Watch how the village’s boat activity and beach life share a small space. Stay clear of launching and landing areas.
Mexico · Puerto Vallarta · Look a little closer
Boca de Tomatlán and the southern bay
Where a river meets the southern bay, Boca de Tomatlán is both a working village and a departure point for coastal outings.
The place and its story
Why it deserves time
South of Puerto Vallarta, Boca de Tomatlán has a different scale from the resort waterfront. Small boats, the river mouth and the beach define the village, while water taxis connect with settlements farther along the coast. Names such as Las Ánimas, Quimixto and Yelapa appear on excursion plans, but each entails its own journey and return arrangements. A coastal path also begins in this area; it should be treated as a walk requiring preparation rather than a casual substitute for a boat.
Slow down and notice
Three things to look for
If you take a panga, confirm the exact destination, drop-off and return meeting point. Similar-looking boats do not make interchangeable bookings.
For a walk, look at the terrain and conditions before committing. Heat, rain, uneven footing and the return distance can change an apparently simple plan.
Make a thoughtful visit
Plan your visit
Allow a half-day for the village or a full day for a farther coastal excursion. Arrange transport from Puerto Vallarta and ask the operator about weather, life jackets and landing conditions. Some landings can involve getting wet; protect phones and carry suitable footwear. Do not assume the last boat will wait if a meal or walk runs late.
Time allowances are ATA planning suggestions, not opening hours. Confirm admission, availability and access directly before travelling.
Keep exploring the same area
More around Puerto Vallarta
Background and visitor information: visitpuertovallarta.com. Guide prepared November 2026. Programmes and access may change.
Photograph credits
1. The river mouth and beach at Boca de Tomatlán. Photograph: Andy Blackledge · CC BY 2.0. Original file and attribution. Resized and recompressed; display crops may apply. The photograph retains its stated license.
2. Coastal scenery on the route from Boca de Tomatlán toward Las Ánimas. Photograph: Andy Blackledge · CC BY 2.0. Original file and attribution. Resized and recompressed; display crops may apply. The photograph retains its stated license.
