A GUIDE TO THE POPULAR BEACHES INA AND AROUND PUERTO VALLARTA
Puerto Vallarta, situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches that attract visitors from all over the world. The city’s idyllic coastline offers a wide range of beaches, from bustling and lively spots to secluded and tranquil havens. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta that cater to different preferences and provide unforgettable experiences.
PLAYA LOS MUERTOS
Playa Los Muertos is Puerto Vallarta’s most famous and bustling beach, located in the heart of the Romantic Zone. This lively beach offers a wide range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, parasailing, and jet-skiing. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a fun and comfortable day by the sea. The iconic Los Muertos Pier, a modern architectural marvel, is a popular spot for taking in the stunning sunsets.
PLAYA CONCHAS CHINAS
Playa Conchas Chinas, located just south of the Romantic Zone, is known for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. This secluded and tranquil beach is perfect for those seeking a more serene experience, away from the crowds. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life.
PLAYA LAS GEMELAS
Playa Las Gemelas: Nestled between verdant hills and rocky cliffs, is a pair of pristine, white-sand beaches located about a 20-minute drive south of Puerto Vallarta. With their calm, crystal-clear waters and secluded setting, these twin beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Be sure to arrive early, as the limited space fills up quickly during the high season.
PLAYA MISMALOYA
Nestled at the end of a picturesque cove and surrounded by lush jungle, Playa Mismaloya offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling beaches. This small, sandy beach is famous as the filming location for the 1964 movie “The Night of the Iguana,” which put Puerto Vallarta on the map as a tourist destination. Playa Mismaloya provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and swimming, with calm waters and abundant marine life.
PLAYA YELAPA
Playa Yelapa: Accessible only by boat, Playa Yelapa offers a remote and unspoiled tropical paradise. The beach features golden sands, turquoise waters, and a cascading waterfall just a short hike away. The laid-back vibe and the limited number of visitors make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a truly secluded beach experience.
PLAYA BOCA DE TOMATLAN
Playa Boca de Tomatlán: A charming fishing village, located about 10 miles (16 km) south of Puerto Vallarta, this small, picturesque beach is situated at the mouth of the Tomatlán River. This beach serves as the departure point for water taxis to more remote beaches along the southern coast, making it a popular spot for those looking to explore the region’s natural beauty. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood from local restaurants lining the shore. It’s popular among locals and offers a more authentic experience.
PLAYA LAS CALETAS
Playa Las Caletas: Once the private retreat of film director John Huston, Playa Las Caletas is now a protected cove accessible only by boat. It is a popular destination for day trips, featuring pristine sands, clear waters, and lush jungle surroundings. Visitors can engage in various activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
PLAYA LAS ANIMAS
Playa Las Animas: Another boat-accessible beach, Playa Las Animas offers a relaxed atmosphere with soft golden sand and calm waters. This family-friendly destination has a variety of restaurants and beach bars, as well as opportunities for water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides.
PLAYA QUIMIXTO
Playa Quimixto: Situated south of Puerto Vallarta, Playa Quimixto is a quiet little beach accessible by boat. This picturesque location is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. It has a couple of small restaurants and a convenient store. A short 20 minute hike from the beach that leads to a beautiful waterfall. You can rent beach chairs and an umbrella if you want but not necessary.
PLAYA CAMARONES
Playa Camarones: Located just north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, is a peaceful alternative to the bustling Playa Los Muertos. This clean, sandy beach is excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning sunsets. It’s also within walking distance of numerous restaurants and shops.
PLAYA SAYULITA
Playa Sayulita A 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta, the charming surf town of Sayulita is home to one of the region’s most popular beaches. Playa Sayulita boasts a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere and attracts a diverse crowd of surfers, sunseekers, and yoga enthusiasts. The beach’s consistent waves make it an ideal spot for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, with several local shops offering lessons and equipment rentals.
CONCLUSION
