There are beach destinations, and then there is Quimixto: a hidden coastal village where amber sand, lush jungle, and the gentle rhythm of local life come together south of Puerto Vallarta. Accessible only by boat, this charming fishing community sits between Las Ánimas and Majahuitas, offering an unforgettable escape for travelers who want more than a crowded beach club and a predictable day trip.
The headline attraction is Quimixto Waterfall, reached by an easy-to-moderate jungle trail or on horseback. But the real magic lies in the entire journey: the sweeping views across Banderas Bay, the delicious aroma of fresh seafood grilling beneath a palapa, and the pleasure of arriving aboard a private yacht with every detail arranged around you.
If you are considering a Puerto Vallarta yacht rental, Quimixto belongs near the top of your itinerary.
Where Is Quimixto?
Quimixto is approximately 20 minutes by boat south of Boca de Tomatlán, on the southern shore of Banderas Bay. There is no road connecting the village to Puerto Vallarta, which is precisely why it retains such an authentic, unhurried atmosphere.
The beach opens onto emerald water backed by the Sierra Madre foothills. Inland, the La Puerta River winds through dense tropical vegetation toward the waterfall. Along the shoreline, simple palapa restaurants serve grilled fish, shrimp, ceviche, and traditional Mexican specialties with the Pacific breeze as their only background music.
It is rustic, beautiful, and refreshingly free of unnecessary fuss.
How to Get to Quimixto by Private Yacht
With a yacht charter in Puerto Vallarta, your Quimixto experience begins from the marina or an agreed pickup point, not a crowded pier with a departure board and a vague promise that the boat will leave “soon.”
Your captain charts a scenic route across Banderas Bay, often passing dramatic coastal cliffs and renowned stops such as Los Arcos National Marine Park, depending on your timing and preferences. Once you approach Quimixto, the yacht will typically anchor in a suitable offshore position, clear of the swimming area and local panga traffic. Guests then go ashore by tender or dinghy, with the crew assisting as needed.
This is where local knowledge matters. Sea conditions, anchorage locations, and beach access can change with the weather and swell. Our professional captains understand the coastline and help make your arrival smooth, secure, and entirely hassle-free.
A private yacht also gives you the freedom to decide how much time you spend ashore, and when you would rather return to the water.
Why Choose a Private Yacht Instead of a Water Taxi?
Water taxis from Boca de Tomatlán or Los Muertos Pier can be a practical way to reach Quimixto. They are also subject to fixed routes, variable schedules, shared seating, and the general unpredictability of public boat travel. During busy periods, the experience can feel more like transportation than a destination experience.
A private yacht in Puerto Vallarta changes the entire equation.
You enjoy complete schedule flexibility
Leave when you wish, stay longer at the waterfall, or linger over lunch without worrying about the final panga departure. Your captain can build the day around your group rather than asking your group to fit around a timetable.
The journey becomes part of the luxury
Instead of sitting on a simple water taxi, you can stretch out on a sun pad, enjoy chilled drinks, swim from the yacht, or take in the coastline from a shaded flybridge. With select vessels, you may also add paddleboards, floating mats, WaveRunners, or snorkeling equipment.
Your experience is genuinely private
You can celebrate a birthday, anniversary, proposal, or family milestone without sharing the day with dozens of strangers. Our special occasion packages can include decorations, photography, private transportation, and other thoughtful touches.
Lunch can be elevated
Quimixto’s beachfront seafood is a must, but you can also arrange an onboard chef through our upgrades and extras. Imagine returning from the waterfall to a beautifully prepared meal, fresh ceviche, cold margaritas, and a yacht waiting in the bay. That is what we call a strong argument for taking the scenic route.
What to Do in Quimixto
Hike to the Waterfall
From the beach, follow the village paths inland toward the La Puerta River. The trail continues upstream through lush tropical vegetation, with shaded sections, uneven ground, and occasional shallow crossings.
The round trip is generally around 3.7 kilometers, though conditions vary. Supportive sandals or water shoes with good grip are essential, particularly during the rainy season when the jungle is at its most vibrant, and the trail can become muddy.
