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14 Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta For A Safe & Fun Trip (In-Depth Guide!)

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Looking for travel tips for Puerto Vallarta in Mexico?

Then you’re in the right place!

While many travelers flock to the beach towns on Mexico’s east coast, one destination worth considering for your next trip is Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast.

This gorgeous beach city is quickly becoming a hub for digital nomads and travelers alike, offering amazing weather, gorgeous beaches, and fantastic nightlife.

Puerto Vallarta is also a perfect place to visit if you love outdoor adventure. The city is surrounded by Banderas Bay, so there are endless opportunities for water sports and fun day trips to nearby islands. It’s also one of the best places for whale watching in Mexico!

Additionally, there are incredible hiking trails with the Sierra Madre Mountains right behind the city.

If you’re planning to travel to Puerto Vallarta, this post will tell you everything you need to know to ensure you have a fun and safe trip!

Quick tip: One thing Puerto Vallarta is known for is its delicious food, so make sure to book at least one these tasty food and drink tours during your stay!

Table of Contents

Plan Your Trip To Puerto Vallarta (Free Resources)

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Then let’s go over some important tips for traveling to Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Map

To start, it’s helpful to have an idea of where things are. This map of Puerto Vallarta can help:

You can also click here for an interactive map that you can zoom in and out of.

Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta

The following Puerto Vallarta tips will help you plan your trip:

1. Arriving: Puerto Vallarta Airport Tips

Getting to Puerto Vallarta is easy as there’s an international airport ( Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz ) with daily flights to many cities in North America.

It’s not a big airport, so it doesn’t take long to get through once you arrive, especially if you’ve already cleared customs in another city in Mexico.

In fact, when I arrived in Puerto Vallarta, it only took me 15 minutes from the time the plane landed to collect my bags and get out of the airport.

The airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes from the city center, and there are several options for getting there.

Once you’ve got your luggage, you can either grab a taxi right outside the main airport doors (many people will ask you if you need one), take a public bus, or get an Uber.

And if you need to connect, there is free Wi-Fi in the airport.

Ubers are about half the price of a taxi, but they do not come to the airport terminal doors; you will have to walk five minutes.

When you exit the airport, turn left (walk to the end of the building), and turn left again. You will see a pedestrian bridge across the street. Walk across the bridge and catch an Uber from over there as this is the only place they pick you up. It should cost about $5-10 to get from the airport to most accommodations.

Alternatively, you can take a public bus. The station is right under the pedestrian bridge on the same side as the airport.

There are several busses that go into the various neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta , which will be marked on the front of the bus.

If you aren’t sure, you can always ask the bus driver by saying the name of the area you are going to. The bus costs 50 cents.

2. US Travel To Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for travelers from the United States due to its close proximity, warm weather, amazing atmosphere, and an international airport that makes it easy to get to and from.

As a US citizen, you will automatically be given a six-month visa on arrival, making it a great place to work remotely if you want to extend your stay. In fact, it’s a popular place for creators to stay when trying to start a travel blog and make money .

There are direct flights from dozens of popular cities in the U.S. including Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, and San Francisco.

American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest all fly there as well as several other international airlines.

3. Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta Safety

Safety is always a concern for visitors traveling to Mexico, but Puerto Vallarta is actually one of the safest destinations in the country.

Millions of tourists visit Puerto Vallarta every year with no problems. I’ve lived here for three months as a solo female traveler and have never felt scared or in danger.

This being said, I do have a few safety tips for Puerto Vallarta to share:

Like any city, petty theft does happen so you should be vigilant when walking with your belongings, especially at night.

Keep your phone or attractive electronics away when you’re wandering the cobblestone streets, and don’t leave them unattended at the beach. You might also invest in some pickpocket-proof garments to more easily avoid pickpockets .

Moreover, always protect yourself with travel insurance , as theft can happen anywhere.

As a solo female traveler, I try to avoid walking at night no matter where I am. Instead, I get Ubers — which are very affordable in Puerto Vallarta.

The Malecon , a beach boardwalk in the center of Puerto Vallarta, is safe to walk alone at night as it is always full of people and police.

During Covid-19, Puerto Vallarta received the Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council, which recognizes the ongoing implementation of strict safety measures in destinations around the world.

4. Travel Insurance For Puerto Vallarta

Here is one of the most important tips for travelers to Mexico :

When visiting Puerto Vallarta — or anywhere else in the world — it’s important to get travel insurance. If we’ve learned anything in the last year, it’s that the unexpected can and does happen.

While there are many providers out there, one of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

5. Puerto Vallarta Weather

Puerto Vallarta has warm weather year-round, making it a perfect beach destination for those looking to escape the cold winters in the northern hemisphere.

