Puerto Vallarta is famous for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and authentic Mexican cuisine — and that includes its BBQ experiences. Whether you’re craving a seaside grill, an adventurous day on the water, or a cultural dive into local traditions, PV offers something for every kind of BBQ lover. I personally love the Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Majahuitas Beach & Open bar for its perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and good food. Imagine snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, then unwinding on a secluded beach with fresh BBQ and tropical drinks. It’s a day packed with variety and genuine fun.
For travelers after adventure and scenery, the other tours on this list won’t disappoint. From horseback riding with tequila tastings to exploring remote islands with a beach BBQ, each offers a distinct way to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors combined with local sights. Here’s a detailed look at the six best BBQ experiences in Puerto Vallarta to help you choose your ideal outing.
1. Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Exclusive Majahuitas Beach & Open bar
This full-day adventure is a favorite for its mix of nature, water activities, and delicious food. Starting from Puerto Vallarta, you’ll cruise across Banderas Bay, stopping at the remote fishing village of Yelapa. The highlight here is hiking to the Cola de Caballo waterfalls or simply relaxing on the beach, but the real treat is the BBQ lunch and open bar served on a pristine beach at Majahuitas. Guests rave about snorkeling and kayaking in the calm waters, and the buffet offers fresh seafood and Mexican classics.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility — you can kayak, swim, or just soak up the sun. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of adventure and leisure. The tour includes breathtaking scenery, swimming in clear waters, and a relaxed beachside meal — all at a reasonable price of $89 per person. The reviews consistently praise the crew’s friendly service and the delicious BBQ. If you’re after a well-rounded day with plenty of water fun and authentic eats, this one’s a winner.
Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers wanting a scenic, laid-back day with great food and options for snorkeling and kayaking.
2. Horseback Riding: Tequila Tasting, Mex BBQ & Margaritas
At number 2, this tour combines horseback riding with tequila tasting and a Mexican BBQ. Starting from Puerto Vallarta, you’ll ride through Jalisco’s countryside, with the chance to swim with your horse if the river conditions permit. The ride is moderate, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and the guides are known for their humor and local knowledge.
The highlight is reaching La Dulce Vista, a boutique tequila distillery where you sample small-batch, artisanal tequilas — no mass-produced shots here. Afterward, enjoy a hearty Mexican lunch with homemade salsas, and of course, unlimited margaritas. For those who love a combination of outdoor activity and flavorful drinks, this tour hits the mark.
Guests mention the guides’ friendly attitude and the fun of making their own salsa, which adds a hands-on element. With a duration of around 5 hours and a price of $97.92, it offers good value, especially if you’re interested in tequila and traditional Mexican flavors.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active travelers who want to combine horseback riding with tequila tasting and authentic BBQ.
3. Sea Safari & Beach BBQ at secluded Pizota jungle beach
This tour takes you across Banderas Bay by speedboat, visiting remote fishing villages and ending at a private jungle beach. Along the way, you’ll go horseback riding, swim in waterfalls, and enjoy a beachside BBQ lunch with drinks. It’s a full 6.5-hour day that’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
One of the key attractions is the guided horseback ride through the lush landscape, followed by swimming at a cascading waterfall. The remote Pizota Village offers a chance to experience local life, away from crowds. The lunch includes grilled meats and refreshing beverages, making it a satisfying end to an active day.
Reviews praise the attentive staff and delicious food, with some noting the tour’s off-the-beaten-path charm. Priced at $169 per person, it’s slightly more expensive but offers a comprehensive experience that ties together water, land, and local culture.
Bottom Line: Geared toward travelers who want an active, diverse day with local flavor and scenic beauty.
4. Islas Marietas & BBQ lunch at Majahuitas
For around $89, this full-day tour focuses on marine life, snorkeling, and island scenery, combined with a barbecue lunch at Majahuitas. The day starts with a boat ride across the Bay of Banderas, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views before arriving at Islas Marietas National Park. Here, you’ll snorkel among vibrant fish and perhaps catch a glimpse of whales or dolphins — depending on the season.
After exploring the islands, the boat journey continues to Majahuitas, where a barbecue lunch with drinks awaits on the beach. This tour is perfect for water lovers who want a mix of wildlife, water sports, and beachside dining. The reviews highlight the excellent service and the fun of snorkeling and kayaking in the protected waters.
At 7 hours long, it’s a great value for those looking to combine ecology, activity, and good food in one package. Its popularity stems from the combination of natural beauty and relaxed beachside BBQ.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water enthusiasts eager to explore marine life and enjoy a scenic BBQ lunch in a tranquil setting.
$89.00 per person
5. Snorkeling in Marietas Islands and BBQ in Playa Majahuitas
This tour offers a full-day eco-adventure for $144.13, with an emphasis on snorkeling and relaxing at Majahuitas beach. It starts with a boat trip across the Bay of Banderas, offering stunning views and opportunities for photos. Once at the Marietas Islands, you’ll snorkel in their famous waters, home to colorful fish and other marine life.
The journey then moves to Majahuitas, where you can paddleboard, kayak, or just lounge on the beach. The highlight is the BBQ buffet with open bar, served at this peaceful stretch of sand. This experience is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy nature, water activities, and great food without rushing.
The tour’s detailed itinerary includes a variety of activities, making it suitable for those who want an active yet laid-back day. Since the reviews are still pending, it’s a good idea to book early to secure your spot in this popular combo.
Bottom Line: A versatile tour that balances snorkeling, kayaking, and a hearty BBQ in a quiet, scenic location.
$144.13 per person
6. Yelapa and Majahuitas Waterfall Hike Snorkeling and BBQ Tour
Rounding out our list, this 7-hour tour combines culture, nature, and adventure. Starting in Yelapa, you’ll walk cobblestone streets and visit the Horsetail Waterfall (in season), where a short hike leads to a natural pool perfect for soaking. Afterward, the journey continues to Majahuitas, known for its golden sands and emerald waters.
The tour offers plenty of water activities — snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking — plus a barbecue lunch on the beach. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to see more of Puerto Vallarta’s scenic shoreline and enjoy some quality outdoor fun. Reviews are currently unavailable, but the detailed itinerary suggests a lively, activity-packed day.
This tour is suited for travelers who enjoy combining urban exploration with beach relaxation, especially if interested in waterfalls and local scenery.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want to see Yelapa’s culture and natural beauty along with a seaside BBQ.
$117.46 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Puerto Vallarta BBQ Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. If water-based activities top your list, the Sea Safari & Pizota Beach BBQ and Snorkeling in Marietas Islands are excellent choices. Both offer snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxed beachside BBQs in scenic locations.
For those craving a cultural touch combined with outdoor fun, the Horseback Riding and Tequila Tasting provides a unique mix of riding, local spirits, and Mexican flavors. Meanwhile, the Yelapa Waterfall & BBQ offers a versatile day with waterfalls, snorkeling, and beach lounging.
When considering value for money, tours like the Islas Marietas & Majahuitas BBQ stand out for their wildlife viewing and water activities at a reasonable price. If your schedule allows, booking early is recommended, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta’s BBQ experiences range from serene beachside lunches to action-packed boat trips. For nature lovers, the Yelapa and Majahuitas Waterfall Hike offers a scenic mix of waterfalls and local culture. Adventure seekers will enjoy the Sea Safari & Pizota Beach BBQ, while those wanting a cultural twist might prefer the Horseback Riding with Tequila Tasting.
No matter your style, booking early ensures you secure a spot on these popular tours. Each offers a delicious way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty and vibrant local flavors.