Boca de Tomatlan

Boca de Tomatlan lies just 11 kilometers (6.8 mi) from downtown Puerto Vallarta. This tiny fishing village in Jalisco has only 661 residents and remains one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. Puerto Vallarta’s beaches buzz with tourists while Boca de Tomatlan gives visitors something rare – a genuine Mexican coastal experience without the crowds.

The coastal village serves as a gateway to several hidden beaches and outdoor adventures. Nature lovers can enjoy a scenic 2.5-mile (4 kilometer) hike to Las Animas that takes about 2 hours. A shorter 1-mile trek leads to the beautiful Colomitos Cove in around 40 minutes. Local boat tours to nearby beaches cost about 1500 pesos for a family of five. These tours let travelers escape tourist hotspots and immerse themselves in natural beauty at an affordable price.

Let’s look at everything you need to know about this hidden gem in this piece. We’ll cover how to get there, what to do, which secluded beaches to visit, and where to find the freshest seafood. Boca de Tomatlan provides a unique experience for hiking enthusiasts, snorkeling fans, or anyone seeking a peaceful beach day. The place feels like uncovering a secret that locals kept close until now.

Where is Boca de Tomatlán and why is it special?

Boca de Tomatlán sits quietly along Mexico’s stunning Pacific coastline, providing a refreshing escape from tourist crowds. This picturesque spot marks the final frontier where the highway ends and coastal adventures begin by boat or foot.

A small fishing village near Puerto Vallarta

Crystal-clear waters of Banderas Bay and lush mountains cradle Boca de Tomatlán, just 11 miles (16 kilometers) south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. The Horcones River splits the village as it flows from the Sierra Madre Mountains through beautiful tropical rainforest into a scenic cove.

Boca feels like a different world compared to Puerto Vallarta’s busy tourist center, though it’s only a 25-minute drive away. The scenic trip from city chaos leads to this peaceful haven where mountains embrace river and sea. Travelers on Highway 200 can enjoy breathtaking views of Los Arcos National Marine Park, Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, and the entire Banderas Bay.

The village acts as a crucial gateway to Banderas Bay’s southern beaches. Water taxis leave from this mini-port to reach remote spots like Las Animas, Colomitos, Quimixto, Majahuitas, and Yelapa.

The meaning behind the name ‘Boca de Tomatlán’

“Boca de Tomatlán’s” name holds deep geographical and cultural meaning. “Boca” means “mouth” in Spanish, showing where the Horcones River meets the ocean. “Tomatlán” translates to “tomato land,” highlighting the region’s farming roots. Locals simply call it “Boca,” embracing its identity as the waterway’s mouth.

How it is different from other beach towns

Boca de Tomatlán stands out from other Mexican beach spots with its authentic character and natural beauty. The village offers:

• A genuine look at Mexican fishing village life with traditional customs
• Mountain, river, and beach landscapes blending in one small area
• Freedom from excessive development and tourism
• The starting point of the region’s most beautiful hiking trails

Boca de Tomatlán keeps its authentic charm that many coastal towns have lost. Kids play on streets and beaches while fishermen go about their daily work. The community takes pride in their clean beach. Locals’ relaxed attitude creates a welcoming feel that draws visitors to explore the village streets and lush surroundings.

Unlike tourist hotspots, Boca gives travelers “a true taste of rural Mexican culture”. The residents show a deep connection to their home despite having fewer modern amenities. Life moves at a gentler pace here, yet natural beauty and outdoor adventures remain easily available.

Colorful fishing boats, wooden hanging bridges, and green mountains full of tropical birds and herons make this small village visually stunning. Boca de Tomatlán perfectly balances convenience with authenticity for those wanting to escape commercial tourism without giving up beauty or easy access.

How to get to Boca de Tomatlán

The trip to Boca de Tomatlan becomes part of the adventure as you learn about this hidden gem. This charming fishing village sits just 11 miles (17km) south of Puerto Vallarta, with several easy ways to get there.

By bus from Puerto Vallarta

A local bus ride is the cheapest way to reach Boca de Tomatlán. White busses with “Boca” signs run from the corner of Basilio Badillo and Constitución streets in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone.

