So you’ve booked your dream vacation to Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Now, the next step is to figure out which are the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta so you can make the most of your trip.
There are a wide variety of beaches in Puerto Vallarta for different purposes. Some great for swimming, others great for surfing and water sports. Here is our list of the top beaches for rest, relaxation and soaking up some sun in the city and its surrounding area.
Playa Los Muertos is by far one of the most visited beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Located just south of the trendy Zona Romántica neighborhood, this beach is well-situated for those days when you want to come and go between the beach and the city. Playa Los Muertos is a great place for families, those looking to rent water sports, or simply enjoying a sunset beer with your feet in the sand.
Situated between Downtown and the Hotel Zone, Playa Camarones is one of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta for swimming. It is one of the cleanest beaches in the area and its waves are not as strong, making it easier to enjoy a relaxing swim. Here you can also enjoy various water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, or paddle boarding. It is also a great spot to simply sunbathe, enjoy one of the various nearby restaurants for lunch and spend the day relaxing.
As the name suggests, Playa Las Gemelas (Twin’s Beach in English) is a pair of beaches in Puerto Vallarta situated just nine kilometers south of the downtown core. The north beach is easily accessible and is often crowded at times. You can access the south beach by either climbing over a small rock formation, swimming around it or taking a kayak around. These beaches are characterized by their turquoise waters, soft sand and impressive mountain views.
Playa Conchas Chinas is another great option when it comes to Puerto Vallarta beaches near the Zona Romántica neighborhood. It is the perfect option if you want something a bit less lively than the nearby Playa Los Muertos but also spend the day exploring the trendy nearby shops, bars and restaurants in the area. Spend the morning sunbathing by its beautiful rock formations and then grab a seafood lunch at a nearby seaside restaurant.
Yelapa is not technically in Puerto Vallarta, and it requires a day trip to visit, but we couldn’t leave it off the list. This remote fishing village nestled in a bay just south of the city is the perfect place to spend a day outside of the hustle and bustle of the city. It is the perfect tranquil beach for snorkeling, swimming or parasailing. To get to Yelapa, you need to take a boat departing from Puerto Vallarta. (Click here for more information about Yelapa and how to get there from Puerto Vallarta). The village also has various hotels and Airbnbs so you can stay overnight if you’re looking for a small getaway.
The top beaches in Puerto Vallarta include Playa de los Muertos, Conchas Chinas, and Playa Gemelas. Playa de los Muertos is one of the most popular beaches in the city, with a wide range of amenities and activities. Conchas Chinas is a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Playa Gemelas is a quieter beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The beaches in Puerto Vallarta are generally safe, but visitors should exercise caution and follow basic safety guidelines. It is recommended to avoid swimming alone or in areas with strong currents, and to keep an eye on personal belongings at all times. Additionally, visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as jellyfish or stingrays.
Many of the beaches in Puerto Vallarta offer a range of amenities and facilities, including restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. Visitors can rent umbrellas, lounge chairs, and other equipment, and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing. Some beaches also have shower and changing facilities, as well as public restrooms.
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