Puerto Vallarta: Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Horseback Ride

Planning a day in Puerto Vallarta and want an experience that combines scenic beauty, authentic Mexican culture, and a dash of adventure? This Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Horseback Ride promises just that. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight a well-rounded day that appeals to those craving outdoor fun and local flavor.

What makes it stand out? First, the mix of speedboat action and relaxing beach time offers a balance many travelers seek. Second, the unique horseback riding experience along a river provides a genuinely immersive connection to the natural surroundings. Lastly, the secluded Pizota beach with snorkeling and kayaking adds a private retreat vibe.

One thing to consider is the cost—$169 per person—which includes a lot of activities, but little extras like hotel pickup (not included). This tour is likely best suited for adventurous travelers who want a full day of activity without sacrificing comfort. Families with kids over 10, couples, or solo explorers will find it suits their need for a combination of excitement and relaxation.

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Key Points

Balanced mix of adventure and relaxation across beaches, horseback riding, and water activities
Small group size (limited to 10), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience
Includes essential equipment for snorkeling and kayaking, enhancing the underwater adventure
Meals and drinks are covered, offering good value for a full-day experience
Not suitable for some groups—pregnant women, those with back problems, recent surgeries, children under 10, or people over 250 lbs
Flexible cancellation policy (cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund)

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

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Depart from Puerto Vallarta by Speedboat

The adventure kicks off from Vallarta Adventures’ designated departure points in Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering scenic views of the coast and sea breeze that set the tone for the day ahead. Expect a lively, well-organized start, with safety equipment provided and the option for an open bar, which many travelers seem to appreciate based on reviews.

Yelapa: The Charming Fishing Village

Once you arrive at Yelapa, a quiet fishing village, the real fun begins. Here, you’ll meet your caballerangos (horse guides) and prepare for a horse or mule ride along the Yelapa river. This part is a standout because it’s not just touristy—you get to explore the lush surroundings and see local life. According to a review, guides like Luis and his team do a fantastic job, making the ride both scenic and comfortable.

The horse ride offers a chance to admire the natural beauty of the area, with gentle pathways that suit most riding abilities. After the ride, you’re free to relax on the beach or enjoy a drink at one of the local restaurants, soaking in the relaxed vibe with views of fishing boats bobbing in the warm waters.

Pizota: The Secluded Beach & Water Activities

Next, the tour takes you to Pizota, a hidden beach accessible only by boat. This exclusive little spot is perfect for unwinding amid nature. You can indulge in a buffet lunch, a welcome break after a morning of activity, with the chance to refuel while enjoying scenic ocean views.

For those craving water fun, snorkeling and kayaking are included. The presence of snorkeling gear means you can explore the vibrant marine life, and kayaks provide a peaceful way to paddle along the coast. One reviewer noted the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch and relax on the beach, which they found a perfect way to balance the day.

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Return Journey and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll board the boat for the scenic ride back to Puerto Vallarta. The return trip offers more opportunities for photos, relaxing, and reflecting on the unique experiences of the day.

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The Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes safety equipment, snorkeling and kayaking gear, lunch, purified water, and an open bar. These inclusions make the price of $169 quite reasonable when considering the variety of activities packed into 6.5 hours.

However, there’s a port fee of 30 Mexican Pesos and no hotel pickup or drop-off, which travelers should plan for. In review, guests appreciated the well-organized check-in process and the small group size, which makes the experience feel more personal.

What to Bring

Prepare for a full day outdoors by packing:

Passport or ID
Comfortable shoes for riding and walking
Swimwear and a towel for water activities
Biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment
A hat and sunglasses for sun protection

Important Considerations

Heavy rains can make swimming under waterfalls unsafe, so flexibility is key. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or people with back problems, indicating the activity level or physical requirements. Children under 10 are also not recommended, aligning with safety considerations.

Authentic Experiences from Traveler Reviews

One traveler praised Luis and his team explicitly: “Luis and his group were awesome! We had a blast!” This kind of feedback suggests the guides are attentive and contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment.

Another review highlights the scenic beauty and the relaxed atmosphere: “We loved the way the horses and water activities brought us closer to nature,” emphasizing how personalized and authentic the experience feels.

Travelers also appreciated the well-organized logistics, from the boat rides to the meals, which provided a seamless experience despite the variety of activities.

The Value of This Tour

Given that the tour covers boat rides, beach relaxation, horseback riding, lunch, and water activities, the $169 price offers significant value. The small group size ensures more personalized attention, and the inclusions cover most essentials for a fun day out.

The flexibility of cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, making it easier to adapt plans if needed. The tour’s duration, around 6.5 hours, strikes a good balance—long enough for a full experience but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventure lovers wanting a mix of land and sea activities in a scenic setting. Those looking for a family-friendly yet physically accessible option will find it suitable, provided they meet age and health restrictions.

It’s also ideal for couples seeking a memorable day or solo travelers wanting a guided, small-group outing. However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or prefer more leisurely pursuits, you might consider different options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You will need to meet at the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk at the designated departure points.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with start times available at different times of the day (check availability).

What should I bring?
You should bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and any personal water or snacks you might need.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling and kayaking equipment are provided, allowing you to explore underwater life and paddle along the coast.

What if it rains?
Heavy rains might make swimming under the waterfall unsafe, so the guide may advise skipping that part for safety reasons.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

This Puerto Vallarta boat tour with beach stops and horseback riding offers a well-rounded day packed with scenic views, authentic local experiences, and water-based adventures. Its small group size and included amenities make it a great choice for travelers seeking personalized service and variety.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of riding horses along a river, exploring secluded beaches, or simply relaxing with a tropical drink in hand, this tour captures a slice of Mexico’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. It’s best suited for those who love active days, scenic landscapes, and genuine moments away from the crowds.

If you’re after a memorable, value-packed adventure that combines the best of land and sea in Puerto Vallarta, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: