Yelapa
Sleep
Yelapa is a car-free fishing village where the jungle spills into the bay and roosters announce the sunrise. Getting there means a breezy boat ride from Puerto Vallarta (no roads in = no cars = all charm). There are no big hotels in Yelapa, and that’s exactly the point. You’ll find colorful guesthouses, open-air villas, and beachfront casitas—many of them family-run and wonderfully unplugged.
Casas Garcia – a cluster of vibrant ocean-view villas with kitchens, hammocks, and plenty of character. Steps from the sand, you fall asleep to waves and wake to birdsong.
Verana – An adults-only eco-resort up the hillside with artful, design-forward jungle casitas and an outdoor spa. Totally unplugged and deeply dreamy.
Casa Isabel – Rustic-chic and tucked into the trees, with solar power, yoga decks, and killer sunset views. Ideal for travelers who like their peace with a little elevation.
Hotel Lagunita – The most "classic" beachfront option, a little boho, a little old-school, and right on the main stretch of sand. Basic but beloved.
Eat
Start your morning at Café Bahia for banana pancakes, eggs with local cheese, and the best coffee in town—served with bay views and friendly vibes.
After your morning walk or waterfall hike, head to Tacos y Mas for their famous fish tacos, homemade salsas, and cold beers. It’s unassuming, up a hill, and totally worth the wander.
Dinner favorites:
Pollo Bollo – A hyper-casual roast chicken spot with rice, tortillas, and all the napkins you’ll need.
Passion Flower Garden – A slow-food gem known for organic ingredients, mezcal cocktails, and the prettiest courtyard.
Los Abuelos – A local favorite for shrimp dishes and Yelapa-style chile rellenos.
Domingo’s – On the beach and great for sunset margaritas and people-watching.
Play
Wander the village
No cars, no rush. The cobblestone paths take you past gardens, sleepy cats, and street dogs with stories. Pop into artist studios or just follow your nose to fresh tortillas.
Walk to the waterfall
The trail to Cascada Yelapa starts in town and winds up through the jungle. It’s short (20–30 minutes), mostly shaded, and kid-friendly. At the top: a refreshing pool and a teeny museum with shells, photos, and bits of Yelapa history. (Entry is by donation.)
Beach time
The main beach is perfect for swimming and lounging, with rental chairs, parasailing, and vendors offering handmade goods. For a quieter stretch, walk 10 minutes to Playa Isabel—more rugged, more local, more peaceful.
Horseback rides
Locals offer rides into the jungle or to nearby secluded beaches. Ask your host for an intro—these are informal, but magical.
Water taxi joyrides
Catch a ride to nearby Quimixto or Majahuitas for snorkeling, beach hopping, or a jungle lunch at Majahuitas Beach Club. Boats are easy to find and surprisingly affordable.
Yelapa is a vibe.
It’s barefoot walks, cold coconuts, and days that feel longer in the best way. A place for hammocks, not schedules.
