About Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Sushi
Mantamar Beach Club & Sushi is a chic adults-only beach club and restaurant on Los Muertos Beach in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica. It combines a luxury resort-style infinity pool (complete with three built-in Jacuzzis) with a lively day-to-night party atmosphere . The pool area has an in-water swim-up bar and dozens of cushioned sun loungers, plus private cabanas and gazebos. Mantamar is known for its creative cocktails, gourmet beachfront dining (including a popular sushi menu), and top-notch resident DJs playing daily . This mix of upscale service and nonstop music has made Mantamar a landmark in Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene. (The name is indeed on a gay-friendly resort, but patrons of all orientations are welcome to book in). Owners rebuilt the club after a 2014 fire, and it reopened with modern décor and amenities that emphasize comfort and spectacle . Signature features include the panoramic rooftop “Top Sky Bar” with ocean/skyline views (the ultimate after-hours meetup), a dramatic pool deck facing the surf, and exclusive VIP areas. In short, Mantamar stands out for blending beach-front relaxation with high-energy pool parties and events, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Events and Programming
Every week Mantamar hosts DJs, foam parties, pool games and theme events. By day the scene is a sunbathing and swimming party – think dance music, foam cannons, and silly contests over cocktails. In recent years Mantamar has also become the hub for Puerto Vallarta’s big LGBTQ+ festivals. For example, each January Bear Week and New Year’s festivals draw thousands of attendees with huge pool parties and DJ lineups (Mantamar’s Bear Week often requires advance Eventbrite tickets ). In March 2026 Mantamar even hosted the debut “Fairyland” queer house-music festival (with top international DJs) . Easter week and Pride week in May likewise see special all-day events. Into the evening, the venue stays lively; on sunnier nights Mantamar sometimes runs late-night parties or co-organized events (often moving up to the rooftop Top Sky Bar afterwards, which hosts drag shows and DJ sets). On quieter days, expect a fun resort vibe – DJs spin house, techno or Latin beats by noon, and Mantamar’s staff will lead poolside games and activities. The typical budget for day events is modest: entry (or minimum spend) can be around a few hundred pesos, while festival tickets (for multi-day events) often run into the hundreds of dollars. In 2025, for instance, Bear Week passes were sold weeks in advance . In general, Mantamar offers daily parties with no fixed cover for 11am–7pm, and special night events with tickets. Regardless of schedule, look to Mantamar for a mix of international guest DJs, energetic crowd-sourced pool fun, and themed parties that keep the party going all season.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike a traditional theater, most days at Mantamar are open-key. If you’re not staying at the connected Almar hotel, expect a day-pass fee (around MXN 500) which is typically partially credited toward food & drink . Almar resort guests generally get in free. Patrons often book pool chairs or cabanas online through Mantamar’s booking system: for example, a beachfront cabana for two costs roughly MXN 1,500 (about US$75) and that full amount goes as credit toward F&B . Beach chairs and club chairs can also be reserved in advance online, especially for weekends or holidays. . Walk-ups are possible when not busy, but seats fill fast on event weekends – it’s wise to reserve early (holidays like Christmas, Bear Week, Pride draw crowds) to secure the best location. For major events (Bear Week, New Year’s, special concerts), Mantamar typically sells tickets via online event platforms months ahead . There is no traditional “box office” at the club; all tickets and passes are digital reservations or pre-paid QR passes. In summary, reserve general pool or cabana spots on the official Mantamar site for daily use, and use Eventbrite or official channels for big parties. Pricing tiers range from the modest entry fee to premium cabanas or group gazebos, but every purchase counts toward on-site spending.
Seating and Layout
The beach club is open-air with tiered lounge areas rather than fixed seating. At sand level are the “Camastros” (beach chairs) and lounges facing the ocean. Stepping back is the pool deck: a large infinity pool stretches toward the sea, surrounded by cushioned loungers, VIP cabanas (up to 8 people, rented by the day), and a row of covered gazebos (the largest for groups up to ~12). Alongside the pool is the swim-up bar and high-top tables. “La Terraza” is an elevated shaded terrace in the restaurant section, lined with dining tables and couches – it’s a great viewing spot (overlooking pool and beach) for enjoying sushi or cocktails. The Aqua area also includes three built-in whirlpool Jacuzzis inside the pool for relaxing in. All cabanas and gazebos sit near the pool, so you’ll always be near the music. Mantamar’s roof-level Top Sky Bar (separate from the beach club’s pool deck) is for late-night events and provides panoramic views – fans sometimes book into Mantamar and then head upstairs for rooftop drag brunches or DJ sets.
*Best seats:* If you want sun + action, choose a mid-pool lounge chair or shore chair near the DJ area (for maximum party vibe). VIP cabanas provide shade and privacy (ideal for groups). For a more relaxed view of the scene, the restaurant terrace tables are slightly removed (still with music pumping softly). The very back of the sand level can be quieter, good for people-watching. *General Admission:* Technically everyone with a paid pass or chair reservation is “GA” – mantaining the area as a single big pool/beach deck, chairs are unnumbered. *Acoustics/Sightlines:* Opposite most theaters, Mantamar’s setup is flat, so sound simply spreads across the open sky. Virtually no blind spots exist – the DJ booth is usually centrally located or on one side of the pool. Hard surfaces (stone deck, water) make the music loud, which is part of the vibe. *What to avoid:* Near the DJ speakers can get very loud mid-day; sensitive ears should stay a little distance back or use earplugs. Also note that Middle-of-the-week or slow days the music may pause mid-afternoon. Overall, any lounge or seat on the pool deck will put you in the best spot to see the party.
Getting There and Parking
Mantamar is at Calle Malecon 169 in Col. Emiliano Zapata (Zona Romántica) – right on Los Muertos Beach. It sits a few blocks west of the iconic Los Muertos pier and within walking distance of Garganta del Lobo and Plaza Los Mangos. Most visitors arrive by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Cabify are widely used in Vallarta) – just request “Mantamar Beach Club, Los Muertos Beach” or drop on the Malecon in front of Almar Resort. Street parking is available on the Malecon and nearby streets, and Mantamar’s listing notes a valet service on site . Note that parking can fill up on busy days; if you drive, consider the public lot near Plaza Caracol (about 5 blocks east) or early arrival. If using public transit, local “camiones” (small buses) run along Basílo Badillo/Hidalgo avenues to closer stops (you’d get off near Plaza de Armas or playitas and walk 10 min). Shuttle buses to Zona Romántica run from north shore hotels. For airport visitors, a taxi from PVR airport is a 25–30 min ride. In any case, plan to arrive at least a bit early on event days to find parking or a drop-off spot conveniently.
Inside the Venue
Expect a polished yet bohemian beach atmosphere. On entry you’ll be checked – since Mantamar is strictly 18+ (adults only) , be prepared to show valid ID. After passing gate security, you’re on the open deck. The vibe is very social and energetic: loud EDM or Latin beats will be playing, people are dancing by the pool, servers bring drinks and sushi platters. There is no seating fee beyond your paid reservation. Towels, lockers, and showers are available at no extra charge , and restrooms (modern and air-conditioned) are scattered behind the cabanas and at the restaurant. Expect top-shelf environments – staff are attentive, offering table service for food and drinks wherever you lounge. The full bar serves creative cocktails (often with liquor flights or flaming shows), alongside beers and juices. The sushi bar/restaurant on the north side (“La Terraza”) serves salads, tacos, poke bowls and sushi rolls prepared by a chef (the cuisine is said to be “casual gourmet” by Chef Thierry Blouet ). During events, you may also see dancers/performers or foam/silly string fights in the pool. Photography is common (and fine) – just be mindful of privacy. Wi-Fi is available, but signal can be spotty near the water. Overall the atmosphere is upscale and playful: revelers range from bikini-clad partygoers to shirtless tanned men socializing with cocktails. Coat checks or lockers aren’t needed beyond small bags, since it’s basically swimwear-only. Note also that Mantamar enforces fair tipping and seating policies – one visitor review mentioned staff kindly reminding patrons of gratuity expectations . In short: enter ready to be relaxed but also amused – it’s a slick beach club where sipping the daily punch is part of the show.
