Snorkeling and Yelapa Beach Tour Majahuitas

Snorkeling and Yelapa Beach Tour Majahuitas
Location: Jalisco, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Rating: 5/5 (based on 2 reviews)
Price: $82 per person
Duration: 5 hours

A quick look at what makes this tour special

This half-day adventure takes you from the scenic coast of Mismaloya to two of the most inviting beaches in Jalisco: Majahuitas and Yelapa. For just $82, you get roughly five hours of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing, all guided by friendly bilingual guides who know the area well.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the crystal-clear waters of Majahuitas make for excellent snorkeling, with a good chance to see a variety of fish and marine life, thanks to the well-constructed stop in a protected marine area. Second, the authentic charm of Yelapa, a small town only accessible by boat, offers a glimpse into local life, with options to walk to a waterfall or simply soak up the sun on the beach.

One potential consideration is the lack of on-board food service—you’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in Yelapa. Also, since the tour is primarily outdoor and on the water, it may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

This tour suits travelers who want a balance of underwater exploration and relaxed beach time with a taste of local culture—perfect for families, couples, or anyone eager for a scenic, active day with genuine moments.

Key Points

Balanced Experience: Combines snorkel time with beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
Authentic Small Town: Yelapa offers a glimpse into traditional Mexican life and a chance to see waterfalls.
Flexible Planning: Bring your own snacks and drinks; the boat includes bottled water but no food.
Scenic Navigation: Enjoy boat rides with views of coastlines, coves, and iconic rock formations.
Snorkeling Quality: Clear waters and marine life make for an enjoyable underwater experience.
Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with mobility constraints.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Fascinated by underwater life? Here are other snorkeling spots we've covered in Mismaloya

Starting Point and Overall Flow

The adventure begins at Mismaloya Adventures, a well-organized local office where you meet your guide. Here, you’ll get fitted with snorkeling gear—be sure to bring your own if you want to, though extras are available—and prepare for a scenic boat ride.

The boat itself is equipped with shade, which is a thoughtful touch for protecting you from the sun during the trip. The group size seems manageable, and the guides are bilingual, making explanations accessible for non-Spanish speakers.

First Stop: Majahuitas

After setting sail, you’ll cruise along the coastline, enjoying views of lush hills and rocky formations. The highlight here is the snorkeling stop at Majahuitas, a protected marine area known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

According to reviews, the marine environment here is quite vibrant. One reviewer mentioned that Lily, their guide, was attentive and helpful, even bringing extra snorkeling equipment when needed. This indicates a well-managed experience, even for late-bookings. The typical 40-minute snorkeling session allows enough time to admire the fish and underwater scenery, especially if you’re a confident swimmer.

Second Stop: Yelapa Beach

After snorkeling, the boat carries you to Yelapa, an unspoiled fishing village famous for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches. You get about 3.5 hours here to relax, swim, or explore.

Yelapa is only accessible by boat, which keeps the town free from large tour buses and mass tourism. One reviewer described their guided walk to the waterfall, which added a memorable touch to their visit. You could also decide to simply lounge on the beach with a book or swim in the warm sea.

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Optional Activities in Yelapa

While no food is provided on the boat, you’re free to buy or bring snacks, and there are local restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish and other local dishes—though this is on your own, and the restaurant bill isn’t included in the tour price. Bring cash and be ready for a casual meal with authentic flavors.

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Return Journey

After your time in Yelapa, the boat heads back to Mismaloya, offering more scenic views along the coast. The entire trip totals around five hours, making it a perfect half-day escape that balances activity with relaxation.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes boat transportation with shade, bilingual guides, and complete snorkeling equipment, including a life jacket. Bottled water is provided to stay hydrated, but since no food is served onboard, pack your own snacks and drinks if desired. Bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water.

Note that touching marine life and consuming alcohol or drugs are explicitly discouraged—focusing on safety and environmental respect. The facilities at Mismaloya Adventures include dressing rooms and bathrooms, making it convenient to prepare before and after snorkeling.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Reviews

One of the most compelling aspects of this trip is its authentic feel. As Veronica from the US shared, guides like Lily and Manuel go above and beyond—sometimes even gifting fresh fish, which adds a personal touch you rarely find in larger, more commercialized tours.

Arthur W. also appreciated the personalized experience with the boat reserved just for their family, and the surprise of seeing the famous Los Arcos rock formations. The guided walk through Yelapa provided an intimate look at the town’s humble charm and history, making the trip more than just sun and snorkel.

These genuine reviews underscore the tour’s ability to foster a sense of connection—whether with guides, the marine environment, or the local community—making it a memorable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing yet active day with underwater discovery and authentic village life. It suits those comfortable in the water and looking for value for money without sacrificing quality. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and snorkeling will find this a rewarding excursion.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or prefer a more structured or food-inclusive experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For $82, you receive a well-organized, friendly-guided trip that offers a fair balance of marine adventure and culture. The crystal-clear waters at Majahuitas provide excellent snorkeling, especially for those who appreciate vibrant marine life in protected areas. The charming small town of Yelapa gives an authentic taste of local life, complemented by the scenic boat ride along the coast, with its impressive rock formations and coves.

The flexible schedule, including plenty of free time in Yelapa and the chance to bring your own snacks, makes this a convenient option for those wanting a relaxed but engaging day on the water. The reviews reinforce that guides go the extra mile, and the overall experience is something you’ll remember, especially if you love uncovering hidden gems away from crowded tourist spots.

In short, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure, relaxation, and authenticity—a perfect choice for those wanting to see the best of Puerto Vallarta’s coast without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

How long is the snorkel stop at Majahuitas?
The snorkeling session lasts about 40 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the marine environment and see a variety of fish.

Is food provided during the tour?
No, food is not served on board. You should bring snacks and drinks if desired, and there are local restaurants in Yelapa where you can eat on your own.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and snacks. You might also want to bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, though extras are available.

Can I go on this tour if I am pregnant or have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature and boat travel involved.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, with roughly 40 minutes snorkeling and 3.5 hours in Yelapa.

Is the boat air-conditioned or shaded?
The boat features a shaded area, providing some relief from the sun during the trip.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking ahead helps secure your spot, especially during busy times.

This snorkeling and beach tour strikes a compelling balance between natural beauty, local culture, and manageable adventure, making it a wonderful way to enjoy the coast of Jalisco without overcommitting or feeling rushed.