Playa Colomitos
- Playa Colomitos: A Hidden Paradise in Puerto Vallarta
- How to Get to Playa Colomitos
- The Cost of Visiting Playa Colomitos
- What to Bring to Playa Colomitos
- What to Expect at Playa Colomitos
- Crowds
- Facilities
- Activities
- Wildlife
- Swimming at Playa Colomitos
- Exploring the Caves at Playa Colomitos
- Boating at Playa Colomitos
- Fishing at Playa Colomitos
- Kayaking at Playa Colomitos
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Playa Colomitos
Playa Colomitos: A Hidden Paradise in Puerto Vallarta
Location:
Playa Colomitos is a secluded beach located 25 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is nestled between two rocky cliffs, which provide privacy and protection from the wind. The beach is only accessible by boat or by hiking through the jungle.
History:
The beach gets its name from a local legend about a pirate named Colomitos who used to hide his treasure in the caves along the shore. There is no historical evidence to support this legend, but it adds to the mystique of the place.
Features:
Playa Colomitos is a small beach, with a length of only about 100 meters. It is characterized by its white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush vegetation. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush jungle, which creates a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
Tourism:
Playa Colomitos is a popular tourist destination, due to its natural beauty and its proximity to Puerto Vallarta. The beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the caves. There are several restaurants and bars located on the beach, which offer a variety of food and drinks.
How to Get to Playa Colomitos
From Puerto Vallarta
The most convenient way to get to Playa Colomitos is by taking a taxi or Uber from Puerto Vallarta. The ride takes about 30 minutes.
By car
If you're renting a car, you can drive to Playa Colomitos yourself. From Puerto Vallarta, take Highway 200 south towards Mismaloya. After about 15 minutes, you'll see a sign for Playa Colomitos on the left-hand side of the road. Turn left and follow the road for about 10 minutes until you reach the beach.
By public transportation
You can also take a bus from Puerto Vallarta to Playa Colomitos. Take the bus that goes to Mismaloya and ask the driver to drop you off at the turnoff for Playa Colomitos. From there, you'll need to walk about 10 minutes to the beach.
By tour
Several tour operators in Puerto Vallarta offer day trips to Playa Colomitos. These tours typically include transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch.
The Cost of Visiting Playa Colomitos
The cost of visiting Playa Colomitos is relatively affordable, making it a great option for budget travelers and families. The entrance fee is a mere $5 per person, and there is no charge for parking. If you're planning to eat at the restaurant, you can expect to pay around $10-15 for a meal. Boat rentals are also available, with prices starting at $20 per hour.
Here's a breakdown of the costs:
- Entrance fee: $5 per person
- Parking fee: Free
- Restaurant prices: $10-15 per meal
- Boat rental prices: $20 per hour
Insider Tip: Bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted at Playa Colomitos.
What to Bring to Playa Colomitos
When packing for a day at Playa Colomitos, there are a few essential items you'll want to make sure you have:
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Beach essentials: This includes your swimsuit, a towel, sunglasses, and a hat. You may also want to bring a sarong or beach blanket to lay on.
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Snorkeling gear: If you're interested in exploring the underwater world of Playa Colomitos, be sure to bring your own snorkeling gear. You can rent it from one of the vendors on the beach, but it's much more convenient to have your own.
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Camera: Don't forget your camera to capture all the beautiful memories you'll make at Playa Colomitos. The scenery is breathtaking, and you'll want to have a way to remember your day in paradise.
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Cash: While there are a few restaurants and vendors on the beach, it's always a good idea to bring cash just in case. You can use it to pay for food, drinks, souvenirs, or boat rentals.
What to Expect at Playa Colomitos
Crowds
Playa Colomitos is a relatively small beach, so it can get crowded, especially during the high season (November to April). If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on a weekday or during the shoulder season (May to June and September to October).
Facilities
Playa Colomitos has limited facilities, with only a few restaurants and shops. There are no showers or changing rooms, so you'll need to come prepared. There are also no lifeguards on duty, so you'll need to swim at your own risk.
Activities
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy at Playa Colomitos. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, explore the caves, go boating, fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
Playa Colomitos is home to a variety of wildlife, including tropical birds, fish, and sea turtles. You may also see iguanas and other reptiles sunning themselves on the rocks.