Nearby Amenities
Before or after your visit you’ll find everything within a short walk. Directly adjacent to Mantamar is the popular beachfront La Palapa restaurant and lounge – ideal for a sunset meal or cocktails (and known for its romantic vibe). Other nearby spots include the open-bar Cantina & Salsichas (Mexican hot dogs and nightlife) and Joe Jack’s Fish Shack for seafood. Throughout Zona Romántica there are countless restaurants: Punto Agave and Sushi Itto (100 m north), chic El Sitio or El Dorado (300 m), and casual taco stands. For pre-show dinner, consider booking at local favorites like La Leche or Mr. Flamingo (modern bistro menus). Bars are ubiquitous – from chill roof lounges (like Almar’s own Top Sky Bar) to rowdy gay bars on Olas Altas. Hotels in the area include Almar Resort (connected to Mantamar), the friendly Olas Altas Inn, or budget stays steps away. If you arrive early, you might stroll the Malecon or Los Muertos beach (grab a coffee at Vista Grill’s brunch). After Mantamar closes, ride-shares run late – or you can walk a few blocks to Emiliano Zapata Avenue where taxis gather. (Late-night street vendor tacos are also common in Zona Romántica if the party works up an appetite!). Generally, aim to arrive 10–20 minutes before your booking to grab peak chairs and enjoy dinner nearby – Vallarta’s streets can be crowded around 11am openings.
What Makes This Venue Special
Mantamar stands out for its blend of lush resort comfort and all-day party energy. Architecturally, it features a dramatic multi-level design: a sleek infinity pool spilling toward the Pacific, an oceanfront bar, and a rooftop sky bar under the stars. Its all-white canopies and open-air layout contrast with the hilltop Top Sky Bar, creating a sense of tropical luxury. Historically, Mantamar’s 2014 fire and rapid rebuild added to its lore: the reinvented club has since become a symbol of Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. Locals recall legendary pool scenes with international DJs (a way to “be gay in paradise,” as one fan put it). Culturally, Mantamar is significant as Puerto Vallarta’s quintessential gay beach party – often bustling on Pride weekend or during Bear Week (when even presidents of gay groups have danced here). Famous performers and industry tastemakers (like Chef Thierry Blouet for cuisine and DJs from Mexico/Europe) have graced its decks. Simply put, both performers and guests love it because it offers front-row views of sunset over Banderas Bay while thumping to an unbeatable beat. Every detail – from neon-lit nights to sunrise yoga sessions – contributes to a community vibe. In short, whether it’s the first certified gay beach club in Vallarta or its soaring 5-star reviews, Mantamar’s unique character is that it feels both exclusive and inclusive: a place where luxury meets pride, and every party feels legendary.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Mantamar is mostly level, but there are a few steps from street level to pool deck. It provides ramps and elevators in key areas (e.g. terrace and restaurant) and claims to have modern bathrooms and showers . If you need assistance, call ahead — VIP treatment is common. What to Bring: Bring your ID (entrance is strictly 18+ ), swimwear, sunblock and sunglasses for daytime. Towels are provided, so no need to pack one. Flip-flops or sandals are recommended. Cash or card for tips and incidentals, and a phone for photos (power outlets are not free, so bring a dry bag for valuables). Dress Code: Daytime is beach casual (bathing suits, cover-ups). At night beach club attire is still casual-smart: resort wear, no jeans or heavy clothing needed. (If you go to the rooftop Top Bar later, some guests dress up a bit.) No swimsuits or bare torsos on street outside the club. Common Pitfalls: Don’t stay shoes or glass by the pool (the rules forbid glass). Also, Mantamar enforces a gratuity expectation – tipping ~15–20% is standard. Avoid empty promises: one review mentioned staff double-checked tips less than 20% . Don’t wear too little indoors – a cover-up is good when dining. Also beware of incessant beach vendors; security helps keep them out of the club areas, but on the sand you may see local merchants. Photography: Photos and smartphones are fine, and staff often encourage guests to take snaps of sunset and pool parties. For privacy reasons, avoid filming others without permission. Smoking: There are designated areas on the deck (usually near the bar). Indoors (restaurant) is non-smoking. Weather: Mantamar is open rain or shine, but heavy rain will limit pool activities. April–May and Nov–Dec are peak dry season – aim for early arrivals. In case of storms, staff will redirect guests under covered areas. Insider Tip: The best party action is midday Friday through Sunday. Arrive by 11am for prime lounge spots, and consider a late brunch there on Sunday (often with bottomless mimosas). If you want a break from loud music, head to the far end of the beach area or the sushi terrace for a quieter meal. Always ask for “Freddy” at the host stand – past guests rave about personable staff who’ll take great care of you. Finally, take advantage of the free-entry for Almar hotel guests: even if you only book one night at Almar, you get VIP-equivalent access to Mantamar by day. Age & ID: Entry is 18+ (sometimes enforced as 21+ during special events). Carry your passport or driver’s license – they will check for age at the door.
Frequently Asked Questions
