Puerto Vallarta beach guide
Las Caletas
John Huston’s former private coastal hideaway, now a secluded eco-nature and snorkeling haven
About Las Caletas
A lush, private cove on Chacala Indigenous communal land accessible only by excursion boat, featuring coral reefs, tropical gardens, and amphitheaters.
Las Caletas is steeped in coastal legend. In the 1970s, Oscar-winning director John Huston leased this remote paradise from the local Chacala Indigenous community and lived here off-grid for over a decade. Today, it is protected as an exclusive eco-adventure nature reserve accessible via organized catamaran excursions from Puerto Vallarta, featuring world-class snorkeling, sea kayaking, hilltop spas, and evening cultural shows.
How to get there
Located along the roadless southern coastline of Banderas Bay. Access by boat or coastal trail.
- Board a panga water taxi at the Boca de Tomatlán pier or Los Muertos Pier.
- Accessible via coastal trail from Boca de Tomatlán.
Local planning notes
- Access is excursion-only (Vallarta Adventures); private landings are not permitted without concession approval.
- Explore the hilltop orchid and hummingbird gardens behind the beach.
- Excellent guided snorkeling along the protected offshore reef.
Before you go
- Not a public drop-in beach; bookings must be made in advance as part of an organized tour.
Nearby places and attractions
- John Huston Historic Retreat Site: Private oceanfront sanctuary where legendary film director John Huston lived for decades. (Inside private bay)
- Las Caletas Snorkel Cove: Protected clear-water bay with coral gardens, sea lions, and paddleboarding. (West cove)