You don’t need to hop on a plane for a dream getaway. Check out thesebeaches in Jalisco that look like they’re straight out of the Caribbean.
Both Chamela Bay, on the Costalegre, and Cabo Corrientes, south of Puerto Vallarta, hide incredible destinations.
Make a note and add a visit to the most beautiful beaches to your itinerary: keep in mind that many of them are only accessible by boat or panga.
Hidden between the jungle and the sea, Majahuitas is one of the most peaceful and spectacular beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Vallarta. Its turquoise waters, white sand, and jungle setting make it the perfect place to unwind.
How to get there:From Boca de Tomatlán, take a water taxi (panga) bound for Majahuitas or access it via a beach club day pass that includes boat transportation.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 4 hours.
Yelapa
A hidden gem of Banderas Bay. In Yelapa, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the sea and also have the chance to explore jungle trails that lead to crystal-clear waterfalls, perfect for bringing out your adventurous side.
How to get there: From Boca de Tomatlán, take a water taxi (panga) bound for Yelapa.
🚘Distance from Guadalajara:5 hours.
One of the smallest beaches in Mexico… and also one of the most beautiful! It’s a cove deep in the jungle that can only be reached by water taxi or after a hike. Since it’s quite famous, it can get crowded during peak season, but on weekdays it’s a paradise.
How to get there: The easiest way is to take a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán. You can also walk there via a short trail that starts in Boca; the path is rocky but very scenic.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 4 hours and 35 minutes
Isla Cocinas
You can only reach this island by boat, and it looks like something out of the Caribbean: super-white sand and turquoise water. There are no hotels—just the sea, fish, and people, especially during high season—but it’s well worth the trip either way. It’s ideal for snorkeling, a leisurely swim, or kayaking.
How to get there: You must take a boat from Punta Pérula (the most common departure point) or from Chamela. The trip is short and generally inexpensive. There are no services on the island, so bring water, snacks, and a sunshade.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 5 hours and 20 minutes
Playa Caballo
The “secret” neighbor of Playa Las Ánimas, here you’ll find a beautiful, less crowded beach with lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters. It’s only accessible by water.
How to get there: From Boca de Tomatlán, take a water taxi (panga) heading to Playa Las Ánimas. Ask the captain to drop you off specifically at Playa Caballo.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Playa Corrales
South of Puerto Vallarta lies this beautiful bay with white sand, surrounded by nature. It’s rarely crowded and features a charming, photogenic lighthouse. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even surfing.
How to get there: By car, you’ll have to drive along a stretch of dirt road or take a boat from nearby communities, such as Tehuamixtle.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 6 hours
Xala
Located on the Costalegre, within the eight kilometers of Xala Beach , a luxury tourism project is in the works: this is where Mexico’s first Six Senses hotel will be built.
A stunning natural setting that, for now, is still accessible via a dirt road.
How to get there: Take the Coastal Highway toward Tomatlán and watch for signs pointing toward José María Morelos or the Chalacatepec area.
🚘 Distance from Guadalajara: 6 hours