Swimming at Playa Colomitos
Playa Colomitos boasts calm and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming. The water is warm and inviting, with gentle waves lapping at the shore. However, it's essential to be aware of the occasional strong currents that can occur, especially during the rainy season.
Safety is a top priority at Playa Colomitos. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season to ensure the safety of swimmers. They are well-trained and equipped to handle any emergencies that may arise.
Snorkeling is a popular activity at Playa Colomitos, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life. The water is clear, providing excellent visibility for spotting the diverse array of marine creatures that call this bay home.
Exploring the Caves at Playa Colomitos
The caves at Playa Colomitos are a popular attraction for visitors who want to explore the hidden beauty of this beach. The caves are located on the north side of the beach, and they can be reached by swimming or kayaking. The caves are home to a variety of marine life, including fish, crabs, and lobsters. Visitors can also see stalactites and stalagmites in the caves.
Safety Exploring the caves at Playa Colomitos is generally safe, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the caves can be slippery, so it is important to wear water shoes or sandals. Second, the caves can be dark, so it is important to bring a flashlight. Third, the caves can be home to wildlife, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
Guided Tours If you are not comfortable exploring the caves on your own, you can book a guided tour. Guided tours are available from a variety of local tour operators. The tours typically last for about an hour and include a visit to the caves, as well as a tour of the surrounding area.
Boating at Playa Colomitos
If you're looking for a more adventurous way to explore Playa Colomitos, consider renting a boat. Several rental options are available, from small kayaks to larger motorboats. Prices start at around $20 per hour for a kayak and $50 per hour for a motorboat.
Once you have your boat, you can explore the crystal-clear waters of the bay. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many species of tropical fish that call this area home. You may also see turtles, dolphins, and even whales during your journey.
Some of the must-see spots to visit by boat include:
- Los Arcos: A group of three rock formations that are a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Mismaloya Beach: A secluded beach that is only accessible by boat or foot.
- Yelapa: A small fishing village with a beautiful beach and several restaurants.
If you're not sure where to go, ask for recommendations from the boat rental company. They will be able to point you in the direction of the best spots, based on your interests and experience level.
Fishing at Playa Colomitos
Playa Colomitos offers a unique fishing experience due to its rich marine life and diverse habitats. Anglers can expect to catch various fish species, including red snapper, grouper, amberjack, and dorado. The best fishing spots are located near the rocky outcrops and along the coral reefs.
To ensure a successful fishing trip, it's essential to bring the appropriate gear, such as rods, reels, and bait. Local fishing guides are also available to assist anglers and provide insights into the best fishing techniques.
Obtaining a valid fishing license is mandatory, and it can be purchased from local authorities or fishing supply stores. Please note that fishing regulations may change, so checking the latest guidelines and restrictions before your trip is crucial.
Kayaking at Playa Colomitos
Glide Along the Tranquil Waters
For a more leisurely pace, rent a kayak and explore the secluded coves and stunning rock formations that dot the coastline. Several rental shops are located near the beach, offering single and double kayaks for a reasonable price. Paddling around the bay, you'll have the chance to discover hidden beaches, spot marine life, and take in the breathtaking scenery from a unique perspective.
Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or trying it for the first time, the calm waters and sheltered coves of Playa Colomitos make it an ideal spot to enjoy this popular water sport. So grab a paddle and embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure in this tropical paradise.
Best Spots for Kayaking
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Colomitos Cove: Explore the secluded cove where Playa Colomitos is nestled, paddling through narrow passages and discovering hidden corners.
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Los Arcos: Kayak to the iconic Los Arcos rock formations, a symbol of Puerto Vallarta, and marvel at their grandeur from a different angle.
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Mismaloya Beach: Paddle along the scenic coastline to Mismaloya Beach, another beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and soft sand.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Playa Colomitos
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another popular activity at Playa Colomitos. It's a great way to explore the coastline, get a workout, and enjoy the scenery. There are several rental shops on the beach where you can rent a SUP board for a few hours or the whole day. Prices start at around $20 per hour.
The best spots to paddleboard at Playa Colomitos are the calm waters inside the bay and along the rocky coastline. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also paddle out to the nearby islands. Just be sure to stay aware of the boat traffic and the changing weather conditions.
If you're new to SUP, it's a good idea to take a lesson from a qualified instructor. They can teach you the basics of paddling, how to stay safe on the water, and how to avoid common mistakes.
