Las Caletas Beach (Playa Las Caletas)

As with most stretches of Jalisco coastline—especially in and around Puerto Vallarta—Las Caletas is hemmed on one side by crashing seas and the other by tropical palms, orchids, and lush jungle. Not only will bird-watchers find a delightful setting here, but sun-worshippers and water babies as well, with guided diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking options.

Unlike most parts of the Jalisco coastline, though, Las Caletas is entirely private and can’t be reached independently. So if you’re sold on the thought of a laid-back, all-inclusive beach day, you’ll need to book a tour; they typically involve open bars, cooking classes, and evening shows, among a host of other benefits.

• There’s an activity to appeal to every age at Las Caletas, from play areas to under-the-sea activities, as well as free guided walks.

• Take a change of clothes and other items you’ll need to enjoy a full day at the beach and in the surrounding jungle.

• Visit Las Caletas as part of an organized, all-inclusive day trip to take advantage of both the fun and relaxation this private beach has to offer.

• Las Caletas is the only private beach on this stretch of shoreline.

• Non-ambulatory travelers who use a wheelchair may find this destination inaccessible.

Las Caletas, situated on the south side of the Bay of Banderas, is only accessible by boat. For that reason, visiting Las Caletas as part of an organized excursion is the only way to get there. Tours typically use modern catamarans to get there and back, often with food and an open bar offered onboard.

Given the popularity of Las Caletas day trips and the overall exclusivity of the place, spots on organized tours tend to sell out especially quickly in Puerto Vallarta’s high season, over the winter months. For a quieter—albeit more humid—experience, you’ll want to drop by between roughly June and September. Or, consider a midweek visit.

As the only stretch of privately managed beach in the area, Las Caletas offers a unique vibe and the opportunity to try a host of new experiences. However, if you’d like to explore more of the Bay of Banderas, consider taking a speedboat out of Boca de Tomatlán toward Playa las Ánimas, or hanging out in laid-back Yelapa and Majahuitas.