Puerto Vallarta

Best beaches in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s coastline offers a diverse range of shorelines, from the bustling urban sands of Playa los Muertos to the secluded coves south of the city. Southern beaches like Mismaloya provide a dramatic jungle backdrop and served as the primary filming location for the 1964 film "The Night of the Iguana." Further south, Boca de Tomatlán acts as a fishing village and a gateway for water taxis and coastal hiking paths. For those seeking high environmental standards, Playa Palmares features Blue Flag certification and dedicated accessibility ramps.

Best Beaches — Map

Melikamp / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Beach of the Dead

Don't be afraid of the name. It's a beautiful and busy beach, perfect for hours of swimming and glorious sunbathing.

B

Playa Esmerelda

Small, quiet cove south of the city known for its emerald-toned water and surrounding rock formations.

C

Playa Mismaloya

Set at the base of the Sierra Madre mountains, this bay gained fame as the 1963 filming site for "The Night of the Iguana."

D

Boca

Small fishing village and beach serving as a hub for water taxis and the starting point for the coastal hiking trail to Las Animas.

E

Playa Palmares

A Blue Flag certified beach featuring wheelchair-accessible ramps, public restrooms, and clear, calm waters.

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