Places of interest #2 in Puerto Vallarta

Los Muertos Beach Pier

4.7 · 14,510 reviews
Active, breezy, and panoramic
Los Muertos Beach Pier, Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
Interesting facts
1

The pier's central 'sail' structure reaches a height of approximately 20 meters, serving as a lighthouse beacon for local vessels.

2

It was inaugurated in 2013 as part of a significant urban renewal project in the Zona Romántica.

3

The structure is built to withstand high-impact wave action and hurricane-force winds common to the Banderas Bay.

4

The pier serves as the primary departure point for daily water taxis headed to the secluded beaches of Yelapa, Quimixto, and Las Ánimas.

5

The lighting system utilizes energy-efficient LEDs that transition through different color palettes after sunset.

Overview

Los Muertos Beach Pier is a landmark architectural feature in Puerto Vallarta, distinguished by its elevated, sail-like central mast that illuminates at night. The structure extends 65 meters into the Pacific Ocean, serving as both a functional maritime boarding point for water taxis and a pedestrian promenade. Designed by architect José de Jesús Torres Vega, it replaced a previous wooden structure to modernize the coastal infrastructure. The pier creates a distinct visual divide between the northern and southern segments of Los Muertos Beach. Its elevated design allows for pedestrian circulation while boats dock at the lower water-level landings. The pier surface consists of durable concrete, elevated above the high-tide mark.

Photo spot

From the beach level looking upward at the central sail structure during the blue hour.

Insider tips

Walk to the very end of the pier for an unobstructed 360-degree view of the Sierra Madre mountains meeting the Pacific.

Visit during the weekday to avoid the heavy surge of weekend crowds heading to southern beaches.

Bring a windbreaker if visiting at night, as the breeze on the open water can be significantly cooler than on the beach.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to jump or dive from the elevated pedestrian deck, as water levels fluctuate and submerged hazards may exist.

Etiquette

No formal dress code, but footwear is advised as the concrete can become hot during peak afternoon sun.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Sunset, to witness the transition from natural light to the pier's colored illumination.
Address
Los Muertos Beach Pier, Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
20.601, -105.239
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleModern maritime
Primary FunctionPublic promenade and water taxi terminal

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunset, to witness the transition from natural light to the pier's colored illumination..

From the beach level looking upward at the central sail structure during the blue hour.

Close by you'll find Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Hill of the Cross Viewpoint, Naval Museum Secretary of the Navy of Mexico.

Mexico

About Puerto Vallarta