Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Exclusive Majahuitas Beach & Open bar

Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Majahuitas is interesting because it mixes a short jungle style hike with real beach time, all from one smooth day out of Puerto Vallarta. I love the change of scenery, from village paths and waterfall views to palm shaded beach club relaxation. I also like that you get time on the water, with snorkeling and kayaking gear included.

The other big reason this works is the day is built around food and fun. You end up at Majahuitas for a BBQ lunch and lots of drinks, and the crew often turns the trip into a mini show, with entertainers like Danny and even music based performances that keep things lively on the boat.

One possible drawback: the route is active and the timing can feel tight. The paths in Yelapa are uneven and there are moments when crowds on a big day can limit how slowly you can explore, plus the waterfall and ocean conditions can vary.

Key things to know before you go

• Yelapa hike, waterfall, or beach choice, depending on conditions and what the guide recommends
• Snorkeling and kayaking gear included, with potential extra stops based on what’s in the water
• Majahuitas Beach Club is the main hangout, with lunch and drinks (unlimited non-alcoholic drinks listed)
• Terrain is real in Yelapa, with sandy, uphill, irregular paths and wet cobblestones at times
• Expect entertainment on board, including crowd pleasing surprises at the end
• Weather matters, and if seas are rough, docking and visibility can change

The real appeal: a Puerto Vallarta day that feels like a full vacation

This is one of those Puerto Vallarta excursions that tries to do a lot in one day, and usually pulls it off. You start early, ride out over Banderas Bay, then spend your time between two distinct settings: Yelapa and Majahuitas.

What makes it good value is that it does not only drop you at a beach. You also get the small but important extras, like a light breakfast, equipment for water activities, and drinks served during the day.

The best part is the pacing when it goes right. You get a waterfall style moment, you get ocean time, and you finish with a proper BBQ lunch and a fun beach block.

Yelapa: the village walk and the Cola de Caballo style waterfall moment

Yelapa is a remote fishing village about an hour from Puerto Vallarta. The plan is to explore the area and hike toward a natural waterfall experience, often discussed alongside the Cola de Caballo area.

Here’s the practical truth: the waterfall can be smaller or even dry depending on the season and conditions. When that happens, you may shift to a village walk or beach time instead of pushing up for something that is not flowing.

The hike is not an all-day mountain trek, but it is not a casual stroll either. Paths can be sandy and uneven, with wet cobblestones reported, so wearing hiking shoes is a smart move rather than a suggestion.

Majahuitas Beach Club: snorkeling, kayaking, and that BBQ lunch

Majahuitas Beach is the calm payoff. It’s described as secluded, with palm trees and turquoise water, and it’s set up like a beach club where you can actually relax after the hike.

You should expect a mix of options, including snorkeling and kayaking, and people also talk about paddle boarding and other fun water activities while they are there. Snorkeling can be hit or miss depending on visibility and where you stop, but it’s generally framed as an activity with lots of sea life potential.

Lunch is one of the more consistently praised parts of the day. People describe the BBQ as tasty and well organized, and Majahuitas includes basics that make a difference, like chairs, food options, and restrooms.

One timing note to keep in mind: multiple people felt the Majahuitas window can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want long, unbroken water time after eating.

The boat ride: views, whales and dolphins, and how the sea changes everything

The boat part matters here. If conditions are smooth, you’ll get a comfortable ride and a day that feels like it flows. There are also reports of dolphin and even humpback whale sightings on the water, which adds a nice extra layer that you can’t plan for.

Sometimes the sea is the boss. Rough ocean can affect docking in Yelapa and reduce waterfall opportunities, and it can also make snorkeling uncomfortable if visibility is murky and you’re bouncing around.

Snorkeling plans can adjust too. In some cases, the day may include multiple snorkeling stops because of seasonal jellyfish presence, so you might not get one single fixed “best spot,” but you do get flexibility.

If you want the most relaxed experience, aim for good weather and go in with the mindset that the ocean can rewrite the day.

Drinks and the BBQ at Majahuitas: what you should expect

This trip is built around feeding you. You get light breakfast, BBQ lunch at Majahuitas, and beverages served throughout the day.

You may see unlimited non-alcoholic drinks listed at the beach club, and the tour is also marketed as having an open bar. Either way, there’s usually no shortage of refreshments once you’re settled at Majahuitas.

