Los Muertos Beach Puerto Vallarta is the city’s most famous beach, located right in the heart of the Romantic Zone. When I lived nearby, I used to walk there with my dog almost every day, so I got to know this beach really well.
It may not be the most pristine or secluded stretch of sand in the bay, but it’s by far the most lively. Between the iconic sail-shaped pier, bustling beach clubs, countless vendors, and some of the best spots for food and cocktails in town, Playa Los Muertos is the beating heart of Puerto Vallarta.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Playa Los Muertos, including how to get there, the best things to do, my favorite restaurants and beach clubs, where to stay nearby, and some practical tips to help you enjoy it like a local.
- Location: Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica), south of the Rio Cuale, within walking distance of downtown and the Malecón
- Length: ~630 m / 2,050 ft of golden sand stretching from Olas Altas to El Púlpito
- Vibe: Lively, social, and always busy; mix of locals, tourists, and LGBTQ+ community
- Amenities: Beach chairs, umbrellas, vendors, bars, restaurants, and the sail-shaped pier
- Activities: Swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, boat tours, yoga, live music, and people-watching
- Best for: Nightlife, food & drinks, sunsets, LGBTQ+ scene, central location convenience
Why Visit Los Muertos Beach?
Playa de Los Muertos isn’t the quietest or most pristine beach in Puerto Vallarta, but it’s the one with the most action. If you want to experience the city’s energy in one spot, this is it. Here’s why it deserves a place on your Puerto Vallarta itinerary:
- Central location – Right in the Romantic Zone, it’s within walking distance of downtown, the Malecón, and countless restaurants and bars.
- Iconic pier – The sail-shaped Los Muertos Pier is one of Puerto Vallarta’s landmarks and the starting point for many boat tours.
- Food and drinks on the sand – From casual beach vendors to upscale restaurants, you’ll never go hungry or thirsty here.
- Non-stop atmosphere – Expect music, performers, vendors, and plenty of people-watching. It’s lively from morning yoga sessions to sunset happy hours.
- LGBTQ+ friendly vibe – Los Muertos is the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene, with beach clubs like Mantamar and Blue Chairs leading the way.
If you’re looking for a beach day that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the ocean, Los Muertos is where you’ll find it.
Where is Los Muertos beach Puerto Vallarta located?
Los Muertos Beach is located in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It’s within walking distance from downtown Puerto Vallarta, making it easily accessible for tourists.
I love walking along the Malecon from El Centro to Los Muertos, which is right after you cross a bridge over the Rio Cuale.
If you’re walking the Malecon, the first beach you arrive at is technically Playa Olas Altas (Beach of High Waves).
Keep heading south until you arrive at Los Muertos Pier, which you can’t miss. That stretch of sand from here down to the rocky outcrop is Playa Los Muertos.
You can also access the beach from many streets in Zona Romantica if you’re walking through town. Every single cab driver knows this place, and many bus lines end just a few blocks away, so it’s easy to come and go.
👉 If you want a sightseeing experience with flexibility, try the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. It stops at the most popular attractions in Puerto Vallarta so you can explore at your own pace without worrying about taxis or parking.
Things to do on Playa de Los Muertos Puerto Vallarta
Los Muertos is the kind of beach where you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you want to relax with a margarita in hand, jump on an adventure tour, or just soak up the lively atmosphere, here are the best ways to spend your time.
1. Soak up the sun
As such, the first order of business is typically finding a spot. There are several restaurants and bars on the beach with chairs and umbrellas. As long as you’re ordering, you’re good to stay.
The good news is that the food and drink options are actually pretty solid and reasonably priced – more on that in the restaurants and beach clubs section below.
Otherwise, it’s a DIY operation. Some go-getters bring their own chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and all that jazz. That’s far too much work for us. I’m happy to take a seat and order a margarita and fish tacos.
Find the perfect spot on the golden sands and soak up the warm Mexican sun.
However, one thing to know is that there are a lot of vendors on the beach, and you will be asked about every five minutes if you want to buy something.
You can simply say no gracias, and they will leave, but it does become annoying after a while. If you don’t want this, head to one of these more secluded Puerto Vallarta beaches.
2. Water activities
If you’d like a bit more excitement than just sitting in a beach chair, you’re in luck! Los Muertos is a hub for water sports in Puerto Vallarta.
At the end of the pier, people always jump into the water. I don’t love swimming in the water because there are so many boats, and there are far nicer places to swim in Puerto Vallarta. But it is safe to do so.
Los Muertos is one of the best spots in Puerto Vallarta for beachside thrills. You can rent a jet ski, hop on a banana boat ride, or go on a parachute straight off the sand. Floating high above the bay gives you incredible views of the Romantic Zone, the pier, and the coastline – it’s an unforgettable perspective of Puerto Vallarta.
3. Los Muertos Pier
The Los Muertos Pier, an iconic landmark at the beach, is more than just a place to catch a boat; it’s a work of art and a gathering spot that adds a special charm to the beach.
Designed by renowned architect José de Jesús Torres Vega, the pier’s unique and modern spiral structure has become a symbol of Puerto Vallarta.
Be sure to take some time to walk along it and soak in the views of the city from behind. As night falls, the pier is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance that complements the lively surroundings of the beach. It’s a must-visit spot that encapsulates the vibrance of Puerto Vallarta.
4. Visit nearby secluded beach towns
From the pier, water taxis are always available for trips south to other towns around Banderas Bay, like Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlan, Las Animas, Quimixto, and Yelapa.
But if you’re on a tight budget, it’s cheaper to take the bus to Boca de Tomatlan and grab a water taxi from there. The time spent on the boat is also much shorter, in case you’re prone to seasickness.
5. Beach yoga
If you want to unwind and connect with nature, the yoga classes at the beach next to the pier are one of my favorite places to do yoga in Puerto Vallarta. They offer them in the morning and at sunset.
Hosted by Yoga Vallarta, these small group sessions create an intimate and personal atmosphere, allowing for individual attention from their caring instructors.
Don’t worry if you didn’t bring a mat; they provide them. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this is a perfect way to start or end your day in Puerto Vallarta.
6. Watch the sunset
There’s no better way to end the day than with a cocktail in hand as the sun dips into the Pacific. From the sand, a beachfront bar, or the pier, sunsets here are always spectacular.
7. Enjoy fresh oysters
Speaking of oysters, you’ll find them here. In particular, you’ll find one local legend walking up and down the beach selling oysters with a shirt that reads “Mexican Viagra.”
There are several other guys hawking oysters on the beach as well. They keep them iced down and always have lime and hot sauce available.
I know it seems a bit weird at first, but they’re damn good. Plus, even if you have a table somewhere, they don’t care if you grab some oysters or fish/shrimp kebabs from the roaming vendors. It’s always a team effort in Mexico.
Los Muertos Beach Restaurants
If you’re not ready for the street food, beach edition, never fear. There are several restaurants to choose from.
However, many serve over-priced, low-quality food and get their business because of their prime location. So choose one from our list below or look up reviews on Google beforehand.
La Palapa
One of the best restaurants with a beach view is on Los Muertos.
Situated right on the beach, La Palapa is worth all the hype and always delivers, whether it’s a hangover-cure brunch or a romantic candlelit dinner. They combine traditional Mexican cuisine with fresh seafood and tropical influences. Dine with your toes in the sand as you enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Mar y Vino
Mar y Vino stands out as one of the most unique dining experiences in Puerto Vallarta. What sets it apart? They have tables in the water, allowing you to enjoy your meal with your feet gently caressed by water free from the sand.
The cuisine is a perfect blend of seafood and wine, served in a sophisticated ambiance. And if that’s not enough, the live saxophonist that often comes to play adds an extra touch of elegance to the atmosphere.
iK Mixology Bar & Cuisine
iK Mixology Bar & Cuisine is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s an Instagrammer’s dream. With bamboo-style chairs, including a swing that offers a perfect view of the sunset, this bar provides the ideal backdrop for unforgettable vacation photos.
The trendy and inventive menu of craft cocktails and gourmet cuisine is paired with the chic, modern décor and location next to the pier, making it one of the most photographable restaurants in Puerto Vallarta.
Si Senor
Another popular beachfront place is Si Señor. It’s a little pricey and isn’t a place I frequent, but they get good reviews.
Si Señor Beach Restaurant offers traditional dishes made from fresh local ingredients. Enjoy favorites like guacamole, tacos, and margaritas while enjoying the stunning beach views. Live music often adds to the lively, festive atmosphere.
El Dorado
With a trendy, upscale ambiance, El Dorado is perfect for those looking to indulge in gourmet dining. The restaurant serves beautifully crafted dishes as the sun sets, and their handcrafted cocktails are equally impressive.
The Blue Shrimp
If you’re craving seafood, The Blue Shrimp is a must. Located right on Los Muertos Beach, it’s famous for its huge shrimp dishes, tropical palapa-style setting, and ocean views. The menu features everything from coconut shrimp and ceviche to hearty seafood platters meant for sharin
Beach Clubs in Los Muertos
Mantamar
At the southern end of Los Muertos, you’ll find Mantamar Beach Club, one of the most famous spots in Puerto Vallarta. Known for its epic pool parties, drag shows, and world-class DJs, it’s a cornerstone of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. The energy here is contagious – think champagne showers, live performances, and a dance floor that doesn’t stop until long after the sun goes down.
That said, it’s not just about partying. Mantamar also offers stylish cabanas, a beachfront pool, and excellent food and cocktails if you want a full-day beach club experience with plenty of comfort. Whether you’re here to celebrate Pride, ring in New Year’s Eve, or just spend the day soaking up the atmosphere, Mantamar is one of those quintessential Puerto Vallarta spots where memories are made.
Swell Beach Club
Our business usually goes to Swell, which is definitely a swell place for beach days. Bad jokes aside, the staff here rocks and always takes great care of us.
Drinks are reasonably priced, and they also make some great food here. It’s one of our go-to beach clubs in Zona Romantica and is the perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy the lively beach atmosphere.
Sapphire Ocean Club
If you want a slightly more upscale yet laid-back experience, head to Sapphire Ocean Club. It has a stylish beachfront pool, attentive service, and comfortable loungers that are perfect for spending the entire day by the pool, with beach access.
The menu leans toward Mediterranean-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails, and the atmosphere strikes a nice balance between lively and relaxing. It’s also LGBTQ+ friendly, but a bit calmer than Mantamar’s pool parties, making it a great choice if you want comfort and good service without a full-blown party vibe.
Blue Chairs Resort & Beach Club
No guide to Los Muertos Beach would be complete without mentioning Blue Chairs, one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ spots in Puerto Vallarta. It’s been a landmark for decades and is often the first stop for travelers looking to dive into the city’s welcoming queer scene.
During the day, the beach club is buzzing with sunbathers, cocktails, and live entertainment. At night, things shift upstairs to the rooftop bar, where drag shows, cabaret, and themed parties keep the energy going. The crowd is always friendly and inclusive, and it’s one of the best places to meet people if you’re new to Puerto Vallarta.
The food and drinks are reasonably priced, the staff are fun, and the atmosphere is unapologetically festive.
Los Muertos beach hotels
You have a few options if you want to stay on the beach. Here are some of the best places to stay in Playa Los Muertos:
Emperador Vallarta has a location that’s hard to beat. Steps from the pier, this hotel has one of the best locations in town. You’ll be right in the middle of the action, with the beach at your doorstep and the bars and nightlife of Zona Romántica just around the corner.
Almar Resort is a luxury resort and a top choice among LGBTQ travelers. Almar offers oceanview suites, a chic rooftop with hot tubs, and regular events. It’s more of a splurge, but the party atmosphere and amenities are worth it if you want to be right in the middle of everything.
Tropicana offers excellent value for a hotel situated directly on the beach. It has a private beach area with palapas, two pools, and comfortable rooms at prices that are hard to beat for a beachfront stay.
Vallarta Shores is at the south end of the beach and features a fabulous infinity pool. Many suites come with private pools and full kitchens, and the oceanview balconies here are incredible.
That’s about it for options for accommodation on the beach. There are plenty of excellent choices for boutique hotels just a few blocks away in Zona Romantica. The Conchas Chinas area just south of town also makes for a great base.
Best Time to Visit Los Muertos Beach & Tips
Los Muertos is busy year-round, but the vibe changes depending on when you go.
- Mornings: The calmest time on the beach. Great if you want a quieter swim, a morning yoga class, or a peaceful stroll before the crowds roll in.
- Afternoons: Expect the most action – vendors, music, water sports, and beach clubs in full swing.
- Sunset: The magic hour. Grab a cocktail and watch the sky turn shades of pink and orange. It’s one of the best free shows in Puerto Vallarta.
- Evenings: The beach doesn’t sleep. Fire shows, live music, and nearby bars keep the party going into the night.
Seasonal Notes
- High Season (November–April): Warm, dry, and the busiest months of the year. Expect packed beach clubs and higher hotel rates.
- Low Season (May–October): Hotter, more humid, and with afternoon rain showers. But the beach is less crowded, and prices drop.
- Holidays & Festivals: Pride Week in May, New Year’s Eve, and Día de los Muertos are especially lively times to experience Los Muertos.
Tips for Visiting
- Vendors: Expect to be approached often. A simple “no gracias” works if you’re not interested.
- Safety: The beach is safe, but keep an eye on your belongings.
- Swimming: It’s swimmable, but there’s boat traffic near the pier. For calmer, clearer water, head to Las Gemelas or Conchas Chinas.
- Parking: Limited in the Romantic Zone, so walk, taxi, or take the bus when possible.
- Sun Protection: There’s little natural shade – bring sunscreen or rent a lounger with an umbrella.
FAQ: Los Muertos Beach Puerto Vallarta
Why is it called Los Muertos Beach?
The name translates to “Beach of the Dead.” There are a few local legends about its origin, from pirate battles to indigenous burial grounds. Whatever the true story, the name has stuck for centuries.
Is Los Muertos Beach swimmable?
Yes, the beach is swimmable and there are lifeguards. However, because of boat traffic near the pier, it’s not the best beach for clear water.
What is Playa Los Muertos known for?
It’s the most famous and lively beach in Puerto Vallarta, known for its iconic pier, lively LGBTQ+ beach clubs, great dining options, and unforgettable sunsets.
Where is the clearest water in Puerto Vallarta?
For the clearest water in Puerto Vallarta, head to the Marietas Islands or the more secluded beaches further south, like Playa Las Gemelas, known for their crystal-clear waters and snorkeling opportunities.
Which part of Puerto Vallarta is the best?
The “best” part of Puerto Vallarta can depend on individual preferences, but the Romantic Zone is highly regarded for its charming streets, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to Los Muertos Beach.
Is Los Muertos Beach Free?
Yes, it’s a public beach and free to visit. You’ll only pay if you want to rent a lounger, umbrella, or order food and drinks from one of the beach clubs.
Is Los Muertos Beach Safe?
During the day and evening, it’s very safe thanks to the crowds and nearby businesses. Just use normal precautions – keep an eye on your belongings and avoid wandering alone late at night.
Is Los Muertos beach dog-friendly?
Yes! You’ll often see locals walking their dogs here. Just keep your pup on a leash and be mindful that it gets very crowded in the afternoons.
Which part of Puerto Vallarta is best for nightlife and beaches?
The Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica), where Los Muertos is located, is the heart of the action. You’ll find beach clubs, bars, restaurants, and nightlife all within walking distance.
Final thoughts: Los Muertos Beach
I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to Los Muertos Beach. It’s one of the first places we ever hung out in Puerto Vallarta and has become a weekly staple when we’re in town.
There’s nothing quite like meeting up with friends for some ceviche, oysters, and margaritas on a beautiful sunny afternoon.
It’s a place where the day melts away and turns into night, usually with a blissful sunset over the ocean. This is the life, mis amigos.
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