A day on the water beats bus tours. This private boat outing from Puerto Vallarta pairs snorkeling in Los Arcos National Marine Park with beach time in Yelapa, plus a walk to a nearby waterfall. You’ll have a guide along for the ride, so you’re not stuck guessing where the best swimming and snorkeling spots are.

Two things I’d put at the top. First, you get real time at Los Arcos, where you can see caves, deep tunnels, arches, and a striking reef up close. Second, the tour keeps the day practical: you don’t need to pack snorkeling gear because you can use the captain’s equipment, and an ice chest is included for your drinks.

One thing to consider: this experience depends on good weather, and the day will shift away from the plan if conditions aren’t right.

Key Highlights You’ll Actually Feel During the Day

• Private boat and guide: your group moves together, with help choosing swimming and snorkeling spots
• Los Arcos National Marine Park entry included: 40 minutes where caves, tunnels, arches, and reef meet
• Yelapa beach time with restaurant options: an easy break after time in the water
• Short waterfall hike: a walk from the town area to the lower falls for a cooling swim
• Snorkeling gear borrowed from the captain: fewer items to carry, less hassle
• Ice chest + bring-your-own snacks: a simple way to make the boat ride more comfortable

A Private Yelapa Day for $220: What You’re Really Paying For

At $220 per person, this isn’t a budget “hop-on, hop-off” style outing. You’re paying for a private boat day that combines three different kinds of time: open-water scenery, snorkeling in a protected marine area, and a land moment at Yelapa’s waterfall. For a couple or small group, the cost can feel much more reasonable because the boat and guide are working for your specific plan instead of competing with a larger crowd.

The value also comes from what’s included. You get access to Los Arcos National Marine Park (a specific stop with included admission), snorkeling equipment, and an ice chest. Lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget for food and drinks in Yelapa (or bring snacks for the ride, if you want to keep things easy).

Bottom line: if you want a day that feels guided and efficient—without turning into a long sequence of transfers—this tour is built for that.

Timing, Boat Ride, and Weather: The Day’s “Real-Life” Constraints

This tour runs about 5 hours 30 minutes and starts at 9:30 am at Los Muertos Beach Pier. It ends back at the same meeting point. That matters because you don’t have to plan extra transportation to get back on your own.

The tour is also weather dependent. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. In practice, that means you should check conditions the day before and be flexible if the sea state looks rough.

Because the plan includes snorkeling and a short hike, you’ll want to assume this is an active day. Most travelers can participate, but you should be comfortable getting in and out of the water and walking at least part of the way to the falls.

Stop 1: Playa de los Muertos View Before You Head South

The day opens with a scenic departure from the Los Muertos area. After leaving the Los Muertos Pier, you’ll get a view of the famous Playa de los Muertos beach before the tour moves into the marine park zone.

This is a quick start—not a long stop—and that’s a good thing if you’re trying to maximize time on the water later. It’s also an easy way to orient yourself visually. You’ll see the coastline from the sea, which makes the rest of the day feel more connected and less like random driving from spot to spot.

No admission is needed here.

Los Arcos National Marine Park: Caves, Tunnels, Arches, and a Reef

This is the star stop for many people, and it’s scheduled for about 40 minutes with admission included. Los Arcos National Marine Park sits out at sea between beaches like Mismaloya and Las Gemelas, and that setup is what creates the underwater variety.

What you can expect to see (based on how the park is described and what the captain aims to show you):

• caves and deep tunnels
• arches and reef formations
• a reef that’s described as striking

This is also where the guide role matters. Having someone help you find good swimming and snorkeling spots is not just about safety—it’s about making the time count. In a protected park like this, visibility and current can vary, so you’ll feel the benefit of having a local who knows where to position you.

One practical note: snorkeling is included, but you still should be realistic about water comfort. If you get cold easily, you might want to consider how much time you’ll spend in the water. (The waterfall area later is described as cool/chilly too.)

Yelapa Beach Time: Southern Puerto Vallarta, With Lunch Options Nearby

After Los Arcos, you head to Yelapa. The schedule gives you about 1 hour 30 minutes here, and you’ll spend that time on the beach area in the southern zone of Puerto Vallarta.

A key detail that makes Yelapa feel special is that you can’t reach it the same way you reach most beaches. Yelapa is described as accessible mainly on foot or by boat, which helps explain why it doesn’t feel like just another quick stop.

