelapa?

You get a guided visit and time to explore the fishing village area, plus time connected to the Cola de Caballo waterfall experience.

What should I bring?

Bring a passport or ID card. Also plan for cash for the port fee and the access fee.

Does the tour have entertainment?

Yes. The return journey includes entertainment and music on board.

Is the tour family-friendly?

It’s described as fun for families, with activities like snorkeling and beach time that can work for different ages and comfort levels.

Is it suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.