Best Hiking Adventures Near Boca de Tomatlán: Easy Walks to Epic Treks
- Jerry Cederstrom
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 26
Make Villa La Sirena Your Hiking Headquarters
If you're dreaming of unforgettable hiking experiences around Boca de Tomatlán, look no further than Villa La Sirena. Our beautiful villa is the perfect launching pad for hikes to lush tropical forests, charming south shore villages, secluded beaches, and even a stunning botanical garden. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, we've got you covered.
Need a ride to the trailhead?
No problem—Rafael, our amazing Onsite Manager, can shuttle you to Vallarta Botanical Gardens for a gentle hike or drop you at starting points for more adventurous south shore trails. We even have hiking packs ready for you to load up beverages and lunch if you’re heading to a secluded beach. And if your hike ends at Las Animas and your legs are ready to call it a day, just hop on a water taxi back to Boca de Tomatlán. (Or take the easy route: boat there, hike back!)
Insider Tip: Depending on the season, Rafael will recommend the best start times, gear, and essentials to keep you safe and comfortable.
Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Hike: A South Shore Classic
One of the most popular hikes in the Puerto Vallarta area is the scenic trail from Boca de Tomatlán to Playa Las Animas. There are plenty of blogs and videos about this iconic route, but we highly recommend checking out this guide by Michael and Matt. Their joyful, detailed post is LGBTQ+ friendly and includes wonderful insights (and gorgeous photos) about lesser-known beaches along the way.
Easy Hike: Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Let's start with the easiest option: hiking at Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
Located just a 20-minute drive east of Boca, the Gardens offer a refreshing half-day adventure. Wander easy trails, marvel at exotic tropical plants, and even hike down to the river that forms the garden’s southern border.
Entrance fee: Very reasonable
Dining: The onsite restaurant boasts stunning canyon views—perfect for breakfast or lunch after your walk.
Alternative: For a more local, budget-friendly dinner, stop by Carmen’s in Los Veranos—a staff favorite at Villa La Sirena—on your way back.
The Gardens are a wonderful way to enjoy nature without tackling steep climbs.
South Shore Hiking Adventures: Beach to Beach Bliss
If you're looking for a bit more adventure, hiking along the south shoreline is a must-do experience. Some highlights include:
Feeling Adventurous? Hike Beyond Las Animas to Quimixto
For seasoned hikers (or the mildly adventurous), consider extending your trek from Las Animas to the village of Quimixto. Be warned: the trail is rugged, and signage is... minimal (read: almost non-existent). At times you’ll feel like you’re walking through someone's backyard—you probably are!
Your reward?
A beautiful waterfall about 30 minutes inland, complete with a casual riverside café offering ice-cold cervezas. Bring a swimsuit if you’d like a refreshing dip in the falls.
Colomitos Beach:
The first and easiest hike from Boca. It's a short, less-than-an-hour walk to a gorgeous, intimate cove. Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Las Animas Beach:
Our final named destination—unless you're feeling extra adventurous—is Las Animas.
This beach is a blend of energy and ease. One side is buzzing with activity—parasailing, banana boat rides, and weekend crowds—especially during peak season. The other side? Pure relaxation, perfect for kicking back with your toes in the sand.
Getting there is part of the adventure, with coastal trails offering breathtaking ocean views and stretches of tropical forest. Along the way, don’t forget mosquito spray—it’s a smart move, especially in warmer months. And if you're visiting during the rainy season, a lightweight jacket can come in handy for surprise showers.
The best part? The pier at Las Animas makes it a breeze to hop on a water taxi back to Boca de Tomatlán. Just don’t forget to pack plenty of water—hydration is key!
Hidden Beaches:
As you continue along the shoreline, you'll find hidden gems—small, nameless beaches perfect for your own private escape. A few are mentioned in the Michael and Matt blog, but part of the fun is discovering your own!
Final Thought: Create Your Own Adventure
Some of the best moments happen between the major destinations. Don’t be afraid to veer slightly off the beaten path (carefully!) to discover secluded beaches and tranquil hideaways. Every hike near Boca de Tomatlán is an invitation to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and soak up the natural beauty.
Make Villa La Sirena your home base for hiking, exploration, and pure relaxation. We can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.
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