If you’re dreaming of a day exploring the coastline of Jalisco with personalized attention, this private boat tour offers a relaxed and authentic way to experience local beaches and vibrant towns. It promises a combination of snorkeling, culture, and scenic beauty, all wrapped up in a flexible, customized experience. While it’s not a budget tour, the value lies in the private, intimate setting and the opportunity to tailor your day—perfect for those who want a personalized adventure.
Two things we particularly like about this tour are its local focus—visiting Yelapa, a colorful town full of art and regional food—and its snorkeling stop at Colimilla Beach, where you meet a vibrant array of marine life. A potential consideration is that some activities, like horseback riding or jet skiing, are not included, so if you’re craving those, you’ll need to seek additional options. This tour suits travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, beautiful scenery, and a slower pace away from crowded tourist spots. It’s ideal for families, couples, and friends looking to share a memorable day in paradise.
Key Points
- Customizable experience: You can tailor the activities to fit your preferences and pace.
- Local insight: The guide Bruno offers inside knowledge of the area, making your visit more authentic.
- Includes snorkeling gear: Dive into the water to see local marine life, with all safety gear provided.
- Visit to Yelapa: A colorful town with artistic pathways, regional cuisine, and options for hiking or horse riding.
- Flexible logistics: Round-trip boat transfers and options to hop on and off at beaches.
- 6-hour adventure: Enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy without feeling rushed.
Introduction
This private boat tour in Jalisco offers a refreshing way to explore some of the region’s most charming coastal spots. It’s a well-rounded experience blending snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and visits to local towns, making it especially appealing for travelers looking for a personalized touch. You won’t be stuck in a large group—your party will have the boat and guide’s full attention, allowing for a more relaxed and flexible day.
What we love about this experience are its focus on authentic local encounters and the beautiful scenery you’ll encounter. The boat ride itself promises stunning views of the bay, and the chance to snorkel at Colimilla Beach means you can enjoy vibrant fish and underwater sights that are often missed by larger tour groups. The town of Yelapa, with its colorful streets and waterfalls, offers a slice of genuine Mexican coastal life. And lastly, the tour’s flexibility to customize activities makes it suitable whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation.
A consideration to keep in mind is that some activities, like horseback riding or jet skiing, are not included, so if those are your priorities, you might need to look elsewhere or plan additional spend. Still, for those who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and a leisurely pace, this trip hits the mark.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Boca De Tomatlan
What to Expect on Your Day
The journey begins early at Boca de Tomatlán, a popular starting point for boat trips along the coast. From there, you’ll hop aboard a private boat, which is a real advantage—think of it as your own floating sanctuary for the day. Bruno, your guide, will take you on a 45-minute water taxi ride to Colimilla Beach, a hidden gem renowned for its diverse fish population. Expect to see a variety of colorful marine life here, making snorkeling a highlight. The gear provided (without fins) is suitable for most swimmers, and though some reviews mention the water here is calm enough for beginners, always listen to your guide’s advice.
After your underwater adventure, the boat heads toward Yelapa, a town famous for its vibrant, artistic atmosphere. The colorful pathways, staircases adorned with artwork, and the lush surroundings create an inviting, laid-back setting. You’ll have about four and a half hours here, enough time to explore, relax, and indulge in regional cuisine at one of the many local restaurants. This is truly a taste of authentic Mexican coastal life, away from overly commercialized tourist spots.
Depending on your interests, you can choose to hike (not included) up to the waterfall, ride horses, or simply lounge on the beach. The town’s charm is amplified by its friendly locals, and several reviews praise the delicious food—think fresh seafood, tacos, and regional specialties served in unpretentious eateries.
The return trip offers another scenic 45-minute water taxi ride back to Boca de Tomatlán, giving you more chances to enjoy the coastline’s beauty. The entire tour lasts around six hours, balancing adventure and relaxation.
In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point: Boca de Tomatlán
Here, the adventure kicks off with a pickup arranged by Bruno. The meeting is straightforward—look for the crew wearing the tour logo, and they’ll guide you to your boat. This small detail makes all the difference, especially in a bustling seaside town.
More Great Tours NearbyWater Taxi to Colimilla Beach
The 45-minute ride offers panoramic views of the bay, with the wind in your hair and the salty air invigorating. The boat is equipped with a retractable rooftop, so you can choose to stay shaded or soak in the sun. This part of the trip is all about appreciating the coastline’s rugged beauty.
