If you like ocean views, this day delivers. From Boca de Tomatlán out along the bay, you’ll walk through breathtaking coastal scenery and reach beaches with clear blue-green water. I especially like that the guide, Abraham (biologist by training), brings real science to what you’re seeing—birds, insects, and the natural rhythm of the shoreline.

Two more reasons I think you’ll enjoy it: you get a proper beach-and-hike mix, not just a quick stop, and you travel with a small group (up to 12), so the pace stays human. One consideration: the route is rated for moderate physical fitness, and it’s a real hike—so comfy sandals and a laid-back attitude help.

Key highlights you’ll notice fast

• Small group size (12 max): less crowd pressure on the trail and at the viewpoints
• Abraham the biologist guide: he connects nature, animals, and insects to what’s right in front of you
• Boca de Tomatlán to Las Ánimas hike: a coastal route with bay views along the way
• Playa Colomitos time for swimming: emerald-green water and a strong “wow” factor
• Las Ánimas for a long beach break: enough time for lunch options and water rentals
• National Marine Sanctuary viewing: pass big granite island formations tied to bird and fish life

From Zona Romántica to Mismaloya: a scenic start with context

Your day kicks off at Basilio Badillo 339A in the Zona Romántica, with pickup starting at 9:00 am and the tour ending back at the same spot. You’ll ride out on a two-lane highway, watching an upscale stretch of villas and resorts slide by under jungle canopy. It’s a quick way to get your bearings in Puerto Vallarta while you shift from city energy into coast mode.

As you continue, the route brings you through Mismaloya, once known as a quiet fishing village. You’ll also get a cultural flicker of what made it famous: Hollywood filmed the classic movie Night of the Iguana here. It’s the kind of simple context that makes later views feel more connected, not just pretty.

One of the more interesting parts of the drive is the way you’re shown the large granite islands that make up the National Marine Sanctuary. Even if you’re not hopping off to a boat right then, it frames what you’ll later notice on the water: you’re in an area tied to a lot of bird and fish life.

Boca de Tomatlán: town walk, river footbridge, then the hike begins

The tour’s first main land base is Boca de Tomatlán, where you’ll step off the bus and start with a walk through town. This part matters more than it sounds. A quick town stroll gets you local texture—how people move, what the shoreline looks like close up—and it helps you shift into the mindset of the day: walking toward calmer, more secluded coves.

Then comes a key transition: you cross a foot bridge over the river. It’s a simple checkpoint, but it’s also where the feeling changes from “tour ride” to “trail day.” After that, the hike runs out along the bay toward Las Ánimas.

This is where you’ll feel the “moderate” piece of the physical fitness rating. You’re not doing technical scrambling, but it’s not a stroll either. If you like to walk for views, you’ll probably find it satisfying. And if you prefer a flatter pace, go into it planning breaks for photos and the occasional slow-down when the scenery pulls your attention.

The standout in this whole portion is your guide. Abraham isn’t just pointing out views. In the experience, he’s described as a biologist who knows nature and wildlife details, including insect life, and he adjusts to your level. That means if you’re curious, you get answers. If you’re pacing yourself, you also get support.

Playa Colomitos: emerald water time and a beach that feels postcard-ready

After the morning’s movement, you reach Playa Colomitos, typically with about 30 minutes set aside. That short window is intentional. It gives you a focused swim-and-snap moment without turning the day into a slow shuffle.

Colomitos is widely known in the area for beauty, and you’ll understand why once you’re in the water. The water color described for this spot is eye-catching—clear, with that blue-green look that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a natural color filter. Even if you’re only swimming for a bit, the time feels more valuable than a random beach stop because the water quality is the main event.

Potential drawback: with only 30 minutes here, you shouldn’t plan on a long lounge session. If you’re the type who wants time to fully settle in—towel, shade hunt, long swim—Colomitos might feel brief. The payoff is that it works well as a “reset” before your bigger beach block later.

Practical tip: keep your swim gear accessible. You’re in and out. Don’t waste your first minute figuring out what you packed for water time.

Las Ánimas: the long beach break with lunch choices and rentals

Next up is Playa Las Ánimas, where you get at least 2 hours. This is the real time cushion of the day, and it’s the part that makes the tour feel like more than just walking between viewpoints.

The beach itself is set up for a day that can go in multiple directions:

• You can swim in the warm water.
• You can eat without having to scramble for transportation.
• You can rent fun gear if that’s your plan.

