
Quimixto Waterfall Puerto Vallarta
A hidden gem accessible only by boat, featuring a stunning waterfall, charming village, and excellent surf.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Empty surf lineups

Quimixto Waterfall Puerto Vallarta
Best Time
Empty surf lineups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem accessible only by boat, featuring a stunning waterfall, charming village, and excellent surf.
"Very nice small village only accessible via boat. A large waterfall is within walking distance."

Boat Taxi Essential
Catch a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan for a scenic 10-15 min ride to Quimixto.
Wear Hiking Shoes
The 45-min hike to the waterfall requires sturdy footwear for jungle trails and river crossings.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quimixto Waterfall
Short hike from the village
A beautiful jungle waterfall with a natural pool perfect for swimming and cliff jumping. Less crowded than nearby Yelapa.

Charming Fishing Village
Quimixto village
Experience authentic coastal life in this picturesque village, accessible only by boat, offering a glimpse into local culture.

Surfing Opportunities
Quimixto Beach
Known for excellent surfing conditions, especially in the morning with an often empty lineup. Be mindful of rocky and reefy areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Access is Key
Hike to the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Taxi Essential
Catch a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan for a scenic 10-15 min ride to Quimixto.
Wear Hiking Shoes
The 45-min hike to the waterfall requires sturdy footwear for jungle trails and river crossings.
Pack for Swimming
Bring your swimsuit to jump into the refreshing pool beneath the Quimixto Waterfall!
Enjoy Local Seafood
Savor delicious fresh seafood at beachside restaurants after your waterfall adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Taxi Essential
Catch a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan for a scenic 10-15 min ride to Quimixto.
Wear Hiking Shoes
The 45-min hike to the waterfall requires sturdy footwear for jungle trails and river crossings.
Pack for Swimming
Bring your swimsuit to jump into the refreshing pool beneath the Quimixto Waterfall!
Enjoy Local Seafood
Savor delicious fresh seafood at beachside restaurants after your waterfall adventure.
Less Crowded Gem
Quimixto offers a more tranquil experience compared to nearby Yelapa.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Quimixto's secluded charm, accessible only by boat, and its beautiful waterfall perfect for swimming. The beach offers excellent surfing, though it's rocky. It's praised as a gorgeous, less crowded alternative to nearby destinations.
"Awesome beach."
Caroline Sunshine
"Wow. All beach all the time. Just drive your parasol in and enjoy. The waves were fierce and carried so much sand it was exfoliating."
Steve Edwards - Sitivi
"Very nice small village only accessible via boat. A large waterfall is within walking distance."
D Orr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Quimixto is by taking a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan, which is about a 45-minute bus or taxi ride south of Puerto Vallarta. The boat ride itself takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Some tours also offer direct boat access from Puerto Vallarta.
No, Quimixto is a car-free village and is only accessible by boat, adding to its charm and exclusivity.
The boat ride is generally scenic and enjoyable, offering coastal views. It's a short trip from Boca de Tomatlan, and some visitors opt for private boat tours that can also include stops at other coastal villages.
Yes, local buses frequently run from Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica) to Boca de Tomatlan, making it an accessible starting point for your boat trip.
Some tour operators offer organized boat tours that depart directly from Puerto Vallarta and include Quimixto, often combined with other nearby attractions like Las Animas or Los Arcos.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for the village of Quimixto itself. However, you will need to pay for the water taxi to get there. The hike to the waterfall is also free.
Water taxi prices can vary, but typically range from $10-$20 USD per person for a round trip from Boca de Tomatlan. It's always a good idea to confirm the price before boarding.
No, the hike to Quimixto Waterfall is free and open to the public. The trail is maintained by the local community.
Water taxis generally operate from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the last departure times to ensure you can get back to Boca de Tomatlan.
Yes, many tour companies offer boat tours from Puerto Vallarta that include Quimixto Waterfall, often combined with other destinations like Yelapa or Las Animas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from Quimixto village to the waterfall is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. It's a moderate hike through jungle terrain.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and involve crossing small streams. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim in the waterfall pool.
Yes, the waterfall cascades into a natural pool that is suitable for swimming. Some visitors also enjoy jumping from the rocks around the falls.
There are no formal amenities directly at the waterfall. You'll find restaurants and services in the main village of Quimixto.
The hike is moderately challenging, so it's best suited for families with older children who can manage the terrain. Younger children might need to be carried.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Quimixto has several charming beachside restaurants offering fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and refreshing drinks. Many are located right on the sand.
While seafood is the specialty, most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. It's always a good idea to ask about their options.
Yes, there are small tiendas (shops) in the village where you can purchase water, snacks, and other essentials.
Prices are generally reasonable, comparable to other tourist areas in Puerto Vallarta. Expect to pay around $15-$30 USD for a main course.
While you can bring your own, supporting the local restaurants is encouraged and part of the experience. Some beach clubs might have policies against outside food.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque fishing village, the lush jungle surroundings, the cascading waterfall, and the vibrant beach. The boat ride itself offers great photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local advisories or be discreet to avoid any issues. Some videos show drone footage of the area.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the village's tranquility. Midday provides bright light for the waterfall, while late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light on the beach.
The hike to the waterfall provides various vantage points. The beach itself offers panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the waterfall. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to swim.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♀️ Adventure Seekers & Surfers
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Quimixto
For those seeking a more direct route, some tour operators offer boat excursions that depart directly from Puerto Vallarta. These tours often combine a visit to Quimixto with other popular attractions such as Los Arcos Marine Park or Las Animas beach, providing a comprehensive day trip experience. Regardless of your chosen method, the boat ride offers stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean, setting the stage for the natural beauty that awaits.
Hiking to the Quimixto Waterfall
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the impressive Quimixto Waterfall cascading into a clear, inviting pool. This natural swimming hole is perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike. Many visitors enjoy swimming and even jumping from the surrounding rocks, adding an element of adventure to their visit. While the waterfall itself is a natural wonder, the surrounding area offers opportunities for photography, with the cascading water and verdant jungle providing a picturesque backdrop. It's worth noting that Quimixto Waterfall is often less crowded than its famous neighbor in Yelapa, offering a more serene experience.
Village Life and Beach Activities
Along the beachfront, you'll find several charming restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. These eateries provide a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal with ocean views, and savor the local flavors after a day of exploring. The beach itself is gorgeous, offering a place to simply unwind, enjoy the sun, and listen to the rhythm of the waves. For those looking for a more active experience, the beach is also a great place for swimming, though caution is advised due to the strong currents and rocky seabed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit