Las Animas Beach near Puerto Vallarta
Las Animas Beach hides its charms along the southern coast of Banderas Bay. It sits between Boca de Tomatlán and Quimixto. Unlike the busier beaches in the area, Las Animas offers a peaceful escape. Here, visitors can experience a perfect blend. The one of serene ocean views, outdoor activities, and local culinary delights. It’s a top choice for those looking to unwind while also enjoying some adventure in a tropical setting without the crowds. Here are some tips on Las Animas Beach near Puerto Vallarta.
What to expect
Las Ánimas Beach, also known as Las Ánimas de Quimixto, stretches for about 1,970 feet and is surrounded by impressive rock formations. Its soft golden sand, clear waters, and gentle waves create an ideal setting for water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach is also perfect for swimming and enjoying fun activities such as parasailing and banana boat rides. Lush greenery surrounds the area, and numerous beachfront seafood restaurants offer delicious meals and shaded lounge chairs under palapas for a relaxing day by the sea.
Las Animas Beach near Puerto Vallarta. Nature blooms here
Las Ánimas Beach is not only a paradise for sunbathers but also a sanctuary for nature lovers. Shaded by towering tropical trees like capomo, fig, palm, banana, and even coffee plants, the beach is teeming with life. These trees provide shelter for local wildlife, including quails, green and black iguanas, lizards, opossums, armadillos, squirrels, and vibrant species of butterflies. From December to March, the waters just off the beach come alive with dolphins, manta rays, and even majestic humpback whales, offering sailors a front-row seat to this natural spectacle.
What to do
Las Ánimas Beach offers something for everyone. If relaxation is your goal, you’ll find plenty of lounge chairs and palapas along the shore where you can sunbathe, enjoy the ocean breeze, and take in the beautiful view. For seafood lovers, the beach is lined with a variety of restaurants serving up fresh local catches.
For those in search of excitement, Las Ánimas is a hub for water sports. You can hop on a banana boat, soar through the skies while parasailing, or dive beneath the waves for some snorkeling or scuba diving. For a family-friendly adventure, head to Las Animas Beach Adventure Park, located just 650 feet from the shore. The park offers zip-lining and interactive trails that combine fun with ecological exploration, making it a great option for both kids and adults.
Las Animas Beach near Puerto Vallarta. How to get there
Reaching Las Ánimas is an adventure in itself. The beach is accessible only by water taxi, locally known as “pangas,” which can be boarded at Boca de Tomatlán, just outside Puerto Vallarta. If you’re up for more of a challenge, there’s also a scenic hiking trail. This 1.8-mile (3 km) path winds through the mountains, offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean and lush rainforest. The hike takes about an hour and a half each way and gives you the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area before arriving at the tranquil shores of Las Ánimas.
