3 Ways Puerto Vallarta Officials Are Keeping Tourists Safe On Beaches This Winter

Last Updated 3 weeks ago

Puerto Vallarta is in the midst of a record-breaking high season for international travel, with hundreds of thousands of travelers expected to flock to the sunny destination during the holidays.

With so many visitors arriving to enjoy the city’s pleasant weather and unique cultural sights, officials are devoting more resources to protect travelers. 

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest destinations in Mexico, a reputation that authorities are working hard to maintain.

That’s especially true across the city’s many beaches, which remain one of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular features. 

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With that in mind, here’s a look at three measures officials are taking to protect travelers on public beaches this winter.

Authorities Step Up Beach Safety Amid Travel Surge

The Mexican Pacific city of Puerto Vallarta is having its best year on record regarding arriving passenger figures. While the city has been a hit with tourists for decades, new international routes and an excellent track record in safety make this coastal hotspot a suitable choice for millions of visitors. 

For many, Puerto Vallarta’s pristine beaches are a must-see attraction when visiting the bustling city. The coastal hotspot is home to a number of excellent beaches, including Playa Conchas Chinas and others located in the vicinity of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

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Although largely safe for travelers, Puerto Vallarta’s occasionally windy and rainy weather, as well as petty crime, can pose safety risks for beachgoers. That’s why this winter, officials have launched a comprehensive safety operation to protect travelers in the sunny destination. 

More Lifeguards To Watch Over Swimmers

One of the main steps currently being taken by officials involves the deployment of more lifeguards on busy public beaches to prevent drownings.

With some 25 lifeguards on duty from morning until evening, travelers can rest assured that help can be found when needed.

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Travelers headed to Puerto Vallarta this winter are urged to stick to popular public beaches, including the likes of Playa Los Muertos and Playa Camarones.

Although more remote beaches are also great to explore, they lack public lifeguards, meaning that travelers can only swim at their own risk.

New Investments In Lifesaving Equipment 

Another important measure that will help ensure Puerto Vallarta’s reputation as a safe beach destination this winter is new investments in lifesaving equipment.

While lifeguards undoubtedly play a key role in protecting travelers, they rely on complex – and costly – resources to do so.

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This winter, lifeguard stations in Puerto Vallarta are equipped with state-of-the-art and modern equipment, boosting the effectiveness of first responders. 

In addition to comprehensive first aid kits, civil protection officials have deployed two jet skis, two high-speed crafts, and 3 highly mobile ambulances located on Concahs Chias, Gaviotas, and Ixtapa.

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Meanwhile, lifeguards are carrying out regular inspections of public beaches to ascertain swimming conditions and warn travelers accordingly.

Beach Warning System 

While officials have been proactive in improving safety across Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, travelers are also being asked to take certain precautions when heading out for a swim. 

To make the job easier, Puerto Vallarta uses a color-coded flag system to notify travelers about existing swimming conditions. The system consists of several different colors, ranging from green, which points to safe conditions.

Meanwhile, a yellow flag warns travelers to exercise increased precaution due to waves or currents.

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Travelers should avoid swimming during a red or black flag, which point to dangerous conditions.

Lastly, a purple flag warns travelers about the presence of potentially dangerous wildlife, like sharks or crocodiles.