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⛵ Boating to Yelapa & Quimixto: Hidden Gems South of Puerto Vallarta
  • By Capt. Ben Haddadnia
  • 01 July 2025

76. ⛵ Boating to Yelapa & Quimixto: Hidden Gems South of Puerto Vallarta

Tucked into the lush jungle coastline of southern Banderas Bay, the villages of Yelapa and Quimixto offer a boat-access-only escape from the bustle of Puerto Vallarta. With no roads connecting them to the mainland, these two coastal treasures give visiting boaters a rare chance to step back in time, anchor in paradise, and explore authentic beachside communities.

Whether you're sailing for a day or anchoring overnight, here's what to expect when boating to Yelapa and Quimixto.

📍 Where Are Yelapa & Quimixto?

  • Both are located on the southern shore of Bahía de Banderas, roughly:
  • 15 NM south of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
  • 12 NM from Paradise Village Marina
  • 8 NM from Marina Vallarta
  • Accessible only by boat or water taxi—no cars, no highways, no cruise ships.

⚓ Anchorage Tips

⛱️ Yelapa Anchorage

  • Drop anchor in 20–35 feet just outside the moorings zone.
  • Bottom is mostly sand with some rocks—set well.
  • Swell from the Pacific can make it a bit rolly, especially overnight.
  • Mooring balls may be offered by locals—ensure reliability.

🏞️ Quimixto Anchorage

  • Just a short hop east of Yelapa (3 NM).
  • Smaller bay, fewer boats, very calm in the mornings.
  • Anchor near the beach and dinghy in—mind your surf and rocks.

🌴 What to Do in Yelapa

  • Hike to Yelapa Waterfall: About 20 minutes from the beach. Beautiful jungle path leads to a cascading waterfall with a swimming hole.
  • Beach Day: Lined with palapa restaurants serving fresh grilled fish and margaritas.
  • Paragliding and horseback rides into the hills available from local guides.
  • Local Art & Culture: Stroll through cobblestone paths, local art galleries, and friendly mercados.

🌊 What to Do in Quimixto

  • Quimixto Waterfall Hike: About 30–40 minutes inland along a river trail.
  • Less commercial than Yelapa—rustic, peaceful, and perfect for a nature lover.
  • Enjoy a drink at a jungle-side restaurant by the falls.

🛥️ Services & Notes

  • No fuel or provisioning.
  • Limited to no cell service depending on your provider.
  • No docks—dinghy landings are beach-based, so prepare for surf.
  • Watch for panga traffic—these water taxis move fast and often.

🌮 Dining Highlights

  • In Yelapa, try:
  • Fanny’s or Domingo’s on the beach.
  • Tacos Don Memo for authentic eats.
  • Locals selling fresh coconut pie from coolers.
  • In Quimixto:
  • Restaurant Arturo’s or small palapas near the trailhead.
  • Ice-cold beers and grilled fish with a river view.

🛟 Boating Tips

  • Swells roll in—best to visit in settled weather or mornings.
  • If anchoring overnight, use a stern anchor to reduce swinging.
  • Bring cash—no ATMs and few vendors take cards.
  • Secure your dinghy and lock valuables—rare but wise.

🛥️ In Summary

Yelapa and Quimixto offer boaters a step into an unspoiled coastal paradise, where waterfalls, beach hammocks, and jungle paths replace marinas and high-rises. Perfect for a day sail or a quiet overnight away from the hustle of Puerto Vallarta.

Planning a trip around Banderas Bay? BoatNCrew.com can help you find the best anchorages, hire a local guide, or arrange services back in PV so you can explore carefree.

Let the roads end and the adventure begin—only accessible by sea. 🌿⛵🌊