In this Mexico travel vlog, we show you Puerto Vallarta's insanely beautiful Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas coastal hike, a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta's southern coast. This scenic trek offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, lush tropical forests, secluded beaches, and charming coastal villages ideal for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with a relaxing beach day.

The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the breathtaking views or take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, but its easy to want to spend all day at these paradisiac beaches.

GETTING TO TOMATLÁN
Boca de Tomatlán is a small fishing village located about 30 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta’s city center. You can get there by taking the bus labeled "Boca" or "Mismaloya" from the corner of Basilio Badillo and Constitución in the Romantic Zone. Buses run frequently and cost around 10-15 pesos. The ride offers beautiful coastal views along the way.

HIKING CONDITIONS
The hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Beach is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) one way and is considered a moderate hike. The trail is a mix of dirt paths, rocky sections, and some uneven ground. There are also several steep inclines and declines, so sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are recommended. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is typically hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It's best to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The trail is fairly well-marked with signs or painted rocks and trees. There are limited facilities along the trail, so bring snacks, water, and other essentials. You’ll pass by a few small beachfront restaurants where you can rest and refresh, but these are spaced out.

HIGHLIGHTS
This coastal hike is packed with natural beauty and interesting stops along the way:
-- Boca de Tomatlán: The starting point is a quaint fishing village with a small harbor. You can grab breakfast or snacks here before starting the hike.
-- Secluded Beaches: Along the trail, you’ll come across several secluded beaches like Playa Colomitos, Playa Madagascar, Playa Caballos, and Playa Las Animas, which are perfect spots to swim, relax, or have a picnic.
-- Lush Jungle and Wildlife: The trail winds through dense tropical jungle, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like iguanas, tropical birds, and butterflies. The jungle canopy provides shade for parts of the hike, making it more comfortable. You can even spot whales from here!
-- Breathtaking Views: There are multiple points along the trail where you can pause to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky cliffs, and the lush Sierra Madre mountains.
-- Las Animas Beach: The endpoint of the hike is Las Animas Beach, a beautiful stretch of soft sand with clear blue waters. The beach is lined with palapa-style restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, cold drinks, and relax after your hike.

GETTING BACK TO PUERTO VALLARTA
After enjoying your time at Las Animas Beach, you have a few options for getting back to Puerto Vallarta:
-- Water Taxi: The most popular option is to take a water taxi back to Boca de Tomatlán. Water taxis run regularly throughout the day, and the ride takes about 10-15 minutes. From Boca, you can catch a bus or taxi back to Puerto Vallarta. The water taxi fare is around 80-100 pesos per person.
-- Hike Back: If you have the energy and time, you can hike back along the same trail to Boca de Tomatlán. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the scenic views from a different perspective.
-- Stay Longer: Consider spending more time at Las Animas or one of the other nearby beaches like Quimixto or Yelapa. You can take a water taxi to these spots as well, each offering unique experiences and scenery.

The coastal hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Beach is a must-do adventure for nature lovers visiting Puerto Vallarta. It combines a moderate physical challenge with some of the best natural scenery Mexico's Pacific coast has to offer. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a day of exploration, this trail promises a memorable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking views.

Happy travels!

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ABOUT RAMBLING & ROVING MIGUEL
Writer | Explorer | Adventure Traveler | Spiritual Blogger
My goal is to explore the human experience, through travel and storytelling.
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