11 Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta

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Along Mexico’s picturesque Pacific Coast in Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is a premier beach and resort destination among travelers worldwide. With its crystal blue waters and idyllic tropical climate, PV is a beach lover’s paradise. If you plan to visit this picturesque locale, you’ll want to make time for the best spots along the shore.

We’ve listed the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta, from north to south, so if you want to take an amazing day trip, you can easily visit all of them in order.

Punta Mita
Credit: @carlemberson

1. Punta Mita

An isolated luxury getaway called Punta Mita is located just north of Puerto Vallarta. Sprawled across a 1,500-acre private peninsula, it’s arguably home to the glitziest beachside accommodations near PV.

Location: 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta in the Riviera Nayarit.

Why Go: Punta Mita is a uniquely stunning town. Dotted with ornate mansions and surrounded on three sides by crystal blue waters, it’s among the most beautiful luxury getaways in Mexico. Visitors love it because of its uniquely idyllic climate, which is breezy and balmy all year. It shares the same latitude as the Hawaiian Islands, so the soft sea breezes and perfect temperatures are reasons to visit alone. 

Downsides: Not surprisingly, the accommodations can be costly here, so you must be prepared to spend money to enjoy a private cabana, a day at the links, or even a good meal.

Pro Tip: Food can get expensive, but cheap eats with authentic Mexican flavors can still be found if you know where to look. Try Norma's Tacos and La Cabana.

Punta Mita

2. Playa Boca de Tomates

Boca de Tomates (not to be confused with nearby Boca de Tomatlan) is a small, quaint village community with gorgeous beachfront real estate and the kinds of massive waves that would satisfy the most discriminating surfer.

Location: Near the mouth of the Ameca River that borders the states of Jalisco and Nayarit.

Why Go: Playa Boca de Tomates (Mouth of Tomatoes) is where you go to experience the authentic side of the region. The beach is minimally crowded and populated primarily by friendly locals. There’s a gorgeous jungle trail that provides unobstructed views of the bay, and the fishing is as good as you’ll find anywhere in PV.

Downsides: During the summer, rocks and dirt wash ashore from the nearby Ameca River. You may want to avoid this one during the summer, but it’s beautiful throughout the rest of the year. Also, avoid swimming at this beach as it’s home to crocodiles. 

Pro Tip: Watch for baby turtles in the bay on a clear day. Also note that all the beach restaurants close at 7 p.m., so don’t wait too late if you plan to have dinner.

Playa el Salado
Credit: @glennafalla

3. Playa el Salado (Marina Vallarta)

You're entrenched in Puerto Vallarta's world-famous resort district when you reach Playa el Salado (Salty Beach). This is where you can let your hair down and have fun with energetic tourists and locals alike. 

Location: The beach is just beyond the famed Plaza Marina Shopping Center. 

Why Go: Playa el Salado is one of the beaches closest to the airport, so if you have a hankering to hit the shore when your plane lands, this is an easy place to reach. Aside from the vibrant party atmosphere, it’s an excellent place to experience a breathtaking melding of the classic and contemporary. Enjoy traditional Mexican architecture coupled with modern luxury resorts, towering palm trees, and exquisite ocean views. Marina Vallarta, the local marina, is one of the most beautiful in all of Mexico. 

Downsides: Some of the resorts have sectioned off and privatized specific areas of this Puerto Vallarta beach, so only certain parts are publicly accessible. There’s still plenty to enjoy without resort access, though. 

Pro Tip: Make time to visit Plaza Marina, home to an expansive array of shops and restaurants. If you need supplies or provisions, there’s even a grocery store and a drug store inside. 

 

Playa Camarones
Credit: @justsopivasti

4. Playa Camarones

Playa Camarones, or “Shrimp Beach,” is another resort-adjacent destination with gorgeous sand, but this one is a bit more secluded than other shoreline destinations in the Hotel Zone, and that makes it a huge draw.

Location: Central Puerto Vallarta, in the heart of the Hotel Zone. 

