Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta (2026 Guide)

Mexican beaches are a popular vacation destination year-round, thanks to their paradisiacal landscapes. If you’re looking for a place full of nature, unique attractions, and warm hospitality, the beaches of Puerto Vallarta are exactly what you need.

Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of beaches for families and couples alike, making it difficult to choose just one. That’s why we’ve made it easier for you with this 2026 guide to the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta that you simply can’t miss.

Yelapa Beach in Puerto Vallarta

A tropical paradise accessible only by boat, located about 45 minutes south of the city. The fishing village of Yelapa Beach in Puerto Vallarta features beach clubs and seaside restaurants where you can spend a relaxing day in the sun, as well as small beachfront hotels.

Yelapa is also famous for its delicious homemade pies, a true local treat to enjoy while lounging under the sun. One of the main attractions of Yelapa Beach is hiking through the jungle into the mountains to reach its waterfall, where you’ll find a refreshing natural freshwater pool.

The trails in Yelapa offer incredible scenery and perfect photo opportunities during the 30–40-minute hike. It’s worth noting that Yelapa is one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Vallarta.

Los Muertos Beach in Puerto Vallarta

Los Muertos Beach is considered one of the most popular in Puerto Vallarta — and one of the most romantic beaches in Mexico, despite its strong waves. If you visit Los Muertos Beach, don’t miss a stroll along the Malecón, recently restored and offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

But Los Muertos Beach is more than just a bay — it’s also one of the liveliest spots in Puerto Vallarta. With its abundance of restaurants, art galleries, bars, and shops, there’s a perfect corner for every type of traveler eager to explore this coastal gem.

Conchas Chinas Beach in Puerto Vallarta

Just ten minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas Beach is considered by many to be one of the most romantic beaches to visit as a couple. It’s even a popular location for beach weddings.

The beach’s highlights include turquoise natural pools, unique rock formations, and white sand. If you’re looking for one of the cleanest beaches in Puerto Vallarta, this is one of the top recommendations among visitors.

Las Caletas Beach in Puerto Vallarta

One of the most famous beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Las Caletas Beach is managed by Vallarta Adventures. Although it’s technically a public beach, the company’s preservation and management plans limit access to maintain the area’s pristine condition.

Keep in mind that tours to Las Caletas start around 9:00 a.m. and end around 4:00 p.m.. The only way to reach this beach is by boat, with a journey of about one hour.

Once there, you’ll find plenty of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. Don’t miss the spa area and hammocks perched on the cliffs, offering spectacular views. If you book through a tour company, drinks and snacks are usually included.

Los Colomitos Beach in Puerto Vallarta

Among the beaches south of Puerto Vallarta, Los Colomitos Beach stands out. Surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains, it’s known as the smallest beach in Mexico — and indeed, it truly is!

There are two ways to reach Los Colomitos:

• The first is a 40-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán, through tropical forest trails.

• The second (and easier) option is taking a water taxi from Boca.

Before heading there, keep in mind that Los Colomitos has no restaurants or shops, so bring water, snacks, and everything you’ll need for a perfect beach day.

Las Ánimas Beach in Puerto Vallarta

First things first — getting to Las Ánimas Beach requires a bit of adventure. It’s about a 90-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán, making it a great choice for hiking enthusiasts.

The effort is well worth it, though, as the beach features seaside restaurants and bars where seafood is the star of every dish. You can also rent paddleboards, go on banana boat rides, or visit the Las Ánimas Adventure Park, which features ziplines, balance beams, and other exciting attractions.

Mismaloya Beach in Puerto Vallarta

This beach gained international fame as the filming location for the 1964 classic movie The Night of the Iguana, starring Richard Burton, who was joined by Elizabeth Taylor during production.

Right in front of Mismaloya Beach lies Los Arcos Marine Park, a group of rocky islets where visitors can go diving and snorkeling to explore the rich marine life thriving beneath the surface.

Boca de Tomatlán Beach in Puerto Vallarta

Locally known as “Boca,” this picturesque fishing village is where the river meets the sea. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, it’s easily accessible and serves as the main departure point for water taxis to the southern beaches of Cabo Corrientes.

From Boca de Tomatlán, you can hike or take a boat to beaches such as Colomitos, Madagascar, Las Ánimas, or even farther to Quimixto and Yelapa.

The town features a small boardwalk, several seaside restaurants with palapas serving fresh seafood, and small shops where you can grab drinks or snacks before setting off on your coastal adventure.

Tips for Enjoying Puerto Vallarta’s Beaches

• Use biodegradable sunscreen, especially if you plan to snorkel or swim near reefs.

• Bring cash, as some beaches lack ATMs or card terminals.

• Respect nature: don’t leave trash behind and avoid touching coral or marine life.

• Arrive early to enjoy calmer waters and fewer crowds.

Every beach in Puerto Vallarta has its own unique charm — from the vibrant energy of Los Muertos Beach to the hidden tranquility of Yelapa. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or romance, you’ll find the perfect spot along the Banderas Bay.

And to make your trip smooth from the moment you land, Puerto Vallarta Airport Transportation offers reliable, safe, and comfortable transfers from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport to any hotel zone or beach in the region.

So pack your swimsuit, camera, and sense of adventure — Puerto Vallarta awaits you in 2026 with golden beaches, warm hospitality, and an unforgettable tropical spirit.