Playa Olas Altas, Sandy beach in Zona Romántica of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Playa Olas Altas is a beach south of the Cuale River in Puerto Vallarta's Zona Romántica, described by Lonely Planet as the handiest beach to Zona Centro. Facing the sand near Lázaro Cárdenas plaza are open-air stands selling beach accessories, small grocery stores and beach-facing bar-restaurants. Fodor's notes it draws fewer sunbathers than Los Muertos but gets lively during holidays, with impromptu snack stands and shaded tables on the sand.

The beach and its adjacent street have kept the name Olas Altas since Puerto Vallarta's emergence as a coastal destination. This area played a key role in transforming the town from a small fishing settlement into an established travel destination during the 20th century.

The waterfront shows a blend of local life and tourism, where residents relax alongside visitors throughout the day. The dining and entertainment venues along the shore reflect both regional tastes and international influences.

The beach lies south of the Cuale River, a short walk from Zona Centro, and faces Lázaro Cárdenas plaza, where open-air stands sell beach accessories and small grocery stores line the street. Bar-restaurants sit directly facing the sand, and the renovated Los Muertos Pier is in view from the shore.

Fodor's notes that Olas Altas draws fewer sunbathers than neighbouring Los Muertos, yet during holidays it fills with sunbathers, impromptu snack stands and shaded tables set directly on the sand. From the beach there are views of the renovated Los Muertos Pier, which is lit up at night.