Snorkeling at Colimilla
Once at Colimilla, it’s time to gear up for snorkeling. The area is known for its diversity of fish, and the calm waters are suitable for snorkelers of all levels. As one review mentions, “We loved the way the marine life was so abundant, and the snorkeling gear made it easy to enjoy the underwater world.” It’s a fantastic spot to get your first glimpse of local sea life, with plenty of fish darting around the rocks and coral.
Yelapa: The Colorful Town
After snorkeling, the boat takes you to Yelapa—an unspoiled haven with a real sense of community and tradition. The town’s streets are adorned with artworks, and the atmosphere is relaxed. You can spend your time wandering the pathways, stopping for regional food, or simply soaking up the vibrant surroundings.
If you prefer walking, there’s an option to hike to the waterfall, which is about 15 minutes away—an easy trek that rewards you with a peaceful waterfall surrounded by jungle. Keep in mind that horseback riding is also available nearby, though it’s not included in the tour.
Free Time and Optional Activities
The four and a half hours in Yelapa are flexible. You could opt to swim, relax on the beach, or explore the town’s art galleries. Many travelers mention how scenic and peaceful this part of the bay is, with the chance to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at local eateries. The town’s artwork and pottery are also popular souvenirs.
Return Trip
After your time in Yelapa, the boat departs again, heading back to Boca de Tomatlán. The ride is another 45 minutes, giving you a final chance to admire the coastline’s rugged beauty and reflect on your day.
Pricing and Value
At $191 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option in the region, but a private experience like this offers significant value. You get a dedicated guide, flexible itinerary, snorkeling gear, snacks, and round-trip transportation—factors that can add up if booked separately. You’re paying for the comfort of a small group or private party, personalized service, and the opportunity to customize your day.
The included amenities—snorkeling gear, coolers, water bottles, and life jackets—are thoughtful, making the experience more comfortable. Additional costs, such as food, horseback riding, or extra activities like jet skis, are not included, but the focus remains on enjoying the natural and cultural highlights.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and delicious regional food as the primary draws. One guest appreciated the “beautiful views and the chance to see local life up close,” while another noted, “We loved the colorful artwork and the relaxed vibe of Yelapa—it felt like a true hidden gem.”
The flexibility of the tour is another frequently praised aspect. Travelers mention that Bruno was accommodating, allowing them to spend more time on the beach or explore the town at their own pace. The snorkeling spot at Colimilla was described as “a real highlight,” with many noting the variety of marine life they encountered.
Some reviews suggest bringing additional cash for tips or extra activities, but overall, the value provided by this tailored experience is clear. The tour’s focus on authenticity and local culture resonates with travelers who want more than just a touristy ride—they want a taste of real coastal Mexico.
The Sum Up
This private boat tour in Jalisco offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers seeking a personalized experience that highlights local flavor and scenic beauty. The flexibility to customize your day means you can focus on snorkeling, exploring Yelapa’s artful streets, or simply unwinding on the beach, all supported by knowledgeable, friendly guides.
While it’s not a budget option, the inclusion of private transport, snorkeling gear, and the chance to visit two distinct and captivating spots makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting authentic, memorable experiences. The combination of stunning views, regional cuisine, and genuine local encounters makes this tour a strong choice for anyone looking to explore the coast of Jalisco beyond the typical tourist trail.
If you’re after a relaxed day immersed in natural beauty and local culture, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families who want a meaningful, flexible adventure with plenty of opportunities for great photos and even better stories.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The $191 per person fee covers round-trip boat transfers, a captain and local guide, snorkeling gear (without fins), snacks, water bottles, water ice, coolers (if requested), life jackets, and the retractable rooftop boat.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, with the main activities—snorkeling, visiting Yelapa, and the boat rides—scheduled to fit comfortably within this timeframe.
Can I customize the activities?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can tailor your experience by choosing whether to snorkel more, hike to the waterfall, relax on the beach, or explore the town at your leisure.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price, but there are plenty of local restaurants in Yelapa where you can enjoy regional cuisine during your free time.
Is this tour suitable for families and couples?
Absolutely. The private nature and relaxed pace make it ideal for families, couples, and friends looking for an authentic experience in a scenic setting.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, cash for extra activities or tips, and your sense of adventure. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you might want to bring your own fins if you prefer.
How do I find the guide?
Bruno and the crew will be waiting at the pier or beach, with visible uniforms and the tour logo, making them easy to spot.
In sum, this private Jalisco boat tour combines natural beauty, local culture, and a relaxed pace—perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful day on Mexico’s coast.
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