Banderas Bay Beaches: A Complete Guide for Swimming near Puerto Vallarta
Visiting Puerto Vallarta? Keep reading for all you need to know about Banderas Bay Beaches
Few spots in Mexico can match the variety and beauty of Banderas Bay beaches. From the lively spots in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone, to hidden coves tucked between jungle cliffs, this stretch of the Pacific Ocean offers something for every kind of beach lover. Whether you’re here to swim, snorkel, or catch a sunset, the bay’s natural shelter makes it one of the most desirable destinations in the country.
In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite swimming beaches around Banderas Bay, plus tips on water conditions, the best months to visit, and a few essentials to pack so you can make the most of your time in and out of the water.
What’s to Love About Banderas Bay Beaches?
If you’re headed to Puerto Vallarta or nearby communities, you’ll likely spend plenty of time swimming in Banderas Bay. One of the things we love most about these beaches is how generally gentle the water is, especially compared to spots further north, like Sayulita, where waves can be rough.
Banderas Bay provides natural protection from the open Pacific, creating calm, swimmable waters that are perfect for most visitors.
Thanks to Puerto Vallarta’s year-round warm weather, the water is almost always ideal for swimming, no matter the season (more on that below).
That said, not all beaches are the same. Some are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while others are better suited for a quick dip or a stroll along the shore.
And we can’t forget the sunsets! For the most unobstructed views, head to west-facing beaches, including those in Puerto Vallarta proper, Nuevo Vallarta, and Bucerías – ideal for an evening swim or a scenic walk along the water.
Plan Your Best Puerto Vallarta Beach Trip
Make the most of your Banderas Bay beach adventures with a few essentials and smart planning:
- 🤿 Goggles: I’m not a big mask person. Instead, I travel with these Speedo goggles – compact, low-maintenance, and mirrored for UV protection.
- 🏖️ Quick-dry towel: perfect for hopping from beach to beach, especially if you’re hiking along the beach.
- 🎒 Dry bag: keep valuables safe and sand-free.
🏨 Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a beachside location, we recommend Hotel Mio, conveniently located steps from the beach with easy bus access to areas north and south.
🚤 Tours & Activities
Book snorkeling trips and day tours near Banderas Bay through GetYourGuide – reputable, reliable, and easy to access bookings through its app.
Water Temperatures near Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s waters are warm year-round, thanks to its tropical Pacific location. In the cooler months, sea temperatures typically stay around 24°C (75°F) – still plenty warm for daily swims. In the summer and early fall, water temps often rise to 28–30°C (82–86°F), making for especially balmy swims.
Unlike destinations with more seasonal water swings, Puerto Vallarta’s sea temps stay fairly consistent, with only a mild shift between winter and summer. We’ve visited in January and found the water perfectly comfortable for swimming, even during early mornings.
As in many coastal areas, shallow bays and protected coves often feel warmer than open beaches with stronger wave action. If you’re seeking extra toasty water, aim for sheltered spots along the southern edge of Banderas Bay – like the beaches near Boca de Tomatlán and Colomitos.
Best Months for Swimming in Banderas Bay
If you prefer sunny skies and calm, clear water, the best months for swimming in Puerto Vallarta are November to May.
That said, swimming is possible year-round thanks to the region’s consistently warm ocean temperatures. Just keep in mind that June through October is the rainy season, which can bring occasional afternoon storms and murkier water, especially after heavy rain. If you don’t mind a bit more humidity and want to avoid the high-season crowds, early summer and early fall can still be lovely times for a swim.
Best Banderas Bay Beaches
One of our favorite things about staying on Banderas Bay is how easy it is to take a swim, whether you’re in central Puerto Vallarta or heading to a quieter cove south of town. During our January trip, we swam in a variety of places and scoped out even more, from busy local beaches to lesser-known favorites tucked between fishing villages and jungle hillsides.
🏖️ Yelapa
Tucked into a crescent-shaped cove at the southern edge of Banderas Bay, Yelapa is a laid-back beach community that feels worlds away from Puerto Vallarta – yet it’s just a 30-45 minute boat ride from either Playa Los Muertos or Boca de Tomatlán.
