
Playa Anclote Punta Mita
A picturesque beach in Punta Mita, known for its surf breaks and beachfront dining, offering a relaxed coastal vibe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant sun

Playa Anclote Punta Mita
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant sun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque beach in Punta Mita, known for its surf breaks and beachfront dining, offering a relaxed coastal vibe.
"Beautiful blue waters and great surf, but can be rocky and windy."

🌊 Beach Footwear
Be cautious of rocky areas and coral bits; water shoes are recommended to protect your feet .
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Playa Anclote and nearby La Lancha are great for surfing, with lessons available for all levels .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

El Anclote Beach
Punta de Mita, Nayarit
A picturesque stretch of coastline with clear blue waters and a relaxed vibe, perfect for soaking up the sun.

Surfing Opportunities
Playa La Lancha, El Anclote, Sayulita
Catch some waves at renowned surf spots suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Seafood Delights
Various beachfront restaurants
Savor fresh, local seafood dishes like aguachile and grilled fish at charming seaside eateries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to El Anclote
Navigating Punta Mita's Beaches
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Beach Footwear
Be cautious of rocky areas and coral bits; water shoes are recommended to protect your feet.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Playa Anclote and nearby La Lancha are great for surfing, with lessons available for all levels.
🚗 Parking Access
Park across from Hotel La Quinta Del Sol and take the stairs down to the beach access.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at restaurants like Lobster Paradise and El Fondo del Mar.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Beach Footwear
Be cautious of rocky areas and coral bits; water shoes are recommended to protect your feet.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Playa Anclote and nearby La Lancha are great for surfing, with lessons available for all levels.
🚗 Parking Access
Park across from Hotel La Quinta Del Sol and take the stairs down to the beach access.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at restaurants like Lobster Paradise and El Fondo del Mar.
☀️ Morning Serenity
Visit early for a quieter experience before the beach gets busier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Anclote is praised for its beautiful blue waters and relaxed atmosphere, with many enjoying the surfing opportunities and beachfront dining. However, some visitors find the beach to be quite rocky and windy, with strong waves that can make swimming difficult and potentially cause cuts on feet.
"Clean beach, quiet little town. Surf instructor told us the white, weathered coral bits are still washing up from the first wave of warmer water in 1992."
Brenda West
"Trashy beach. And when I say trashy I mean there is TRASH, litter, clothes, shoes, plastic bags, beer bottles/cans. It looks like this is where the street drains into the ocean. Avoid this place. We all have cuts on our feet and will be applying antiseptic as soon as we return to our condo.
It's unfortunate too because the water is clear, blue, beautiful. There are rocks and pebbles all over this area. If you're looking for a rock free area I'd just suggest elsewhere."
Kara Straney
"Stinky's break is here. Parking is across the street from Hotel La Quinta Del Sol and down the stairs right to the surf
Great beach to relax and enjoy your day"
Mark Igonia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), you can take a taxi, pre-booked shuttle, or Uber to Punta Mita. Some travelers suggest Uber from the airport for cost savings, though return trips might require a private driver or taxi. The drive typically takes about 45-60 minutes.
Driving in Punta Mita is generally considered safe, especially on the main roads. If you plan to explore beyond the immediate beach areas, renting a car can offer flexibility.
Punta Mita is relatively compact. You can walk to many places, or use taxis and ride-sharing services for longer distances. Some resorts also offer shuttle services.
While direct public transport to every small beach can be limited, local buses run along the main highway. From there, you might need a short taxi ride to reach Playa Anclote specifically.
Parking is available across the street from Hotel La Quinta Del Sol, with access to the beach via a set of stairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa Anclote is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it. You only pay for services like food, drinks, or rentals.
As a public beach, Playa Anclote is accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, beachfront restaurants and services will have their own operating hours.
No advance booking is necessary for general beach access. If you plan to dine at popular restaurants or rent equipment, it's advisable to check their availability.
General beach rules apply, such as not leaving trash behind. Due to potential strong waves and rocky areas, swimming conditions can vary.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks to public beaches in Mexico. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself.
🎫 🏄♀️ Onsite Experience
