Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Swimmable 2024?
Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Swimmable? Yes absolutely! Puerto Vallarta, nestled within the Bay of Banderas, boasts a unique advantage – all Puerto Vallarta beaches are considered safe for swimming. This natural shelter from the open ocean significantly reduces the risk of strong undertows, making it a safer option compared to other popular tourist destinations like Cabo (Baja California Sur) and Puerto Escondido Oaxaca). Although this may seem like an odd question, but it’s surprisingly one of the most Google’d questions about Puerto Vallarta. Let’s answer this question and talk more in depth about Puerto Vallartas beaches so you know where the best ones are. Are Puerto Vallarta beaches swimmable? With swimmable beaches lining the entire coast, Puerto Vallarta offers families with young children an array of fantastic options for a day at the beach. From boat access only beaches to the south, to pristine white sands with blue waters to the north – and everything in between. The beaches in Vallarta and its surroundings exude an enchanting charm. While they may differ in character from the waters of Cancun, Vallarta harbors numerous undiscovered gems that have eluded most tourists. In this blog, we’ll embark on an exploration of these hidden treasures together. Are Puerto Vallarta beaches rocky? Many people ask if Puerto Vallarta beaches are rocky. There are a few beaches we consider to be rougher sand, but not rocky like a beach you’d find on the coasts of Canada/United States for example. These beaches include Playa Los Muertos located in Zona Romantica and Sayulita in Nayarit. Personally, the location of Los Muertos beach is fantastic because of it’s walking proximity to restaurants – however in terms of its sand quality and water color, it ranks lowest on our list of Puerto Vallarta beaches. It has a rockier and rougher sand unlike most other beaches in the area. However it offers an incredible variety of amenities from food, parasailing, banana boat ride, jet ski, and more! Sayulita The same can be said for Sayulita. It’s simply just a coarser sand, but overall still a great place to spend time and tan in the sun. However since this beach is occupied by many tourists – it tends to be the dirtiest. I hold an appreciation for both of these locations; however, my critiques stem from a comparison to the exceptionally stunning and tranquil beaches scattered around the Bay of Banderas in Puerto Vallarta. These hidden gems boast crystalline waters and powdery, fine sands that set an incredibly high standard. Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Nice? Many people like to compare Puerto Vallartas beaches to Cancun. There’s no doubt that the Maya Riviera has some unbelievable crystal clear waters and powdery white sand to match. But Vallarta has serene beaches that give Cancun a run for it’s money…you just have to know where to go. Puerto Vallarta beaches get a bad rap simply because the most popular beaches tourists visit are the closest to the downtown core. These beaches have rougher sand, aren’t nearly as wide as other beaches along the coast, and the waters in these regions arent the clearest. So when people talk about the beauty of Puerto Vallarta beaches, they have this picture in their mind of an overcrowded rough sandy beach, while swimming in a cloudy green colored ocean. While this description does somewhat describe the main beaches downtown (Playa Camarones, Los Muertos Beach, Nuevo, Bucerias, La Cruz beaches), this doesnt describe the rest of the beaches that surround these areas both to the north and south. Are Puerto Vallarta Beaches Safe? Yes, very. Puerto Vallarta beaches located downtown, the surrounding beach towns, and its beaches are some of the safest places in the entire country. When visiting Puerto Vallarta beaches or beaches located in the neighboring state of Nayarit, the main thing of concern may be having your things stolen when left unattended. It has never happened to us (knock on wood), or anyone we know of, and we’ve lived here for several years now. The police often parole the beaches on their ATV’s here and there as well, so don’t be alarmed if you see them roaming up and down the sand. The local people in Vallarta are often kind and non threatening also, so you shouldn’t feel unsafe while spending time at the beach. Water Safety Regarding the safest of the water, the waves of the ocean can get up to 6-10 feet, but are on the safer side because of their lack of strong undertow. This doesn’t mean they aren’t capable of taking someone under and holding them down though if the conditions are just right. Always be aware of the ocean and never try anything foolish. There are no known dangerous sharks in the area, however there can be washed up blowfish on Puerto Vallarta beaches beach – so don’t go touching those unnecessarily. What Are the Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta? Now for the real meat of the article. Some of these beaches aren’t as easily accessed as others, but if you have a car, or in other cases a boat, you’ll be able to see the true beauty of Mexico’s west coast. If you dont have access to those methods of transport, do not worry – because Vallarta has plenty of spectacular beaches close to downtown (mostly to the south). Colomitos: Colomitos is regarded as on of the smallest Puerto Vallarta beaches on the whole coast. This beach can be accessed by driving to Boca de Tomatlan and hiking on a trail for 1 hour to it’s hidden oasis. The pristine bay and calm waters make it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. If you aren’t up for the hike, a short panga boat ride from Boca de Tomatlan will get you there in about 10 minutes or so. This beach has a small bar for drinks, with tables and chairs as well. With its small surface area, this beach is extremely unique, but can become crowded on Sundays
Surfing in Sayulita: 7 Best Surf Spots in Nayarit