Temperatures never get colder than 72°F, so you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches and ocean no matter what time of year you visit!

June is the hottest month of the year and the start of the rainy season which goes until October.

The rain typically only happens for a few hours in the afternoon or in the evening so you’ll still get lots of beach time even if you visit during the summer.

6. When To Visit Puerto Vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your tolerance for heat and crowds. October to April is the high season which coincides with the most pleasant (driest) weather and whale-watching season.

Since this is right after the rainy season, it’s also ideal for hiking as there will be lush green scenery and full waterfalls. In fact, the destination offers some of the most beautiful hikes in the world , with this being the best time to take in local scenery at its most stunning.

The downside of visiting during the high season is that this is when you’ll find the biggest crowds and the highest prices on accommodation.

The weather starts to become what many would consider unpleasantly hot in June, so avoid traveling to Puerto Vallarta then then if you don’t like the heat.

Additionally, the summer coincides with the rainy season but can be a great time to get deals on accommodation and tours.

You could also time your trip to Puerto Vallarta to attend one of the city’s many events like Pride month in May or Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early November.

7. What To Know About Puerto Vallarta Travel

Now, there are a few things to know about Puerto Vallarta before traveling.

When planning a trip to Mexico , you’ll be happy to know that the country has some of the most relaxed entry protocols anywhere in the world during COVID-19 — so if you’re wondering “Can I travel to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico” the answer is very likely “yes!”.

You do not need a test to enter the country, although I always recommend it.

Infection rates are declining on the whole in Mexico, and in Puerto Vallarta, there are few restrictions.

At the time of writing, everything is open, there is no curfew, and for the most part, life feels normal here. You must wear a mask inside establishments, and some places take your temperature before entering.

Moreover, Puerto Vallarta is extremely welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. Zona Romantica is the gay neighborhood, and it’s filled with rainbow flags and gay clubs. There are lots of events for LGBTQ+ travelers, especially during Pride at the end of May.

You do not need to know Spanish to travel around Puerto Vallarta, but it’s always helpful to know a few key phrases like hello ( hola ), thank you ( gracias ), and how are you ( cómo estás? ).

This being said, don’t be nervous if you can’t speak Spanish; most locals speak English and are used to travelers who do not know Spanish.

8. Puerto Vallarta Hotels

There’s no shortage of amazing hotels to stay at in Puerto Vallarta. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive family resort or an LGBTQ+ friendly hotel, you’ll be able to find it in Puerto Vallarta.

The biggest resorts and hotels tend to be concentrated in the north and south neighborhoods of the city where you’ll find nicer beaches.

If you want to stay in a resort, some good areas are Conchas Chinas , the North Hotel Zone , and Marina Vallarta . These places are known for having some really great all-inclusive Mexico resorts as well as delicious vegan-friendly Mexico resorts .

If you prefer to stay in the heart of the city then book your accommodation in 5 de Diciembre , El Centro , or Zona Romantica .

From these neighborhoods, you’ll be able to walk to The Malecon where you can find restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. You won’t find as many all-inclusive resorts here but there are plenty of boutique hotels and cute Airbnbs to choose from.

In reality, it doesn’t really matter which part of the city you stay in, as getting around is easy.

And to help you easily find great places to stay, here are a few resources:

Click here for a list of Puerto Vallarta hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!  

You can also use the map below to search for local stays:

9. Getting Around Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is not a huge city which makes it easy to get around.

In terms of the best way to travel in Puerto Vallarta , if you stay in Centro or Zona Romantica, you’ll be able to walk to bars, restaurants, and the beach easily.

Even if you stay in one of the neighborhoods a little further out like Conchas Chinas, you can still get around Puerto Vallarta cheaply by using the bus or ride-sharing apps.

There are buses that run all over the city and only cost 50 cents to get on.

Alternatively, you can take an Uber or inDriver (a local car ride app). A 20-minute Uber across town costs around $2.50-$5 depending on demand.

There are also taxis readily available on populated streets, but these are typically more expensive. Always remember to negotiate the price beforehand if you get a taxi!

Of course, you can also rent a car. While it’s not really necessary to have a car if you’re staying in and exploring Puerto Vallarta thanks to the many budget-friendly public transportation options, some travelers like to rent one if they’re doing a lot of day trips to traveling to other places in Mexico.

One recommendation:

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

10. Puerto Vallarta Restaurants

No list of Puerto Vallarta travel tips would be complete without talking about the food.

Mexico is world-famous for its cuisine, and Puerto Vallarta is no exception to this.

Given that the city is right by the ocean, you can enjoy excellent quality seafood here with Mexican flavor. Some of the top restaurants are:

• Mezcal y Sal
• Barcelona Tapas
• The Blue Shrimp

The street food is also amazing here, so don’t be afraid to try it. There are taco stands on almost every corner where you can enjoy a filling meal for just a couple of dollars.

