Beach days depend on the season: the dry months (November to May) bring calm, clear water, while summer storms can churn up the surf. Check the Puerto Vallarta weather by month and sea temperatures before you plan your beach days.
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Downtown1. Playa Los Muertos
Vallarta's most iconic beach, in the Romantic Zone. Photogenic pier and lively all day long.
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South coast2. Playa Conchas Chinas
Tiny coves with natural rock pools. Turquoise waters and spectacular sunrises.
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Conchas Chinas3. Playa Lindomar
Natural pool-style coves, perfect for kids. Restaurants with happy hour at sunset.
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South coast4. Playa Punta Negra
Hidden beneath a cliff. Few visitors, family-friendly atmosphere and gentle surf.
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Blue Flag5. Playa Palmares
Blue Flag certified. Clean, safe, with ramps and free parking.
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South coast6. Playa Las Gemelas
Two adjoining coves with talcum-soft sand and natural shade under a giant tree.
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Historic7. Playa Mismaloya
Horseshoe-shaped cove where "Night of the Iguana" was filmed. View of Los Arcos.
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North zone8. Playa Camarones
Continues where the Malecón ends. Whale watching from the shore in season.
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Hotel zone9. Playa Del Holi
Behind La Isla mall. Skyline views at sunset and shopping nearby.
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Boat-only10. Playa Las Ánimas
Boat-only access. Fresh seafood, banana boat, parasailing and ziplines.
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Rustic11. Playa Yelapa
No-roads village with a waterfall and the famous homemade pie sold by the Pie Ladies.
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Hidden12. Playa Colomitos
One of the smallest beaches in Mexico. Hidden paradise tucked into the tropical jungle.
Photo credits: David Stanley (CC BY 2.0) · Melikamp (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Another Believer (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Sailverz (CC BY 4.0) · Axyosxim7 (CC BY-SA 4.0) · anaroza (CC BY-SA 2.0) · colorqueeny (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Another Believer (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Andrew Milligan sumo (CC BY 2.0) · Vaquemami (CC BY 4.0) · Dennis S. Hurd (CC0).