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The Hidden Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

Coconut milk on Playa Caballo
Iguana in nature in Boca de Tomatlan Hike

We will begin this walking adventure by riding the public bus along the South shore of the Bay to the old fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.  We will walk the town then cross the river over a foot bridge and hike under the jungle canopy for shade along the stunning coast line to the open beaches of Las Animas.  

Our first big rest will be at the amazingly beautiful beach of Playa Colomitos.  It is in a small inlet with beautiful blue/green water.  A small stream comes tumbling off the cliffs above for a small waterfall.  Often there are yachts anchored in the cove enjoying the swimming opportunities.  We will spend approximately 30 minutes here resting and swimming.  

Our second big rest will be on very wide beautiful beach called Playa Caballo where a local vender sells fresh coconuts split open in front of you where you drink the water directly with a straw.  When you are finished, they will cut it open and remove all the coconut meat and bag it up for you to take with you to snack.  Cost is around  $3USD not included.  Read the benefits of Coconut water here.  

Between these two stops we will play at a beautiful beach called Playa Madagascar. A rock jumping opportunity is available and swim in a cove surrounded by huge boulders and light surf. 

Upon arrival in Las Animas there are about 10 beach front restaurants to choose from.  Everyone may choose their own or stick with the guide and his favorite.  All restaurants will allow you to use the beach chairs for free if you eat and drink from their menu.  

The leader will set a time to meet (often 4 PM) to regroup and boat back to Boca.   Those wishing to forgo the boat and hike on their own may leave the trip here and hike back.  

 

Restroom opportunities are rare between Boca and Las Animas.  Generally, they consist of a tree or the sea.   But there are a few establishments that might take your pesos to use a toilet.  The total hike is approximately 2 hours to Las Animas with a few stops.  We should have approximately two  hours to enjoy the beach and restaurants in Las Animas.  
 

There are several vendors offering activities in Las Animas including horseback riding and parasailing ride.

 ESSENTIALS

  • Walking Difficulty: Difficult (dirt path with many steep climbs and descents,  stairs)

  • Meet in the Romantic Zone at 9:00AM (Exact location and directions will be in your email confirmation after reserving.)​

  • Bus cost not included -only 10 pesos each way. Bring exact change, The adventure Leader will teach you how to recognize the destination and route of the public buses and how to pay so that you are comfortable taking the buses on your own in the future. 

  • A boat ride back from Las Animas to Boca is 200 pesos a person extra - not included. 

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and have water or other hydration. 

  • Bring or wear a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, and Insect repellent.   

  • Bring a rain umbrella (rainy season June to October) and recommended for hot sunny days for personal shade.  We do not cancel when it rains we celebrate - It is approximately  5 degrees  cooler during a rainstorm.  We may consider a cancellation in the event of a hurricane. 

  • In the unlikely event we only have 1 participant for the tour, we will not cancel  - our guides do not like to stay home.  

  • Lunch (not included) usually around 1 PM

  • Bring Pesos for shopping - most of the smaller merchants do not take cards.  

  • Price is $45 per person ($49.50 in 2024) with prepaid reservation or $50 ($55 2024) payable to the trip leader.

  • Trip scheduled weekly usually on Mondays  

Las Animas Sail Boats on Playa Las Animas
Las Animas sign on the guided walking adventure
Boca Boats in the harber or river inlet
Beach chairs at Playa Las Animas
Playa Colomitos Beach

Boca to Las Animas Hike

Boca to Las Animas Adventure links and Recommendations

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