Quimixto, Mexico: How to Get There and What to Do
Hidden along the Pacific coast just south of Puerto Vallarta, Quimixto is a place where jungle waterfalls tumble into the sea and village life moves to the rhythm of nature. You won’t find traffic, chain hotels, or crowds here—just narrow trails, barefoot beaches, and time-honored traditions. Getting there is part of the adventure, whether by boat, horseback, or water taxi.
In this travel guide, we’ll show you exactly how to reach Quimixto and what to expect once you arrive. From hiking through lush rainforest to savoring fresh ceviche by the shore, every detail is designed to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a deeper cultural escape, here’s how to explore one of Mexico’s most quietly captivating coastal villages.
How to Get to Quimixto
Book a Day Tour to Quimixto
You can reach Quimixto directly from Puerto Vallarta in several ways, making it an easy day trip or overnight adventure. One of the most popular options is joining a Quimixto Tour that takes you deep into the heart of this coastal village. After a scenic boat ride along Banderas Bay, you'll arrive at Quimixto and begin your visit with a walk along the village’s picturesque malecón, offering sweeping views of the Sierra Madre mountains, the beach, and charming beachfront businesses.
As you make your way through town, stop by one of the food stalls lining the streets to enjoy fresh tropical fruits like mango, coconut, and pineapple—especially delicious with a sprinkle of Tajín, Mexico’s beloved chili-lime seasoning.
Next, don’t miss The Bar at Dora's Place, a cozy street stall bar offering locally crafted raicillas and other regional spirits. Pro tip: Dora’s also serves refreshing artisanal ice creams—ideal for cooling down during Puerto Vallarta’s warm summer afternoons.
One of the most memorable moments of the visit is a stop at a rustic fisherman’s home, where your guide will introduce you to one of Mexico’s most cherished daily rituals: making tortillas by hand. You'll participate in the process and enjoy the freshly made tortillas served with homemade salsas and beans—an experience that’s as delicious as it is culturally meaningful.
Though the tour also includes visits to Yelapa and Pizota, it’s in Quimixto where you’ll find the richest blend of flavor, tradition, and coastal charm. This guided day trip wraps up with the smoky flavors of a grilled beachfront BBQ lunch, served with an ocean view that’s as satisfying as the meal itself.
Water Taxi from Boca de Tomatlán
A popular and budget-friendly route begins in Boca de Tomatlán—a fishing village just south of Puerto Vallarta. From there, you can catch a water taxi (panga) directly to Quimixto, with scenic coastline views along the way.
To reach Boca, take a local bus from downtown Puerto Vallarta, which takes around 45 minutes. Once at the beach, the boats are easy to find. This route offers a taste of local life even before you arrive.
What to Do in Quimixto
Discover Life in the Village
Quimixto is more than waterfalls and beaches—its charm lies in the everyday rhythms of village life. Wander cobblestone paths lined with rustic homes and watch as locals prepare meals and go about their day.
You might see fishermen mending nets or children playing by the dock. Handmade crafts, like macramé or beaded jewelry, are sometimes sold from stalls shaded by palm fronds. Visit the simple local chapel among the houses, or pause along the pier to watch boats coming and going. The pace is slow, making it easy to soak in each moment.
With a few pesos and a friendly greeting, you’ll find residents open to conversation. These interactions provide a genuine window into a lifestyle defined by warmth, resilience, and tradition.
Visit a Local Ranch for a Mezcal Tasting
Just outside the village, small family-owned ranches sometimes open their doors to visitors curious about traditional agave spirits. Spend time with local producers who distill mezcal using age-old techniques—roasting agave hearts in earthen pits, fermenting with wild yeasts, and bottling by hand.
You’ll learn how this smoky spirit differs from tequila, hear stories about the plants and people behind each bottle, and, of course, enjoy a tasting under the shade of mango trees. It’s a rare glimpse into rural craftsmanship—and a great way to support local livelihoods.