Surfing in Sayulita – A Surfer’s Paradise Let’s first talk about Nayarit’s most famous surf spot – Sayulita, and then we’ll dive into the more hidden gem locations less tourists know about. If we’re going to talk about where you can find the best surfing locations on Mexico’s west coast, we have to start with the most popular – Sayulita. Sayulita is a popular surfing destination located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in the state of Nayarit. It is known for its vibrant and bohemian atmosphere, attracting surfers of all levels. Sayulita has several beaches that offer different surfing experiences: Sayulita Beach: Sayulita’s main beach is a great spot for beginners and novice getting their feet wit in the surfing world. It features a sandy bottom and gentle waves, providing a friendly environment to learn and practice surfing skills. Surfing schools and rental shops are available in the area to assist beginners.The beach itself boasts a picturesque setting, framed by lush vegetation and swaying palm trees. Its golden sands extend for approximately 2 kilometers (1.24 miles), providing ample space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy the coastal ambiance. The warm and inviting waters of the Pacific Ocean gently lap against the shore, creating a tranquil backdrop for leisurely walks or refreshing dips. Sayulita Beach offers something for everyone, from excellent surfing conditions, to sunbathers and families. Its waves cater to a range of skill levels, making it a popular destination for both beginners and experienced surfers. The consistent swells and favorable wind conditions make Sayulita an ideal spot to catch a wave and experience the thrill of riding the ocean’s energy. Beyond surfing, visitors can engage in a variety of beach activities. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore the vibrant underwater world and discover colorful marine life in the crystal-clear waters. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular options, allowing individuals to explore the coastline from a different perspective. Now let’s not forget about all the time spent away from the ocean, particularly at night when the sun goes down. What makes Sayulita so special? For starters, the streets are filled with colorful buildings, eclectic shops, and lively cafes, creating a lively and artistic ambiance. The town embraces a relaxed and carefree lifestyle, where flip-flops and surfboards are the norm. Sayulita is a place where people come to unwind, connect with nature, and immerse themselves in the rich local culture. The beachfront area of Sayulita is vibrant and lively, with numerous beachside bars, restaurants, and cafes. Here, you can indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine, sip on refreshing cocktails, or simply unwind while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals contribute to the town’s welcoming and bohemian vibe, creating a sense of community and warmth. Sayulita Beach is not just a place for recreation but also a hub for cultural experiences. Local artisans set up stalls along the beach, showcasing their handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and artwork. Browsing through these markets provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant local culture and bring home unique souvenirs. More Waves to Surf In Sayulita Playa de los Muertos: Located just south of Sayulita’s main beach, Playa de los Muertos offers a more advanced surfing experience. The waves here can be larger and more powerful, attracting intermediate and advanced surfers. Here you’ll find a lot of experienced surfers with more long board Additionally, Playa de los Muertos, located in Sayulita, Mexico, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those seeking a tranquil and picturesque beach experience. Translating to “Beach of the Dead” in English, this beach may have an eerie name, but it is far from somber. Instead, it offers a serene and idyllic setting that showcases the natural beauty of the Riviera Nayarit. As you approach Playa de los Muertos, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its unspoiled charm. The beach is nestled between rocky cliffs, creating a secluded cove that feels like a secluded oasis away from the bustling crowds. The jagged cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, adding to the beach’s allure and creating a sense of seclusion. The beach itself is relatively small, but it exudes a tranquil and intimate atmosphere. The golden sand invites you to sink your toes in and bask in the warm sun, while the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean beckon you for a refreshing swim. The gentle waves lap against the shore, creating a soothing soundtrack that complements the beach’s peaceful ambiance. One of the standout features of Playa de los Muertos is its captivating rock formations. As you explore the beach, you’ll encounter intriguing rock formations that jut out of the sand and water, adding a touch of natural beauty and creating a picturesque backdrop for memorable photos. Snorkeling enthusiasts will delight in the underwater world that Playa de los Muertos has to offer. The rocky formations near the shore create an ideal habitat for colorful marine life, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and observing the vibrant underwater ecosystem. While Playa de los Muertos offers a serene escape, it’s important to note that there are limited amenities on the beach. It’s recommended to bring your own snacks, water, and shade, as there may not be as many vendors or facilities as you’ll find on more developed beaches. Punta de Mita Punta Mita is a luxurious coastal resort area situated on a peninsula in the state of Nayarit. It offers a variety of surf breaks suitable for different skill levels. Located just 20-30 mins (traffic dependent) from Sayulita is the tip of Banderas Bay – Punta de Mita, which has been growing in recent years as another viable option for surfers of all kinds. Let’s start with out favorite beach in the area, La Lancha. La Lancha is a renowned surf spot near Punta Mita that caters to more experienced surfers. It features a long, peeling right-hand point break that can provide excellent rides when the conditions are right. The wave is fast