Ocean Grill Vallarta — The Restaurant Hidden Inside a Private CoveSome restaurants have waterfront views.
Ocean Grill feels like it was carved directly into the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean.
Getting there is part of the experience.
After heading south toward Boca de Tomatlán, you take a small boat ride along the coastline before arriving at this secluded tropical paradise hidden inside a private beach cove. The arrival alone feels exclusive and adventurous — like you’ve discovered a secret spot most travelers never find.
And once you step off the boat?
Instant exhale.
The restaurant overlooks the ocean with dramatic cliffside views in every direction, while below sits a beautiful cove and beach area where guests can relax, explore, or walk along the shoreline before or after lunch. If you go during Whale season you are likely to see whales breaching off the coast while you dine. Just look for the whale watching boats in the bay to know where they are.
It’s the kind of place where nobody checks the time.
Now let’s talk about the food.
Fresh ceviche bursting with flavor.
Perfectly grilled seafood. They are known for their Octopus Tower so don’t miss out on that.
Creative tropical cocktails.
Beautiful presentation without feeling pretentious.
Everything tasted incredibly fresh — which makes sense considering you’re dining directly on the coast with the ocean practically beneath your table.
And somehow the setting makes everything taste even better. Even the walk to the bathroom is an experience with beautiful landscapes.
One of our favorite parts was slowing down after lunch and walking through the private cove area below the restaurant. The combination of jungle cliffs, turquoise water, and peaceful beach atmosphere felt untouched compared to the busier tourist areas nearby.
This isn’t a “grab lunch and leave” destination.
It’s an experience you settle into.
Oh.. And don’t forget to say hello to Wilson.. He looks a bit intimidating, but he rules the roost..
Bring a swimsuit and plan extra time. You’ll want to enjoy the cove, the scenery, and the atmosphere long after the meal ends.
Part of the experience is the trip to the restaurant, which you can either take the water taxi (highly recommended) or take a 40-minute walk thru the jungle. Both start at Boca de Tomatlan, which you will need to take a taxi/uber to. Boca de Tomatlan is about 30 minutes south of downtown PV. The restaurant REQUIRES a reservation and they will arrange for the water taxi for you when you call to make your reservation. If you chose to do the hike vs the water taxi, they will credit your account for the cost of the water taxi upon your visit. The water taxi fee is 120 Pesos (about $7 USD) roundtrip.
The restaurant requires a reservation and will take a deposit for each person as they only have a certain amount of seatings every day. They do have cancellation and no show fees so please make sure to read this information. Due to the remote nature of the restaurant they also do close if the weather is not accommodating as you would not want to be on one of the small boats in rough seas. They also do not allow children under the age of 10 and do not have any handicap facilities.
Here is a link to the website for more information and how to reserve your experience:
