• Mismaloya

• Access: Bus from downtown

• Amenities: Restaurants and restrooms

• Why Visit: Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Mismaloya is a quiet fishing village, but the rocky Los Arcos rising out of the sea draws tourists every day. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit for snorkeling, and you’ll find plenty of local boats to take you out to snorkel around Los Arcos for a very reasonable price. 

Best Beaches to the North

• Nuevo Vallarta Beach

• Access: Bus, taxi or UBER

• Amenities: Local vendors and bathrooms at public entrances

• Why Visit: Long stretches of sandy beaches

Nuevo Vallarta is a resort city north of Puerto Vallarta, and its beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit. While you’ll want to bring your own chair and drinks, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out or walk for miles along the sea. 

• Careyeros Beach

• Access: Taxi

• Amenities: None

• Why Visit: Secluded paradise

This secluded beach is an idyllic escape with sparkling blue water and long stretches of sand. The rocky formations on the end of the beach are perfect for snorkeling and spearfishing. While getting here is tricky on the dirt road, the view makes it worth it.

• Sayulita and San Pancho

• Access: Bus or taxi

• Amenities: Shops and restaurants

• Why Visit: Surfing and local culture

These sister cities are popular options for where to go in Puerto Vallarta for a day trip, and you can easily spend the day wandering local boutiques and art galleries. At the beach, try a surf lesson, or grab a seat at a local restaurant. The local culture makes these towns popular spots for tourists to experience.

Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta

• Los Muertos Beach

• Access: Downtown bus

• Amenities: Restaurants and bars

• Why Visit: Heart of the city

In the heart of downtown, Los Muertos Beach is busy with fishermen hauling in their catches and water taxis taking off, and it’s the vibrant energy of tourists and locals gathering to feast of seafood, playing games, and exploring the city that makes this one of the top choices for where to go in Puerto Vallarta Mexico. Stop here for pictures of the city and dinner at one of the many restaurants of Puerto Vallarta.

• Playa Flamingos

• Access: Walk from resort

• Amenities: Guests have access to resorts

• Why Visit: Easy to reach and lots of space

The most popular resorts are located along miles of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta where you’ll have plenty of room to spread out, throw a frisbee, and swim in the sea. Staying near your resort gives you easy options for food and drinks, and when the sun gets too warm, head to the pool or back to your room to cool off in the shade for a bit.