The beach here is long and inviting, with soft sand, gentle waves, and a handful of palapa restaurants perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Spend the day swimming, kayaking, or walking to the nearby waterfall before catching the water taxi back. Yelapa’s off-grid charm and relaxed pace make it a quintessential only-by-boat adventure spot for those seeking an authentic slice of coastal life.
🏖️ Playa Colomitos
If you’re up for a little effort, this might be the most rewarding swim in all of Banderas Bay. You can reach Playa Colomitos by heading to Boca de Tomatlán by local bus. From there, hike for about 30 minutes along a beautiful jungle-and-cliffside trail to reach Playa Colomitos: a tiny cove with clear, swimmable water and a tucked-away feel.
We swam here after the hike and loved how calm and clean the water was. It’s not a secret spot (tour boats do stop here), but it still feels like a little slice of tropical adventure, and far away from the urban beaches of Puerto Vallarta. You can also reach Playa Colomitos by water taxi from Boca if you’d rather skip the hike.
The beach is quite small, so get there early or expect some company during high season. And if you feel like adventuring more, head to the beaches further along the coast, like Playa Madagascar and Playa Las Animas.
Check out our post on hiking to Playa Colomitos here: A Beautiful Puerto Vallarta Hike: Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos
🏖️ Boca de Tomatlán
This small fishing village marks the southern end of the main road from Puerto Vallarta and serves as a jumping-off point for water taxis, hikes, and snorkeling tours. But it’s also a lovely swimming spot in its own right.
There’s a sandy area near the boat launches that’s easy to access, and the surrounding cliffs and jungle make it feel like you’re far from the city, even though you’re just 30-45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta by bus or taxi.
Swim for a bit, then grab lunch and explore the handful of shops and cafés in town. Boca de Tomatlán makes for an ideal small-town, coastal-vibes day escape from Puerto Vallarta.
🏖️ Puerto Vallarta Beaches
If you’re staying in central Puerto Vallarta, you’re never far from a beach. While we tend to prefer the beaches north and south of Puerto Vallarta, the city has many swimmable spots along Banderas Bay, especially in the Romantic Zone and Hotel Zone.
Here are some of our favorite Banderas Bay Beaches in Puerto Vallarta:
- Conchas Chinas: Known for its rocky coves and crystal-clear water, Conchas Chinas is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. The terrain can be a bit rocky in places, but the scenery and calm waters make it worth visiting.
- Playa Los Muertos: The most iconic beach in Puerto Vallarta, right in the heart of the Romantic Zone. It’s busy, lively, and full of energy. The water is swimmable, though waves can vary depending on conditions. We think it’s best for people-watching, soaking up the scene, and enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere.
- Playa Las Glorias: Located in the Hotel Zone, this beach is quieter than the beaches in the Romantic Zone, and great for a relaxed swim. It has a sandy shore and calmer waters, making it a nice option for families or anyone looking for a less crowded spot.
- Playa Los Tules: A small, local beach tucked between resorts. Even if you’re not planning a full beach day, it’s a convenient spot to cool off, take a stroll along the water, or enjoy a quick swim.
Even if you’re not planning a full beach day, you’ll likely find yourself cooling off or strolling along one of these spotsif you’re based nearby.
🏖️ Marina Vallarta
North of downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Marina Vallarta area offers access to quieter beaches with gentler waves, making it a great pick for families or anyone looking for a peaceful swim.
The area is also home to a sea turtle habitat, where you can release your own baby turtle into Banderas Bay – a memorable experience we fully endorse.
In addition to swimming and turtles, you’ll find casual eateries and cafés nearby, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and relaxing by the water.
🏖️ Bucerías
North of Puerto Vallarta, Bucerías blends small-town character with a long, swimmable stretch of golden sand. Its wide beach is perfect for ocean dips, paddleboarding, or long walks along the bay.
While the town has grown quickly in recent years – with new condos, cafés, and shops joining its traditional market streets – it still holds an easygoing charm. Grab a seat at a beachfront restaurant for sunset, and you’ll see why Bucerías remains a favorite for both locals and travelers seeking a relaxed coastal day.
🏖️ La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
One of our favorite swimming spots wasn’t in Puerto Vallarta (or Jalisco) at all, but about an hour north in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in the state of Nayarit. We visited for the Sunday market and ended up swimming on the beach near the marina – and loved it.