Hike Through the Jungle to a Hidden Waterfall
Quimixto is a quiet fishing village where jungle trails lead to one of the region’s most scenic waterfalls. In the rainy season, the landscape transforms—lush, green, and alive with birdsong. Follow the La Puerta River through tropical foliage, crossing wooden bridges and shaded paths as you make your way to a waterfall tucked into the hillside.
Once there, cool off in the natural pool, relax on sun-warmed rocks, and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Above the falls, a rustic restaurant offers cold drinks and hearty food with a jungle view. It’s the perfect place to relax after your adventure and take in the beauty around you.
Explore the Jungle Trail and Wildlife
Take time to explore the lesser-known forest paths surrounding Quimixto. Look for sunbathing iguanas, flitting butterflies, and birds like toucans and hummingbirds hidden among the foliage.
While the trails are easy to navigate, hiring a local guide can deepen your understanding. They’ll point out rare plants and share insights that enrich your jungle trek.
Savor Authentic Coastal Cuisine
Dine at beachfront palapas offering regional flavors like grilled fish, ceviche, handmade tortillas, and ice-cold drinks. These rustic eateries often don’t have signs—just the inviting aroma of home-cooked meals.
Enjoy your food with the ocean breeze and maybe a tune from a local musician. Eating here is more than a meal—it’s a warm, welcoming experience.
Lounge on a Secluded Beach
El Volador beach, just steps from the village, is a serene stretch of sand where jungle meets the sea. It’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the sounds of the Pacific.
The beach is rarely crowded and free of vendors. Settle under a palm, feel the warm sand, and let the natural rhythm of the coast set the tone for your day.
Take a Sunset Stroll by the Estuary
Follow the La Puerta River to its meeting point with the Pacific. As the sun sets, the estuary becomes a tranquil sanctuary, with soft light shimmering on the water and birds flying overhead.
Locals often gather here to fish or relax. It’s an ideal place for quiet reflection and connection with the land.
Cultural Roots and Resilience
Before tourism arrived, Quimixto was shaped by the Huichol and Cora peoples. Their spiritual and cultural legacy still echoes in local traditions, crafts, and celebrations.
Later, the village became part of colonial trade routes and was included in the Costalegre eco-tourism corridor.
What to Pack for Your Trip
- Hiking Sandals: Ideal for rocky, wet trails.
- Quick-Dry Towel: Lightweight and practical for waterfall swims.
- Waterproof Bag: Protect electronics and valuables on boat rides.
- Cash in Pesos: Most local spots don’t accept cards.
- Sun Gear: Hats, light sleeves, and reef-safe swimwear.
- Bug Repellent: Don’t forget it from June to October!
Pack thoughtfully to enjoy jungle adventures and beach relaxation comfortably and sustainably.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November to May)
Expect warm, sunny days with little rain. This season is perfect for hiking, sunbathing, and clear snorkeling. The trails are dry, and the beach is peaceful and breezy.
Plan for this season if you prefer calmer weather and fewer surprises. It’s the ideal window for families, photographers, and first-time visitors.
Rainy Season (June to October)
This is when the jungle is at its greenest and the waterfall is at full force. While some tropical rain is likely, it’s usually brief and brings refreshing coolness to the day.
If you love dramatic scenery and don’t mind some moisture, this season is for you. Trails may be muddier, but nature feels alive and vivid.
Final Thoughts
Quimixto is one of those rare places that invites you to slow down and fully engage with your surroundings. Life here unfolds to the rhythm of waves, birdsong, and shared stories—a setting that restores your sense of balance and wonder.
Whether you're wading into a jungle waterfall, eating grilled fish with your feet in the sand, or chatting with a local artisan, every encounter feels grounded and meaningful. It’s the kind of destination that doesn’t need grand spectacle to leave a lasting impression.
For a seamless, guided experience that blends nature, culture, and exploration, consider a tour with Vallarta Adventures. It’s a curated way to discover Quimixto while supporting local communities and sustainable travel.
However you choose to explore, Quimixto offers a chance to disconnect from routine and reconnect with the natural world. Quietly unforgettable, this coastal village is more than a stop—it’s a memory in the making.
