Puerta Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a stunning resort town located on Mexico's Pacific coast in Jalisco state. It is located in the beautiful Banderas Bay. It’s one of the widest and deepest bays in the world. There’s no shortage of beaches here and they offer plenty of water activities and sunny days to make your stay just perfect.
We have stayed in the resort area and we have also stayed off the beaten path. Our favorite? Villa Lala Boutique Hotel in Boca de Tomatlan. The Villa Lala is a gorgeous, intimate, couples only luxury location. Boca de Tomatlan is an off the beaten path Mexican village that is beyond charming and rustic.
More about Villa Lala: When we arrived we were greeted by the owner. He had turned his home into this amazing boutique hotel. The indoor outdoor feel and the infinity pool is what struck us first. It was quite the first impression. The rooms are intimate and romantic and the service is top notch. We were asked what we would like for our meals for the day, they could really make just about anything you wanted. The deck, with views of whales breeching, for breakfast was just as wonderful as it sounds. At night, for dinner, they would choose a spot to set up your table for two and tiki torches and they made each night so special. Villa Lala is a must for a romantic getaway!
More about Boca de Tomatlan: Boca de Tomatlan is a favorite for us! what a magical place to spend time!
The hiking is incredible. You can hike through the jungle to several small beaches! You will start your hike by crossing the bridge in the small village of Boca de Tomatlan and head along the side of the mountain up and down several trails, stairs, and bridges. You can make your way to the 1st of 5 secluded beaches or continue on. Any are perfect to stop and take a dip to cool off.
If you decide to go all the way to Playa Las Animas, you will not be disappointed. It is a small fishing village that you can only reach by boat or this hike. There are several little restaurants and an adventure park.
On your way to Playa Las Animas you will pass by five undeveloped beaches and a few nice resorts. How will you know that you have reached Playa Las Animas? You will recognize it because it has a lot of restaurants, little beach shacks, and a long pier. All the restaurants serve delicious food and drinks. What a treat after this adventurous hike!
Most people go to Las Animas as a day trip so things shut down pretty early. When you are ready to end your day, you can hike back or take a water taxi for around 50 pesos.
We spent our lunches at one of the restaurants in Boca de Tomatlan. It was directly in front of all of the boats coming and going in the small bay. We could have sat there all day. Villa Lala is within walking distance to the small village. Be really careful walking the road, between Villa Lala and Boca de Tomatlan, it is quite narrow with many cars coming and going.
We loved every single inch of this area of Puerta Vallarta and we plan on going back!
Boca and the Hike: