Surrounded by tropical jungle and the calm waters of southern Banderas Bay, Playa Mismaloya blends natural beauty, local culture, and cinematic history into one of Puerto Vallarta's most memorable beaches.
Explore one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic beaches, where lush jungle, calm waters, and rich local history create a memorable coastal escape.
Gallery
Discover Playa Mismaloya through its lush jungle backdrop, golden sand, calm bay, fishing boats, and breathtaking views toward Los Arcos Marine Park.
Experience Playa Mismaloya from above as emerald jungle meets the Pacific, colorful fishing boats line the shore, and nearby Los Arcos rises from the sea.
Experiences
Depart for snorkeling tours, private boat charters, paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving, and unforgettable adventures at nearby Los Arcos Marine Park.
Dining
Explore
Continue exploring Los Arcos Marine Park, Playa Gemelas, Boca de Tomatlán, Colomitos, Las Ánimas, and the lush southern coastline of Puerto Vallarta.
Stay
Stay near Playa Mismaloya in beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, hillside villas, and vacation rentals surrounded by tropical jungle and spectacular bay views.
Beach Guide
Playa Mismaloya occupies a beautiful crescent-shaped bay approximately 12 kilometers south of Puerto Vallarta. Backed by the Sierra Madre mountains and fronting the calm waters of Banderas Bay, the beach offers a distinctive combination of tropical scenery, local fishing traditions, and easy access to some of the region’s most celebrated marine environments.
The beach gained international attention after serving as the filming location for the 1964 movie The Night of the Iguana, introducing Puerto Vallarta to audiences around the world. While the area has grown considerably since then, Mismaloya has retained much of its relaxed coastal character. Colorful fishing boats rest along the shoreline, waterfront restaurants serve fresh seafood, and visitors enjoy a slower pace than the beaches closer to downtown.
The sheltered bay typically provides gentle waves and warm water, making it a popular choice for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Boat tours also depart from the beach to nearby Los Arcos Marine Park, where dramatic granite islands, sea caves, and abundant marine life make snorkeling and diving among the best experiences in Banderas Bay.
Playa Mismaloya also serves as an excellent base for exploring Puerto Vallarta’s southern coastline. Boca de Tomatlán, Playa Gemelas, Colomitos, Las Ánimas, and Yelapa are all easily incorporated into a full day of adventure, whether by boat or by following the scenic coastal highway.
START PLANNING
Planning a private charter, stay, experience or something entirely your own? Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll help with the details.
Prefer to talk? Call us →Typically responds within minutes
