A remote beach accessible only by water taxi from Puerto Vallarta, fronting a small fishing village. The calm, protected waters are excellent for swimming and snorkeling among sea turtles and tropical fish. A handful of palapa restaurants serve fresh catch. Far less touristy than central Puerto Vallarta beaches.
Playa Las Ánimas sits in Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco, in front of a small fishing village reachable only by a roughly 30-minute water taxi from Puerto Vallarta. The beach is a long stretch of soft sand with notably calm, protected water, shielded from open swell by the surrounding coastline, which keeps conditions gentle for swimming and snorkeling most of the year. Visibility is generally good, and sea turtles and small tropical reef fish are commonly spotted just offshore, making this one of the better casual snorkeling spots along this stretch of coast. The village behind the beach is modest, with a handful of open-air palapa restaurants serving the day's catch, and there is little in the way of formal infrastructure — no hotels, beach clubs, or paved roads. This lack of development is part of the appeal, drawing visitors seeking a quieter alternative to the crowded beaches of central Puerto Vallarta. Kayaking along the calm coastline is popular given the sheltered water, and the beach connects to Boca de Tomatlán via a scenic coastal hiking trail for those wanting to explore further. The rustic, unhurried atmosphere suits day-trippers more than long stays, since accommodation options in the village are minimal. Water taxis depart on a set schedule from Puerto Vallarta's Los Muertos pier or Boca de Tomatlán, so travelers should plan the return trip around posted departure times.
Amenities
- palapa restaurants
- water taxi access
- basic beach facilities
Good to know
- Best for
- snorkellers, swimmers, wildlife-watchers, solo
Highlights
- Calm, protected water shielded from open ocean swell
- Sea turtles and tropical fish commonly spotted while snorkeling just offshore
- Reachable only by a 30-minute water taxi from Puerto Vallarta
- Palapa restaurants serving fresh local seafood on the sand
- Scenic coastal hiking trail connecting to Boca de Tomatlán
Tips for visiting
- Check the return water taxi schedule before departing, as boats run on a fixed timetable
- Snorkeling conditions are best in the morning before boat traffic stirs up visibility
- Bring cash for palapa restaurants, as card payment is unreliable in the village
- Consider the coastal hike to or from Boca de Tomatlán for scenic views if time allows
- Arrive early on weekends, as the small beach can feel crowded once tour boats arrive
When to visit
Morning arrival by an early water taxi gives the calmest snorkeling conditions before midday tour boats arrive; the dry season from December through April is most reliable for crossings.
Accessibility
The beach is reached directly by boat landing onto open sand with no paved paths, making independent wheelchair access impractical; no beach wheelchairs are known to be available.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Playa Las Ánimas?
It is accessible only by water taxi, typically a 30-minute ride from Puerto Vallarta's Los Muertos pier or a shorter trip from Boca de Tomatlán.
Is snorkeling good at Playa Las Ánimas?
Yes, the calm, clear water is home to sea turtles and tropical reef fish, making it a popular casual snorkeling spot.
Are there hotels in Las Ánimas?
No, the village has minimal accommodation; most visitors come as a day trip rather than staying overnight.
Can I hike from Las Ánimas to other beaches?
Yes, a scenic coastal trail connects Las Ánimas to Boca de Tomatlán for those wanting to explore on foot.