The bus stop sits near the OXXO convenience store. You’ll spot orange and white C01-Mismaloya route busses that head to the southern beaches. A one-way ticket costs just 10 pesos (about $0.60 USD). Busses start running early at 6:30 AM and keep going until about 10-11 PM.

The bus makes several stops along the coastal route:

• Conchas Chinas
• Dreams Resort
• Presidente Intercontinental
• Garza Blanca
• Mismaloya

Your ride from downtown Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán takes about 30-40 minutes based on traffic. The views are stunning – ocean on one side and jungle-covered mountains on the other.

By water taxi from Playa Los Muertos

Water taxis offer another way to reach Boca de Tomatlán from Los Muertos Pier in the Romantic Zone. This option works great if you’d rather take a scenic boat ride than hop on a bus.

The pier is easy to find. Head south along the Malecón past the Cuale River. Walk along Olas Altas to Francisca Rodríguez street and turn right. Another option is to turn right on Venustiano Carranza street and walk south along the sidewalk that follows Olas Altas beach.

Water taxis run on a set schedule throughout the day. The boat ride shows off amazing coastline views and you can combine it with visits to other southern beaches. Travelers heading to beaches like Yelapa might find it easier to take a water taxi straight from Los Muertos Pier instead of switching at Boca.

Tips for first-time visitors

Here’s what you should know before heading to Boca de Tomatlán:

The bus drops you at the hilltop above the village. You’ll walk down to reach the main area. People with mobility issues can take taxis straight to the village center to skip the hill.

Busses back to Puerto Vallarta run until late evening, but check the current schedule. The return trip takes about 30 minutes.

Water taxis at Boca’s pier can take you to other beaches like Las Animas (100 pesos), Quimixto, and Yelapa (120 pesos). Round-trip tickets don’t lock you into a specific return boat. Just remember the last boat (6pm) fills up fast.

Taxis and Ubers from Puerto Vallarta are readily available if you want more comfort or have lots of luggage. A taxi costs around 300 pesos ($18 USD). Private rides from Puerto Vallarta Airport take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Bring your camera along. The route to Boca de Tomatlán shows off amazing views of Los Arcos National Marine Park, Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, and Banderas Bay.

Top things to do in Boca de Tomatlán

Adventure seekers and nature lovers will fall in love with Boca de Tomatlán, a paradise where jungle meets sea. The village offers amazing outdoor activities that showcase its unique location.

Hike to Playa Colomitos and Las Ánimas

The coastal trail from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas is an experience you won’t want to miss. This 2.5-mile (4km) path takes about 2 hours and offers a moderate challenge. The trail leads to hidden beaches with amazing views. You’ll reach Playa Colomitos after a 50-minute hike. This tiny cove has turquoise waters that are perfect for a refreshing swim. The path continues past several beautiful beaches including Playa Madagascar, La Troza with its Casitas Maraika, and the white sands of Playa del Caballo. Water taxis wait to take tired hikers back to Boca.

Snorkeling and boat tours

Boca de Tomatlán’s crystal-clear waters create the perfect setting for snorkeling. Local boats take you straight to Los Arcos where pufferfish, moray eels, and rays swim freely. Local guides know the best spots and help identify marine life. You can book a six-hour tour to see multiple snorkeling spots and hidden beaches along the coast.

Birdwatching and wildlife spotting

The meeting point of river and ocean creates a haven for wildlife. Bird lovers can spot military macaws, trogons, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and parrots in the jungle. The ocean brings frigatebirds, terns, seagulls, and even blue-footed boobies. The Tomatlán river attracts herons, egrets, and the beautiful roseate spoonbill. You can see most birds in just 2-3 hours.

Ziplining and jungle adventures

Thrill-seekers will love the zipline adventures in the mountains above Boca. Los Veranos Canopy offers speedboat rides from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán before you tackle their 19-line circuit. The longest line stretches 1,800 feet across mountains and the Horcones River. You can add waterfall rappelling, river swimming, and mule riding through the Sierra Madre mountains to your adventure.

Whale watching in season

Boca de Tomatlán welcomes humpback whales from December through March. These gentle giants swim from arctic waters to breed in Banderas Bay’s warm waters. January and February offer the best chances to see them. Marine biologists lead tours where you can watch whales breach, slap their tails, and listen to male whale songs through special underwater microphones.

Hidden beaches you can explore

A string of beautiful beaches lies just beyond the charming village of Boca de Tomatlán. These slices of paradise are available by boat or hiking trail.

Playa Colomitos

Playa Colomitos stands out as “Puerto Vallarta’s best-kept secret.” This Mexican beach’s size makes it special – just 30 meters in length. The tiny cove’s emerald-green waters let you see colorful fish swimming below. Visitors can reach the beach after a 40-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán or take a quick 5-minute boat ride. The crystalline waters create perfect conditions for snorkeling and swimming. Tour boats can make the beach crowded, so early morning visits give you the most peace and quiet.

Playa Madagascar

A 50-minute walk along the coastal trail from Boca de Tomatlán leads to Playa Madagascar. This hidden gem showcases golden sands against turquoise and deep blue waters. The beach’s untouched nature provides excellent swimming and snorkeling spots with calm waves throughout the year. The spot stays peaceful since boat tours rarely stop here. Note that you should pack supplies since there are no services at the beach.

Playa del Caballo

Playa del Caballo (Horse Beach) welcomes visitors with its fine, golden sand that’s perfect for unwinding. A palm grove offers shade while you enjoy views of the lush tropical vegetation. The beach’s peaceful setting is available by water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas, followed by a walk or horseback ride to Hotelito Mío. The coastal path past Madagascar Beach serves as another route.

Playa Las Animas

The 2.5-mile hiking trail from Boca de Tomatlán ends at Playa Las Animas, a long sandy beach that draws many day-trippers. This lively spot differs from its quiet neighbors with beachfront restaurants, a central pier, and water activities. The beach has all amenities including public bathrooms, which makes longer stays comfortable. Thrill-seekers can try parasailing right from the shore. The restaurants serve fresh seafood and delicious ceviche that hits the spot after exploring the coast.

Local food, drinks, and where to relax

Boca de Tomatlan’s restaurants serve up the perfect reward after a day of exploration. The village thrives on fishing, which means you’ll find the freshest seafood right here on your plate.

Seaside restaurants and seafood spots

The Boca beach area showcases five family-owned restaurants along the seaside, each with their own distinctively colored tablecloths. These beachfront spots serve local seafood under traditional palm-leaf palapas at reasonable prices. You can drop by between 10 AM and 7 PM to enjoy anything from cold beers to grilled shrimp right by the water.

El Huachinango stands out with its “fun, relaxed, and excellent experiences”. Boca Del Mar has made a name for its thinly fileted garlic Mahi-Mahi. El Embarcadero keeps things simple with traditional Mexican seafood and stunning ocean views.

Casitas Maraika and Ocean Grill

Just beyond the main village, Casitas Maraika brings Mediterranean flavors to its beachfront setting. The restaurant uses fresh local produce, and guests can unwind in hammocks at sunset before heading to the bar to sample oysters from their oyster farm.

Ocean Grill takes dining to another level with its palapa-covered veranda overlooking Los Colomitos cove. This adults-only, cash-only spot needs advance booking but rewards guests with breathtaking views and exceptional food. A quick 10-minute drive from Boca de Tomatlán gets you to this culinary gem.

Coffee and tequila tasting at local cafes

Cafe Hacienda Maria Bonita adds something special to Boca’s dining scene. This hidden gem sits next to Baston Del Rey tequila distillery and serves local coffee in a charming courtyard. Cappuccinos and americanos cost $3 USD, while bags of fresh roasted beans go for $9 USD.

The area’s tequila tastings showcase Mexico’s signature spirit. Several local distilleries, including Tequila Don Tadeo and Tequila-Mama Lucia, offer guided tastings. These sessions often come with excellent meals – as one guest put it, “The tequila tasting was fun but the lunch was superb!”

