Puerto Vallarta beach guide
Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)
Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach)
The world-famous crater beach inside a natural volcanic cavern
AccessWater Taxi (Panga) Only
Sand and shorePowdery White Coral Sand
Water conditionsCalm inside cavern
Sun and shadeMidday sunlight through crater opening
Best fitSnorkel & Marine
About Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)
One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, this sun-drenched beach is situated inside a volcanic crater accessed by swimming through a sea tunnel.
Playa del Amor ("Hidden Beach") is tucked completely inside a volcanic rock crater on the Marietas Islands. Accessible only by swimming through a water cave at low tide with a certified eco-guide, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How to get there
Located along the North Shore / Riviera Nayarit coastline.
- Take the ATM or Compostela bus from Walmart terminal in Puerto Vallarta.
- 30-50 min drive north along Highway 200.
Local planning notes
- Visit during morning hours for calm waters and comfortable temperatures.
- Bring sun protection, hydration, and respect local beach flags.
Before you go
- Accessible by boat; check return panga times with your boat captain.
Nearby places and attractions
- Marietas Cavern Tunnel: The natural marine tunnel connecting the open ocean to the inner sunlit sand crater. (Crater entrance)
- The Stone Arch (El Arco): Dramatic towering natural rock arch rising directly from the turquoise coral reef. (Outer island perimeter)