In terms of Puerto Vallarta money tips , this is a great way to save if you’re traveling on a budget.

Puerto Vallarta also has plenty of vegan and vegetarian restaurants to choose from. Check out Vegan Ramen , the Green Place , and Salud Super Food for healthy veggie-friendly options.

11. Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta

Although Puerto Vallarta is a city, one of the best things about it is the quick access to the ocean and mountains, making it a perfect place to go on outdoor adventures .

Some of the most popular things to do here include whale watching, scuba diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, or simply relaxing by the beach and enjoying the gorgeous sunsets.

For the best diving, head to Los Arcos National Marine Park .

There are also a lot of hiking trails to explore around the city. One of my favorites is Los Arcos which leaves from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Beach .

It takes two hours, passing by secluded beaches along the way you can stop and enjoy.

From Las Animas, you can grab a water taxi back to the city.

Another popular walk within the city is to the Mirador La Cruz del Cerro , an observation deck with some of the best views of the city.

Within the city, there are many fun things to do too.

Walking along The Malecon is the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening just people watching and exploring the many restaurants and shops of Puerto Vallarta.

You can join a paid food or drink tour, and there are also free city walking tours and art walks that happen every Wednesday.

Additionally, Puerto Vallarta has lively nightlife with clubs that go into the early hours of the morning. Salsa dancing is very popular here!

12. Tours In Puerto Vallarta

Speaking of tours in Puerto Vallarta, here are some highly-rated ones to check out:

• 🍹 Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails
• ⛰️ Sierra Madre ATV Adventure from Puerto Vallarta
• 🐒 Puerto Vallarta Outdoor Adventure Zip Line and Speedboat Ride
• 🐠 Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Snorkeling Tour from Puerto Vallarta
• ⛵ Day Sailing on Banderas Bay

➡️ Click here for a full list of local Puerto Vallarta tours .

13. Day Trips From Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is an excellent base to explore surrounding places as fun day trips .

Sayulita and San Pancho are two up-and-coming beach towns in Mexico popular for surfing. Sayulita is notorious for its nightlife, and San Pancho is more relaxed.

From Boca de Tomatlán — which is a half an hour drive from Puerto Vallarta — you can get a taxi boat to many secluded beaches and small towns along the coast.

Yelapa is one of the most popular places to visit. This laid-back beach town is only accessible by boat or hiking trail, and there you can find many waterfalls to explore.

There’s also the charming mountain town of San Sebastian , an hour and a half drive away. It’s a great place to go hiking and cool off from the heat.

14. Solo Travel In Puerto Vallarta

Going on a vacation to Puerto Vallarta on your own? You’ll be happy to know that the city is one of the top solo female travel destinations for many.

It’s easy to make friends in Puerto Vallarta as a solo traveler. I found an amazing group of friends within two days of moving here that I’ve loved getting to know.

Staying at hostels is always a good way to meet people, but if you prefer to stay at an Airbnb or hotel, it’s still easy to meet other travelers.

Facebook groups are one of the most popular ways to connect with other travelers in Puerto Vallarta. Here are some of the best ones:

• Puerto Vallarta: Everything You Need Or Want to Know  (big, general group for asking questions about anything)
• Puerto Vallarta Digital Nomads  (coworking meet-ups and events)
• Puerto Vallarta Gays  (LGBTQ+ information, meet-ups, and tips)
• Young & Fun Xpats  (social meet-ups for people 20-40 years old)

I hope these tips could help you plan an amazing trip to Puerto Vallarta!

While the city is touristy, there’s a reason its so popular and I’ve fallen in love with it over the last few months. If you’re looking for a fun place to explore for your next vacation, Puerto Vallarta is a great choice!

What travel tips for Puerto Vallarta would you add to the list?

Bonus mexico travel resources:.

14 Best Places In Mexico To Travel Alone

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (+ Sample Itinerary!)

3, 4 & 7 Day Cancun Itinerary (The Best Things To Do In Cancun!)

Tulum Solo Travel Guide: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Puebla, Mexico

Solo Travel In Mexico City: The Ultimate Guide

Enjoyed this guide on how to prepare for a trip to Mexico? Pin it for later!

Related posts:

About Lora Pope

Lora Pope is a solo female adventure travel writer living nomadically around the world and currently based in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. She has traveled to over 58 countries and is on a quest to visit them all, seeking out a deeper connection with the nature and wildlife on this planet. You can follow her adventures at Explore With Lora .

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One Week in Puerto Vallarta Mexico: Easy 7 Day Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta is a stunning, tropical destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico. With sandy beaches, lush forests, and a vibrant town, one week in Puerto Vallarta is a perfect for girl’s trips, family vacations or spring break.

