If you are coming down to Puerto Vallarta, you are probably here for the sun and the sand.
I have spent years exploring every inch of this coastline, and I still get excited every time I hit the beach.
One of the best parts about staying in puerto vallarta condo rentals is that you are never far from a great beach.
The city has so many different vibes depending on where you go, and I want to make sure you find the one that fits your mood.
We always tell our guests that location is everything when you are planning your vacation.
If you want my honest opinion, Amapas is the absolute best place to rent your home away from home.
It is nestled right between the jungle and the ocean, giving you the best of both worlds.
You get those incredible views and the peace of the hills, but you can still walk down to the sand in just a few minutes!
The Classic Experience at Los Muertos Beach
If you want the classic PV experience, you have to hit Los Muertos Beach.
It’s right in the middle of everything in the Romantic Zone, which is also called Old Town by the locals.
I LOVE the energy here because it feels like the heart of the city is beating right on the sand.
You can grab a chair, order a bucket of beers, and just watch the world go by for hours.
There are so many beach clubs like La Palapa or El Dorado where you can get amazing food delivered right to your feet.
The sand is golden and soft, and the water is usually perfect for a quick dip to cool off.
It is definitely the busiest beach in town, but that is part of the fun!
You will see vendors selling grilled shrimp on sticks, families playing in the waves, and people walking their dogs.
I always find myself meeting new people every time I spend an afternoon here.
Staying in condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta makes it so easy to hop between these spots.
You can spend the morning at one beach, head back for a quick nap, and hit another for sunset.
Finding Paradise at Conchas Chinas
If you are looking for something a bit quieter, you have to head south.
Conchas Chinas is just a quick cab ride or a nice walk away from the main areas.
The water there is crystal clear and the rock formations are beautiful.
It feels like a hidden paradise tucked away from the main crowds.
We love how the Sierra Madre mountains seem to melt right into the ocean here.
It is actually a Blue Flag Certified beach, which means it is super clean and meets high environmental standards.
The tide pools are SOOO cool to explore if you like seeing little crabs and fish.
It is much more serene than Los Muertos and perfect for a romantic afternoon.
I highly recommend bringing a towel and a good book and just letting the sound of the waves take over.
Why an Apartment is the Best Choice
I always tell people that staying in an apartment is the way to go because you can wash your towels and gear every day.
There is nothing worse than having a salty, sandy towel the next morning!
Plus, you can pack a cooler with your own snacks and drinks to save a little money for a big dinner later.
Having a kitchen means you can cut up fresh mango and lime to take to the beach with you.
It makes the whole experience feel so much more like home.
Our rentals in Amapas give you that extra space and comfort that you just can't get in a tiny hotel room.
You can spread out your gear, hang your swimsuits on the balcony, and truly relax.
Exploring Playa Camarones
If you head to the northern edge of downtown, you will find Playa Camarones.
This is another Blue Flag beach, which we are very proud of here in PV.
It is generally quieter than the Romantic Zone beaches and has a more local feel.
While there are some rocky patches, it is an AMAZING spot for water sports.
We see people jet skiing, parasailing, and even going on horseback rides along the shore here.
It is a great place if you want to be near the Malecon but want a little more breathing room.
There are some great little beach shacks where you can get a cold drink and watch the sunset.
Speaking of sunsets, the view from Playa Camarones is absolutely stunning.
The sky turns into shades of pink and orange that you have to see to believe!
Adventure at Hidden Beaches
For those who want a real adventure, I suggest looking into Las Animas or Majahuitas.
These are not beaches you can just walk to from your front door.
You usually have to take a water taxi from the pier or go on a hike through the jungle.
But best of all, the effort is totally worth it!
The water is even clearer out there, and the crowds are much smaller.
It feels like you have escaped to a private island for the day.
We love taking a boat out there and spending the whole day snorkeling and eating fresh ceviche.
If you are feeling brave, the hike from Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas is one of my favorite things to do.
It takes about two hours and takes you past several tiny, secluded coves.
For more tips on how to plan your trip, check out our 2026 guide.
Making Memories in the Sun
At the end of the day, Puerto Vallarta is all about the memories you make on the sand.
Whether you want the party at Los Muertos or the quiet of Conchas Chinas, you really can't go wrong.
We are so lucky to have all of these options right in our backyard.
I really think that having a home base in a place like Amapas makes the whole trip better.
You get to live like a local and enjoy the natural beauty of the bay every single day.
I am so grateful that I get to share this beautiful city with all of you.
If you are planning a visit, make sure you pack plenty of reef-safe sunscreen and a good hat!
The sun here is no joke, but it is exactly what makes the water feel so good.
Puerto Vallarta is a special place, and the beaches are the reason why so many people keep coming back.
I hope you find your favorite spot and love it as much as we do!
Staying in a condo gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
No schedules, no crowded lobbies, just you and the ocean.
It is truly the best way to experience everything our town has to offer.
I highly recommended taking the time to visit at least three different beaches during your stay.
Each one has its own personality and its own story to tell.
We can't wait to see you down here soon!
Check out more photos of our favorite spots on Facebook!
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