It’s almost spring break and a lot of Canadians and Americans are thinking: MEXIIIICOOO. But when people think of a travels to Mexico, they often consider Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Acapulco, or Mexico City, as great places to visit. But …. Have you ever considered going to a smaller/less touristy place? We have, and it’s called YELAPA.

Yelapa is a small and calm town located on a 40-minutes-boat-ride from Puerto Vallarta. It boasts some of the best coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and has an ideal temperature throughout the year. There are no cars, trains, or busses there. So transportation is by foot or on horses. Refreshing isn’t it?

Henry’s horse was a quiet but safe rebel – he went where he pleased almost at every turn, but he ultimately got to where Henry needed to go

A gentle, quiet horse for Mariam

We had never heard of Yelapa until the day we went there. We originally planned to walk through Puerto Vallarta while we were on a trip there when one of the guides at the hotel mentioned a small town nearby with an irresistible beauty and tranquility. We were sold! So we booked a boat ride, and before we knew it, we were sailing on the pacific ocean towards the paradise of relaxation. And wouldn’t  you know it? On the boat ride there, we actually saw a bunch of dolphins basically frolicking in the ocean! That’s definitely a good start! 😀

And then, when we got there, we REALLY got to loving Yelapa.

Why’s that? Well…

• It is a close-knit community where everyone seem to know everyone. This big family of about 1500 people made us feel less lost than we would have if we were to visit Mexico City for instance. In Yelapa, everyone welcomes you, gives you a smile, invites you to eat… You just feel very comfortable.
• It’s great for people who want to take a break from their very busy life. Where we live in Montreal, there aren’t many quiet places (not even parks unless you go out during -20C degree temperatures). But in Yelapa, we were in a beautiful, tranquil, and warm beach town surrounded by trees. Who would not want to take a nap here? [Mariam: I certainly did! 😛 ]

• For such a small town, there is actually a lot to do and to see. There are opportunities to hike, horseback-ride, camp, fish, swim, snorkel, kayak, and even scuba dive. We also saw a few people paragliding and sailing along the coast. But if you prefer to just relax, that’s possible too. We just went on a bit of very, very gentle horseback riding and checking out the country side and beach. Because honestly, we should take breaks now and again 🙂 .

Underneath a small waterfall

We wish we had this at home!

• The nice thing about cities with no cars is that you have to walk, and there’s nothing better than walking to discover things, especially local crafts.  We found that Yelapa was no different. It was a great place to get some handmade (and local) pieces of art.
• This is the most romantic place imaginable, especially at sundown. There’s not much electricity in Yelapa so the town is lit with a multitude of candles at night. So imagine laying down on the beach, feet in warm sand, sun setting in front of you, and candle lights all around. Yep! That’s Yelapa. And of course, let’s not forget the delicious dinner you will have at the many small restaurants along the beach.

We highly recommend this trip for a unique spring break experience. You will come back rested, happy, and rejuvenated.

Here are a few places where you can stay:

• Miramar
• Lagunita
• Bahia Bonita
• Yelapa Oasis
• Verana

Thank you Yelapa, Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco, Mexico, America, World