Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta Mexico, are the top attractions in this tourist destination from the Pacific side, they cover from the Banderas Bay from the south, up to the Riviera Nayarit that extends wiht great spots like Playa Los Muertos, Las Gemelas, Conchas Chinas, and Mismaloya great for activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and boat tours to Los Arcos, just to name a few.
It also includes quieter locations like Majahuitas and local favorites like Los Camarones and nearby Riviera Nayarit beaches like Yelapa and San Pancho.
Best Beaches in and near Puerto Vallarta Mexico
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Playa Quimixto
Discover Playa Quimixto, a captivating beach jewel tucked away south of Boca de Tomatlán, primarily reachable by a scenic boat ride from Puerto Vallarta. This idyllic hideaway is famous for its stunning waterfall, requiring a pleasant short hike inland from - Beaches
Las Glorias Beach
Positioned conveniently within Puerto Vallarta's bustling hotel zone, Las Glorias Beach offers effortless access for those staying in nearby accommodations. This expansive urban shoreline boasts generous stretches of soft, inviting sand and refreshingly calm waters, making it ideal for swimming - Beaches
La Troza Beach
Experience the understated elegance of La Troza Beach, a beautifully secluded coastal haven often accessed via specific private properties or exclusive resorts south of Puerto Vallarta. This discreet gem presents crystal-clear, welcoming waters and a pristine sandy expanse, cultivating an - Beach
Playa Las Islitas
Playa Las Islitas is an immaculately clean, wonderfully quiet, and notably family-friendly beach, highly accommodating for both the elderly and children. Located near San Blas, north of Puerto Vallarta, its calm and shallow waters create a safe and comfortable environment - Beach
Playa Carricitos
Playa Carricitos is a truly wonderful beach, perfectly suited for a romantic date, a peaceful picnic, a cozy bonfire, or simply witnessing a spectacular sunset. Located near Sayulita, it boasts impressively soft sand and consistent, sizable waves, all beautifully framed - Beach
Playa Malpaso
Playa Malpaso is hailed as an exceptionally gorgeous and impeccably pristine beach, frequently described as one of the most breathtaking and untouched coastal areas one can visit. Located likely between Sayulita and San Pancho, it delivers a genuinely secluded and - Beach
Playa Patzcuarito
Playa Patzcuarito is a beautiful, intimate, and wonderfully secluded beach, promising a truly personal and tranquil experience. Located just south of Sayulita, it is often reached by boat or a short, adventurous hike, ensuring its pristine condition and quiet atmosphere. - Beach
Playa del Rey
Playa del Rey is celebrated as an exceptionally beautiful beach, often cited by visitors as one of the most stunning they have encountered. While precise location details are not widely specified, its reputation suggests a truly pristine and captivating environment. - Beach
Playa El Borrego
Playa El Borrego unfolds as a remarkably long and wide sandy beach, renowned for its profoundly relaxing atmosphere and scarcity of crowds, cultivating a true sense of vastness and tranquility. Situated near San Blas, north of Puerto Vallarta, it's an - Beach
Playa Los Tules
Playa Los Tules is a commendable beach area recognized for its safety, cleanliness, and the convenience of numerous vendors. Located within Puerto Vallarta, often associated with the Los Tules resort, it provides a comfortable and convenient beach experience. The abundance - Beach
Playa Malecon
Playa Malecon, rather than a typical swimming beach, serves as a dynamic waterfront promenade offering an excellent space to walk and enjoy scenic views from the shoreline. Positioned along Puerto Vallarta's celebrated Malecon boardwalk, it provides effortless access to a - Beach
Rosita Beach
Rosita Beach is a picturesque and remarkably clean beach nestled near downtown Puerto Vallarta, providing lovely views of both the bay and the city skyline. It's admired for its visually appealing scenery, making it an excellent spot for photography or - Beach
Playa Careyeros
Playa Careyeros is an exceptionally quiet and impeccably clean beach, providing a truly peaceful sanctuary away from more crowded tourist zones. Located likely in a less developed segment of Riviera Nayarit, this tranquil spot is ideal for those seeking profound - Beach
Playa La Lancha
Playa La Lancha is widely recognized for its clean waters and abundant open space, establishing it as a favored destination for both surfers and general beachgoers. Situated near Punta de Mita in Riviera Nayarit, it offers easy accessibility and consistent - Beach
Public Beach Punta de Mita
The Public Beach in Punta de Mita boasts pleasant waves and a remarkably uncrowded, highly relaxing atmosphere. Located within the upscale region of Punta de Mita in Riviera Nayarit, it presents a more laid-back alternative to the exclusive private resort - Beach
Bahía Matanchen
Bahía Matanchen is a sizable bay distinguished by its firm, hard sand, making it exceptionally well-suited for comfortable walking, and an abundance of simple shells perfect for collecting. Located in the San Blas area, north of Puerto Vallarta, this expansive - Beach
Pizota Beach
Pizota Beach offers a tranquil and beautiful sandy retreat, located within the charming, small fishing village of Pizota. This secluded haven, positioned south of Puerto Vallarta and primarily accessible by boat, promises an idyllic escape for those seeking profound peace - Beach
Las Gemelas Beach
Las Gemelas Beach is a delightful, compact beach nestled just south of Puerto Vallarta, distinctively known for its two charming coves. It features remarkably clean water, soft sand, and the added convenience of rental umbrellas, complemented by a large, inviting - Beach
Madagascar beach
Madagascar Beach is a visually captivating shoreline, notable for its dramatic crashing waves, particularly pronounced in its rocky sections. Located likely on a more exposed segment of the coastline, perhaps south of Puerto Vallarta, it offers a powerful and striking - Beach
Playa Del Holi
Playa Del Holi is an exceptionally vast sandy beach characterized by a notable absence of rocks, offering an expansive canvas for visitors to enjoy. Situated within Puerto Vallarta's bustling hotel zone, it provides ample room for leisurely walks, comfortable sunbathing, - Beach
Playa La Garza Blanca
Playa La Garza Blanca is an exquisite beach boasting wonderfully calm, crystal-clear water, situated directly in front of the luxurious Hotel Garza Blanca, south of Puerto Vallarta. This immaculate stretch of sand provides an idyllic backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, and - Beach
Playa Las Cuevas
Playa Las Cuevas is a beautifully private beach, distinguished by its soft, inviting sand and spectacular surrounding cliffs. Located likely within a secluded cove along the coastline, it offers a unique and visually stunning setting. The presence of natural caves - Beach
Playa Los Muertos
Playa Los Muertos is a vibrant, bustling beach situated directly in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's lively Romantic Zone. It's highly regarded for its cleanliness, magnificent views, and impressive water quality, making it an incredibly popular destination. The beach buzzes - Beach
Playa Nuevo Vallarta
Playa Nuevo Vallarta is an exceptionally pleasant and extensive beach situated in the well-planned resort community of Nuevo Vallarta, just north of Puerto Vallarta. It is widely recognized for its delightful, soft sand and consistently calm waters, ensuring a highly - Beach
Playa Flamingos
Playa Flamingos is a strikingly beautiful and dynamic beach, nestled within the resort area of Flamingos, part of Nuevo Vallarta. It boasts a wide variety of exciting activities, transforming it into a thrilling destination for visitors desiring more than simple - Beach
Playa Varadero
Playa Varadero unfolds as a generously expansive stretch of coastline, defined by its remarkably soft sand and wonderfully warm, inviting waters. Located within the broader Puerto Vallarta region or its northern corridor, this beach provides ample room for visitors to - Beach
Sabal Playa
Sabal Playa represents a premier beachfront destination that seamlessly combines a full suite of amenities with an impeccably pristine stretch of sand. Often affiliated with upscale resort developments in areas like Nuevo Vallarta or Marina Vallarta, it delivers unparalleled convenience - Beach
Playa Aticama
Playa Aticama embodies the quintessential charm of a relaxed Mexican coastal village, nestled within the tranquil town of Aticama in Riviera Nayarit. This beautiful and uncrowded beach offers a truly peaceful setting, inviting visitors to unwind in its warm, inviting - Beach
Playa Boca de Tomates
Venture to Playa Boca de Tomates, a remarkably beautiful and secluded beach positioned just north of Puerto Vallartas Marina area, near the Ameca River estuary. This pristine natural haven is widely celebrated for its exceptional local seafood establishments, where freshly - Beach
Boca Beach
Boca Beach, also known as Boca de Tomatlán, is a lively and charming beach situated at the mouth of the Tomatlán River, south of Puerto Vallarta. While it provides a pleasant sandy stretch for sunbathing and enjoying local eateries, its
Beach Locations in Bahia de Banderas and Riviera Nayarit
Latest Beaches in Puerto Vallarta Mexico Guides & Articles
Does Puerto Vallarta have nice beaches?
Banderas Bay stretches wide, welcoming both seasoned travelers and folks just looking for a good swim.
From small beachside palapas to long stretches of sand dotted with vendors, there’s a spot for just about every type of beachgoer.
Top Beaches in Puerto Vallarta
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Playa Los Muertos
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Playa Las Gemelas
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Playa Conchas Chinas
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Playa Los Camarones
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Playa Mismaloya
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Playa Majahuitas
Playa Los Muertos in The Heart of the Action
Right in the heart of the old town Puerto Vallarta, Playa Los Muertos is where locals and visitors naturally gravitate. The beach is lined with restaurants, casual bars, and shaded loungers. If you’re staying nearby, you won’t need much more than flip-flops and sunscreen to feel at home here.
The pier at Los Muertos is hard to miss. It’s both a photo op and a departure point for boats heading to quieter beaches. While it’s a lively place, you can always find a calmer section toward the south end. Expect a mix of music, beach volleyball, and strolling vendors offering everything from oysters to beaded bracelets.
Playa Las Gemelas, the Twin Beaches great for swimming
If you don’t mind a short taxi or bus ride south of town, Playa Las Gemelas offers a quiet place. These twin beaches are separated by a rocky bluff and feel tucked away from the buzz of town life. The sand is pale, and the water is that clear turquoise you hope for when planning a beach day.
There are no restaurants or changing areas right on the sand, so it’s smart to bring snacks and water. It’s a great place for swimming when the waves are mild, and the setting is especially peaceful during the week. Be mindful of the tide, which can limit space on shore at certain times of day.
Conchas Chinas with Romantic and Quiet Beach Coves
Just south of Los Muertos, you’ll find Conchas Chinas, a stretch of small coves separated by rocky outcroppings. The name comes from the “Chinese shells” that wash up here, although you’re more likely to notice the calm tide pools and natural rock formations.
This area is popular for snorkeling and casual morning walks. While it’s close to the city, it feels removed. There are a few boutique hotels and vacation rentals nearby, which make it a favorite for couples and travelers looking for a little more quiet.
Playa Los Camarones is a Family-Friendly and Local
North of the Malecón, Playa Los Camarones feels more like a neighborhood beach. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see families building sandcastles and friends sharing cold drinks under umbrellas they brought from home.
It’s not flashy, and that’s its charm. Local vendors walk by with fresh shrimp ceviche and cold coconuts, and it’s generally easy to find a quiet spot to relax. It’s also close to some of the hotel zone’s more budget-friendly accommodations.
Playa Mismaloya with Jungle Views and Film History
Head further south, and you’ll reach Playa Mismaloya, where lush green hills meet the sea. This beach is best known for its appearance in the 1960s film “Night of the Iguana,” which put Puerto Vallarta on the tourism map.
What you get here is a small beach with boat access to the Los Arcos Marine Park, a well-known spot for snorkeling and diving. There are restaurants along the water, and the overall setting feels a little removed from town, even though it’s only about 30 minutes away.
Playa Majahuitas a Remote Beauty Accessible by Boat
If you’re up for a boat ride, Playa Majahuitas is a treat. Tucked into a small cove and surrounded by jungle, it’s only reachable by sea. Many snorkeling tours include a stop here, and the clear water and calm setting make it a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
There are no roads, no shops, and no distractions just sand, sea, and some shade from the trees. It’s a great place to go if you’re hoping to feel completely off the grid for a few hours.
Other Notable Beaches North and South Vallarta Worth Visiting
Playa de Oro and Playa Las Glorias
Located in the hotel zone in Puerto Vallarta, Playa de Oro and Playa Las Glorias are easy to reach and lined with resorts. They’re more convenient than scenic, but great if you’re staying nearby and want quick beach access.
Boca de Tomates and Playa Punta Negra
Further north, Boca de Tomates offers a rustic feel and is known for its local seafood shacks and birdwatching. Nearby, Playa Punta Negra is a calm and shallow beach good for swimming, especially with kids.
San Pancho and Yelapa
If you’re looking to cross over into Riviera Nayarit beaches, both San Pancho Nayarit and Yelapa Mexico make for great day trips. San Pancho has a small-town feel and a long sandy beach, while Yelapa is a boat-in community with a waterfall hike and laid-back vibe.
Activities Beyond the Beach
Snorkeling, Kayaking, and Los Arcos Tours
Many beaches around Banderas Bay offer access to marine parks and coves perfect for snorkeling. Los Arcos is the standout, especially for first-timers. You can kayak, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour.
