So you want the real scoop on Puerto Vallarta’s beaches?
Not the tourist trap stuff — the hidden gems locals actually rave about?
You’re in luck.
We’ve got the top beaches in Puerto Vallarta, ranked by locals, not travel agents.
These aren’t just places to tan — they’re where the magic happens.
Key Takeaways
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Puerto Vallarta has hidden beaches locals actually love
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Skip the crowds and discover low-key paradises
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We ranked them based on local favorites, not tourist brochures
1. Playa Conchas Chinas – The Hidden Cove
Tucked away just south of downtown, Playa Conchas Chinas feels like a private beach.
Locals love this spot for:
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Calm, clear waters
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Tide pools perfect for kids (and Instagram)
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Way fewer tourists than the Hotel Zone
There’s a reason it’s nicknamed “The Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta.”
2. Playa Las Gemelas – Twin Beaches, Double Beauty
This beach is often only known by locals — and they want to keep it that way.
Las Gemelas means “the twins,” and this stretch of coastline is:
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Quiet
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Crystal blue
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Great for swimming and snorkeling
Pro tip: Go early — parking is tight, and space fills up fast.
3. Playa Quimixto – Accessible Only by Boat
Want something different? Quimixto is a boat-in only beach that locals adore.
Hop on a water taxi from Los Muertos Pier, and in 45 minutes, you’re in paradise.
This beach town has:
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No cars — just jungle, beach, and bliss
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Local restaurants right on the sand
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Waterfalls just a short hike away
It’s a full-day experience. Worth every second.
4. Playa Los Muertos – The Local Hotspot
Yes, it’s busy. But Playa Los Muertos is the heartbeat of local beach culture.
Why locals love it:
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It’s where everyone meets up
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Tons of food, drinks, and beach clubs
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Sunset views that never get old
Grab a chair at Cuates y Cuetes for beach drinks with a view.
5. Playa Palmares – For Peace and Views
Just a few miles south of downtown, Playa Palmares is a quiet spot that locals hit up for:
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Clean sand (Blue Flag certified)
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Chill vibe
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Epic mountain-meets-ocean views
No loud music. No chaos. Just serenity.
Final Thoughts: Beach Like a Local
Puerto Vallarta’s best beaches aren’t always the loudest or most obvious.
Locals go where:
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The water’s cleaner
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The views are better
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And the vibe is more laid-back
Skip the tourist traps — hit the spots real Vallartans love.
Looking to buy beachfront or rental property near these hidden gems?
Check out our exclusive listings at VR Realty – we’ll help you find your own slice of paradise.
FAQs
What is the most popular beach in Puerto Vallarta?
Playa Los Muertos — it’s the central beach where locals and tourists mix.
Which beach is best for swimming?
Las Gemelas or Playa Palmares — both have calm, swimmable waters.
How do you get to Yelapa?
You’ll need to take a water taxi from the Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán.
Are there any quiet beaches in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes! Locals love Conchas Chinas and Palmares for peace and quiet.