Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination in Mexico due to its breathtaking and beautiful beaches, rich heritage and charm, and excellent weather. Puerto Vallarta is located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and the area has some of the best restaurants, bars, and shopping in Mexico. The Sierra Madre mountain greenery touches the Banderas Bay’s shores to create a natural view that will leave you in awe. Banderas Bay is the largest bay in Mexico, and it is the seventh largest bay in the world. Every year, the humpback whales migrate through the waters to mate and birth their young in the warm waters. Along with the beautiful beaches, you can explore numerous rivers and waterfalls in the area as well. If you will be vacationing in Puerto Vallarta this year, make sure you explore Puerto Vallarta’s natural attractions. Continue to read below to learn the top outdoor adventures in Banderas Bay.
Yelapa – Unique Small Town
If you want an authentic Mexican beach town experience, then you need to visit Yelapa. To get there, you will need to first drive or take the bus to Boca de Tomatlan. Then, you will need to ride a water taxi to reach Yelapa as you can only get there by boat. There are only fifteen hundred residents, and Yelapa is one of the safest towns in Mexico to visit. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, then this is a wonderful place to explore. It is very secluded and the residents are very friendly and welcoming. It may surprise you to know that Yelapa didn’t even have electricity or phones until 2001. Many of the residents garden, fish, and farm for their living. The beach and a stunning waterfall are what visitors love seeing there.
Las Animas & Quimixto – Charming Beach Villages
In the southern region of the Banderas Bay is where you will find two charming beach villages, which are Las Animas and Quimixto. To get to either of these villages, you will need to go on a hike from Boca de Tomatlan, or you can catch a water taxi that costs approximately $3 to $4 US dollars per person each way. The two villages are walkable from one another, and it is easy to get on and to get off of the Las Animas pier, so people of all ages can visit. The beaches are lined with numerous restaurants that make authentic Mexican dishes and fresh seafood dishes. If you’re in the mood to be active, make sure you visit the Quimixto waterfall. It is only a thirty minute walk from the beach and a special sight to see.
Mismaloya & El Eden – Tropical Places
Next, Mismaloya and El Eden are other great tropical places to explore in Banderas Bay. If you don’t want to spend your day at the beach, then you can head inland to El Eden in the jungle. It just happens to be the most popular natural attraction in Puerto Vallarta. Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger filmed Predator, an action movie here back in 1987. The natural beauty of the Sierra Madre jungle is truly outstanding! El Eden is located just south from Mismaloya Beach, and there are natural pools that the river has created. If you want to cool off, then the swimming hole is an excellent place to take a refreshing dip. There is a restaurant there that has cool beverages and tasty foods, too.
Cuale River – One Of Seven Rivers
The Cuale River originates in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains and it is one of seven rivers in the area. The Cuale River origins started approximately 2500 meters above sea level. From its origins, the river gently runs through El Cuale, then it continues to flow through ravines until it reaches Puerto Vallarta. The Cuale River is 40 kilometers long where it empties into the Pacific Ocean. The river divides Puerto Vallarta, Romantic Old Town, and El Centro. It’s a popular spot for people to go swimming and play in the clear waters where the river empties into Banderas Bay under the Malecon boardwalk bridge.
Will you be vacationing in Puerto Vallarta this year? If you are, then make sure you check out the top outdoor adventures in Banderas Bay. The winter months are the perfect time to visit the swimming holes due to the rains during the summer months have replenished the rivers. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect vacation destination anytime of the year. If you are ready for a Puerto Vallarta vacation, then contact Garza Blanca Resorts. Owned and operated by TAFER Hotels & Resorts, they have luxurious accommodations and premiere amenities. Also, COVID safety protocols have been implemented to keep resort guests safe. Right now, they have special deals on all-inclusive travel packages, too. They also have an exclusive vacation club for qualified travelers. If you want to treat your loved ones to an unforgettable vacation, contact Garza Blanca and book your stay in PV today!