I have traveled to Puerto Vallarta with my family multiple times and it never disappoints. We typically split our time between the pool with a cocktail and outdoor adventures.

Additionally, we explore new restaurants each night to enjoy the local and international cuisine around town. Just writing this guide is making me want to book another trip back!

Follow this travel guide to learn how to perfectly navigate your getaway and spend one week in Puerto Vallarta.

This post contains affiliate links, which are unlabeled ads. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, which is at no extra cost to you.

One Week Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

This Puerto Vallarta travel guide will go in depth into what to do, where to stay, the best restaurants, and travel tips. However, let’s start with an easy 7 day itinerary for Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary – Day 1: Hotel Check in and Pool Time

I’ll mention this a few times in this guide, but I truly believe you should schedule relaxation into your Puerto Vallarta vacation. With such beautiful beaches and pools, it’s ok to spend time just lounging with a cocktail.

For the first day of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, check in to your hotel then spend the rest of the day relaxing at the beach or pool.

For dinner, venture to the marina or downtown for a good meal and some light sightseeing.

Day 2: Private Boat Tour

My favorite thing to do in Puerto Vallarta is taking a private boat tour . There are many great water activities in Puerto Vallarta and this private tour allows you to do them all in one day.

Spend your second day in Puerto Vallarta looking for marine animals such as whales and dolphins, snorkeling, and swimming in Bandera’s Bay.

Day 3: Beach Day & Night at the Malecon

As I said, be sure to spend plenty of time at the beach. Start day 3 at your resort with your toes in the sand.

In the afternoon, visit downtown Puerto Vallarta. Spend a few hours shopping at the local boutiques. Then, wander the Malecon, where you will see street performers, food vendors, and local artisans.

Day 4: Explore Puerto Vallarta’s Jungle

For the halfway point of this Puerto Vallarta itinerary, head into the jungle. A great way to get amazing views of the jungle is one a ziplining tour .

Zip through the canopy of the trees and take in the views of the lush jungle and bright blue coastline.

Day 5: Taste of Puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a must-see destination for all foodies. Its unique mix of Latin American and Mexican cuisine can’t be found anywhere else. For day 5, take yourself on a DIY Puerto Vallarta food tour.

With so many incredible restaurants, it’s hard to know where to start. Here’s a four stop DIY food tour of downtown Puerto Vallarta that will make sure you get the full range of this amazing city’s flavors: Stop 1 – Casa Nicole : For breakfast, head to Casa Nicole Ristorante and try their chilaquiles. This classic dish of fried tortillas smothered in green or red salsa is served with crema and queso fresco.

Stop 2 – La Leche: For lunch, wander over to La Leche and try their camarones al mojo de ajo. Battered shrimp are cooked in garlic butter for an indulgent yet light seafood dish. Stop 3 – Pancho’s Tacos: For the first part of dinner, go to Pancho’s Tacos for the best tacos in the city. The al pastor is my favorite. Stop 4 – Las Flamas: To finish off your night, get yourself an order of flautas at Las Flamas. Their signature rolled tacos are filled with savory fillings like pork, beef or vegetables and served up with guacamole and lime wedges.

Day 6: Puerto Vallarta ATV Tour

One of my favorite adventures in Puerto Vallarta is an ATV tour. For your final activity, I highly recommend this private ATV tour that visits the beach, mountain, and rivers.

The views are amazing and you’ll get a bit of an adrenaline rush.

Since this is only a half-day tour, you can use the afternoon to hit any other items on your Puerto Vallarta bucket list.

Day 7: Final Day of Relaxation

For the last day of your week in Puerto Vallarta, I recommend a final day of relaxation. There’s nothing worse than going home and needing a vacation from your vacation.

Schedule at least a half day for pool or beach time. Spend your last moment in Puerto Vallarta soaking in the sun and amazing ocean views.

If you are interested in more sightseeing, head to downtown for a walking tour. Here are some of the best places to see:

Self-Guided Downtown Puerto Vallarta Walking Tour

Stop 1: Plaza de Armas (Main Square)

• Begin your tour at Plaza de Armas, the central square of Puerto Vallarta.
• Admire the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church with its crown-topped tower.

2: El Malecón (The Boardwalk)

• Stroll along El Malecón, the picturesque oceanfront boardwalk.
• Discover the vibrant art installations and sculptures that line the path.

3: Los Muertos Beach

• Walk south along the Malecón to reach Los Muertos Beach, the heart of the Romantic Zone also known as the Zona Romantica.

4: Basilio Badillo Street

• Head inland to Basilio Badillo Street, known as the “Restaurant Row” of Puerto Vallarta.
• Discover an array of charming shops, art galleries, and eateries.

