Beach Towns Near Puerto Vallarta: A Guide to the Best Coastal Escapes
Photo © Daena Crosby
When it comes to beach towns near Puerto Vallarta, you’re spoiled for choice!
This lush, tropical region along Mexico’s Pacific coast is home to laid-back fishing villages, popular surf spots, and vibrant small towns that offer a completely different pace from the city.
Having lived and traveled along this coast for years, I’ve explored most of these places myself – by local bus and hiking trail.
Here’s my extended guide to the best beach towns near Puerto Vallarta, perfect for day trips or longer stays!
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1. Boca de Tomatlán & the Coastal Hike to Playa Las Ánimas
Photo © Daena Crosby
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 30 minutes south
Vibe: Quiet fishing village and gateway to jungle beaches
Boca de Tomatlán is a small fishing village nestled between jungle hills where the river meets the ocean.
Its main beach is the starting point for water taxis and hikes that connect you with some of the most beautiful (and less crowded) beaches on the southern coast of Banderas Bay.
Top Things to Do:
- Stroll through the village and grab fresh seafood
- Take a boat to Majahuitas, Quimixto, or Yelapa
- Hike the scenic jungle trail to Playa Las Ánimas, stopping at Colomitos and Playa Caballo along the way
Travel Tips:
- Budget-friendly way to reach Yelapa (cheaper than departing from Vallarta)
- Wear good footwear (hiking sandals or shoes)
- Bring water and snacks – especially if hiking
- Water taxis are available if you want to skip the hike
2. Yelapa
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 45-minute boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán
Vibe: Remote, off-the-grid charm
Accessible only by boat, Yelapa is a peaceful village surrounded by jungle and sea. Known for its waterfalls, handmade pies, and relaxed energy, it’s perfect for a full-day escape or overnight adventure.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike to the town waterfall (easy, 15 mins) or the jungle waterfall (more challenging, 45 mins)
- Try the famous Pay de Queso (cheesecake-like pie)
- Relax on the beach or take a walk to Playa Isabel
- Eat at local spots like Tacos Los Abuelos
Travel Tip: Pack cash, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure – cell service is limited and there are no ATMs
3. Sayulita
Photo © Daena Crosby
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 1.5–2 hours north
Vibe: Laid back surf town by day, party central by night
Sayulita is one of the most well-known pueblo mágico near Puerto Vallarta. With surf schools, artisan markets, and taco stands on every corner, it’s both lively and colourful. Great for people-watching and beach lounging alike.
Best Beaches:
- Playa Sayulita: Surf central and social scene
- Playa Carricitos: Quiet, dramatic rock formations
- Playa Los Muertos: Calm waters, family friendly
- North Beach: Peaceful with a more local feel
Travel Tip: Getting to Sayulita is easy, but getting back by taxi or Uber can be tricky. Arrange your return in advance or take the Compostela bus for convenience.
4. San Pancho (San Francisco)
Photo © Daena Crosby
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 1.5–2.5 hours north
Vibe: Artistic and laid-back
San Pancho is the quieter, more artsy cousin to Sayulita. It’s home to community gardens, murals, artisan collectives, and yoga studios – making it a peaceful spot to unwind.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Entre Amigos, a community hub with fair-trade shops and recycled art
- Watch baby sea turtles hatch (seasonally, June–November)
- Take in a sunset from the wide, golden-sand beach
Travel Tip: Stay for dinner and catch live music at one of the beachfront restaurants. The town comes alive at night.
5. Lo de Marcos
Photo © Daena Crosby
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 1.5–2 hours north
Vibe: Tranquil and family-friendly
Lo de Marcos is a peaceful beach town in the state of Nayarit that offers calm, swimmable waters and a friendly community vibe. With fewer crowds than Sayulita or San Pancho, it’s ideal for travellers looking to slow down.
Top Things to Do:
- Stroll the long stretch of quiet beach
- Explore the weekly market for handmade goods (High season only – November to April)
- Visit the estuary where birds and wildlife gather
- Grab lunch at D’Lirio’s Restaurant (off the plaza), Las Glorias or Olivia’s beach restaurant (at the main beach entrance)
Travel Tip: Lo de Marcos is a great option for families, retirees, or anyone seeking a calm retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
6. Chacala
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 2.5–3 hours north
Vibe: Hidden paradise nested between the jungle and ocean
Chacala is one of the most serene beach towns near Puerto Vallarta – a crescent-shaped bay framed by palm trees and low-key eco-lodges.
Top Things to Do:
- Enjoy the gentle waves and golden sands (perfect for swimming)
- Eat fresh fish at beachfront palapas
- Take a lancha (boat) to Playa las Cuevas – catch the whales between Nov-Apr
- Visit the nearby hot springs and hike to El Capomo waterfall
Travel Tip: Chacala is small, so book accommodations in advance during high season. It’s a great spot for solo travellers, couples, or anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature.
Bonus Must-Visit Beach: Playa La Lancha (Near Punta de Mita)
Distance from Puerto Vallarta: 1.5–2 hours north
Vibe: Surf and nature paradise
Playa La Lancha, while not a town, it is a local gem accessed by a 10-minute jungle trail. It’s great for surfing beginners and those who want clear water and fewer crowds.
Travel Tips:
- Catch the Compostela bus or a taxi from Sayulita to the WildMex Surf School trail entrance
- No amenities on the beach, so bring your own food and water
- You’ll find crocodiles in the mangroves nearby – admire them from a distance
What to Know When Visiting Beach Towns Near Puerto Vallarta
Exploring the coastline of Puerto Vallarta is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Whether you’re taking a day trip or slowly hopping from town to town, here are a few important things to know before you go:
1. Respect the Land and Local Customs
Many of these coastal towns are home to long-standing Indigenous and local communities.
Be respectful: pack out your trash, avoid taking natural souvenirs like shells, and support Mexican-owned businesses.
2. Always Carry Cash
While some places in Vallarta accept cards, most small towns and beach communities operate on a cash-only basis — especially local restaurants, taxis, and markets.
Bring pesos, not USD, and plan ahead by visiting an ATM before leaving the city.
3. Take the Compostela Bus
The green-and-white Compostela bus is a reliable and affordable way to travel between Puerto Vallarta and beach towns like Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos, and all the way to Rincón de Guayabitos.
It’s a great option for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a local experience.
4. Time Zone Changes Can Be Confusing
The state border between Jalisco and Nayarit also marks a time zone shift. While Puerto Vallarta, Boca de Tomatlán, Yelapa, Sayulita, San Pancho, and Lo de Marcos all share the same time zone.
Towns farther north like Chacala and Rincón de Guayabitos are one hour behind.
This matters when catching buses or making reservations — double-check times to avoid surprises!
5. Internet & Cell Signal Varies
Some beaches and pueblitos — especially ones farther from the highway — may have spotty Wi-Fi and limited cell coverage.
Download offline maps, confirm bookings ahead of time, and be ready to unplug for a while.
Why Visit These Beach Towns Near Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta is amazing – and these nearby towns offer a more intimate look at life on the coast.
From rugged hikes and waterfalls to artisan markets and sea turtle sanctuaries, each destination invites you to slow down and experience a different rhythm of Mexico.
These beach towns are:
- Easy to access by bus, taxi, or water taxi
- Full of local-owned restaurants, shops, and activities (be sure to support local!)
- Great for travellers who want a deeper connection to place
So, whether you’re planning a weekend adventure, a wellness escape, or a full backpacking route – make room in your itinerary for the magic just outside the city.
Buen viaje!
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