Puerto Vallarta’s Best Beaches — My Personal Favorites 🏖️
- William Hutt
- 24 minutes ago
- 3 min read
I thought I’d change things up today — no houses, no condos, no market talk.
Just pure Puerto Vallarta paradise.
If there’s one thing I never get tired of here, it’s the beaches. PV isn’t just one long stretch of sand — it’s a collection of personalities, each with its own rhythm, color, and charm. Some are buzzing with beach clubs and music, others are so hidden you’ll wonder how they even exist.
Here are a few of my favorite spots — whether you’re here for the weekend, the winter, or forever.
🌞 Playa Los Muertos
Let’s start with the classic. This is the social heartbeat of Vallarta — the place where everyone gathers. Think colorful umbrellas, oceanfront bars, and that iconic pier glowing at sunset. Grab a cocktail, people-watch, and soak in the energy.
🌴 Conchas Chinas
Just south of town, this spot feels like you’ve stumbled into a private paradise. The coves are tucked between rocky cliffs, the water is turquoise-clear, and it’s one of my favorite places to escape when I need quiet. Bring a towel, maybe a cold drink, and thank me later.
💦 Playa Las Gemelas
The locals love this one — two twin beaches with soft white sand and calm, glassy waves. It’s postcard-perfect and usually less crowded than Los Muertos.
🌅 Colomitos Beach
Now this one’s a little adventure. You can only reach it by boat or a short jungle hike from Boca de Tomatlán. When you finally arrive, you’ll find a tiny cove with emerald-green water that feels like something out of a dream.
🌊 Playa Palmares
Wide, clean, and easy to access — this is a great all-around beach for swimming or a morning walk. It’s the “no-fuss, just paradise” kind of place.
🏝️ Playa Mismaloya
This is where Puerto Vallarta first hit the map, thanks to The Night of the Iguana back in the ’60s. The jungle spills right down to the sand, the water sparkles, and you can grab a seafood lunch while your feet are still in the surf.
🐠 Playa Las Ánimas
If you like a beach that feels like a mini party, take a water taxi from Boca and head here. It’s lined with local restaurants, perfect for a long lunch with your toes in the sand.
🌿 Playa Careyeros
A personal favorite near Punta de Mita — unspoiled, wide, and almost always quiet. It’s the kind of beach where time slows down. Bring a picnic, your favorite playlist, and plan to stay until the sky turns pink.
☀️ Playa Caballo & Playa Madagascar
Two secret spots just beyond Las Ánimas. You can only reach them by boat or hiking trail — which makes them feel that much more special.
💧 Quimixto
Hike or ride a horse through the jungle to a hidden waterfall, cool off in the pool, and then finish your day with a cold cerveza on the beach. Doesn’t get more “Mexico magic” than that.
Whether you’re here for beach clubs, snorkeling, or a little off-the-grid adventure, Puerto Vallarta’s coastline has a spot that’ll steal your heart.
And if you want to experience them like a local — I know the best guides who can take you hiking, boating, or beach-hopping. The kind who know the secret trails, the perfect swim spots, and the taco stand you’ll still be dreaming about next week.
So, what do you say? Let’s make your next beach day one to remember. 🌴
See you by the water,
Will Hutt
Coldwell Banker La Costa
📞 +1-239-691-0782
