Puerto Vallarta: Beaches, Malecón and the Pacific Riviera

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most important destinations on the Mexican Pacific Coast. Every year, thousands of tourists visit its beaches and enjoy its attractions.

Puerto Vallarta, located in the State of Jalisco, has transformed into one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations.

Puerto Vallarta is another of the most visited tourist destinations on the Pacific coast. Tourism, excursions, trips, and hotels are key components of its economy.

Tourism in Puerto Vallarta

The city of Puerto Vallarta is located in Banderas Bay, on the Pacific Coast in the State of Jalisco. It is home to the Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, which receives both domestic and international flights. The city is connected by road to the main cities of the country. Puerto Vallarta is 875 km from Mexico City.

Puerto Vallarta boasts folkloric traditions that are intrinsic to its identity. At the same time, it is influenced by the foreign tourists who visit in large numbers each year. The city is very attractive and offers all the services needed for tourists.

Many and varied restaurants, craft shops, bars, and nightclubs can be found in the city.

Puerto Vallarta features the famous “Malecón,” a one-kilometer-long seawall. It is the perfect spot to walk and feel the sea breeze.

On the Malecón, you can see various sculptures such as “The Seahorse,” “Nature as Mother,” and “The Whale and Her Calf.”

Puerto Vallarta has an important golf course for those who enjoy the sport.

From Puerto Vallarta, fishing excursions are available, and in winter, tourists can enjoy dolphin and whale watching. During summer, sea turtles come to the beaches to lay their eggs.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular activities in Puerto Vallarta. The Banderas Bay is home to two protected areas, Los Arcos and the Marietas Islands, which are perfect for these activities.

Places to Visit in Puerto Vallarta

The Marietas Islands

Boats to the Marietas Islands depart from Marina Vallarta, located about 30 minutes away by boat. The Marietas Islands are an ecological reserve that protects marine birds and underwater life. It is an ideal site for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Los Arcos Marine National Park

The Los Arcos Marine National Park is located between the beaches of Mismaloya and Gemelas. It features rocky formations and reefs with rich marine life, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Yelapa

Yelapa is a fishing village that still retains ancient marine traditions. It is an ideal place to try exquisite seafood dishes.

San Sebastián del Oeste

San Sebastián del Oeste is a charming colonial town located in the Sierra Madre. It is a peaceful place to stroll and enjoy the temperate climate of the mountains.

Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

Playa los Muertos

Playa los Muertos is the most popular beach among tourists. It is located in a hotel zone near the Malecón. It is the liveliest beach, with many restaurants and bars. In the evenings, many people take walks along the area.

Playa Gemelas

Playa Gemelas consists of two adjacent beaches, each about 120 meters long. Many consider them to be the most beautiful beaches in the city. They are surrounded by lovely scenery and have fine sand and gentle waves, making them perfect for a beach day.

Playa de Oro

Playa de Oro is an expansive and quiet beach that combines fine sand with rocky formations, giving it a beautiful appearance. Several hotels can be found along the beach, and various water sports are offered here.

Playa Conchas Chinas

Playa Conchas Chinas is one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Vallarta. The beach features gray sand and clear waters, surrounded by native vegetation.

Playa Mismaloya

Playa Mismaloya is where the mountains meet the sea, creating a stunning landscape. There are several viewpoints with spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Garza Blanca Beach in Puerto Vallarta

Garza Blanca Beach is a small, picturesque beach known for its fine, soft sand and crystal-clear waters — a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea in Puerto Vallarta.

Boca de Tomatlán Beach

At Boca de Tomatlán Beach, the freshwater from the river merges with the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique natural setting. This charming fishing village offers traditional Mexican seafood dishes and the opportunity to take scenic boat tours along the Puerto Vallarta coastline.

Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Looking for where to stay in Puerto Vallarta? The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy beachfront hotels. Top options include Casa Magna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, Casa Velas Hotel & Ocean Club, Barceló Puerto Vallarta, Krystal Puerto Vallarta, Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa, Belmar Hotel Galería, Blue Chairs Resort by the Sea, Comfort Inn Puerto Vallarta, Costa Club Punta Arena, Crown Paradise Club, Friendly Hola Vallarta, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, Golden Crown Paradise, Hacienda Hotel Spa & Beach Club, Hotel Catedral Vallarta, Hotel El Pescador, Hotel Eloisa, and Hotel Rosita.