Not all beaches are the same, even if they look that way in photos. Puerto Vallarta already has two beaches with international Blue Flag certification — a distinction very few destinations in Mexico manage to maintain — and seven more will be added in August. If you’re planning your next all-inclusive getaway, here’s exactly what that seal guarantees and why it should matter when choosing where to stay.
What Blue Flag certification is and why it’s hard to earn
An international standard, not a marketing label
Blue Flag certification is awarded only to beaches that meet strict international criteria, independently verified.
What it actually evaluates: water quality, safety, accessibility, and environmental management
The distinction reviews everything from water cleanliness to the beach’s safety infrastructure and accessibility.
Puerto Vallarta adds 2 certified beaches.
From 2 to 9 certified beaches: the leap Puerto Vallarta is taking this August
Puerto Vallarta already has two Blue Flag beaches today: Playa de Oro and Playa Camarones. Starting in August, seven more will be added, according to the announcement by Christian Bravo Carbajal, president of the Free, Clean, and Certified Beaches Commission, in coordination with the Jalisco State Government. The official announcement with the specific names is expected next month.
Playa de Oro: the beach that already holds double recognition
Playa de Oro is currently the only beach in Puerto Vallarta with both the White and Platinum Flag distinction and Blue Flag certification — an added recognition that places it among the destination’s highest-quality beaches.
Playa Camarones: the other certified beach in the bay
Playa Camarones is the second beach in Puerto Vallarta with Blue Flag certification, meeting the same international standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
A recognition that strengthens the destination against other beaches in Mexico
The Blue Flag program is operated internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education and evaluates environmental education, water quality, environmental management, and safety — it’s not a distinction any beach can easily obtain.
What travelers gain by choosing a certified beach over one that isn’t
Greater certainty about water quality and safety conditions during your stay.
Experience the certified beach from Hacienda Buenaventura
A five-minute walk away, or a free shuttle to the beach
The hotel offers easy beach access, whether walking or via free transportation for guests.
An all-inclusive stay with Mexican charm facing one of Mexico’s best-kept bays
The property’s hacienda-style experience now comes paired with the assurance of a beach evaluated under international standards.
Ideal for families: water evaluated under international safety standards
An added source of peace of mind for those traveling with young children.
How to make the most of your stay with this added assurance
Check the times of lower surf, follow the beach safety flags, and take advantage of the kids’ activities within the certified zone.
Choosing a destination with certified beaches isn’t a minor detail — it’s a guarantee of peace of mind for the whole family. Discover Hacienda Buenaventura’s all-inclusive packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Blue Flag certification?
It’s an international distinction that evaluates a beach’s water quality, safety, accessibility, and environmental management, awarded only to those that meet strict standards.
How many beaches in Puerto Vallarta will have this certification by August 2026?
Seven beaches in Puerto Vallarta will receive Blue Flag certification starting in August 2026, according to the announcement from the municipality’s Free, Clean, and Certified Beaches Commission.
How close is Hacienda Buenaventura to the beach?
The hotel is a five-minute walk from the beach, and also offers free transportation for guests who prefer not to walk.
Why does this matter for traveling with children?
A Blue Flag certified beach meets evaluated standards for water quality and safety, providing added peace of mind for families traveling with young children.