Beach · Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
Playa de Nuevo Vallarta
Light-sand beach of about 8 km on the north shore of Bahía de Banderas, with generally calm waters, in front of the resort area.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Playa de Nuevo Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta beach stretches for about 8 km between the mouth of the Ameca River and the town of Bucerías, at the head of Bahía de Banderas. The sand is light and fine, the shore is wide and the slope gentle, which keeps the sea calm for most of the year.
Most of the shoreline is occupied by resorts, but, as with all beaches in Mexico, the sand strip is public and can be walked from end to end. The walk to Bucerías is one of the most common excursions.
In winter, humpback whales are sometimes seen from the sand in the bay. Between July and December, sea turtles often nest on the beach, and hotels take part in programs to protect nests and release hatchlings.
At the mouth of the Ameca River, at the southern end, are the estuary and the marina, with tour boats departing for the Marietas Islands and for whale-watching.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day or a full day.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with less strong sun. In the dry season, from November to April, the sea is usually calmer.
How to get there
In the Nuevo Vallarta resort area, about 15 minutes from Puerto Vallarta airport. City buses stop on the main avenue.
Tip
Walk along the sand to Bucerías: it’s about 6 km of flat beach.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Playa de Nuevo Vallarta
Is Nuevo Vallarta beach public?
Yes. As with all beaches in Mexico, the sand strip is public, even in front of hotels.
Are there turtles in Nuevo Vallarta?
Between July and December, turtles often nest on the beach, and there are hatchling release programs at hotels and protection camps.
Can you walk from Nuevo Vallarta to Bucerías along the beach?
Yes, it’s about 6 km of flat sand.
