Los Muertos Beach

From Puerto Vallarta centro, the beach is a five-minute drive or a five-minute walk through Zona Romántica — it's genuinely one of the easiest urban beaches to reach in Mexico. Street parking is available on Olas Altas and surrounding streets, with paid lots nearby; pricing is variable so carry pesos. There is no entry fee to access the beach itself. The paved malecón runs adjacent to the beach, and a municipal wheelchair loan program operates seasonally, making access manageable for visitors with mobility needs.

Zona Romántica, just 0.3 km away, is a cobblestone neighbourhood packed with galleries, restaurants, and LGBTQ+ venues worth an afternoon wander. The Malecón Puerto Vallarta — a 2 km seafront promenade lined with bronze sculptures and street performers — starts 0.5 km from the beach and is best walked at sunset. The Olas Altas Saturday Market at 0.5 km is a good stop for local crafts and food. For a short hike with a view, Mirador Punto Muerto is 0.4 km away, and the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, with its iconic crown-topped tower, is worth the 1 km walk inland.

La Palapa and El Dorado are both within 0.1 km and are the go-to options for beachside dining with bay views. Coco's Kitchen, Barra Light, and Si Señor are all within 0.2 km and cover everything from casual bites to sit-down meals. You won't go hungry here — the restaurant density around Playa Los Muertos is one of its genuine strengths.

Blue Chairs Resort, La Terraza Inn, and Hotel Mercedes are all within 0.1 km — you can practically roll out of bed onto the sand. For more upscale options, Almar Resort Luxury All Suites & Spa Adults Only and San Marino Hotel are both within 0.2 km. Staying this close means you beat the daytrippers to the best spots on the sand.

The wave-arch white pier is the single best shot on this beach — frame it at golden hour from the southern end of the sand for the blue bay behind it. Sunrise from the pier looking back toward the church tower of Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, visible 1 km inland, gives you a classic Puerto Vallarta composition with warm light and minimal foot traffic.

No glass containers are permitted on the beach — decant drinks before you hit the sand. Alcohol consumption is regulated in public zones, so stick to licensed beach-club areas if you want a cold beer. Shore break and rip currents can be strong here; swim with caution, watch for red flags, and never ignore posted warnings. Jellyfish and occasional red tide are real hazards — check conditions before entering the water. During peak season (December through April), vendor pressure can be aggressive; a polite but firm 'no gracias' is your best tool.