Top Beaches in Puerto Vallarta You Must Visit in 2026

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most charming destinations on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Madre Occidental and washed by the turquoise waters of Banderas Bay, this coastal paradise offers a unique combination of natural beauty, hospitality, culture, and fun. But if there’s one thing that makes Puerto Vallarta truly unforgettable, it’s definitely its beaches — perfectly suited for every traveler, from those seeking relaxation and romance to lovers of surfing, diving, or beachfront parties.

In this guide, we present the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta you must visit in 2026, along with some tips to help you make the most of each one.

Camarones Beach

Playa Camarones stands out as one of the most popular beaches among both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly. Known for its gentle waves, fine golden sand, and lively vibe, this beach is one of the safest and most enjoyable for swimming. You can sunbathe, take a horseback ride at sunset, or try water activities like kayaking or jet skiing.
Tip: Around Playa Camarones, you’ll find plenty of beach clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping options.

Yelapa Beach

Yelapa is a charming fishing village with a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, located at the southern end of Banderas Bay, about 27 kilometers from Puerto Vallarta. Its crystal-clear and calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging under the sun. Yelapa also offers a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Tip: Don’t miss the famous Yelapa waterfalls. Signs throughout the cobblestone streets guide you along the path to the falls, where you can cool off after a scenic walk. You can also reach them on a guided horseback tour that starts right from the beach.

Las Ánimas Beach

Las Ánimas Beach is one of the hidden gems of Banderas Bay. It can only be reached by boat from the Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán, making the journey itself a beautiful experience. Once there, you’ll find a long stretch of soft sand, palapas, fresh seafood restaurants, and calm waters ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. You can also hike the scenic trails connecting Las Ánimas to nearby beaches like Colomitos.
Tip: Families will love the Las Ánimas Beach Adventure Park, located just 200 meters from the beach. It features zip lines and fun outdoor activities, with guided tours lasting around five hours including meals.

Las Gemelas Beach

About 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, Playa Las Gemelas surprises visitors with its white sand and turquoise waters that look straight out of the Caribbean. These twin coves, separated by rocky formations, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The vibe is peaceful, with fewer vendors and crowds — ideal for those looking to escape the bustle without going too far.
Tip: There aren’t many amenities here, so bring your own umbrella, water, and snacks.

Quimixto Beach

Quimixto is a small fishing village located about 20 minutes by boat south of Boca de Tomatlán, between Las Ánimas and Majahuitas. Its amber-colored sand and clear emerald waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Tip: Be sure to visit the Quimixto Waterfall, another local highlight. There are two easy routes — one through the cobblestone streets of the village, and another following a lush riverside trail along the La Puerta River.

Mismaloya Beach

Mismaloya welcomes visitors with a lush tropical backdrop and calm emerald-green waters. Though it’s only about 350 meters long, it’s perfect for various water sports such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. Along the beach, you’ll find small restaurants serving fresh seafood and offering all the amenities for a relaxing day under the sun.
Tip: Visit the Mismaloya Pier, where you’ll find a monument featuring an iguana, honoring the classic film “The Night of the Iguana”, which was shot here and put Puerto Vallarta on the map.

Playa Caballo

Playa Caballo is a small oasis of tranquility. Its soft golden sand invites you to relax while surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The waves can be moderate to strong, so it’s best to stay on the shore and soak up the sun.
Tip: The true charm of Playa Caballo lies in its serene, secluded atmosphere — let yourself be swept away by its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Playa de Oro

Located in the North Hotel Zone, Playa de Oro is a favorite for its easy access and proximity to major resorts, restaurants, and shopping centers. Its moderate waves make it ideal for swimming and family fun. You can also enjoy jet skiing or banana boat rides, or simply relax on the golden sand and watch cruise ships arriving at the port.
Tip: It’s a great choice if you’re staying near Marina Vallarta or downtown.

Los Muertos Beach

Famous for its vibrant atmosphere — especially on weekends — Los Muertos Beach offers a wide range of services such as lifeguards, showers, and public restrooms. You can rent chairs, loungers, and umbrellas so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the calm Pacific waters or people-watch. If your budget allows, spend the day at one of the area’s beach clubs, like La Palapa, Sapphire Ocean Club, or Mantamar Beach Club, popular among LGBTQ+ travelers.
Tip: Stay until after sunset to witness the stunning light display on the pier — one of the best photo spots in Puerto Vallarta.

Boca de Tomatlán

Boca de Tomatlán is a small, charming beach with golden sand and gentle waves, perfect for swimming. The lush green mountains surrounding this fishing village add to its beauty. It’s a quiet spot ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding, away from the busier beaches.
Tip: Boca de Tomatlán is also the main departure point for small boats heading to the southern beaches of Puerto Vallarta, such as Las Ánimas, Playa Caballo, Quimixto, and Yelapa. To get here by public transport, take the “Mismaloya–Boca de Tomatlán” bus from the intersection of Constitución and Basilio Badillo streets in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s beaches is an unforgettable experience, but to make the most of your trip from the very beginning, it’s best to plan your airport transportation in advance.
Professional companies like Puerto Vallarta Airport Transportation offer private, comfortable, and safe transfers to your hotel or any beach you wish to visit. With experienced drivers, flight monitoring, and air-conditioned vehicles, you can start your vacation stress-free.

Whether you’re drawn to a hidden spot like Yelapa, a family-friendly beach like Playa de Oro, or the lively energy of Los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta has a beach for every mood.
In 2026, let the sun, sea, and warmth of this Mexican paradise give you memories that will last a lifetime.