Mexico’s Pacific Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, stretching over 7,000 kilometres. This region offers diverse beach experiences for every type of traveller, from the lively Playa Los Muertos to the tranquil Barra Navidad. Each beach features unique attractions and activities, making them ideal for relaxation or adventure. This guide highlights 10 top beaches in Mexico’s Pacific Coast, showcasing the best spots to unwind, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply soak up the sun amidst the natural beauty of this captivating coastline.
Top 10 Beaches In Mexicos’ Pacific Coast
Here are the top 10 beaches located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offering the perfect escape from the chaos of city life.
1. Puerto Arista
Photo: Alexis Antonio / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Puerto Arista is a placid beach located in the Chiapas region. Known for its extensive stretch of soft sand and calm waters, it’s a popular beach on Mexico’s Pacific coast for relaxing or engaging in light beach activities. The local sea turtle sanctuary offers visitors a chance to see turtle release programs, making this a memorable experience. Nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. While quieter than some larger beaches, Puerto Arista provides a secluded paradise with stunning sunsets.
Top Experiences: Swimming, sunbathing, turtle release programs, and beach volleyball
Location: Chiapas, near Tonalá
2. Mazunte Beach
Photo: Ospreyvineyard / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mazunte Beach, located in Oaxaca, is an ecotourism destination and a great spot to relax while connecting with nature. Its golden sands and blue waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. At the same time, its proximity to ecological reserves allows for unique wildlife encounters, making it one of the best places to visit. This beach has also become a popular place for yoga retreats. You can also join boat tours to spot dolphins and sea turtles or explore Mazunte’s shops, which sell handmade crafts and eco-friendly products.
Top Experiences: Swimming, surfing, eco-tourism, yoga, and boat tours
Location: Oaxaca, near San Agustinillo
3. Playa La Ropa
Photo: Manuel Torres Garcia / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Playa La Ropa, located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is renowned for its calm waters and soft sandy beaches, making it a favourite for families. The gentle waves provide a safe swimming environment for children. This beach offers various water sports, including paddleboarding, snorkelling, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at several beachfront restaurants with stunning ocean views. With its combination of relaxation and adventure, Playa La Ropa is an ideal destination for anyone looking to unwind or engage in exciting activities by the Pacific coast. Its beauty and amenities make it a must-visit spot in the region.
Top Experiences: Snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sunbathing
Location: Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
4. Playa Las Gatas
Photo: Maximilian Csali / Unsplash
Playa Las Gatas is a small, charming beach known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts. The beach’s calm, shallow waters are ideal for family outings and safe for children to swim. Here, you can rent snorkelling gear and explore the colourful marine life in the reefs. Several small, family-owned restaurants line the beach, serving authentic Mexican dishes. A large rock wall built by an ancient ruler adds to the beach’s unique character and allure.
Top Experiences: Snorkelling, diving, swimming, and exploring coral reefs
Location: Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
5. Barra Navidad
Photo: Sean Oulashin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Barra Navidad is a tranquil beach destination perfect for travellers seeking to escape crowded tourist spots. Known for its excellent fishing and boating opportunities, visitors can explore nearby lagoons and mangroves. The local eateries serve mouthwatering seafood, particularly shrimp dishes, which are a highlight. With stunning views of the ocean framed by lush mountains, Barra Navidad offers a serene environment ideal for relaxation and photography. This hidden gem in Jalisco, Mexico, combines natural beauty with a laid-back atmosphere, making it an inviting choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy authentic local culture.
Top Experiences: Boating, fishing, exploring lagoons, and sunbathing
Location: Jalisco, near Manzanillo
6. Playa Los Muertos
Photo: RL0919 / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Los Muertos is located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta and is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and colourful pier. Known for lively crowds and various activities, this beach is ideal for swimming, parasailing, and beach volleyball, making it one of the best beaches to visit on Mexicos’s Pacific Coast. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a hub for nightlife, with beach bars and restaurants offering local drinks and cuisine. It’s a fantastic choice for those enjoying the beach and Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife.
Top Experiences: Swimming, parasailing, beach volleyball, and nightlife
Location: Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
7. Playa Brujas
Photo: bdh2008-1 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Playa Brujas, located in Mazatlán, is a favourite among surfers due to its strong waves and consistent swells. Even if you’re not a surfer, the beach offers a relaxed vibe, and you can enjoy watching skilled surfers ride the waves. The beach is lined with local vendors offering fresh seafood, with shrimp tacos being popular. Playa Brujas provides a more rustic beach experience, the perfect tourist attraction on Mexico’s Pacific coast for those who appreciate natural views without the crowds.
Top Experiences: Surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing
Location: Mazatlán, Sinaloa
8. Destiladeras Beach
Photo: lillolillolillo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Destiladeras Beach in Punta de Mita is an astonishing destination known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a family favourite. The gentle waves are perfect for young children, paddleboarding, and swimming, making it one of the best beaches to visit on Mexicos’s Pacific Coast. Shaded picnic areas provide a comfortable, relaxing spot, while the well-maintained beach ensures a clean and peaceful environment. Popular with locals and tourists, Destiladeras offers a classic beach experience with nearby amenities, including restaurants and restrooms
Top Experiences: Swimming, picnicking, and paddleboarding
Location: Punta de Mita, Nayarit
9. Playa de Barra Vieja
Photo: ArCaRa / Wikimedia Commons
Playa de Barra Vieja, situated near Acapulco, is a spacious beach renowned for its tranquil ambiance and delicious seafood restaurants. Visitors can partake in activities such as horseback riding along the shore or swimming in the inviting waters. The local eateries are famous for their fish dishes, making it a top destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast. This beach offers a perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful day by the sea, complete with authentic Mexican cuisine and stunning coastal views. Its serene environment distinguishes it from more crowded beaches in the region, enhancing the overall experience.
Top Experiences: Horseback riding, swimming, and seafood dining
Location: Acapulco, Guerrero
10. Playa Cerritos
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Cerritos, located near El Pescadero, Baja California Sur, is a popular destination for surfers. The beach is known for its consistent waves, making it a prime spot for beginner and experienced surfers. However, it’s also a great place for those who want to relax or take long walks along the shore. The beach is less crowded than other tourist-heavy spots, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. At sunset, the beach becomes a perfect location to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Top Experiences: Surfing, swimming, beach walks, and sunset viewing
Location: El Pescadero, Baja California Sur
Beaches in Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer an array of magnificent experiences, from bustling shores to secluded paradises. These 10 beaches provide everything from surfing and snorkeling to family-friendly spots, each with unique visitor experiences. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, these destinations have something for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL for easy bookings and hassle-free travel options.
Cover Photo: Jezael Melgoza / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only