The BBQ itself gets steady credit. People call it delicious or fresh, and it tends to be one of those meals that makes the day feel worth the price even if the waterfall is modest.

Also watch for the reality of timing. If the schedule compresses, you may feel you’re eating and then rushing back into the water, so go with a relaxed plan and don’t expect to do everything perfectly.

Crew energy: why Danny and the team often make this tour work

A lot of the strong ratings come down to the crew. The team frequently keeps things moving, hands you drinks, and runs the day like a show.

Danny is called out by name in standout feedback, with people praising him as an excellent host who explains the journey clearly and keeps guests entertained. Another review mentions Poncho and his team, also highlighting how well they take care of everyone.

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys a lively atmosphere, this is a major plus. People talk about music on board, and they even mention surprise performances toward the end of the day, which becomes part of the fun even if you’re tired from the hike.

Price, value, and the extra fees you need to budget for

The tour price is $99 per person, and the value comes from the combination: boat transportation plus water gear plus BBQ lunch plus drinks during the day. You are not just paying for “getting there,” you’re paying for a structured day with activities lined up.

That said, plan for additional cash costs. There is a port-related admission fee of MX$40 per person that is paid in cash at the port, and there is an access fee of $20 per person at check in.

So if you’re doing the math, build in those extras. Still, for a day that includes snorkeling and kayaking equipment and a full BBQ lunch, it can feel like a fair deal compared with piecing together a boat trip and a beach club on your own.

What to pack, and the small tips that keep sand out of your day

If you only take one thing from the feedback, make it shoes. Yelapa paths can be uneven and slippery, and you’ll be on sandy, uphill, irregular terrain at times. Bring something with good grip.

Bring your own towels, and also bring photo ID for check in. That comes up in feedback as a key detail that prevents last-minute hassle.

For water time, you’ll have snorkeling and kayaking gear provided, so you can travel lighter on equipment. Still, plan for a swimsuit, a dry bag if you have one, and sunscreen.

Finally, remember this is a Federal Maritime Port with a strict No-Drug Policy, including electronic cigarettes and vapers. If security denies access, the day can’t be changed and refunds may not be available, so keep it clean and simple at check in.

Group size and comfort: when crowds matter

This tour can run with up to 200 travelers. That does not automatically mean you’ll feel crushed, but it does explain why the crew keeps people moving and why some parts can feel fast.

One negative theme in feedback is feeling left without enough guidance in a moment, which is the kind of thing that can happen more easily when a group is large. The fix is simple: stay close to your group when boarding and disembarking, and if you’re unsure, ask right away.

The other common theme is the “time balance” issue. People sometimes wish they had more time at Majahuitas and less rush, or they wish snorkeling duration felt different. That’s not a deal breaker, but it does help to manage expectations going in.

Should you book the Yelapa Waterfall and Majahuitas BBQ tour?

Book it if you want a classic Puerto Vallarta day trip that mixes a waterfall walk with a beach club finish, and you like being active without planning anything. This is especially appealing if you care about included activities, solid BBQ lunch, and crew energy.

I would hesitate if you have limited mobility, because Yelapa involves sandy, uphill, irregular paths. I’d also think twice if you know you get seasick easily, since rough water can reduce docking and affect snorkeling conditions.

If your top priority is a guaranteed waterfall spectacle, go in with flexibility. Seasonal conditions and weather can change what you see, and the day may shift toward village walking or beach time instead.

If you want my simple rule, it’s this: if you like variety in one day and you’re comfortable with uneven terrain, this tour is a strong bet.

FAQ

How long is the Yelapa Waterfall and Majahuitas tour?

It runs about 7 hours, with timing that can vary by conditions.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Vallarta Adventures at Terminal Marítima N Puerto Mágico, Zona Hotelera Nte., Puerto Vallarta.

What time does the tour leave?

The start time is 8:00 am.

What is included in the price?

You get BBQ lunch at Majahuitas, snorkeling and kayaking equipment, and beverages served on the boat.

Are there extra fees besides the $99 price?

Yes. Port fees are MX$40 per person paid in cash at the port, and there is an access fee to cover check-in of $20 per person.

Is this tour good for people with limited mobility?

It is not recommended for limited mobility, since the experience includes sandy, uphill, and irregular paths.

Is it okay for cruise passengers?

No. Passengers arriving on a cruise ship cannot book this tour.

Are restrooms available?

Toilets are located on the lower deck.

What happens if weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.