Blue-Flag Certified Beaches in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit in 2023

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are located on the western coast of Mexico and are renowned for their stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and pristine beaches that stretch along the Pacific coastline.
With their golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, these beaches have become a haven for travelers seeking natural beauty and relaxation. What’s more, the Banderas Bay boasts an impressive achievement: Seven of their beaches proudly display the prestigious Blue Flag certification in 2023, a testament to their exceptional quality and environmental sustainability. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit’s beautiful and clean beaches and delve into the significance of the Blue Flag certification.
Puerto Vallarta proudly hosts six Blue Flag-certified beaches in 2023
- Playa Camarones
- Playa Palmares
- Playa de Oro
- Sheraron Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center
- Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
- The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
2023 Blue Flag-certified beaches in Riviera Nayarit
- Nuevo Nayarit

Photo: Marriott.com
These beaches have demonstrated their dedication to environmental conservation and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety this year. The Blue Flag certification is a badge of honor for the local community, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the stunning natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coast.
Of course, this does not at all mean other beaches are not clean in the area. Municipalities and hotels are required to apply for this certification every year to obtain and retain the Blue Flag. The responsible local authority files the application form (with enclosed documentation) and sends it to the National Jury.
What is a Blue Flag Beach?
The Blue Flag is a certification given to beaches by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). A beach that has been awarded the blue flag means that it meets the organization’s standards of environmental management. These standards are for water quality, safety, and public environmental education. Local governments try to get the Blue Flag for their beaches and marinas, to show people that they have high environmental and quality standards.
The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a non-profit, non-governmental organization. It is made up of 65 organizations in 60 member countries in Europe, Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas.
FEE refers to the Blue Flag certificates as awards. They are issued for one year to beaches and marinas of FEE member countries. The awards are announced every year on 5 June for Europe, Canada, Morocco, Tunisia, and other countries in a similar geographic location, and on 1 November for the Caribbean, New Zealand, South Africa, and other countries in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Significance of Blue Flag Certification
The Blue Flag certification is a prestigious eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas worldwide that meet stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria. It signifies not only the natural beauty of these locations but also their commitment to sustainable practices and the preservation of the local ecosystem.
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit’s pristine beaches, with their picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear waters, are the epitome of a tropical paradise. The fact that six of these beautiful beaches proudly display the Blue Flag certification highlights the destination’s commitment to environmental sustainability, safety, and education. When you visit the Banderas Bay, you not only soak in the natural beauty but also contribute to the conservation efforts that make these beaches a haven for both locals and travelers. So, pack your sunscreen and swimsuit, and embark on a journey to experience the beauty and environmental consciousness of these stunning Blue Flag beaches.