Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

If you’re seeking an active day that combines natural beauty with a touch of local flavor, this Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers just that.

It’s a guided adventure that takes you through rugged paths, lush jungles, and pristine beaches—perfect for those who love a good challenge and want to see the coastline away from the crowded hotel zones. We’ve looked into this tour, and here’s what potential adventurers should know.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the expert guidance that enriches the journey with insights about flora, fauna, and local history, and the stunning scenery that’s unlike what you’d see on a typical beach day. The beaches themselves, like Colomitos and Las Animas, are picture-perfect and often secluded.

One thing to consider is that the hike is challenging, with steep, rocky sections that demand good footwear and physical fitness.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of exertion and are eager for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

This experience made our article of 15 Of The Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Puerto Vallarta.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: Combines jungle hiking with beach visits in one tour.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, humorous, and attentive to safety.
• Great value: Price of $45 offers a full day of activity, food, and scenic views.
• Suitable for fitness-minded travelers: Challenging terrain but rewarding vistas.
• Includes transportation: Pickup from Puerto Vallarta and boat rides.
• Secluded beaches: Access to beaches not easily reached on your own.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Overview and What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who want more than just lounging on a beach chair. It’s a 5.5-hour journey that takes you along some of Puerto Vallarta’s most beautiful, less-visited spots, led by a qualified guide. You’ll start with a pickup from the Romantic Zone, a lively part of town filled with cafes and colorful streets. From there, the group travels to Boca de Tomatlán, a quiet fishing village that serves as the jumping-off point for the hike.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone:
Meeting at a designated bus stop, travelers are picked up and transported to Boca de Tomatlán. This initial part is straightforward, and the convenience of pickup means you avoid the hassle of self-navigating.

Hiking to Playa Colomitos:
The first destination is the tiny Playa Colomitos, renowned as the smallest beach in the bay. The hike along the coast is part of what makes this experience stand out. Expect dense jungle, rocky paths, and narrow trails—a test of your agility and footwear choice. As one reviewer notes, “The first third of the hike is a bit strenuous especially on a hot sunny afternoon,” so wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.

Enjoying the Beach:
Once you arrive, you’ll find clear waters and white sand—perfect for swimming, relaxing, or even snorkelling if conditions permit. Many guests mention the crystal-clear water and serene environment as highlights, like the reviewer who said, “Beautiful, cristal clear water and white sand, where you can have a cerveza, snorkel and relax by the beach.”

Hiking to Playa Las Animas:
The next stop is the more expansive Las Animas Beach, which is lively enough for activities like parasailing or banana boat rides, but also intimate enough to enjoy a quiet meal. The hike is still demanding here, with rugged terrain, but the reward is reaching a beautiful, lively beach with great seafood options.

Lunch at a Seafood Restaurant:
End the hike at the beach’s top seafood spot, where the tour group enjoys fresh fish, grilled seafood, and cold margaritas. Reviews rave about the delicious food—with some mentioning fried snapper as a highlight. This relaxed meal provides a perfect break after the physical activity, and the setting amidst palm trees and ocean views makes it all the more special.

Boat Ride Back to Boca de Tomatlán:
The tour concludes with a scenic boat ride back, giving you panoramic views of the coast and mountains. The ride typically lasts about an hour and is included in the price. Reviewers consistently describe the ride as memorable, with many noting the spectacular ocean and mountain vistas.

What Makes the Guides Special?

Guides like Emilio, Jerry, and Hector receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and safety-conscious approach. They enhance the experience by sharing tidbits about local plants, animals, and history, making the hike educational and engaging. One reviewer called their guide “extremely knowledgeable,” and others appreciated how guides went above and beyond, like Hector who helped a guest with mobility issues.

The Challenge: Is This Tour Right for You?

This is not a leisurely walk on flat terrain. The steep inclines, rocky surfaces, and uneven trails mean you need a good level of physical fitness. Participants under 10 or over 70 are not recommended, and those with joint issues, recent surgeries, or pregnant are advised against joining. If you’re up for a workout and enjoy nature, you’ll find this hike very rewarding.

Value for Money

At $45, this tour offers an all-included experience—transportation, boat rides, guided commentary, and a meal. Compared to typical beach days or land-based excursions, this is a great value for active travelers who love combining physical activity with sightseeing. The reviews repeatedly praise the quality of the guides and the secluded beaches, which are often inaccessible without a hike or boat.

Many reviewers mention the excellent communication and attention to safety, providing peace of mind on the rugged terrain. The included boat ride also adds a scenic component that’s worth the price, making it a well-rounded day out.

Considerations

The tour is booked well in advance (about 24 days on average), reflecting its popularity. If you prefer a more relaxed beach day without hiking, this isn’t for you. Also, remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable shoes. Drinks are not included, so pack some water and perhaps a snack if you like.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

What sets this tour apart are the lesser-known beaches, like Colomitos and Las Animas, which offer a peaceful escape from tourist-heavy spots. The guides share stories and insights, making the hike educational and fun. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food, with fresh seafood served at the final stop—a perfect reward after working up an appetite.

Travelers also appreciate the small group size (max 12), which makes for a more intimate experience. The scenic boat ride back adds a sense of adventure and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers with a decent fitness level who want to explore Puerto Vallarta beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for those who love nature, hiking, and beach scenery and are comfortable with rugged terrain. Families with older kids (10+) who enjoy active outings will find this a memorable day, especially considering the knowledgeable guides and delicious food.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day at a resort or prefer flat, easy walking, this isn’t the best fit. But if you’re eager to see the hidden beaches and enjoy a physical challenge mixed with authentic local flavor, this tour is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

This Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour offers a chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a completely different perspective—hiking through lush jungle to reach pristine, secluded beaches. Its combination of guided insight, scenic boat rides, and delicious seafood makes it a compelling option for active travelers. The small group size and enthusiastic guides enhance the personal feel of the adventure, while the challenging terrain ensures only those in good shape need apply.

For those who crave a more authentic, hands-on experience that mixes physical activity with natural beauty, this tour delivers excellent value and unforgettable memories. It’s best suited for adventurous, fitness-minded visitors eager to explore Puerto Vallarta’s lesser-known coastal treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation services, including pickup from the Romantic Zone, are included, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable footwear suitable for rocky terrain, and bring sunblock, a hat, swimwear, and possibly a towel. Drinks are not included, so pack water or other beverages.

How strenuous is the hike?
The hike is challenging, with steep, uneven, and rocky surfaces. It’s suitable for those with good physical fitness but not recommended for children under 10 or older adults over 70.

Can I swim at the beaches?
Yes, if conditions are optimal, there’s an opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax on the beaches visited.

What is the food like?
You’ll enjoy a delicious seafood meal at Playa Las Animas, often highlighted as a memorable part of the experience, with fresh fish and local dishes.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, hiking, meals, and boat rides.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s best for families with children aged 10 and up who are comfortable with active outings. It’s not suitable for those with joint or mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone recovering from recent surgery.

This guided hike offers a fantastic mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic local flavors—perfect for those eager to explore Puerto Vallarta beyond the typical beach scene.