Private Yachts to Yelapa, Las Animas and Majahuitas
South of Puerto Vallarta, the coast of Banderas Bay turns wild: jungle-covered hills, small coves and beach villages that you can only reach by boat. A private yacht is the best way to see them, with your own captain and crew, the stops you choose and the whole day to enjoy them.
The Route at a Glance
- Los Arcos: a marine park of rock arches near Mismaloya, the bay’s best-known snorkeling spot.
- Las Animas: a beach with seafood restaurants on the sand, reachable by boat or on foot.
- Majahuitas: a small, secluded cove surrounded by jungle, reachable only by sea.
- Yelapa: a village with no road access and a waterfall a short walk from the beach.
- Half day or full day: about 4 hours for Los Arcos and Las Animas, 6 or more to reach Yelapa.
Planning Your Charter
Private boats leave from Marina Vallarta or from the pier at Los Muertos beach in the Zona Romántica. Yachts range from small boats for a couple to large vessels for 20 people, and most charters include a captain, crew, drinks and snorkeling gear. Tell the operator which stops you want, and they will plan the route around the sea conditions on the day.
Los Arcos
The first stop on most trips is Los Arcos, a protected marine park where granite islands rise from the sea near Mismaloya. The water around the arches is full of tropical fish, and the snorkeling is easy for beginners on a calm day.
Las Animas
Further south, Las Animas is a lively beach lined with palapa restaurants serving ceviche, grilled fish and cold drinks with your feet in the sand. It is the classic lunch stop on a boat day.
Majahuitas
Majahuitas is a small cove tucked between cliffs and jungle, with no road and few visitors. Its sheltered water makes it a good snorkeling spot when conditions at Los Arcos aren’t ideal.
Yelapa
Yelapa is a fishing village at the far southern end of the bay, with no road access. From the beach, a short walk through the village leads to a waterfall with a natural pool where you can swim. The waterfall has more water after the rainy season and less in the dry months, so the beach may be the highlight if you visit in spring.
Tips for Your Boat Day
- Go in the morning: the bay is usually calmer early in the day.
- Bring pesos: for lunch on the beach and small purchases in the villages.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a light layer: the breeze on the way back can feel cool.
- Plan a gratuity for the crew: tipping is customary on private charters.
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