Playa Anclote is popular for surfing, especially at nearby breaks like La Lancha. You can also relax on the beach, swim (conditions permitting), and enjoy beachfront dining.
Some visitors find the beach rocky with strong waves, making swimming challenging. It's best to assess the conditions upon arrival or opt for nearby calmer beaches if swimming is your priority.
Yes, surf instructors are often available at Playa Anclote and nearby surf spots, catering to all skill levels.
Beachfront restaurants offer food, drinks, and sometimes chair/umbrella rentals. Restrooms may be available at these establishments.
Crowds can vary. Weekdays and mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a focus on fresh seafood, including fish prepared 'a la talla' (grilled), aguachiles, and lobster dishes. Many restaurants offer stunning ocean views.
While some beachfront restaurants can be on the pricier side, you can often find more casual options or enjoy a simple meal. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage costs.
Lobster Paradise and El Fondo del Mar are frequently mentioned for their seafood. It's always a good idea to check recent reviews for current recommendations.
Options may be limited, as the focus is on seafood. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurants about their vegetarian or vegan offerings.
Some beachfront restaurants do offer chair and umbrella rentals, often with the expectation that you'll order food or drinks from them.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant blue ocean, the sandy shores, and the surfers catching waves. The beachfront restaurants also offer scenic backdrops for photos.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers bright, tropical colors.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and any restrictions imposed by private establishments before flying a drone.
Look out for the weathered coral bits that wash ashore, remnants from a significant ocean event. The local fishing boats and the diverse marine life (if visible) can also make for interesting shots.
A versatile camera that can handle bright sunlight and potential water spray is ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture surfers in action.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing water shoes for everyone to navigate the shore safely. For families prioritizing calm swimming, exploring nearby beaches might be a better alternative. The relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to try local seafood can still make for a memorable family outing.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the clear waters can be great for snorkeling if conditions are calm, though the rocky areas might limit easy access. The vibrant surf culture in Punta Mita means you're in good company with fellow enthusiasts. Don't hesitate to ask locals or instructors for the best spots and times to hit the water.
🍽️ Foodies and Beach Dining Aficionados
While seafood is the star, many establishments offer a range of dishes. It's worth exploring the menus and perhaps asking for recommendations. The experience of dining with an ocean breeze and a picturesque sunset is a significant part of the appeal, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed and flavorful meal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Playa Anclote and Beyond
Surf instructors are readily available, making it accessible for beginners to learn the basics and get comfortable on a board. The consistent swells in the region provide a good playground for various skill levels. Remember to check the ocean conditions, as they can change, and always prioritize safety when entering the water.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Playa Anclote, exploring nearby surf towns like Sayulita offers a different vibe and more surf breaks. This makes Punta Mita a fantastic base for a surf-focused vacation, with options to suit different preferences and skill levels.
Dining Experiences on the Sand
Expect to find popular dishes such as 'pescado zarandeado' (grilled fish), zesty aguachiles, and succulent lobster. Restaurants like Lobster Paradise and El Fondo del Mar are frequently highlighted for their delicious offerings and vibrant atmosphere. Many places also provide amenities like beach chair and umbrella rentals, often with the understanding that you'll be dining with them.
While the seafood is a major draw, it's always a good idea to inquire about other menu options if you have dietary restrictions. Enjoying a meal with the sound of the waves and a tropical breeze is a highlight for many visitors to Playa Anclote.
Navigating Beach Conditions and Amenities
Despite these considerations, the water is often described as clear and blue, and the beach offers a relaxing atmosphere for sunbathing and enjoying the scenery. Parking is conveniently located across from Hotel La Quinta Del Sol, with access to the beach via a set of stairs. This makes it relatively easy to reach the shore.
Amenities are primarily centered around the beachfront restaurants, which can offer food, drinks, and rentals. For those seeking a purely sandy beach or calmer waters for swimming, exploring adjacent beaches like Playa La Lancha or venturing to nearby towns like Sayulita might be a better option. However, for surfers and those who appreciate a more rugged, natural coastal setting, Playa Anclote holds its own charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit