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  • Nayarit
  • Bahía de Banderas
  • Beach

Playa Careyeros

Playa Careyeros is a stunning, secluded beach nestled in the heart of Punta de Mita, Nayarit, Mexico.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 828 reviews.
Water
Fair
Crowds
Low
Location
Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit
Open map

Pacífico · 20.78° N · 105.51° W

What to know

Overview

Reaching this hidden gem requires a moderate hike through a dramatic canyon, approximately 3.5 kilometers, rewarding visitors with pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Frequently described as ‘off the beaten path,’ Playa Careyeros is a popular destination for those seeking a connection with nature and a peaceful escape. Traveler reviews consistently praise the beach’s tranquility and natural beauty, emphasizing the importance of bringing supplies as there are no amenities available. Opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly bird species, add to the experience. The area is known for its dramatic canyon walls, creating a picturesque backdrop. Nearby, the restaurant El Barracuda provides a dining option. The water is generally calm, making it suitable for families, though the waves can occasionally be strong. Parking is available in the restaurant’s lot, or along the dirt road leading to the beach, though limited.

About this listing

Compiled from Google Places and verified listing. Ratings and review counts come from Google Places; beach conditions and facilities can change. Last updated September 2026. Send a correction

The details

At a glance

Practical details for Playa Careyeros in Nayarit, Mexico.
Good for familiesGood
ParkingPaid
Water sportsYes
AccessibilityNo
Nearest airportPuerto Vallarta (PVR), about 30 km as the crow flies
Watch out forPotentially dangerous water due to strong waves and possible marine life (cocodrilos).

Guides · Nayarit

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Before you go

Common questions

Is Playa Careyeros good for families?

Our listing data rates Playa Careyeros "good" for families. A reasonable pick with kids, but the sea changes day to day: check the flags and the lifeguard post when you arrive.

How is the water quality at Playa Careyeros?

Our listing data rates the water at Playa Careyeros as fair. Visibility and conditions shift with weather, swell and sargassum, so check locally before you swim.

Is there parking available at Playa Careyeros?

Parking at Playa Careyeros is paid. Paid parking is available.

How crowded is Playa Careyeros?

Our listing data puts crowds at Playa Careyeros as low. Usually a quiet one, though weekends and holidays fill most beaches.

Are there restaurants near Playa Careyeros?

Our listing data rates food options at Playa Careyeros as fair. Limited dining options are available - consider bringing snacks or meals.

Getting there

Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit

20.7823° N, 105.5066° W

Nearby

Beaches within 20 km

Pacífico · 20.77° N · 105.51° W

Public Beach Punta de Mita

1 km awayRated 4.4 out of 5 on Google from 143 reviews.

Pacífico · 20.76° N · 105.49° W

Playa La Lancha

3 km awayRated 4.8 out of 5 on Google from 656 reviews.

Pacífico · 20.81° N · 105.48° W

Litibú Beach

4 km awayRated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 1,080 reviews.

Pacífico · 20.74° N · 105.42° W

Playa Destiladeras

10 km awayRated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 2,676 reviews.

Pacífico · 20.74° N · 105.42° W

Nayarit Small Beach

10 km awayRated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 50 reviews.

Hotel occupancy · Nuevo Nayarit

When it's busy

DataTur hotel occupancy for Nuevo Nayarit (Nayarit). DataTur reports by tourism destination: these are the figures for Nuevo Nayarit as a whole, not for Bahía de Banderas alone.

Busiest, on average
February, March, December

Occupancy averages about 81% in December. Book ahead.

Quietest, on average
May, August, October

Occupancy averages about 53% in September, so rooms are easier to find.

In 2024: busiest February (88.5%) · quietest September (51.8%)

January 2024 to December 2024, 0–100% occupancy scale.

Source: Official hotel occupancy statistics from DataTur (SECTUR Mexico). Aggregated across registered lodging categories.

Where to stay

Hotels near Playa Careyeros

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