Best beaches in Puerto Vallarta

Lounging by the ocean is by far one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta while you’re on vacation. And if you’re a beach bum, you’ll be spoiled for choice along its aquamarine shores, which stretches across an impressive 34 miles!

Every sliver of the coastline has something a little different to offer, whether you’re looking to relax or have an action-packed day. Let’s take a look at what makes each one special.

Puerto Vallarta's Top Beaches

Puerto Vallarta is located inside Banderas Bay along Mexico’s Pacific coast. This popular area is home to more than 40 spectacular beaches—truly a paradise of sand, sun, and sea. Which of these sensational spots will you explore first?

Playa de Oro

Playa de Oro, located at the north end of the Hotel Zone, is a prime spot for sunbathing and water sports. It offers close proximity to all the amenities you might need, including restaurants, bars, and resorts.

There are also tons of activities on offer at this beach, from kayaking and windsurfing to water skiing and whale watching. Of course, like any beautiful beach, it’s also a very popular spot for a regular swim and sunbathe session.

• Location: Hotel Zone, north end (approx. 3.5 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Great for water sports and super convenient.
• Best Time to Go: Midday when activities and vendors are in full swing.
• Unique Feature: Proximity to major resorts and tour operators.
• Vibe: Active, accessible, great for families

Playa Majahuitas

Playa Majahuitas is a small, secluded cove about 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta. It’s only accessible by boat, making it more peaceful than some other beaches in the area.

Known for its clear blue coastline and pristine white sand, Majahuitas is ringed with lush vegetation that creates a dazzling jungle backdrop. It’s also a wonderful place to snorkel thanks to its calm, shallow waters.

• Location: South of Puerto Vallarta, only accessible by boat (approx. 45 mins from Marina Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Secluded, tropical, and perfect for a private escape.
• Best Time to Go: Morning to early afternoon for best snorkel visibility.
• Unique Feature: Only accessible by sea; limited crowds.
• Vibe: Serene, exclusive, lush jungle-meets-sea

Boca de Tomates

Boca de Tomates Located north of the airport and just beyond the Marina, this quiet, off-the-radar stretch of coastline feels a world away from Puerto Vallarta’s more polished resorts.

It’s known for its raw natural beauty—think windswept dunes, wide sands, and crashing Pacific waves. There’s not much in the way of typical beach amenities, but that’s the appeal. Boca is beloved by birdwatchers, thanks to the nearby Estero El Salado nature preserve.

• Location: Northern edge of Puerto Vallarta near the airport (approx. 9.1 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Untouched and quie, it's a spot great for birdwatchers and seafood lovers.
• Best Time to Go: Late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful sunsets.
• Unique Feature: Next to an estuary, home to crocodiles and exotic birds.
• Vibe: Rustic, local, and off-the-beaten-path

Los Tules

Los Tules, the beach neighbouring  Playa de Oro, features golden sands and a tranquil, palm-lined shore. Like Oro, it offers plenty of water-based activities, with a calm surf that’s equally ripe for a relaxing dip.

As a fellow member of the Hotel Zone, Los Tules has plenty of accommodations within walking distance, so you can easily make this beach “home base” by staying at a nearby resort!

• Location: Hotel Zone near Plaza Caracol (approx. 3 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Quiet alternative with a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Best Time to Go: Morning to beat the sun and enjoy calm water.
• Unique Feature: Historic coconut plantation-turned-resort backdrop.
• Vibe: Calm, cozy, convenient for resort guests

Los Muertos Beach

Playa Los Muertos offers the most popular beach experience in all of Puerto Vallarta. Its bustling atmosphere is unparalleled: restaurants and bars burst forth with energy while musicians, food vendors, and fishermen all claim their own slice of the waterfront.

Featuring an incredible loop-de-loop pier that juts into the ocean, Malecon is lively enough to entertain you all day but still vast enough to find a peaceful place to swim. Want post-beach dinner at a fine dining restaurant? You’ll be just minutes away.

• Location: Romantic Zone (approx. 1 mile from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: It’s the cultural heart of PV’s beach scene.
• Best Time to Go: Afternoon for food, drinks, people-watching.
• Unique Feature: The sail-shaped pier and lively beachfront.
• Vibe: Vibrant, festive, full of life

Las Glorias

Las Glorias is also located in the North Hotel Zone, between Las Palmas by the Sea and Secrets Vallarta Bay. It’s a family-friendly spot with placid waters, umbrellas, and lounge chairs.

Like its fellow Hotel Zone beaches, this spot is very easy for visitors to access on foot via the downtown core, and vice versa—you can easily step away for lunch, a snack, or shopping, then get right back to beachy business when you’re done.

• Location: Between Playa Los Tules and Playa Camarones (approx. 2 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Easy beach access in a central location.
• Best Time to Go: Early evening—watch the sunset and avoid midday heat.
• Unique Feature: Sheltered beach with safe swimming conditions.
• Vibe: Urban beach, lively but not overcrowded

Playa Camarones

Camarones is both tucked away from the bustle and very easily accessible by car and even bicycle! Rent a parasol from one of the beachfront vendors or spend the day at a nearby beach club.

This well-loved beach has its Blue Flag International Certification, which means its waters are exceptionally clean and meet a set of strict environmental management criteria. Enjoy perfect swimming conditions or explore one of the many activities available onsite!

• Location: North of the Malecon (approx. 1.5 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Award-winning cleanliness and city views.
• Best Time to Go: Afternoon for beach clubs, sunset dining.
• Unique Feature: Blue Flag-certified for water quality and safety.
• Vibe: Balanced—chill, but with bars and lounges

Amapas Beach

Amapas transitions into the southernmost tip of Los Muertos beach. It’s a small, secluded spot bathed in shade from native Amapas trees.

To get there, you’ll need to traverse a mildly difficult staircase built into a rocky slope, dubbed "El Púlpito" by locals. Your reward: emerald waters dotted with interesting rock formations, and dark golden sand that’s a haven for shell hunters.

• Location: South end of Los Muertos (approx. 1.2 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Secluded yet close to the action.
• Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon for tranquility.
• Unique Feature: Shaded by amapas trees; accessible by hike.
• Vibe: Quiet, romantic, nature-focused

The Malecon Beach

The Malecon may be best-known for its namesake boardwalk, but there is also a lovely beach that runs parallel with this buzzy strip. Take a stroll along this pedestrian promenade, soak up its energy, then head down to the shore when the mood strikes.

It’s important to note that the water here isn’t fit for swimming, but sunbathers, beachwalkers, and birdwatchers are very welcome.

• Location: Directly off the Malecon boardwalk (downtown downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Combines art, culture, and coastal beauty.
• Best Time to Go: Morning for walks; sunset for magical views.
• Unique Feature: Right next to iconic Puerto Vallarta sculptures.
• Vibe: Urban, artistic, and social

Conchas Chinas Beach

Conchas Chinas Beach is apicturesque beach spaning an impressive half mile. As you journey along the shore, tide pools brimming with marine life—crabs, fish, mollusks—invite you to explore. There are plenty of shells and rocks along the beach, so bring appropriate footwear!

Just remember to treat these pools like a museum: look, but don’t touch. We are simply visitors in these natural habitats, here to enjoy something fresh and new. We should therefore leave no trace.

💡Did you know? Conchas Chinas Beach is characterized by unique rock formations that form natural tide pools, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and exploring underwater landscapes.

• Location: South of Romantic Zone (approx. 2.2 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Tide pools and natural snorkeling zones.
• Best Time to Go: Mid-morning for safe tide pool exploration.
• Unique Feature: Rock formations and miniature pools.
• Vibe: Natural, exploratory, photogenic

Palmares Beach

Palmares, another Blue Flag certified beach, boasts fabulously clean waters that make it an ideal spot for swimming despite the presence of moderate waves.

If you get munchy, you can typically find vendors offering a variety of fruit, popsicles, grilled seafood, and other tasty bites. Visitors can rent beach furniture on-site and there is a public washroom available.

• Location: Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km 7.5 (approx. 8.3 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Uncrowded, local favorite with clear waters.
• Best Time to Go: Weekdays for fewer people.
• Unique Feature: Blue Flag status with great facilities.
• Vibe: Low-key, clean, and scenic

Garza Blanca Beach

La Garza Blanca Beach is shielded by a rocky barrier, making it a calm and clear beach. It’s named after the white herons that frequently visit its shores. Its prismatic waters and soft white sand are a treat for swimmers, set against a backdrop of luxurious resorts.

Minutes away by car, you’ll find the trailhead that leads you to the Palo Maria waterfall. You can also access the trail via a marker near the Garza Blanca Hotel. 

• Location: Near Garza Blanca Preserve (approx. 6 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Peaceful swimming and luxury views.
• Best Time to Go: Early to mid-morning for sunbathing and swims.
• Unique Feature: Named after white herons that visit frequently.
• Vibe: Upscale, mellow, and eco-luxury

Las Gemelas Beach

Las Gemelas, AKA "Twin Beaches,” is waiting for you with its silky white sands and a glassy ocean. This spot gets its name from the rocky outcrop that separates the two halves of its beach, splitting it down the middle without sacrificing accessibility to both sides.

Its relatively gentle surf makes it great for swimming, snorkeling, body boarding, and more. As you splash around, you can enjoy stunning views of Los Arcos National Park just offshore.

• Location: South of Garza Blanca (approx. 6.5 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Stunning turquoise water and soft sand.
• Best Time to Go: Morning before it gets too hot and busy.
• Unique Feature: Twin coves separated by rocks.
• Vibe: Intimate, laid-back, scenic

Mismaloya Beach

Mismaloya beach sits where the Sierra Madre mountains slope down to silky sands. Tropical vegetation descending from these slopes makes it exceptionally green on all sides, creating beautifully lush panoramas.

This long-standing fishing town has plenty of seafood to share with visitors, available at countless palapa-style restaurants near the shore. On the water, you’ll have plenty of activities to enjoy, from fishing and paddle boarding to scuba diving and snorkeling. From November to April, one of the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta, you might even be able to spot dolphins, plus the occasional sightings of sea turtles, giant manta rays, and Orcas if you’re in luck!

• Location: Where the river meets the bay (approx. 9.5 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Perfect mix of beach and mountain views.
• Best Time to Go: Mid-morning to catch morning light on the hills.
• Unique Feature: Movie-famous from The Night of the Iguana.
• Vibe: Rustic glam, historic, photogenic

Las Caletas Beach

Las Caletas is an exclusive, hidden beach that can only be accessed by boat. More specifically, via the all-inclusive Las Caletas tour operated by Vallarta Adventures.

Fading from light blue to emerald green, its crystal-clear waters are ideal for a tranquil swim or snorkel. When it’s time to relax, catch a nap on one of its comfy hammocks as jungle vegetation rustles in the wind.

• Location: Only accessible by boat from Marina Vallarta
• Why We Love It: All-inclusive adventure and luxury combo.
• Best Time to Go: Early day to enjoy full tour perks.
• Unique Feature: Operated exclusively by Vallarta Adventures, a tour fee is required.
• Vibe: Jungle luxe, curated, immersive

Boca de Tomatlán

Boca Beach is a great jump-off point for many other adventures: catch a water taxi to nearby spots like Playa Las Animas, or follow the trailhead along a hike that will take you to multiple gorgeous beaches.

Just 20 minutes away from central Puerto Vallarta, this quaint fishing village is home to a small beach surrounded by lush jungle that gives way to peaceful waters. For lunch, stop by one of the locally owned food stalls for a fresh bite to eat.

• Location: End of highway south (approx. 12 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta)
• Why We Love It: Peaceful village with jungle hikes.
• Best Time to Go: Morning for trail hikes or water taxi access.
• Unique Feature: Jumping-off point for southern beaches.
• Vibe: Rustic, communal, nature-lover’s haven

Colomitos Beach

Colomitos is one of the beaches you can access via the Boca trail! After about 40 minutes, descend the cliff into this charming cove for a peaceful dip. You can also get here by boat from Puerto Vallarta proper.

While Colomitos is one of the smallest destinations on our list, that’s a big part of its charm: the more secluded the beach, the fewer people you’ll have to share it with!

• Location: 40-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán or by boat
• Why We Love It: Feels like a private island.
• Best Time to Go: Mid-morning for full sun and good visibility.
• Unique Feature: One of PV’s smallest and most hidden beaches.
• Vibe: Secret, serene, tropical gem

Playa Caballo

Playa Caballo—a quiet strip of sand and surf is the perfect backdrop for relaxation. From the shore, you can enjoy views of lush rolling mountains.

The water here is a bit choppy, so we recommend that you swim with caution (or not at all). Instead, roll out your beach towel and sink into the sound of the waves and the rustling of the palm leaves.

• Location: Between Las Animas and Colomitos (approx. 45 mins from Boca)
• Why We Love It: Untouched nature and minimal crowds.
• Best Time to Go: Morning or just before sunset.
• Unique Feature: Palm grove backdrop.
• Vibe: Solitary, natural, no-frills

Las Animas Beach

Las Animas is a popular public beach with all the amenities you need for a fabulous day. Beachfront restaurants, water activities like kayaking and parasailing, and close proximity to adventure tours makes it a great pick for visitors looking for fun in the sun.

Here, aquamarine surf laps against fine golden sand, with lush jungle scenery climbing all the way up the mountaintops.

💡 Did you know? Las Animas Beach is a public paradise accessible by a 15-minute water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan pier or via a hike, offering sandy shores and picturesque views.

• Location: 15-minute boat ride from Boca or via jungle hike
• Why We Love It: Family-friendly with tons of activities.
• Best Time to Go: Midday for parasailing and lunch.
• Unique Feature: Easily accessible public beach with restaurants.
• Vibe: Fun, sociable, energetic

Madagascar Beach

Madagascar is tucked into the Sierra Madre mountains, its waters are mostly calm all year long. Plunge beneath its glittering turquoise surface and you’ll find a trove of marine life to observe.

This lesser-known yet equally stunning beach can also be accessed by the Boca hike, to the tune of about 50 minutes. Like many other Puerto Vallarta beaches, you can get there by boat if you’d prefer a more leisurely journey.

• Location: Around a 50-minute hike south from Boca
• Why We Love It: Lesser-known hideaway.
• Best Time to Go: Weekdays for solitude.
• Unique Feature: Calm waters ideal for snorkeling.
• Vibe: Remote, quiet, perfect for nature lovers

Quimixto Beach

Quimixto beach is a 20-minute boat ride away from Boca, where you’ll reach a cozy fishing village with its own beautiful beach. In the spring and fall, surfers flock to this area for great waves, though the water is relatively gentle during the off season.

While there, don’t miss the Quimixto waterfall, which can be accessed via a walk across the town’s cobblestone streets or a hike that follows the La Puerta River.

• Location: 20-minute boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán
• Why We Love It: Surf in season, waterfalls year-round.
• Best Time to Go: Midday for surf or post-hike cool-down.
• Unique Feature: Hike to waterfall through a village.
• Vibe: Local, active, outdoorsy

Yelapa Beach

Yelapa Beach rests at the foot of the Sierra Madre range, featuring gentle waves and silky sands. Nearby resorts usually have beach chair rentals available for a small fee, and you can grab some food or a sip at whichever one you choose.

This peaceful fishing village is accessible only by boat—either 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta or 25 minutes from Boca. Catch a ride and get lost in its artsy charm, natural beauty, and its very own Museum of Art, History, and Culture.

• Location: 45 minutes by boat from Puerto Vallarta
• Why We Love It: Relaxed pace, creative community.
• Best Time to Go: Late morning to enjoy beach and museum.
• Unique Feature: Artsy village and beach-only access.
• Vibe: Boho, quiet, cultural retreat

Plan Your Perfect Beach Day

Ready to make a plan? Here’s everything you need to know about having a fabulous time at the beach in Puerto Vallarta.

Choose the Best Time to Visit

November to April is the high season, with temperatures ranging from around 18°C to 28°C and a better chance of sunshine. Surfers will find Puerto Vallarta’s best waves of the year between December and March.

Pack Essentials for Sun and Sand

Always remember the basics: swimwear, plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, swimwear, and a change of clothes in case you get wet. During peak sun hours—approximately 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.—we recommend seeking shade for even more protection.

If you’re planning to hike, comfortable shoes and sun hats are a must. Always take water with you as well, no matter where you go.

Consider Safety and Weather Conditions

Sometimes, the weather can take a sudden turn, so be sure to check conditions throughout the day. If you’re in the water and notice a storm coming in, it’s best to head to dry land and wait until conditions improve.

Many beaches—especially smaller ones—do not have lifeguards on the premises, so you’ll need to look after your own safety.

Embrace the Magic of Puerto Vallarta's Beaches

Puerto Vallarta has more stunning beaches than anyone could possibly see in one visit! When you’re done sunbathing and splashing around for the day, treat yourself to one of our shows in Nuevo Vallarta: a feast for the senses that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Cover image by Miguel Naranjo on Unsplash.