Puerto Vallarta beach guide
Playa Camarones
Puerto Vallarta’s premier Blue Flag urban beach with golden sands and lively Malecón proximity
About Playa Camarones
Located in the traditional 5 de Diciembre neighborhood just north of Downtown, offering clean certified waters, beachfront dining, and easy city walkability.
Playa Camarones (Shrimp Beach) is Puerto Vallarta's flagship certified Blue Flag urban beach. Situated where the historic 5 de Diciembre barrio meets the ocean, it combines exceptional water quality and clean sands with authentic local charm. Lined with classic beachfront palapas like El Barracuda and 8 Tostadas, it is the top choice for travelers wanting a clean, swimmable beach within steps of downtown.
How to get there
Centrally located in Puerto Vallarta with direct pedestrian and road access.
- Take any green city bus along Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio to Centro (10 MXN).
- 5-10 min drive from anywhere in Central Puerto Vallarta.
Local planning notes
- Grab sunset cocktails and fresh tuna tostadas right on the sand at El Barracuda.
- Walk into 5 de Diciembre neighborhood for some of PV's most famous street taco stands.
- Certified Blue Flag status guarantees regular water testing and lifeguard coverage.
Before you go
- Sand slope steepens near the water line during winter swells; watch the lifeguard flags.
Nearby places and attractions
- El Barracuda & Bar Solar: Iconic beachfront casual seafood, grilled octopus, and famous sunset craft cocktails right on the sand. (Directly on the beach (5 de Diciembre))
- Mangos Beach Club: Relaxed oceanfront daybeds, palm shade, chilled margaritas, and family-friendly swimming service. (On the beach)
- 5 de Diciembre Taco Row: Authentic local street food district famous for handmade seafood tacos and traditional bakeries. (2 blocks inland)