A quiet afternoon turned tense at Playa de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone when a crocodile was seen swimming among beachgoers. The sighting led Civil Protection authorities to raise the purple flag, warning of potentially dangerous marine wildlife and immediately clearing swimmers from the water.
The crocodile was spotted by lifeguards patrolling the area’s busiest stretch. Civil Protection teams quickly cordoned off the zone and began monitoring the animal, which remained calm and showed no signs of aggression.
“As a precaution, we’ve asked everyone to leave the sea,” said officials at the scene. “The crocodile is under surveillance and will be relocated to its natural habitat as soon as wildlife experts arrive.”
This isn’t the first time crocodiles have appeared in tourist areas during the rainy season. Experts say the reptiles often travel from their usual habitats in search of food or new territory, particularly when water levels rise.
“We’re not being invaded—they’re just navigating the environment they’ve always lived in,” explained a wildlife specialist, who reminded the public that crocodiles are native to the region and protected by federal law.
According to official estimates, Banderas Bay is home to a little over 300 adult crocodiles. While the number is relatively low, each sighting highlights the ongoing challenge of human expansion into natural habitats.
Despite initial alarm, the response from authorities was swift and effective, with no incidents reported. Officials urged the public to stay calm, keep a safe distance, and resist the urge to photograph or film the animal.
Beachgoers are also reminded to respect posted warning flags and follow lifeguard instructions.
As of now, Playa de los Muertos remains open, but the purple flag is still flying, and operations to safely relocate the crocodile are ongoing.