
Boca de Tomates Beach
A unique coastal gem known for sea turtle conservation and delicious seafood, but with a significant crocodile population requiring caution.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness turtle releases

Boca de Tomates Beach
Best Time
Witness turtle releases

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique coastal gem known for sea turtle conservation and delicious seafood, but with a significant crocodile population requiring caution.
"Witness magical turtle releases and savor fresh seafood, but always respect the crocodile warnings."

🚫 Respect Crocodile Warnings
Never swim or get too close to the water. Crocodiles are present and dangerous.
🐢 Support Turtle Conservation
Participate in a turtle release at the Campamento Tortuguero to help conservation efforts.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Campamento Tortuguero
Boca de Tomates Beach
Witness and participate in the magical release of baby sea turtles into the ocean. A truly unforgettable conservation experience.

Crocodile Spotting (from a distance!)
Ameca River Estuary
Observe crocodiles in their natural habitat from a safe distance. Educational tours are available, but never approach them.

Seafood Ramadas
Along the beach
Enjoy delicious, fresh seafood at the numerous beachside ramadas, often with live music on weekends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beware of Crocodiles
Turtle Conservation Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 Respect Crocodile Warnings
Never swim or get too close to the water. Crocodiles are present and dangerous.
🐢 Support Turtle Conservation
Participate in a turtle release at the Campamento Tortuguero to help conservation efforts.
🍤 Savor Fresh Seafood
Dine at the beach ramadas for authentic, delicious seafood dishes.
🚶♀️ Beach Walks & Birding
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the shore and observe diverse birdlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 Respect Crocodile Warnings
Never swim or get too close to the water. Crocodiles are present and dangerous.
🐢 Support Turtle Conservation
Participate in a turtle release at the Campamento Tortuguero to help conservation efforts.
🍤 Savor Fresh Seafood
Dine at the beach ramadas for authentic, delicious seafood dishes.
🚶♀️ Beach Walks & Birding
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the shore and observe diverse birdlife.
🚗 Easy Access from PV
Located just outside Puerto Vallarta, easily reachable by car or taxi.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boca de Tomates is celebrated for its vibrant sea turtle conservation efforts and delicious beachfront seafood restaurants. While the beach offers a unique local experience, visitors must be extremely cautious due to the presence of crocodiles, making swimming impossible. The turtle releases are a highlight, offering a magical and educational encounter with nature.
"Beach is wonderful to walk around, and there's bird watching too!"
Kelly Zarling
"We used to go here with our Mexican friends 25 yrs ago. Beautiful secluded beach and excellent food!"
Jack Robinson
"Great beach filled with turtle eggs! There where also lots of crocodiles and warning signs advising not to go near them."
Salvador Perez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boca de Tomates Beach is located just north of Puerto Vallarta, near the mouth of the Ameca River. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or local bus. The drive from downtown Puerto Vallarta typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the beach, especially closer to the ramadas and restaurants. It's advisable to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a good spot.
Local buses that run along the coast north of Puerto Vallarta will stop near Boca de Tomates. Ask your driver to let you know when you are approaching the beach area.
Boca de Tomates Beach is located in Jalisco, marking the northernmost point of the state before it borders Nayarit.
The beach is best explored on foot, especially if you plan to visit the turtle camp or dine at the ramadas. For longer distances or to reach the beach from Puerto Vallarta, a car or taxi is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Boca de Tomates Beach itself is generally free to access. However, participating in the turtle release program at Campamento Tortuguero usually involves a donation or fee that supports their conservation work.
The Campamento Tortuguero typically operates in the late afternoon and evening, coinciding with turtle nesting and hatching times. It's best to check their specific hours or contact them in advance, especially if you wish to participate in a release.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance for the turtle release at Campamento Tortuguero is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your participation and support their efforts.
The primary restriction is that swimming is forbidden due to the presence of crocodiles. Always heed warning signs and maintain a safe distance from the water.
The cost varies, but donations to Campamento Tortuguero are essential for their work. These contributions help fund nest protection, hatchling care, and beach cleanups.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy beach walks, bird watching, dining at seafood ramadas, and participating in sea turtle releases. Remember, swimming is prohibited due to crocodiles.
Yes, Boca de Tomates is known for its crocodile population, especially near the Ameca River estuary. Warning signs are posted, and visitors are strongly advised not to enter the water.
No, swimming is strictly forbidden at Boca de Tomates Beach due to the significant presence of crocodiles.
The Campamento Tortuguero is a conservation center dedicated to protecting sea turtle nests and releasing hatchlings into the ocean. Visitors can learn about their work and participate in releases.
Yes, the area around Boca de Tomates, with its proximity to the estuary, is excellent for bird watching, offering a chance to see various local and migratory species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The beach is famous for its numerous 'ramadas' which are open-air restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood, often caught locally. You can also find other Mexican delicacies.
Yes, many visitors rave about the excellent seafood and pleasant atmosphere at the ramadas. Las Palapas and El Chavo's are frequently recommended.
Prices are generally considered reasonable, offering good value for fresh seafood. Expect to pay more for premium dishes or larger groups.
While seafood is the specialty, some ramadas may offer vegetarian dishes like rice, beans, and salads. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.
On weekends, many of the ramadas feature live music and entertainment, making it a lively spot for families and groups.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the coastline, the Ameca River estuary, and especially the magical moments of sea turtle releases. The ramadas also offer vibrant scenes.
While you can photograph the coastline from a safe distance, avoid getting too close to the water's edge where crocodiles may be present. Always prioritize safety.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for beach photography. Late afternoon is also ideal for capturing the turtle release events.
You can photograph crocodiles from a very safe distance, but it's crucial not to disturb them or put yourself at risk.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
🏖️ Beachgoers Seeking Local Flavor
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Crocodile Presence
For those interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures in a controlled environment, nearby sanctuaries like Estero El Salado offer organized excursions. However, at Boca de Tomates itself, the focus is on observing wildlife from a safe vantage point and enjoying the other amenities the beach offers. The presence of crocodiles is a key characteristic of Boca de Tomates and should be a primary consideration for anyone planning a visit.
The Magic of Sea Turtle Conservation
Participating in a turtle release not only provides an unforgettable memory but also directly supports the crucial work of the Campamento Tortuguero. Donations help fund nest protection, monitoring, and the overall conservation of these endangered species. Many visitors express gratitude for the educational aspect of the experience, learning about the challenges sea turtles face and the importance of their protection. It's recommended to book your participation in advance, especially during peak nesting seasons, to ensure a spot and contribute to this vital cause.
Culinary Delights at the Ramadas
On weekends, the ramadas come alive with live music and entertainment, making it a popular destination for local families. This adds to the festive ambiance and provides a lively backdrop for enjoying a meal. While seafood is the star, some establishments may offer other Mexican staples. It's advisable to check menus and inquire about daily specials. The combination of delicious food, ocean views, and local culture makes dining at Boca de Tomates a highlight for many visitors.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit