TROPICAL PARADISE & HIDDEN SHORES
Experience Puerto Vallarta's Finest Beaches
Los Muertos Beach
Los Muertos Beach is Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic beach: vibrant, accessible, diverse, and full of life. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic experience with local flavor and breathtaking views.
Reasons to visit:
- Excellent Location: Located in the Romantic Zone, south of the Cuale River, between the Pier and El Púlpito.
- Lively and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With live music, street vendors, and families enjoying themselves year-round.
- Easy Access: You can reach it by walking along the Malecón, crossing the pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh oysters, grilled fish and shrimp, mangoes with chili, and international restaurants nearby.
- Diversity and Inclusion: It’s one of the most popular beaches among the LGBT+ community, with gay-friendly spaces and a respectful atmosphere.
Mismaloya Beach
Mismaloya Beach is a natural gem south of Puerto Vallarta, famous for its scenic beauty, cinematic history, and tranquil atmosphere. It’s ideal for those seeking a more intimate and wild experience, surrounded by jungle and sea.
Reasons to visit:
- Picturesque location: Just 15 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, in a cove surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains and tropical rainforest.
- Cozy size: Approximately 350 meters long, making it intimate and less crowded than other beaches.
- Emerald green waters: Calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving.
- Golden, coarse sand: Ideal for walking and relaxing in the sun.
- Rustic beachfront restaurants: Offering fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.
- Film history: It was the set for the movie “The Night of the Iguana” (1964), starring Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, which put Puerto Vallarta on the international tourist map.
- Views of Los Arcos: From the beach, you can admire the marine rock formations of Los Arcos National Park, famous for its biodiversity.
- Ecological sanctuary: It is home to sea turtles, whales, dolphins, iguanas, and more than 150 species of birds.
Las Animas
Las Ánimas Beach is one of the most enchanting beaches south of Puerto Vallarta: accessible only by sea or trail, with crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and an island atmosphere that blends tranquility with adventure.
Reasons to visit:
- Remote and idyllic location: Located in Cabo Corrientes, south of Puerto Vallarta, it’s accessible only by water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán or via a scenic 3-km hike through the jungle to the sea.
- Golden sand and crystal-clear water: Ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the tropical scenery.
- Island atmosphere: Although not an island, its limited access provides a sense of complete escape.
- Water activities:
- Kayaking
- Parasailing
- Banana boat rides
- Snorkeling and paddleboarding
- Beachfront dining: Rustic restaurants with fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Scenic hiking: The trail from Boca de Tomatlán passes through Colomitos Beach and offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre mountains.
Yelapa
Yelapa Beach is a picturesque fishing village surrounded by nature south of Puerto Vallarta, accessible only by sea. It’s ideal for those seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, and a deep connection with nature.
Reasons to visit:
- Secluded location: A 45-minute water taxi ride from Puerto Vallarta, nestled between the Sierra Madre jungle and the Pacific Ocean.
- Fishing village: An authentic fishing village, Yelapa boasts fresh, high-quality food. It retains its local character, with no road access.
- Bohemian and artistic atmosphere: It has long been home to artists, writers, and travelers who find inspiration in its lush vegetation, colorful architecture, and relaxed pace.
- Emerald waters and gentle waves: Perfect for swimming, relaxing, and water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, diving, parasailing, and sport fishing.
- Hidden waterfall: Just a short walk from the beach, you can visit a waterfall cascading through the jungle.
- Yelapa Museum of Art, History, and Culture: A community space that celebrates local identity and offers an intimate look at its history.
- Ecotourism and wellness: Yelapa promotes responsible tourism, with eco-friendly lodging options, yoga, and hiking.
Conchas Chinas
Conchas Chinas Beach is a hidden gem south of Puerto Vallarta, perfect for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and peace. Its rock formations, natural pools, and serene atmosphere make it a must-see destination.
Reasons to visit:
- Prime location: It’s located just south of the Romantic Zone, easily accessible by walking from Los Muertos Beach or by car along the coastal highway.
- Unique rock formations: The beach is divided into small coves and natural pools formed among volcanic rocks, ideal for exploring and photographing.
- Golden, coarse sand: Its texture is soft but contains seashells, which gives it its name. Sandals are recommended for comfortable walking.
- Calm, crystal-clear waters: Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and observing colorful fish, crabs, and mollusks in their natural habitat.
- Relaxed and exclusive atmosphere: It’s less crowded than other central beaches, making it ideal for couples or those seeking tranquility.
Amapas
Amapas Beach is a hidden gem nestled between Los Muertos Beach and Conchas Chinas, ideal for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and an intimate retreat in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone.
Reasons to visit:
- Location: It’s located south of Los Muertos Beach, between El Púlpito and the first rock formations of Conchas Chinas.
- Scenic and secluded access: It can only be reached by walking along trails from Los Muertos Beach or Conchas Chinas. Access includes steps and a rocky path, keeping it less crowded.
- Intimate size: It’s a small beach, approximately 110 meters long, making it perfect for those seeking privacy.
- Coarse amber-colored sand: Its texture and color distinguish it from other nearby beaches.
- Emerald green waters: Ideal for experienced swimmers, with moderate waves and calm areas protected by rock formations.
- Natural environment: Surrounded by amapa trees (hence its name), tropical vegetation and rock formations that create small coves and visually spectacular corners.
Las Caletas
Las Caletas Beach is a hidden paradise on the southern coast of Puerto Vallarta, accessible only by sea, where the tropical rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean. It’s a private beach operated by Vallarta Adventures, ideal for those seeking an exclusive, natural experience full of activities.
Reasons to visit
- Remote and jungle-like location: Located on the south coast, surrounded by lush vegetation. It can only be reached by boat from the Vallarta Marina.
- Private and protected beach: Operated by Vallarta Adventures, guaranteeing cleanliness, safety, and a controlled experience.
- Golden sand and turquoise waters: Perfect for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying water sports.
- Activities for all tastes:
- Snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking
- Jungle spa
- Gourmet beachfront dining
- Hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife viewing
- Cooking, pottery, and yoga classes
- Unique nighttime experience: The Rhythms of the Night show transforms the beach into a magical setting with dinner, music, and dance under the stars.
- Romantic and spiritual atmosphere: Ideal for weddings, couples’ getaways, or wellness retreats.