5: Olas Altas Street

• Continue on Olas Altas Street, lined with historic buildings and boutiques.
• Visit the Lazaro Cardenas Park, a popular spot for cultural events and outdoor performances.

6: Molino de Agua and the Cuale River Island

• Cross the Cuale River using the pedestrian bridge.
• Visit Molino de Agua, a residential complex with beautiful gardens and water features.
• Explore Cuale River Island’s cultural center, shops, and the flea market (if open).

What to do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has activities for everyone. There are beautiful pools and beaches for the laid-back traveler.

Adventurous travelers can head to the jungle for adrenaline-filled activities. Foodies and culture enthusiasts can tour the streets and partake in food tours for an immersive experience.

For this guide to Puerto Vallarta, I recommend mixing a bit of relaxation with adventure to enjoy all that PV has to offer without needing a vacation from your vacation.

Private Snorkeling Tour

✅ Snorkeling and sightseeing from a private boat

✅ Private beach lunch

ATV Jungle Tour

✅ Private tour

✅ See mountains, beaches, and rivers

Luxury Sailing to Banderas Bay

✅ Snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing

✅ Lunch and drinks included

1. Private Snorkeling Tour in Puerto Vallarta

A staple Puerto Vallarta activity is snorkeling. South of the town are some great coral reefs and coves with plentiful fish.

I highly recommend this private boat charte r, so you can tailor the trip to your own preferences. The crew will likely know of less common locations to provide a more personal experience.

This private tour typically includes sightseeing from the boat, snorkeling, and a private lunch on the beach. However, since it’s private, you can adjust the itinerary to your preferences.

Check prices and availability of this private snorkeling tour

2. Puerto vallarta ATV Tour

When people think about Puerto Vallarta, they often think of the ocean and beach. However, the jungle is equally as beautiful and fun.

A great way to explore the jungle in Puerto Vallarta is an ATV tour . This private ATV tour takes you through the mountains, rivers, and beach of Puerto Vallarta.

As you cover the diverse terrain, your private guide will teach you about the area, geology, and answer any of your questions. If you haven’t done an ATV your before, I highly encourage you to try this one!

Check prices and availability for this ATV tour in Puerto Vallarta

3. Luxury Sailing to Banderas Bay

You cannot visit this beautiful beach town with stunning views of the water without getting out on the ocean.

Situated an hour boat ride from the Marina is Banderas Bay, a secluded cove with a private restaurant. This is a fun spot to take a dip, swim to the beach or visit the exclusive restaurant.

This luxury sailing tour will take you to Banderas bay with time for swimming and snorkeling. It will also travel around to find whales, dolphins, or other wildlife sightseeing.

The tour includes lunch, snacks, and all beverages. I love how this tour includes food, sightseeing, and relaxation so your entire day is basically planned for you. Also, since it’s on a luxury sailboat, you won’t be overcrowded with other tourists.

Check the price and availability of this Puerto Vallarta sailing tour

4. Ziplining in Puerto Vallarta Jungle

Something that makes Puerto Vallarta unique to some other destinations in Mexico is the juxtaposition of the clear waters and jungle. When you fly into Puerto Vallarta, look out the window to get an idea of how lush this area really is.

A fun way to explore the Puerto Vallarta jungle is on a ziplining tour . Although ziplining may seem scary, your fears will quickly subside once you see the beautiful views from the canopy.

My boyfriend is severely afraid of flights and highly recommends ziplining!

This zipline tour takes you above the canopy of the jungle along 10 different lines. From the ziplines, you will have views of the jungle and the ocean. After the tour, relax your nerves with a complimentary tequila tasting.

Check availability of this ziplining tour

5. Walk the Malecon at Night

For a dose of culture, head downtown to the Malecon boardwalk. This stretch next to the beach is full of shops, restaurants, and fun street vendors. There are vendors offering local crafts, tasty foods, and entertainment. I recommend finding an elote vendor and trying this local street food dish.  

The street truly comes alive at night, with crowds of people and the most vendors. With this vibrancy comes a risk of crime so be sure to keep an eye on your purse and pockets.

Tip : To get a taxi to drop you off at the end of the Malecon, ask to be dropped off at McDonalds. They will know where you are talking about and this location sets you up for a perfect walk.

6. Fishing Tour

One fun water activity in Puerto Vallarta is fishing. Some fish such as tuna can easily be caught near shore and larger fish such as mahi or marlin can be pursued in the deeper waters.

There are also combo tours that include fishing with other activities such as snorkeling or swimming.

