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Quimixto Waterfall Puerto Vallarta

4.7
·146 reviews·, Mexico

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Empty surf lineups

CrowdLow
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Come enjoy our beautiful landscapes

Quimixto Waterfall Puerto Vallarta

Best Time

Morning

Empty surf lineups

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(146 reviews)

"Very nice small village only accessible via boat. A large waterfall is within walking distance."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quimixto Waterfall

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Boat Access is Key

Quimixto is a charming fishing village accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded allure. Plan your boat taxi from Boca de Tomatlan or Puerto Vallarta to reach this hidden gem and its stunning waterfall.

Hike to the Falls

The hike to Quimixto Waterfall is a moderate 45-minute trek through jungle terrain. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for river crossings and potentially uneven paths. The reward is a refreshing dip!

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Empty surf lineups
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Cool off at the falls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hay cocodrilos en las playas 🐊 😳 #fyp #playas #mar #cocodrilos #puertovallarta #parati
@emilynatamx
233.6K likes • 5M views

Boat Taxi Essential

Catch a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan for a scenic 10-15 min ride to Quimixto. Reddit

Wear Hiking Shoes

The 45-min hike to the waterfall requires sturdy footwear for jungle trails and river crossings. Instagram

#Sabias que hay una #PigBeach en #PuertoVallarta ? 🐷😍 #YoAmoPuertoVallarta ❤️ #pig #caletas #lascaletas #parati #playa #atardecer #Vallarta #viaje #viajes #viajestiktok #viajeros #viajero #maleconvallarta #vallartazo #puertovallartajalisco #puertovallartamexico #puertovallartajaliscomexico #vallarta2024 #viral #influencer #vallartainfluencer #puertovallartainfluencer #influencerpuertovallarta #in...
@yoamopuertovallarta
86.9K likes • 1M views
Here are some fun and interesting facts about Quimixto, a hidden gem near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: ☀ Charming Fishing Village: Quimixto is a small, picturesque fishing village accessible only by boat, which adds to its charm and untouched beauty. ☀ Famous Waterfall: The Quimixto Waterfall is one of the area’s most popular attractions. It’s a short hike from the beach and offers a refreshing natu...
chicalocca
7 likes • 1.8K views

Pack for Swimming

Bring your swimsuit to jump into the refreshing pool beneath the Quimixto Waterfall! Instagram

Enjoy Local Seafood

Savor delicious fresh seafood at beachside restaurants after your waterfall adventure. Instagram

Out of the way places around Puerto Vallarta, such as Quimixto, offer some pretty cool things to see and do. This cliff diver was certainly haming it up before making his plunge into pool below the waterfall. The hike to the falls was about 45 minutes up a pretty narrow trail and that after a boat ride of 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta. A wonderful place to visit. Www.Victorschendelphotography #p...
vicschendel
179 likes • 6.3K views

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. Reddit

Wear Hiking Shoes

The 45-min hike to the waterfall requires sturdy footwear for jungle trails and river crossings. Instagram

Pack for Swimming

Bring your swimsuit to jump into the refreshing pool beneath the Quimixto Waterfall! Instagram

Enjoy Local Seafood

Savor delicious fresh seafood at beachside restaurants after your waterfall adventure. Instagram

Less Crowded Gem

Quimixto offers a more tranquil experience compared to nearby Yelapa. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(146 reviews)

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

Secluded boat-access village
Beautiful waterfall and swimming
Excellent surfing conditions

What People Dislike

Rocky and reefy beach

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. InstagramReddit+1

No, Quimixto is a car-free village and is only accessible by boat, adding to its charm and exclusivity. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

No, the hike to Quimixto Waterfall is free and open to the public. The trail is maintained by the local community. Instagram

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. Instagram

Yes, many tour companies offer boat tours from Puerto Vallarta that include Quimixto Waterfall, often combined with other destinations like Yelapa or Las Animas. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Yes, the waterfall cascades into a natural pool that is suitable for swimming. Some visitors also enjoy jumping from the rocks around the falls. Instagram+1

