Ramos said tourism didn't hit Yelapa until the late 1960s. And even then only 25 or so people came in each weekend to poke their toes in the sand. More visitors come in each day now, but their presence doesn't disturb Yelapa's quiet. There are still plenty of open chairs on the beach and time to hike in the forest, stroll in the village and rest at a small waterfall. Yelapa has a quiet, Polynesian feel to it.
Most villagers earn their living through fishing or farming.
Although the hotel has a generator, most residents don't have power. A few are starting to use solar panels. The isolation, most of the time a peaceful blessing, has its drawbacks. Ramos has been stung 28 times by the scorpions that inhabit the lush jungle surrounding the village. He recommended a paste of mashed garlic and water as a remedy.