7. Pool day

As I mentioned above, be sure to include relaxation in your Puerto Vallarta itinerary so you go home rested. Some essentials to pack for a pool day are: Sunscreen : Be sure to bring plenty of high SPF sunscreen . The sun is intense in Mexico and will burn you more than you expect.

Sun Hat: Along the same lines, the sun is strong so protect your face with a comfortable sun hat.

Water bottle: As mentioned above, be sure to drink bottled water, not tap water. I like bringing an insulated water bottle to pour the filtered water into to keep it cold all day.

Fun Poolside Cocktails for Mexico:

Since you are bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated, you deserve some fun adult drinks as well. Some of my favorites are listed below. Always ask the bartender what they recommend for some fun and different options.

Miami Vice: A layered mix of pina colada and strawberry daquiri. You can make this fruity sweet drink at home by following this recipe .

Painkiller: A Caribbean classic, this mix of rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, coconut cream and nutmeg is super refreshing. I love this recipe to make it at home.

Blended White Russian: If you choose to get started drinking early (no judgement), this frothy mix of vodka, Kahlua and heavy cream is a great way to start your day. Find an easy recipe here .

For more of the best tours in Puerto Vallarta, check out my guide to what to do in Puerto Vallarta with family .

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has a wide range of accommodation options from hostels to all inclusive resorts to 5 star luxury properties. My favorite area to stay in Puerto Vallarta is the marina. There are many great restaurants and things to do, and it’s a short drive to downtown.

Below are the best resorts in Marina Vallarta and the luxury area of Punta Mita.

Where to stay in Marina Vallarta

As mentioned above, the Marina Vallarta area is ideal for people seeking luxury close to downtown. Marina Vallarta is located ten minutes from the international airport and thirty minutes from the downtown area, making it a great location for your trip.

Mid-Range Hotel: Marriott

This Marriott delivers above and beyond for its price point. Located within walking distance of the Marina, the Marriot is a great option for families and couples looking for affordable luxury.

The newly renovated pool area features stunning poolside cabanas, a swim up bar, and a relaxing tropical atmosphere. The pool and beachside day beds can be rented for those seeking a special experience. Otherwise, guests can park themselves in a pool chair and soak up a day of sun and relaxation.

The property has 6 restaurants and a coffee shop offering a range of food options including seafood, Japanese, a sports bar and traditional Mexican. There is also a fitness center and spa for guests to enjoy.

Luxury Hotel: Casa Velas

Another great option for where to stay in Marina Vallarta is the all-inclusive hotel Casa Velas . This hotel delivers on its higher price point and caters to adults only. This luxury Puerto Vallarta resort has ranked in the top resorts in PV by Trip Advisor and its no question why.

Each room at this resort is a suite with an upscale approach to traditional Mexican design. Larger suites offer private plunge pools for ultimate luxury.

As an all-inclusive resort, Casa Velas includes all food, drinks, transportation and some activities in the base room cost. The dining offered is a gourmet Mexican restaurant, fun pool bar, beach club bar and in suite dining.

Luxury Resorts Near Puerto Vallarta

For ultimate luxury and name-brand properties, head out of Puerto Vallarta to the neighboring town of Punta Mita. While this Puerto Vallarta guide does not cover what to do in Punta Mita, the below resorts are too amazing to not mention.

Delta Riviera Nayarit

The Delta by Marriott is a relaxing all-inclusive resort in the fishing town of Riviera Nayarit. The resort is situated in the jungle and ahs three pools, three restaurants and a water park on property. The resort also has exclusive access to a beach club.

The Delta Riviera Nayarit is a great, affordable, all inclusive resort option if you are looking for a very relaxing vacation. I wrote all about my experience staying at the Delta if you are interested.

St Regis Punta Mita

This 22 acre beachfront property will cater to all your needs. It features a world-class spa, golf course and adventurous watersports. There are also six restaurant options and a beautiful pool area. Take advantage of the iconic St Regis butler service to relax throughout your trip.

Four Seasons Punta Mita

Four Seasons properties are world-renowned for their luxury and fine touches; this property lives up to that expectation. This picturesque property is centered around the beautiful pool area and lazy river. Escape to this resort to escape reality and focus on elevated Mexican cuisine, culture and experiences.

What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very tropical, beachy destination. Be sure to pack plenty of swimwear so you will always have a dry suit for the pool or beach. A beach bag and sandals are also a must.

For the day time, casual sundresses or shirts and shorts are very appropriate. Be sure to pack a versatile and comfortable pair of sandals.

Finally, dinner and nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is quite casual. I enjoy dressings gup a bit with a long sundress and casual heels. However, you can get away with wearing shorts and a tee to most restaurants in downtown.

I know packing for vacation can be stressful, so I wrote an entire guide dedicated to outfit ideas for Puerto Vallarta.

Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta

A guide to Puerto Vallarta would not be complete without mentioning where to eat in Puerto Vallarta. Specifically, where to eat in Marina Vallarta and downtown.

Where to Eat in Marina Vallarta

La terrazza di roma.

Wow, an Italian place in Mexico? Trust me, this place is delicious, the service is incredible and the ambiance is beautiful. This overwater restaurant features classic Italian fare with fun drink options.

I recommend ordering a bottle of wine for the table. The prices are extremely low for the quality of global wines. I also recommend ordering anything from the pasta section of the menu and have personally love the four-cheese rigatoni, arrabiata, and shrimp garlic pasta.

If you are more of a pizza person, share one of the generous portions or get your own and enjoy leftovers for breakfast.

Victors Place Café Tacuba

Victors is rated #1 on yelp for restaurants in the Marina due to the amazing service and abundant freebies. While this is a must-visit location, I do not recommend coming for the food. The food is average at best but the drinks and people are top-notch.

I recommend ordering a margarita, Miami vice or Mexican coffee if you are visiting for dessert. Each visitor will be treated to a round of mezcal shots on the house which makes this restaurant truly memorable. Another great touch is the complimentary round of White Russian cocktails after your meal. Victor’s truly has the best White Russian I have had anywhere in the world.

Las Palomas Doradas

Las Palomas Doradas is the oldest restaurant in the marina, making it a staple for all visitors. Featuring French and Mexican fusion, this restaurant is a good change of pace from the traditional food you will be enjoying.

I recommend ordering the escargot and any of the baked fish dishes. In addition to tasty food, this restaurant has a greenery canopy, bistro-style tables and a fountain centerpiece making it a great location for a romantic date night.

Where to Eat in Downtown Puerto Vallarta

Joe jacks fish shack.

This British-owned joint is always packed. They serve British food and great seafood. Some menu items I recommend are the fish and chips, shrimp bucket and the fruit-flavored mojitos.

The ambiance of Joe Jacks is on par with the quality of the food and drinks. The rooftop patio is covered by greenery and colorful string lights. The location of the restaurant is on a bustling street which showcases the vibrancy of the city.

Cuates y Cuetes

When visiting a tropical destination, nothing beats dining with your toes in the sand. A great place to do this is Cuates y Cuetes with tables directly on the sand. In addition to the unbeatable location, the food is delicious.

If you are a seafood person, you cannot go wrong ordering any of the shrimp dishes. The shrimp are large, juicy and perfectly cooked. If you prefer something else, the fajitas are a fun and tasty classic.

For more restaurant tips, check out my Puerto Vallarta Food Guide .

General Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta

The official currency of Mexico is the peso. The conversion rate is approximately 20 pesos to 1 USD. Most vendors will accept dollars as payment but will give change in pesos. Be sure to have plenty of cash on hand as many restaurants and shops will only accept cash, not debit, or credit card.

The primary language of Mexico is Spanish but many people are bilingual and speak English as well. While you will be able to navigate your trip in English, the locals appreciate any attempt at speaking Spanish and are extremely helpful in teaching it.

After one week in Puerto Vallarta, you will have the basics down as long as you practice!

Some key Spanish phrases to know include:

Hello   …   Hola Thank you   …   Gracias Please   …   Por Favor Taxi/ Van  …   Taxi/ Camioneta Check  …   Cuenta How much?   …   Cuantos?

Water Safety

You have likely heard to not drink the water in Mexico (most Puerto Vallarta travel guides bring this fact up). This is true. While locals are used to the water and tolerate it well, it can cause stomach issues for tourists. Avoid tap water, ice, and produce washed in the tap water such as lettuce.

To enjoy these items request they are made from or washed in bottled water. Bottled water will likely be available in your hotel room or for purchase at restaurants. Luckily, bottles of water are affordable at markets and stores to stock up at cheaper-than-hotel prices.

Regions of Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is broken into many regions including downtown, Marina Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta.

Downtown PV: Beachfront resorts, the famous Malecon and many restaurants and clubs. Downtown is best for those looking for nightlife such as girls trips or bachelorette parties.

Marina Vallarta: 30 minutes from downtown and centered around an upscale yachting Marina with restaurants and high-end hotels. The Marina area is best for people looking for luxury within driving distance of downtown.

Nuevo Vallarta: Separate town located 45 minutes north of downtown. It is a resort-area that is good for families and people seeking the ultimate resort experience, but willing to sacrifice some local culture.

Note : The Puerto Vallarta area falls between the Nayarit and Jalisco states of Mexico. Since they have different time zones, be mindful of timing related to flights.

Outside of Puerto Vallarta is the luxury area of Punta Mita that hosts the most expensive and exclusive properties. This guide will not cover what to do in Punta Mita but I have some accommodation suggestions below.