Why Go: Quite simply, this is where travelers go to enjoy some peace and quiet without venturing outside the Hotel Zone. Because it’s well-maintained and not overly crowded, it’s among the cleanest beaches you’ll visit. The calm waters and limited crowds make it an ideal beach for swimming and snorkeling. For most people, though, it’s just a great place to lie on the sand and enjoy the sounds of the crashing waves without much noise pollution. 

Downsides: The southernmost half of the beach is typically covered in rocks, so you’ll want to stay on the north side to avoid an uncomfortable experience. 

Pro Tip: Though the beach is quiet most of the time, you’ll want to get there in the morning for the greatest amount of privacy, quiet, and seclusion.

Playa Olas Altas
Credit: @vallartaopina

5. Playa Olas Altas

The name Playa Olas Altas means “high beach waves,” but that’s a bit of a misnomer. The waves are modest at best, but the general atmosphere at this beach is always high-energy.

Location: Near the city center, extending from the Cuale River to the fishing pier. It’s adjacent to Olas Altas Street, the main street in the Zona Romantica. 

Why Go: This is where the party’s at. Everything you could want is right within reach, and Olas Altas Street gives you a true Old Town experience complete with buskers, live music, and boutique shopping—all within walking distance of the beach. The beach itself is lined with highly-rated outdoor restaurants that offer authentic Mexican cuisine and perfect ocean views, and the shops offer the kind of deals you won’t find anywhere else in the hotel zone. Shop for fine art, enjoy amazing tequila, and take a swim in the calm and crystal-clear waters nearby. 

Downsides: Honestly, there are very few downsides. The beach can get a bit crowded, but for good reason. This is the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta

Pro Tip: If you happen to drive by on a Saturday, take some time to enjoy the Olas Altas farmers’ market, which is a spectacle unto itself.

Playa de Los Muertos
Credit: @glennafalla

6. Playa de Los Muertos

If there’s one beach that rivals Olas Altas, it’s Playa de Los Muertos (Beach of the Dead). Don’t let the macabre name deter you from visiting. It’s easily one of the most famous Puerto Vallarta beaches and a must-see spot.

Location: Downtown Puerto Vallarta, on the southern tip.

Why Go: As the largest beach in the region, Playa de Los Muertos has something for everybody. Dining options range from five-star steaks to street tacos on the beach, and the selection of amenities and accommodations is unmatched. The party lasts all day and all night, so if you love the late-night beach experience, this spot won’t disappoint. 

Downsides: It’s one of the most popular Puerto Vallarta beaches, so the crowds can be dense. Some people love the high energy, but others prefer quieter and more serene surroundings. Parking can also be a challenge here, as the spaces are limited and the crowds are dense.

Pro Tip: You’ll definitely want to pack your swim trunks, as the calm, clear waters make this the most swimmable beach in Puerto Vallarta. It’s also a great spot for members of the LGBTQ+ community, as Newsweek ranked it the #2 most gay-friendly beach in the world.

Conchas Chinas
Credit: @dhxodms

7. Conchas Chinas

Noted for being one of the top wedding destinations in PV, Conchas Chinas is one of the most romantic beach locales in the region.

Location: Central Puerto Vallarta, just south of the Zona Romantica and near the Garza Blanca Preserve. 

Why Go: Conchas Chinas is the romance capital of Puerto Vallarta because it offers some of the most pristine, picturesque landscapes you’ll find, all while being located just minutes from all the excitement of downtown. The beauty is almost indescribable, thanks to the combination of turquoise ocean waters and pure sand set against natural pools created by towering rock formations. You can even take a swim in the natural pools, which are warm year-round. 

Downsides: The restaurants and bars tend to be on the pricey side, as the local businesses are accustomed to accommodating formal wedding parties. 

Pro Tip: If you do decide to get married in Conchas Chinas, try to book your wedding several months in advance, preferably a year or more. The venues are constantly booked.

Playa Las Animas
Credit: @milano68

8. Playa Las Animas

As you exit to the south, you may stumble upon the hidden gem known as Playa Las Animas. Of course, you’ll only stumble upon it if you know where to look, as it’s the most secluded beach on our list. 

