Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Basking in more than 330 days of sunshine each year, Puerto Vallarta is famed for its stunning beaches. South of the Romantic Zone, a collection of secluded coastal gems awaits, promising natural beauty, privacy, and thrilling adventures. Here are six beautiful beaches on the southern shores of Banderas Bay to explore this summer.
Las Gemelas: Nature’s Twin Embrace
Las Gemelas comprises two small beaches separated by a rocky outcrop. This local favorite boasts fine amber sand and mesmerizing blue-green waters. With gentle to moderate waves, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding. Though Las Gemelas lacks services, bringing your own umbrella and food is worth it for the stunning views of Los Arcos National Marine Park.
Mismaloya: Where Jungle Meets Sea
Mismaloya is a charming fishing village where the Sierra Madre Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Its 350-meter-long beach features quaint palapa-thatched restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The calm emerald-green waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Mismaloya is also famous as the filming location for “The Night of the Iguana.” The small boardwalk features a commemorative flagpole adorned with an iguana.
Colomitos: Mexico’s Tiny Treasure
Colomitos, known as the smallest beach in Mexico, offers crystal-clear emerald-green waters and gentle waves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving, or sunbathing. Located south of Puerto Vallarta, this idyllic getaway is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and rocky cliffs. Reach Colomitos by a short boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán or a moderately challenging hike.
Las Animas: A Family’s Fantasy
Las Animas is a paradise with soft amber sand, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves. It offers a variety of water activities, such as diving, banana boat rides, and beach volleyball. The modest beachfront restaurants provide comfortable lounge chairs, palapas, and menus featuring fresh seafood. For families seeking adventure, the nearby Las Animas Beach Adventure Park offers a thrilling escape into the jungle canopy.
Quimixto: Where Mountains Meet the Sea
Quimixto, a charming fishing village, boasts a pristine beach kissed by gentle waves. Ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and even surfing during the off-peak seasons, Quimixto is a water lover’s paradise. The allure of the Quimixto waterfall, accessible by hike or horseback, adds an element of exploration. A culinary highlight is the fresh seafood at Los Cocos Restaurant-Bar.
Yelapa: Bohemian Bliss
Yelapa is a serene, bohemian fishing village at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Its calm, emerald waters invite swimmers and snorkelers, while boutique hotels promise wellness retreats and holistic rejuvenation. Beyond the beach, Yelapa’s art scene and the local history museum offer cultural enrichment.
Reaching Paradise
Most of these southern gems are accessible by boat, with water taxis and pangas departing from Boca de Tomatlán or Puerto Vallarta’s Los Muertos pier. Tour operators offer day trips inclusive of snorkeling, kayaking, and other activities. For the adventurous, hiking trails lead to some beaches, demanding a moderate level of fitness.
Tips for Your Coastal Adventure
Pack cash, as credit cards may not be widely accepted. Shield yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat, and remember to hydrate. For hiking, comfortable footwear is essential. Above all, respect the environment and leave no trace.
Puerto Vallarta’s southern coastline is an invitation to discover hidden paradises. Whether seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, serene relaxation, or cultural immersion, these six beaches offer a diverse and unforgettable experience.