There are at least 10 restaurants along the beach, which matters because lunch is not included. So rather than one fixed menu, you’ll have choices—enough options to match your appetite and budget that day.

You’ll also see rental opportunities for a range of beach activities, such as boogie boards, sail boards, banana boat rides, and parachute rides. Even if you don’t rent anything, it’s useful to know the beach is active. It makes the longer stay feel like a real hangout rather than a quick snack stop.

One consideration: because lunch and drinks are on you, come prepared with cash or a payment method you trust. The tour’s structure gives you time, but it doesn’t hand you a meal.

What you actually get for $49.50: value breakdown that makes sense

At $49.50 per person, this tour lands in the “good value if you want both views and movement” category. Here’s what’s included in a practical way:

• A guided trip with an experienced hiking guide along the seashore and pristine beaches.

That’s the core value: you’re paying for the human expertise and the plan that strings together the best spots without you having to map everything.

What’s not included is where planning helps:

• Lunch and all water/food/beverages are excluded.
• Bus fare of 10 pesos each way is not included.
• A boat back to Boca from Las Ánimas is listed as not included, with an estimate of about 250 pesos.

This is the key budgeting point. The price covers the hike and guide, but your total day cost depends on how you handle meals and the return. If you’re trying to keep things tight, bring water and snacks that work for you, and plan your lunch decision before you’re hungry. If you’re happy to treat this as a full beach afternoon, then set aside money for food and any optional beach activities.

Also, with up to 12 travelers, you’re not paying premium solo-guide prices, but you still get a real guided experience rather than a huge group stampede.

The nature angle: why Abraham’s guide style is a big deal

The most praised aspect is clearly the guide connection to nature. Abraham is described as a biologist who knows a lot about wild animals and insects, and he also adapts to your level. That combination is rare. Many guides can tell you where to look. Abraham’s style is framed as deeper: he explains what you’re seeing and why it matters.

For you, that means the hike doesn’t feel like a checklist of viewpoints. It becomes a running conversation with the environment. If birds catch your eye, you’re more likely to get a useful answer than just “there they are.” If you notice insects (and on this kind of coastal hike you’ll notice them), you get context instead of confusion.

It also helps the pace. When a guide adjusts to your level, you’re less likely to feel rushed. And on a day built around both walking and swimming, that matters.

Timing, group pace, and what to bring for comfort

The tour runs about 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am. That’s enough time to hike, swim, eat, and still have daylight energy left. It’s also long enough that comfort choices matter.

Because the tour is described as requiring moderate physical fitness, I’d go with shoes you trust on uneven ground near the coast. Even if nothing is described as technical, beach-adjacent trails can be slippy or uneven.

Since water and lunch aren’t included, plan for hydration and a food strategy. You’ll have plenty of beach time later at Las Ánimas, so you can keep your morning simple: small snacks if you like, and then treat lunch as the main meal of the day.

Also note the format: this is offered in English, with a mobile ticket. If you’re carrying a phone with the ticket, you’ll be set.

Should you book this hidden beaches South Shore hike?

I’d book it if you want a Puerto Vallarta day that combines real walking with beach payoff. The itinerary is built for variety: a coastal hike route, a quick swim stop at Playa Colomitos, then a longer reset at Las Ánimas with lots of lunch options and water rentals.

You might skip it if you prefer lounging only, with minimal walking. Colomitos is short on purpose, and Las Ánimas is where you’ll spend real time. So if you mainly want beach hours, you may find the hike part slightly more effort than you want.

Who it fits best:

• People who like hiking and want coastal views as the point
• Nature lovers who will enjoy explanations beyond “pretty water”
• Families and friends willing to move at a moderate pace, especially with the small group size

If you like being guided, not just transported, this is the kind of tour where the guide makes a meaningful difference. With Abraham’s biologist perspective and the strong beach lineup, the day has a solid “worth it” feel.

FAQ

How long is the Remote Hidden Beaches hike?

It runs about 6 to 8 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Basilio Badillo 339A, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What’s the price per person?

The price is $49.50 per person.

What’s included in the ticket price?

You get a guided trip with an experienced hiking guide along the seashore and beaches.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, and water/food/beverages are excluded as well.

Are there extra costs besides the $49.50 price?

Yes. Bus fare (10 pesos each way) is not included, and the boat back to Boca from Las Ánimas is not included (about 250 pesos).

How physically demanding is it?

It’s recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

What is the group size?

The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you won’t get your money back.