A favorite with locals who arrive on their own boats, this secluded very pretty beach actually consists of two sandy stretches each about a mile long, separated by rocks. One has half a dozen palapa restaurants and a dock, while the other is still pretty much the way God made it. The water is exceptionally clear and shallow, the gentle wave action conducive to swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. Water taxis or pangas leaving from Los Muertos pier or Boca de Tomatlan, south of Puerto Vallarta, schedule regular trips during the day.

Las Animas, a quiet, tiny beach inaccessible except by boat where sunbathers can relax in colorful beach chairs and choose from several rustic restaurants for Mexican fare. Snorkeling is popular in the gentle surf of this cozy beach.

Rumor has it that Las Animas was named for a pirate who was killed returning to his ship after he had buried his treasure somewhere along the beach. It was never found and legend has it his ghost protects the lost loot.

• About half an hour from PV by boat
• Don't miss trying Raicilla, the local moonshine