The water here was calm and clean, with beautiful views and a mellow atmosphere. If you’re up for a little day trip north, this is a spot well worth visiting.
🏖️ Other Notable Banderas Bay Area Beaches
There are still other well-known spots on and around Banderas Bay we haven’t visited yet – but we’re hoping to the next time we’re in the area. Here are a few that get great reviews from locals and travelers alike:
- Nuevo Vallarta: This resort area is known for Blue Flag-certified beaches, which generally means cleaner, safer swimming conditions.
- Punta Mita: Located at the northern edge of the bay. We haven’t been yet, but this upscale area is said to have beautiful, swimmable beaches.
- Sayulita & San Pancho: Just north of Banderas Bay, these neighboring beach towns have their own surf-town personalities – Sayulita for its colorful energy and beginner-friendly waves, and San Pancho for a quieter, artsy vibe.
We’ll update this guide when we visit more of these spots – and let us know if there are any you’d add!
Banderas Bay Beaches: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim year-round in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, absolutely.
The water in Banderas Bay is warm enough for swimming all year long, with winter water temps around 75°F (24°C) and summer reaching up to 86°F (30°C).
Even in January, we swam comfortably. Just be mindful that the rainy season (June-October) can bring cloudier water and the occasional storm.
Is swimming in Puerto Vallarta safe?
Yes – swimming in Puerto Vallarta is generally safe, but a little awareness goes a long way:
- Marine life: Stingrays can be found in shallow, sandy areas – shuffle your feet as you enter the water. Jellyfish sometimes appear (more often in the rainy season), though stings are rare and usually mild.
- Water depth: Some beaches have sudden drop-offs, so take extra care if you’re not a strong swimmer.
- Water quality: Many Banderas Bay beaches have Blue Flag certification, but those near river mouths can sometimes be less pristine. Concerns about sewage in Sayulita generally don’t apply here.
Are there lifeguards on Banderas Bay beaches?
Some beaches do have lifeguards, especially more popular or developed ones. But at less developed beaches (like Colomitos or Boca de Tomatlán), there likely won’t be any.
Swim with awareness and ideally not alone – especially if you’re far from shore or near boat routes.
Are there changing facilities or showers?
Similar to lifeguards, some of the more popular and developed beaches have facilities, but many others do not.
Do you need water shoes?
No. Most beaches on Banderas Bay have soft, sandy entry points, so unless you’re headed to a rocky cove or just personally prefer wearing them, water shoes aren’t necessary (and they might just fill up with sand!).
Do you need a car to reach the beaches?
No car needed! You can easily get to many swimming spots by bus, taxi, Uber, or boat.
We recommend buses whenever possible. Local buses run from downtown Puerto Vallarta to places like Boca de Tomatlán, Marina Vallarta, and even Bucerías and La Cruz. They’re safe, cheap, and run frequently – just bring pesos for the fare.
And of course, if you’re staying anywhere near the coast along Banderas Bay, you’re just a short walk away from your local beach.
What else is there to do in Banderas Bay besides swimming?
Plenty! Banderas Bay is packed with activities beyond just hitting the beach. You can go on snorkeling excursions to explore marine life up close, take boat tours to nearby villages like Yelapa, or simply enjoy some seaside dining.
If you’re visiting in the winter months (December through March), whale watching is a must. You might spot humpback whales from the shore on a lucky day, but the best experience is heading out on a boat tour. Check out our full guide to whale watching in Puerto Vallarta for tips on the best tours and what to expect.
Wrapping Up: Banderas Bay Beaches
Exploring Banderas Bay beaches means you’re never far from your next perfect swim. With warm water year-round, friendly beach towns, and plenty of day trip options, it’s easy to see why this is one of Mexico’s most loved coastal destinations.
If you’re packing for a Puerto Vallarta trip, don’t forget a few beach basics: your favorite goggles, a quick-dry towel, and a dry bag to keep your stuff sand-free. Looking for a place to stay? Hotel Mio is super convenient, just steps from the beach and easy to get around from. And if you’re thinking about exploring more of Banderas Bay, booking a snorkeling trip or day tour through GetYourGuide is an easy way to get out on the water without the stress of planning everything yourself.