Puerto Vallarta - Nice beach near pier?

Hi, what are the options for going to a beach near the pier in Puerto Vallarta? Is there anything within walking distance (a mile or less) that is also free/cheap to go to and has a restaurant near by? Also, are the beaches in Mexico public, even if there is a resort nearby? Thanks!

Yes the beaches in Mexico are public, but the hotelfacilities arenot. You will see some signs re public access, also close to the cruiseterminal. One of the exemption was or is the Hotel Krystal not too far from the cruise terminal, by showing your cruisecard they gave access to cruise passengers if they buy some food and drinks. I am not realy sure they still do however. The beach is rather nice. http://www.krystal-hotels.com/PuertoVallarta/english

Many people take a bus or cab to old town and have a drink/food one of the restaurants right on Playa los Muertos. Most of them offer bathrooms but no showers. Bring you own towels.