Seasons
High Season
High Season
Otherwise known as Dry Season, this encompasses the time period of (roughly) November through May. Temperatures typically reach the 80's during the day, and fall to the 60's at night, with the occasional rain shower or thunderstorm. With these pretty perfect weather conditions, you can imagine why tourism is at its height during this time period!
With the higher rates of tourists visiting Yelapa, this is also when all restaurants and shops are open for business. Many restaurants are seasonal and either completely shut down or drastically decrease their hours of operation during the off-season. If you are looking for endless restaurant options, the height of nightlife, near-perfect weather and crystal-clear water, high season is for you! Just keep in mind that many others feel the same, so you will be sharing the beach, waterfall and restaurants with an influx of other visitors.
Low Season
June through October is the period of time generally referred to as "low season". Low season refers to the decreased number of tourists, and thus, decreased number of operating businesses (restaurants and shops). There are definitely pros and cons to visiting during each season; here are some things to know about low season.
The early summer months are typically very warm (temps ranging from high 90's during the day to 70's at night), and dry. These conditions lend to warm beautiful water, and low river depth (very easy to walk across). There tends to be a heavier bug presence during this time, so bug spray is something to consider bringing along for your trip. This is the perfect time to visit for those looking to have the town a bit more to themselves. There are fewer tourists coming through, prices tend to be a bit cheaper, the water is beautiful, and it is the perfect time for a quieter experience.
Late summer to early fall is known as rainy season. This time is known for lots of rain, with most days having some sort of precipitation that could last anywhere from 10 minutes to all day. This is a beautiful time to visit Yelapa as the vegetation is lush and green and the mountains tend to be shrouded in clouds and mist. Rainbows are common and the sunrises/sunsets are stunning! The river tends to run high leading to some murky water in the bay, and the town waterfall flows heavy; a beautiful sight to see (and swim in). We recommend bringing a poncho along if you are traveling during this time.
Not as many restaurants are open during low season, and the restaurants that are open tend to have flexible hours/days of operation. We recommend watching Facebook (Yelapa Friends), asking someone from town, or communicating with Felipe and Yanet to see what is open and/or what activities are taking place from day to day. Low season is definitely a time to take advantage of Yanet's cooking (she is available for hire), or to hit the tienda (store) and create your own cuisine.
Low Season
History
Yelapa is an indigenous community (similar to Native American in the US), originating from four primary families who migrated from inland to the beach. Those families settled in what is now known as Yelapa, and were primarily sustained by fishing and farming. As Yelapa has now grown in population to more than 1,500, it is important to note that the community still maintains control of it's own land.
Yelapa is divided into several areas: the beach, the river, and the mountains. The homes and buildings you see when approaching Yelapa define the beach area. You will also notice rooftops and buildings up the mountains, in the jungle. Additionally, you can follow the river inland and see the many homes and businesses upriver, including the school. If you continue upriver, you will eventually reach the large waterfall (about a 1.5 hour hike).
Water is supplied to the town primarily by the waterfall and the river. You will notice water tanks on top of each building, acting as individual "water towers" to hold supply and aid in water pressure. During very dry periods water can become sparse and may require a bit of conservation (shorter showers:)). Electricity and cell phone towers were brought to the town in the early 2000's, and can be sensitive to surges and storms.
There are no roads in Yelapa, only cobble-stone streets and walkways, meaning that there are no automobiles. You will find most people walking, riding horses or ATV's, or some bike-riders. That being said, Yelapa is not accessible by car. The only way to get to Yelapa is by boat or by driving to the top of the mountain and then hiking down the mountain. Most visitors access Yelapa by boat, either boat taxi or private charter (we highly recommend Felipe).