Fodor's Expert Review Playa Palmares

This is the first beach to be awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification, a program run by the Foundation for Environmental Education. To get a Blue Flag a beach needs to meet 32 criteria regarding water quality, environmental education, environmental management, and safety and services. Located 6 km (3 miles) south of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown, Playa Palmares is a pristine stretch of beach, good for swimming and equipped with all the necessary services. Facilities: food concessions; restrooms, showers, parking. Best for: swimming; walking; sunset.