There are no formal amenities directly at the waterfall. You'll find restaurants and services in the main village of Quimixto. Instagram

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Quimixto has several charming beachside restaurants offering fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and refreshing drinks. Many are located right on the sand. Instagram

While seafood is the specialty, most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. It's always a good idea to ask about their options. Instagram

Yes, there are small tiendas (shops) in the village where you can purchase water, snacks, and other essentials. Instagram

Prices are generally reasonable, comparable to other tourist areas in Puerto Vallarta. Expect to pay around $15-$30 USD for a main course. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The hike to the waterfall provides various vantage points. The beach itself offers panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the waterfall. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to swim. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Quimixto offers a unique adventure for families, combining a boat ride with a jungle hike and a waterfall swim. The boat trip itself is often a highlight for children. Instagram+1 The hike to the waterfall is about 45 minutes and involves some uneven terrain and river crossings, so it's best suited for families with older children who are comfortable with moderate activity. Instagram+1 Once at the waterfall, kids will love swimming in the natural pool. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The village also has beachside restaurants where you can enjoy a family-friendly meal. Instagram

🏄‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Surfers

For thrill-seekers, Quimixto delivers. The waterfall offers opportunities for swimming and cliff jumping, providing an adrenaline rush. Instagram+1 The beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, especially in the morning when the waves are often uncrowded. Reddit The rocky and reefy nature of the seabed adds to the challenge and excitement for experienced surfers. Reddit Beyond the waterfall and surf, the journey to Quimixto itself, involving a boat ride and jungle hike, adds to the overall sense of adventure. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers

Quimixto is a photographer's paradise, offering diverse subjects from the charming fishing village to the lush jungle and the majestic waterfall. Instagram+1 The boat ride provides stunning coastal vistas, while the hike immerses you in natural beauty. Instagram Capture the vibrant colors of the village, the textures of the jungle, and the power of the cascading water. Instagram Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography. Instagram+1 For nature lovers, the area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of a less-developed coastal environment. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey to Quimixto

Reaching Quimixto is an adventure in itself, as the village is only accessible by boat. The most common departure point is Boca de Tomatlan, a small town south of Puerto Vallarta. You can reach Boca de Tomatlan via a local bus or taxi from Puerto Vallarta. From Boca, a short and scenic water taxi ride of about 10-15 minutes will bring you to the shores of Quimixto. Instagram+2 This boat-only access preserves the village's tranquil and authentic atmosphere, making the journey part of the overall experience. Some visitors opt for private boat tours that can also include stops at other charming coastal villages like Yelapa. Instagram

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. Instagram 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. Instagram

Hiking to the Quimixto Waterfall

The trek to the Quimixto Waterfall is a highlight for many visitors. The trail begins in the village and winds through lush jungle terrain for approximately 45 minutes to an hour. It's considered a moderate hike, suitable for most fitness levels, but requires sturdy footwear due to uneven paths and potential river crossings. Instagram+1 The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination, with the sounds of the jungle and the occasional glimpses of local flora and fauna. Instagram

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. Instagram+1 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. Instagram+1 It's worth noting that Quimixto Waterfall is often less crowded than its famous neighbor in Yelapa, offering a more serene experience. Instagram

Village Life and Beach Activities

Quimixto is more than just a waterfall; it's a small, authentic fishing village that offers a glimpse into a slower pace of life. Accessible only by boat, the village retains a charming, untouched feel. Instagram Visitors can wander through the narrow paths, observe local fishermen, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. The beach in Quimixto is known for its excellent surfing conditions, particularly in the mornings when the lineup is often empty. Reddit The waves can be fierce, and the beach is rocky and reefy, making it a great spot for experienced surfers. Reddit

Along the beachfront, you'll find several charming restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. Instagram 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. Reddit 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. Reddit