Summing it all up

Boca de Tomatlan stands without doubt as one of Mexico’s most precious hidden treasures. This tiny fishing village gives adventure seekers everything they crave—pristine beaches, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty—without the tourist crowds that fill nearby Puerto Vallarta.

Travelers come back with stories of finding isolated beaches like Colomitos and Madagascar that feel worlds away from commercial tourism after hiking the coastal trails. The snorkeling spots around Los Arcos show underwater wonders filled with colorful marine life. Magnificent humpback whales breach offshore during winter months and add another layer to this magical destination.

The village’s culinary scene definitely deserves special recognition. Family-owned beachfront restaurants serve fresh-caught seafood that perfectly complements days spent by the ocean. These authentic experiences cost substantially less than those in larger resort towns.

Boca remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism despite being close to Puerto Vallarta. A simple trip by affordable local bus, water taxi, or private transportation takes visitors to a place where fishing boats still outnumber tour operators. Local life moves at its traditional pace here.

Travelers who want authentic Mexican coastal experiences should visit this charming village before word gets out. Boca de Tomatlan may be lesser-known than other Mexican spots, but it delivers extraordinary adventures, delicious cuisine, and picture-perfect beaches without the crowds. This secret paradise might soon join Mexico’s popular destinations—making now the perfect time to experience its unspoiled charm while it stays hidden in plain sight.

Here are some FAQs about Boca de Tomatlan:

Where is Boca in Puerto Vallarta?

Boca de Tomatlán is a small fishing village located about 12 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, where the Tomatlán River meets the Pacific Ocean. This picturesque spot serves as the gateway to the southern beaches and is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors come here for things to do in Boca de Tomatlán like boat tours and waterfront dining.

Is there a bus from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán?

Yes, the Mismaloya bus (Route 02) runs regularly from downtown Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán for about 10 pesos per person. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes and offers scenic coastal views along the way. This affordable transportation option makes visiting Boca de Tomatlán hotels and attractions accessible for budget travelers.

How much is the water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán?

Water taxis from Boca de Tomatlán to nearby beaches like Las Ánimas typically cost between 80-150 pesos per person (about $4-$7 USD) each way. Prices vary depending on distance and negotiation, with longer trips to Yelapa costing more. These boats are the primary transportation method for exploring the Boca de Tomatlán Puerto Vallarta coastline.

What to do in Boca de Tomatlán at night?

While Boca de Tomatlán quiets down at night, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood dinners at waterfront restaurants or stargazing on the beach. Some Boca de Tomatlán rentals offer evening bonfires or you can take a moonlit walk along the river mouth. It’s more peaceful than Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife but perfect for relaxation.

What is the prettiest beach in Puerto Vallarta?

Many consider Playa Las Ánimas, accessible from Boca de Tomatlán by water taxi, to be the prettiest beach near Puerto Vallarta. With golden sand, clear water, and lush jungle backdrop, it offers stunning scenery. Other beautiful options include Quimixto and Yelapa, also reachable from Boca de Tomatlán Puerto Vallarta.

Where is the best part of Puerto Vallarta?

The best area depends on preferences, but the Romantic Zone offers vibrant culture while Boca de Tomatlán provides authentic coastal charm. For beach lovers, the stretch from Boca de Tomatlán south to Yelapa features stunning secluded beaches. Many Boca de Tomatlán hotels cater to travelers seeking a quieter alternative to the city.

Does Uber work in Puerto Vallarta?

Uber operates in Puerto Vallarta but is somewhat controversial with local taxi drivers. While it works well for getting around the city, traditional taxis or buses are better options for reaching Boca de Tomatlán Puerto Vallarta. Some drivers may decline trips to this area due to the distance.

How much is a water taxi to Yelapa?

From Boca de Tomatlán, water taxis to Yelapa cost about 200-250 pesos per person (approximately $10-$12 USD) each way. The scenic 30-minute ride passes beautiful coastline and is one of the most popular things to do in Boca de Tomatlán. Round-trip discounts are often available if arranged in advance.

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