What you’ll likely do with that 1 hour 30 minutes:

• swim or relax on the beach
• take a breather before the hike later
• grab lunch at a restaurant near the shoreline (lunch isn’t included in the tour price)

This is also a good stretch of time to manage money and timing. You’ll want some Mexican pesos ready for food, drinks, souvenirs, or small incidentals.

Admission is free for the Yelapa stop.

Yelapa Waterfalls: The Short Walk That Ends in a Cool Swim

Next comes the waterfall stop, around 30 minutes. The hike is described as a short, easy walk from the town of Yelapa to the lower falls. That’s important: you’re not signing up for a long trek. You’re signing up for a compact nature moment.

At the lower falls, you can cool off in clear water described as chilly. If you’ve been in the boat earlier and doing snorkeling, this is a nice change of pace. It’s also a rewarding finish because the day has a full circle feeling: water activities first, then land, then water again.

Just remember: the falls portion is still part of an active day. Bring a towel and keep an eye on footing near water.

Admission is free here as well.

Snorkeling Gear and Captain Tips: Less Carrying, Smarter Spots

One of the best “small” details on this tour is that you don’t need to pack snorkeling gear. You can use the captain’s equipment, which saves space in your bag and reduces the hassle of buying or renting gear in town.

Then there’s the guide factor. You’re not just following a route—you’re getting guidance aimed at helping you find best swimming and snorkeling spots. That’s especially valuable in Los Arcos, where underwater features can be amazing but conditions can change.

If you’re a confident swimmer, this setup can make the whole experience more fun because you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time actually enjoying the water. If you’re a less confident swimmer, having a guide helps you adjust how long you stay in the water and where you position.

Also included: an ice chest. If you bring your own drinks and snacks, it makes the ride more comfortable, especially since lunch isn’t included.

What to Bring: Swimsuit, Towel, Sunscreen, and Pesos

This is where you can make the day smoother with very little effort.

Plan to bring:

• swimsuits and a towel
• sunscreen
• Mexican pesos for restaurant meals, souvenirs, incidentals, and gratuities

You’re also welcome to bring beverages and snacks for the boat ride. That’s a simple comfort upgrade, especially if you like having a steady snack supply between beach time and the waterfall.

If you tend to get motion-sick, you might consider bringing your usual remedy, since you’ll be on a private boat for multiple stretches. (The tour info doesn’t mention motion aids, so this is just general common sense for a sea day.)

Who This Private Yelapa Tour Is Best For

This is a great fit if you want a private outing without giving up key nature moments. I’d especially recommend it for:

• Couples or friends who want a guided boat day at a steady pace
• Snorkelers who want Los Arcos time and don’t want to carry gear
• People who like a mix: water views, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and an easy waterfall hike

It’s also a strong choice for folks who don’t want to line up with large groups. Since it’s private, you only share with your group, and the guide can focus on your comfort level.

If you’re the type who needs a lot of downtime or you’re not comfortable in open water, you may feel the schedule is a bit active—though the hike is described as short and easy.

About the Fun Factor: Guides Like Chema and Manuel

The tour has a reputation for being more than just checkboxes. In particular, you may get a guide like Chema or Manuel, and that’s the kind of name association that usually means your day will feel lively, not stiff. A good guide doesn’t just point out sights—they help the day run smoothly, keep the mood up, and nudge you toward the spots where you’ll actually enjoy yourself.

On a private tour, that matters even more, because the “vibe” becomes part of the value.

Should You Book This Private Boat Tour to Yelapa?

Book it if you want a guided private boat day that combines snorkeling in Los Arcos with beach time in Yelapa and a short waterfall hike. The mix of included snorkeling gear, ice chest, and Los Arcos admission makes the price easier to justify than some tours where you pay extra for everything.

I’d think twice if you’re traveling in rough weather or you strongly prefer a low-activity day. The tour depends on good conditions, and the schedule is built for water time plus a walk.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the deciding thought: if your ideal Puerto Vallarta day includes getting out on the water and seeing more than one side of the coast, this tour is structured to deliver that without wasting hours on transfers.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

The tour starts at 9:30 am.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Los Muertos Beach Pier, Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What’s included in the price?

It includes an ice chest, use of snorkeling equipment, and Los Arcos National Marine Park admission.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, and you’ll need Mexican pesos for restaurant food and drinks.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

No. You can use the captain’s snorkeling equipment.

Which stops are included during the day?

You’ll go by Playa de los Muertos, visit Los Arcos National Marine Park, spend time in Yelapa, and hike to Yelapa Waterfalls.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.