Whether you’re family craves quiet time on remote sands, extreme flyboarding adventure, surfing lessons, or lively excitement in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, there are 60+ miles of perfect beaches for every type of traveler along Banderas Bay.
Contents
Soak in the Sun on Family-Friendly Vallarta-Nayarit Beaches
Over 60 miles of golden sands grace the coast of Banderas Bay, from Riviera Nayarit’s Punta Raza to the north, all the way south to the remote shores of Cabo Corrientes. Needless to say, tons of these beaches in Vallarta-Nayarit are ideal for family fun, offering everything from quiet waters to parasailing, jetskis, flyboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and surfing. When it comes to which ones are right for you, it helps to understand where they’re all located. Here’s a helpful breakdown of a few favorites in each region of Banderas Bay:
In & Around Puerto Vallarta Proper
These stand to be the most crowded, full of friendly locals and travelers alike.
- Playa de Oro – North of Downtown in the Hotel Zone, the “Gold Beach” is distinctly known for the array of activities available.
- Olas Altas & Playa Los Muertos – Lively and bright, no beaches in PV come close to the colorful culture of these two, right outside Old Town in the Romantic Zone, south of Cuale River Island.
North, Along the Riviera
Some of the most authentic Mexican fishing villages await in Riviera Nayarit.
- Sayulita – Laid-back and bohemian, this is the place to go for family surfing lessons, horseback rides on the beach, and mouthwatering fish tacos.
- Punta Raza – After a one-mile hike, adventurous beachgoers will find breathtaking views, untainted shores, and a sea turtle sanctuary, 35 miles away.
To the South
Many say the most pristine stretches are south of PV, tucked away in Cabo Corrientes.
- Las Caletas Beach Hideaway – Day-trips from Vallarta Adventures are the only way to get to this family paradise of animal encounters, obstacle courses, and watery recreation, complete with a hilltop spa and Kid’s Adventure Park.
- Mismaloya – A quaint fishing village surrounded by rockslides, waterfalls, a zoo, and tequila factory.
- Las Animas – This is the place to come if you want all the recreation of PV, but without the crowds.