Yelapa isn’t the kind of place you rush through. Tucked away on the southern edge of Banderas Bay and only accessible by boat, this small fishing village feels intentionally removed from the noise of the mainland. A perfect day in Yelapa is slow, sun‑washed, and shaped by simple pleasures; good food, warm water, jungle paths, and moments where time seems to stretch.

Here’s how to spend the perfect day in Yelapa, Mexico, from first light to sunset.

Morning: Arrive by Water and Ease Into Village Life

The day begins the moment you step onto the boat. Whether you arrive by water taxi from Puerto Vallarta or as part of a longer coastal journey, the approach into Yelapa sets the tone: palm-lined shoreline, colorful homes stacked into the hillside, and the sound of waves instead of traffic.

Jesse and I grabbed a water taxi Boca de Tomatlán and enjoyed a nice 45 minute ride. We spent the entire time pretending which house we’d buy along the shoreline as we zoomed past. We kept a close lookout for dolphins and whales but didn’t get lucky.

When you arrive, spend your first moments doing very little. Walk barefoot along the beach, take in the rhythm of the village. Mornings in Yelapa are very quiet and soft, especially if you’re there in the off season like we were. The expression, “island time” was made for this village. The bay slowly wakes up and fishermen head out, locals open small shops, the sun begins to warm the sand.

Arriving by boat at the first dock in Yelapa

If you’re just waking up in Yelapa, the best way to spend the early morning is laying in bed with a hot cup of coffee as you overlook the beautiful bay. Don’t rush, just relax and enjoy.

Breakfast by the Beach

Settle into a beachfront café for breakfast with your feet in the sand. Fresh fruit, strong coffee, and simple Mexican breakfasts are the norm here. It’s the kind of meal where conversations linger and watches stay tucked away.

Since we were here in off-season not a lot was open but that’s ok. We spent the morning sipping coffees at Sirena Morena cafe and when the chef arrived, she made us a mouthwatering breakfast of omelettes, fruit and pancakes.

Enjoying breakfast..and 3 coffees at Sirena Morena

Late Morning: Waterfall Walks and Jungle Paths

Once the day warms up, head inland toward one of Yelapa’s waterfalls. The walk itself is part of the experience, winding through the village and into the jungle beyond. You’ll pass homes, gardens, and quiet corners that offer a glimpse into daily life.

Make sure to wear water shoes! You’re feet will surely get wet as you cross rivers and jungle paths and you’re be thankful for good soles as you stumble over cobblestone pathways.

The walk is about 40 minutes each way but well worth it. Soak in the village life and enjoy the sounds of the animals in the jungle as you go.

Yelapa Waterfall

The main waterfall is an easy and rewarding walk, especially earlier in the day before it gets busy. Take a swim beneath the falls, cool off, and enjoy the contrast between the heat of the trail and the refresh of the water. During the rainy season, the waterfall is especially powerful; in drier months, it’s calmer and more serene.

Midday: Beach Time and Ocean Swims

By midday, return to the coast. Yelapa’s main beach is ideal for swimming, lounging, or hopping on a paddleboard or kayak. The bay is usually calm, making it easy to spend hours drifting between the water and the shade of a palm tree.

For the best snorkeling make sure to stick to the outer sides of the bay where the rocky parts are. While there isn’t too much marine life in the bay, you might get lucky and spot some cool things. We got lucky and spotted a trumpet fish as soon as we jumped in!

If you’re staying at or visiting an eco lodge perched above the beach, this is the perfect time to retreat for a short rest. Many eco lodges in Yelapa are thoughtfully designed to blend into the landscape, offering sweeping views, natural materials, and a quiet sense of seclusion that feels worlds away from busier resort towns.

Afternoon: Lunch and Slow Exploration

Lunch at Sirena Morena

No perfect day in Yelapa is complete without another meal at Sirena Morena. Known for its creative dishes, relaxed atmosphere, and thoughtful approach to food, it’s the kind of place where lunch easily turns into a long, unhurried afternoon.

Expect fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a menu that reflects both local influences and international creativity. Pair your meal with something cold to drink, take in the views, and let time pass without an agenda.

I think I had the best octopus tacos of my life here!

Wander the Village

After lunch, wander through Yelapa’s narrow paths and staircases. This is a village best explored on foot, where every turn reveals colorful homes, hidden gardens, and small details that make the place feel lived-in and personal.

You’ll notice a lot of the homes in the village have walls made with seashells from the bay. We spent a little bit of time admiring them all as we went along.

Stop by a local shop for some little snacks, chat with residents, or simply follow whichever path looks most inviting.

Late Afternoon: Quiet Moments and Golden Light

As the heat softens, return to the beach or find a shaded spot overlooking the bay. Late afternoon in Yelapa is especially beautiful as the light turns golden, the water reflects the sky, and the village settles into a gentle hum.

Soaking up on the sun on a lounger - complimentary with any drink orders!

This is the perfect time to swim again, read a book, or do absolutely nothing at all. Yelapa excels at reminding you that rest is part of the experience.

Evening: Sunset and Simple Dinners

As the sun begins to dip, gather along the beach to watch the sky change color. Sunsets in Yelapa are understated and beautiful, with soft hues spreading across the bay and the distant silhouettes of boats heading home.

Dinner is best kept simple. Choose a beachfront restaurant or a small local spot serving fresh seafood and classic Mexican dishes. Let the sound of the waves carry the evening forward.

All dressed up for a nice dinner on the beach

End the Day: Stars and Stillness

With limited artificial light, nights in Yelapa are calm and star-filled. Walk back to your accommodation under the night sky, listening to the ocean and the sounds of the jungle. Make sure you bring a headlight with you, so not to get lost on your way back.

A perfect day in Yelapa doesn’t rely on packed schedules or must-see lists. It’s defined by presence, by slowing down, savoring moments, and letting the village guide you.

If you’re looking for a place that encourages you to disconnect and truly be where you are, Yelapa offers exactly that.

Thanks again for following along as we tell you about all the amazing adventures and places to check out in the world. If you liked this, there are more blogs to look over!

Check out our other Yelapa blog for Everything to Do and See in Yelapa, Mexico.

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Cheers,

Liv and Jesse.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Yelapa, Mexico