Going beyond the beach

Puerto Vallarta is a popular sun destination in Mexico -- and for good reason. From the slick all-inclusives of Nuevo Vallarta, to the charm of the old part of town, to the gay beach, it seems there's something for everyone. And that includes people who want to leave the comfort of town for a bit of adventure. Yelapa is a fishing village on the coast on Banderas Bay just south of Puerto Vallarta, and it is the starting point for an easy hike through the jungle to waterfalls on the El Tuito River. Yelapa is not easy to get to. First you take a city bus to Boca de Tomatlan (seven pesos, or about 57 cents, for a 30-minute-or-so trip) and from there you hop a water taxi (about 120 pesos or about $9.75 per person, for another half-hour trip) to Yelapa. Be prepared to jump from the water taxi into the surf! From the beach, the hiking trail starts at the cobblestone path and runs parallel to the river. Count on 90 minutes each way. But get directions before leaving: The trail, though well travelled and easy to follow, is not marked. Alternatively, you can just stay on the beach at Yelapa. In either case, remember to book your water taxi back, otherwise you may be stuck there for the night.