Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

Discovering Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Coastal and Jungle Gems

If you’re eager to see Puerto Vallarta beyond its busy hotel zones, the Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches offers a rewarding day of active adventure. For $45 per person, you’ll spend about 5.5 hours exploring some of the area’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, such as Playa Colomitos and Playa Las Animas, by hiking along rugged jungle trails and coastline. Led by knowledgeable guides like Fabian, Emilian, or Jerry, this tour combines physical challenge with the chance to soak in spectacular scenery.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with authentic natural beauty. The guides’ expertise adds an educational layer, with plenty of insights on local flora and fauna, and the chance to spot reptiles, birds, and other wildlife. Plus, the opportunity to swim in pristine beaches after a demanding hike is a definite highlight.

A potential consideration for travelers is that it’s a challenging hike—steep, rocky, and uneven terrain require good physical fitness. If you’re not comfortable with strenuous activity or have mobility issues, this might not be your best fit. However, for those looking for a true outdoor workout with rewarding views, it’s well worth the effort.

This tour suits active travelers who want to escape the crowds and see untouched parts of Vallarta’s coast. It also appeals to those keen on nature, wildlife, and authentic local experiences. If you enjoy a good challenge and a scenic adventure, this hike will likely be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Coastal Scenery: The hike visits beaches only accessible by foot or boat, offering unique, untouched beauty.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about local plants, animals, and history.
• Physical Challenge: The terrain is steep, rocky, and uneven, perfect for fit travelers looking for an active outing.
• Scenic Boat Ride: The journey ends with a boat ride back to Boca de Tomatlán, providing stunning views of mountain and ocean.
• Culinary Reward: The tour concludes with a delicious seafood meal at Las Animas Beach, often praised for freshness and flavor.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see various reptiles, birds, and native plants, making this a nature lover’s dream.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in the Romantic Zone at C. Constitución 363, a neighborhood well-connected by public transport. You meet your guide here around 9:30 am—don’t just hop on the bus yourself; wait at the designated spot and follow your guide’s instructions. Transportation to Boca de Tomatlán is included, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

This small-group experience keeps the atmosphere intimate—max 12 travelers—allowing guides to give personalized attention. Many reviews mention the professionalism of guides like Fabian, Emilian, or Jerry, who are praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. The pick-up arrangement is especially appreciated by those staying in central Puerto Vallarta, saving time and effort.

The Hike: Beaches and Jungle Trails

Once in Boca de Tomatlán, your adventure begins by hiking the coastline toward Playa Colomitos, the smallest beach in the bay. Here, the landscape is a mix of white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush jungle surroundings. This part of the hike is demanding but rewarding—expect steep inclines and rocky terrain. Reviewers like Linda_G mention that “the first third of the hike is a bit strenuous especially on a hot sunny afternoon,” emphasizing the need for comfortable footwear.

The trail continues through dense jungle, where guides point out native plants and wildlife, adding an educational spin. As you descend toward Las Animas Beach, you’ll encounter fewer crowds and pristine scenery. Visitors have described the beaches as more beautiful and pristine than those in the hotel zone, making it clear that this adventure offers a rare glimpse of untouched nature.

Highlights: Beaches and Wildlife

Playa Colomitos is known for its clear waters—ideal for snorkeling if conditions permit—and tranquil atmosphere. Many travelers have relished the chance to relax, have a cold beer, or snorkel in these secluded coves. One reviewer, Alyson_E, notes that the hike ends at a “fabulous lunch,” which is included at the final stop, making the effort worthwhile.

Playa Las Animas features a lively seafood restaurant right on the beach, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish or shrimp, often praised for its quality and flavor. Shalene_V highlights that guides like Diego and Hector are very attentive, ensuring safety and fun during the hike. The area also offers parasailing and banana boat rides for those seeking extra excitement.

The Boat Ride and Return

After enjoying Las Animas’ offerings, the tour concludes with a scenic boat ride back to Boca de Tomatlán, providing breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains. Many reviews emphasize how memorable this part of the journey is, with travelers noting the “mountain and ocean views” and describing it as the perfect way to end a physically demanding day.

The transportation back wraps up at the starting point, giving travelers a smooth, worry-free experience. The entire journey, including the boat ride, totals about six hours and is designed to be a full but manageable day of activity.

What’s Included and What to Bring

• Included: Pickup at the designated meeting point, transportation to Boca de Tomatlán, guided hike, boat ride, and photos.
• Not included: Lunch (which is a highlight and highly recommended), drinks, or personal gear.

It’s essential to bring swimwear, sunblock, a hat, and comfortable hiking shoes. Reviewers like Linda_G recommend wearing suitable footwear due to the rugged terrain. Also, you may want to bring water and snacks, as the hike is physically demanding.

Authenticity and Value

Many travelers rave about the value for money, especially considering the personalized attention, scenic diversity, and the included boat ride and meal. With reviews consistently rating this experience a perfect 5/5, it’s clear the tour delivers on its promises. Guests frequently mention guides being knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to go above and beyond—sometimes even rearranging plans for late arrivals or special needs, as one review describes.

The price point of $45 seems very reasonable given the full day of guided hiking, boat transportation, and a meal—especially when compared to the cost of separate excursions or self-guided efforts. The inclusion of photos allows travelers to relive the adventure and serves as a bonus.

The Real Magic: Personal Encounters and Hidden Beaches

What distinguishes this tour from just another hike is the access to beaches that are otherwise difficult to reach. That feeling of discovering a secret cove or secluded stretch of sand is what makes this experience memorable. Plus, the guides’ local insights enrich the journey—many reviews mention how the guides share stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and history.

Suitable for the Active and Curious

This tour is best suited for active travelers—those comfortable with steep inclines and uneven terrain. It’s a great choice for families with older children (over 10), friends, or couples wanting a more interactive and physical experience. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, recent surgeries, or health concerns like heart conditions or pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a scenic, physically engaging tour that takes you off the beaten path and into the wild corners of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, this hiking adventure is a fantastic pick. You’ll leave with lasting memories of beautiful beaches, lush jungle, and a genuine sense of discovery. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery and delicious seafood, make it an experience worth every penny.

This tour is especially ideal for those who love outdoor activities, are comfortable with a bit of physical exertion, and crave authentic, less-touristy beaches. For travelers seeking a way to combine exercise, nature, and local flavor, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 due to its physical nature and demanding terrain.

How long does the hike last?
The hiking portion takes about 2 hours, but including transportation, boat rides, and meals, the entire experience lasts around 5.5 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are recommended because of rocky, uneven paths. Bring sunblock, a hat, and swimwear if you want to swim.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a highly recommended seafood restaurant at Playa Las Animas where you can enjoy fresh fish or seafood.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from the designated meeting point and boat rides are included, making logistics hassle-free.

What are the main attractions of this tour?
Expect to visit six beaches, including Colomitos and Las Animas, hike through jungle and coastal trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy scenic boat rides.

Is this tour recommended for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size and guided nature make it an excellent choice for solo adventurers looking to meet like-minded explorers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This multi-layered adventure offers a true taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty—challenging but rewarding, scenic and educational. If you’re ready for an active day that uncovers the secret beaches of Vallarta, this tour deserves a spot on your list.