At the waterfall, you will find a natural pool surrounded by tropical greenery. The sound of rushing water, birdsong, and swaying palms creates a wonderfully peaceful contrast to the energy of the bay.
Go Horseback Riding
For a more leisurely adventure, arrange a horseback ride near the river. Local guides lead visitors along the trail, usually bringing riders close to the waterfall before a short walk to the pool.
Horseback riding is particularly appealing for families with older children or couples who want a memorable activity without committing to the full hike. Our horseback riding upgrade can help coordinate the experience as part of your private charter.
Relax on the Beach
Playa Quimixto is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and gentle snorkeling when conditions are favorable. The beach is more natural than manicured, with a laid-back atmosphere and a pleasing lack of resort theatrics.
If you are looking specifically for a polished beach-club experience, consider adding Majahuitas to your route. Quimixto delivers authenticity; Majahuitas offers a more curated, stylish seaside setting. Together, they make an excellent private-yacht pairing.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood by the Sand
Quimixto’s casual palapa restaurants serve the kind of food that tastes even better after a swim: grilled fish, shrimp, ceviche, guacamole, handmade tortillas, and cold beverages.
One known stop near the waterfall is Los Cocos Restaurant-Bar, where visitors can enjoy seafood and drinks in a rustic jungle setting. Bring Mexican pesos, as smaller coastal establishments may not accept cards. And remember: the charm here comes from supporting local businesses, not expecting resort-style menus and room service.
Explore the Village
Take a gentle stroll through Quimixto’s cobblestone paths and observe the fishing village at its own pace. You may see fishermen repairing nets, local families going about their day, or small stands offering crafts and tropical fruit.
We encourage guests to be respectful of the community: ask before photographing residents, keep noise levels considerate, and leave the beach and trail exactly as you found them.
A Sample Private Yacht Day Trip
A relaxed eight-hour itinerary could look like this:
- 8:30 a.m. – Depart Puerto Vallarta aboard your private yacht with coffee, fresh fruit, and breakfast snacks.
- 9:15 a.m. – Cruise past the southern coastline, with an optional scenic pass or snorkel stop near Los Arcos.
- 10:15 a.m. – Arrive at Quimixto and transfer ashore with assistance from the crew.
- 10:30 a.m. – Choose the waterfall hike or horseback riding excursion.
- 12:30 p.m. – Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachfront palapa.
- 1:45 p.m. – Swim, snorkel, browse the village, or relax on the sand.
- 3:15 p.m. – Return to the yacht for drinks, music, and time on the water.
- 4:30 p.m. – Add a final swim or coastal cruise before heading back.
- 5:30 p.m. – Return to Puerto Vallarta as the bay begins to glow in the late afternoon light.
We can adjust the schedule for families, couples, celebrations, or guests who want to combine Quimixto with Las Ánimas, Majahuitas, or Yelapa.
Insider Tips for Families and Couples
Families should plan the waterfall excursion earlier in the day, when temperatures are cooler. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, water shoes, quick-dry clothing, and a waterproof bag for phones and valuables. Younger children may prefer horseback riding or beach time to the full trail, and our crew can help you choose the most comfortable yacht for your group.
Couples should consider a sunset return, a private chef, or a photographer to capture the day without turning it into a staged production. A quiet swim from the yacht, followed by champagne as the Sierra Madre turns gold, is difficult to improve upon.
For all guests, confirm the sea conditions and activity plans with your captain. Quimixto is a natural destination, not an amusement park: and its unique beauty is part of the appeal.
Book Your Quimixto Escape
Quimixto is one of Banderas Bay’s hidden wonders: a waterfall village, a jungle trail, a seafood lunch, and a crystalline beach wrapped into one extraordinary day. Traveling by private yacht allows you to experience it with comfort, privacy, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Whether you are comparing luxury yacht rentals in Puerto Vallarta, planning a family adventure, or searching for a memorable romantic escape, we are honored to help create it.
Explore our Puerto Vallarta boat rental options and request your private charter with Luxury Yachts Mexico today. Your Quimixto waterfall escape is waiting; and it is far more beautiful from the water.
