Puerto Vallarta: Hidden Beaches & Adventure Park offers an exciting way to experience Jalisco’s natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities in just one day. Priced at $41 per person, this 6-8 hour tour takes you from the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán to secluded beaches and a vibrant jungle adventure park. With an itinerary packed with ziplining, water taxis, and exploring quiet beaches like Colomitos, it’s designed for travelers craving a mix of thrill and tranquility.
What we love most about this tour is how it manages to balance adventure with relaxation. The thrill of soaring over lush treetops on ziplines or crossing hanging bridges is complemented perfectly by the peaceful moments on Colomitos Beach, a tiny, crystal-clear cove that feels worlds away from the crowds. Plus, the included lunch by the ocean, featuring fresh seafood and a cold drink, adds a genuine taste of local flavor that many tours overlook.
A potential consideration is the physical nature of the activities—if you’re not comfortable with heights or have mobility issues, some parts might be demanding. Also, since drinks are not included, those wanting more than just water might want to carry extra cash or plan to purchase beverages during the day.
This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, thrills, and authentic local scenery. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who want a well-rounded day, combining active fun with laid-back beach time. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive day tour will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Balanced mix of adventure and relaxation keeps the day engaging but not exhausting.
- Unique stops like Colomitos Beach and Las Ánimas Beach offer secluded, photo-worthy moments.
- Scenic boat ride adds a tropical touch, with chances to spot wildlife like dolphins or even humpback whales in season.
- Wide range of activities—from ziplining to hanging bridges—suit thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
- Value for money includes transportation, water taxi, and access to over 20 activities.
- The tour is guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff, ensuring safety and fun.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins at a straightforward meeting point at the OXXO store on C. Constitución 383. From there, a comfortable bus takes you through lush scenery, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and dense greenery. The short journey gives you a taste of the natural beauty awaiting you, setting a relaxed tone for the day.
The guides here are praised for their helpfulness—one reviewer mentioned Arturo, who went above and beyond by returning to help a guest with a booking error. This personal touch makes all the difference when navigating a busy tour.
Boca de Tomatlán and the Water Taxi Ride
Your first stop is Boca de Tomatlán, a vibrant fishing village. After a quick five-minute break, you board a water taxi—an enjoyable 5-minute ride that’s part scenic, part adventurous. The boat glides across calm waters, giving you sweeping views of the coast and tropical islands, with chances to spot dolphins or, during winter, humpback whales.
Travelers consistently mention how much they enjoy this boat trip. One said, “Keep your camera ready—you may spot exotic birds, playful dolphins, and during the winter season, even humpback whales leaping from the waves.” It’s these small moments of wildlife viewing that make the trip special.
Colomitos Beach: The Tiny Paradise
Next, the boat drops you off at Colomitos Beach, often called one of the smallest beaches in the region. It’s a tiny stretch of sand with clear, inviting water perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll have around an hour here, enough time to snap some photos, wade in the surf, and enjoy the peaceful vibe.
The reviews raved about the beauty here. One traveler said, “The beach was beautiful, with turquoise waters and no crowds.” It’s a true hidden gem, ideal for those wanting to escape the busier tourist spots.
More Great Tours NearbyPlaya Las Ánimas: The Action Hub
After another short boat ride, you arrive at Playa Las Ánimas, which is the tour’s main adventure zone. Here, the excitement kicks in with over 20 activities—from crossing hanging bridges and climbing netted trees to scaling rock walls and soaring through zipline circuits.
The staff is described as professional and safety-conscious, making even the most daring feel secure. Expect about 70 minutes of adrenaline-pumping fun, which is enough to get your fill of action without feeling rushed.
Lunch and Leisure Time
Following the morning’s excitement, you’ll sit down for a delicious lunch right on the beach—options include chicken fajitas, beef fajitas, fish fillet, hamburgers, or quesadillas. The focus on fresh ingredients and a beachfront setting makes this meal a highlight for many. One review noted, “Lunch was delicious—and having it with your feet in the sand made all the difference.”
The leisure time afterward allows for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views. It’s a good opportunity to unwind before heading back.
Quimixto: Hidden Jungle Paradise
For those who select the optional Quimixto Waterfall add-on, the tour continues with an ATV ride through lush jungle trails and swimming beneath a stunning waterfall. Though details are sparse, this extension offers an immersive nature experience and a refreshing splash.
Return Journey
The day wraps up with a 10-minute water taxi ride back to Boca de Tomatlán, then the bus returns you to the meeting point. Most travelers find the return trip a smooth and scenic end to a full day.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $41, the tour provides a lot of value: transportation, water taxi rides, access to Las Animas Adventure Park, and multiple activities. The included lunch adds to the overall experience, saving you the hassle of finding a meal in a remote setting.
However, drinks are not included, so bring extra cash if you want anything beyond water or the provided drinks. Also, souvenirs or photographs are your responsibility—some travelers wish they could purchase pictures taken by staff.
Safety and Accessibility
While the experience is designed to be fun and safe, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Younger children under 10, pregnant women, and travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions are advised to skip this tour. The activities involve heights, some physical exertion, and outdoor environments that may be challenging for some.
Practical Tips
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a camera. Insect repellent and cash for extras could also be helpful, especially at the beach.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy physical activity, stunning scenery, and a good dose of thrill. It’s also well-suited for couples and families with older children who want to explore beyond typical tourist spots. Beach lovers will especially appreciate the quiet, picture-perfect beaches like Colomitos and Las Ánimas.
If you’re after a well-organized, fun-packed day that combines nature, excitement, and delicious food, this tour delivers. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a more personal experience, which many reviewers found memorable.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta: Hidden Beaches & Adventure Park offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a chance to get outside the usual tourist spots, dive into the lush surroundings, and challenge yourself with ziplining and jungle excursions—all for a reasonable price.
The combination of beautiful beaches, thrilling activities, and good food makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting a full day of authentic, fun-filled exploration. The positive reviews underscore its appeal—most travelers walk away with a smile, great photos, and a story to tell.
If you’re looking for an active day that’s both scenic and exciting, this tour is likely to be just what you need. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and a camera—those memories deserve to be captured.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, mostly during daylight hours, with a mix of active and relaxing periods.
Where does the tour start?
Meet at the OXXO store on C. Constitución 383. The guide will wear a white shirt with the Adventure Park logo.
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán by bus and the water taxi rides are part of the experience.
What activities are included at Las Ánimas?
Expect to cross hanging bridges, climb netted trees, scale rock walls, and zipline—over 20 activities in total.
Can I choose to skip any activities?
While the tour is designed as a full adventure, optional activities like Quimixto Waterfalls can be added on booking. Discuss with your guide about flexibility.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, cash for extras, and insect repellent.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those over 10 years old and in good health. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or mobility problems, or those with certain health conditions.
In all, this tour offers a well-rounded day with adventure, scenic beauty, and good food—perfect for travelers who want to see a more authentic side of Puerto Vallarta and push their limits a little.
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