Location: Just south of Puerto Vallarta. 

Why Go: This is one of the best Puerto Vallarta hidden beaches because it is isolated from the hustle bustle. It’s only reachable via boat, water taxi, or hike. It’s actually the perfect beach for hikers because it takes you through scenic jungle terrain and past several other secluded beaches. Despite being off the beaten path, the beach is easy to find. 

Downsides: Though it’s not hard to get to Las Animas, you can’t simply drive there. Also, the beach attracts a lot of boats, so it’s not the safest water for swimming. 

Pro Tip: To get to Las Animas, you can take a water taxi from the pier at Boca de Tomatlan. The cost is 50 pesos. Alternatively, you can hike there. The distance is only about 2.5 miles. Start at the Tomatlan bus station and start walking toward the ocean. Be sure to bring good shoes, as the terrain can be a bit rocky at times.

Playa Las Animas

9. Playa Mismaloya

Playa Mismaloya, immortalized by the 1964 film "Night of the Iguana," is a stunning beach located about 50 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta’s city center. This scenic locale offers more than just sand and sun.

Location: Mismaloya, Jalisco, Mexico

Why Go: Ideal for movie buffs and nature lovers alike, Playa Mismaloya offers a perfect blend of historical allure and natural beauty. Its clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a prime destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. On land, visitors can explore the local town on a tequila tour or indulge in the lively bar scene.

Downsides: Its popularity, mainly due to its cinematic history, can sometimes lead to crowding, especially during peak tourist seasons. The beach’s allure draws many visitors, which might detract from the secluded beach experience some may seek.

Pro Tip: For those interested in the full Mismaloya experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes both the marine park and the tequila tastings. This enriches your visit and ensures you get a comprehensive taste of what Mismaloya offers without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Playa Mismaloya

10. Playa Palmares

Just an hour north of Puerto Vallarta's bustling city center lies the serene and picturesque Playa Palmares. This beach is renowned for its medium-grained, amber-colored sand and shallow turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beachgoers seeking tranquility. It was the first beach in the state of Jalisco to be awarded with the Blue Flag Certification.

Location: 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles) from Puerto Vallarta.

Why Go: Playa Palmares is the favorite place for those who want to get away from the city chaos and find themselves in a calm and quiet atmosphere. The beach’s narrow shoreline of white sand and peaceful waters are perfect for families or anyone who wants to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in a quiet atmosphere, far from the noise of large crowds of tourists. You can also have fun with water sports, like kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding.

Downsides: Parking is often the main problem due to the small lot which is situated right off the highway. The visitors have to take the public access stairs off the highway to the beach, which may be very inconvenient for some, especially those with mobility problems or carrying heavy stuff.

Pro Tip: Use the local buses or rideshares to get to this hidden gem easily and cost-effectively. Packing your picnic and other beach essentials will certainly help make the most of your day at Playa Palmares since there are very few facilities available.

Playa Palmares

11. Playa Yelapa

Playa Yelapa, a hidden gem just a few hours away from Puerto Vallarta, is an enchanting escape from the busy city life. The village can be reached only by boat, and it appears like a scene from a fairy tale.

Location: 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta and 25 minutes from Boca de Tomatlan

Why Go: Yelapa Beach greets visitors with the soft touch of its inviting waves. Water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, parasailing, and sport fishing are just a few of the things you can do here. Whether you are looking for adventure or peace, this place has everything that can satisfy you.

Downsides: Due to its secluded location, getting to Playa Yelapa requires a boat ride, which may not be suitable for travelers prone to seasickness or those with limited mobility. 

Pro Tip: For an unforgettable experience, consider a guided tour of the village of Yelapa. The local knowledgeable guides can give you an in-depth explanation of the village's history and culture. Also, don't forget to have your camera with you so as to take pictures of the amazing scenery and the beautiful buildings that make Playa Yelapa a real hidden gem.

Playa Yelapa

What are your favorite Puerto Vallarta beaches? Are there any that we missed? Let us know in the comments!

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