If you are spending more than one week in Puerto Vallarta, divide your time between multiple locations for good variety.

Getting to Puerto Vallarta

Located in the central west coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is an easy trip from anywhere in North America. To get to Puerto Vallarta, book a flight into the international airport PVR.

Conveniently, there are many direct flights from US cities on airlines such as Alaska, Delta and Southwest. For reference, a direct flight from Seattle to Puerto Vallarta is only 4 hours.

Once you arrive in Puerto Vallarta, follow the ground staff directions to the immigration line. This line is long as typically winds down a hallway. Make sure you join the line at the end to avoid getting redirected after waiting some time in the wrong area. Luckily, the line moves quickly, and the immigration process is standard. Be sure to keep your immigration ticket in a safe place as you will need it to leave the country.

Once through immigration, proceed to baggage claim then join the line for customs. Again, expect a long but quick line. Answer the custom agents’ questions then click a button to be selected for a random search. “Green” means you are good to leave, “red” indicates a random x-ray screening.

To exit the airport, you will pass hundreds of locals offering taxi service, tours and other services. While they are quite persuasive, continue straight to the exit. Upon exiting, you will find a taxi queue with the official Puerto Vallarta taxis.

Transportation in Puerto Vallarta

The best option for transport from the airport is booking a private car service . This is a great option for large groups or anyone who wants a stress-free arrival in Mexico.

Getting around Puerto Vallarta is best navigated by hired taxis or rideshare services. I do not recommend renting a car for daily transport since the roads are confusing and drivers are aggressive.

The only case to rent a car is if you are planning a road trip or are staying far from the city. If you rent a car, avoid driving it in downtown.

As mentioned above, taxis are abundantly available and the easiest option for getting around Puerto Vallarta. They are also economical, costing approximately 15 USD for a large van for 30 minutes.

Before getting in the taxi or van, agree to a fair rate to avoid being up charged. If you enjoy your taxi driver, tip well and get their card for a reliable on-call driver for the duration of your trip.

Summary of this Puerto Vallarta 7 Day Itinerary

All in all, Puerto Vallarta travel is a great idea for anyone looking for a relaxing beach vacation. This guide to one week in Puerto Vallarta hopefully equips you with all the knowledge to plan and enjoy the perfect trip.

This 7 day Puerto Vallarta trip includes a balance of relaxation and adventure, for a fun and memorable vacation.

Spend your one week in Puerto Vallarta relaxing at the beach, exploring the ocean, and having memorable adventures in the jungle. Puerto Vallarta is such a diverse destination with so many fun things to do.

In addition, be sure to take advantage of all the amazing Mexican food in Puerto Vallarta. Have plenty of margaritas and tacos during your trip!

FAQ – Puerto Vallarta 1 Week Itinerary

The best amount of time to stay in Puerto Vallarta is 3 nights – 2 weeks. Three nights is great for a quick long weekend to relax on the beach, do 1-2 activities, and enjoy some good Mexican food. For a full vacation, one week in Puerto Vallarta is a great amount of time to see the highlights. You could spend up to 2 weeks in Puerto Vallarta to get a more in-depth experience.

Puerto Vallarta Mexico is a great destination for travelers all year round. The temperatures are mild and comfortable during the day and cooler at night. The most popular time to visit Puerto Vallarta is over spring break in March and April, so avoid these times if possible.

Puerto Vallarta’s hurricane season is typically from mid-May to the end of November, though the safest time to visit is generally from December to April.

Related Posts:

• What To Wear In Puerto Vallarta – Women’s Mexico Packing List
• Women’s Packing List For Mexico All Inclusive: Cute Tropical Vacation Outfit Ideas
• What To Do In Puerto Vallarta With Family
• Best Restaurants In Puerto Vallarta Mexico
• Delta Riviera Nayarit – Review & Guide Of Marriott’s All Inclusive Near Puerto Vallarta Mexico

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide: What to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

Planning a trip to paradise can be overwhelming, so this Puerto Vallarta travel guide is here to help. 

I lived in Puerto Vallarta for six weeks and ate, drank, hiked, and thoroughly enjoyed my way through the city from top to bottom. Now, I’m sharing all the basics and most important info you need to know plan your own trip. 

I’m going to start with some quick facts about Puerto Vallarta and then get into the juicy stuff like:

• Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
• What to do in Puerto Vallarta
• What to eat and drink 
• The best time to visit 

And that’s it! 

Stop wading through hours and hours and hours of content and get everything you need to book and build your itinerary right here in this Puerto Vallarta travel guide. Let’s dive in! 

Puerto Vallarta after dark from the Mirador Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint

Puerto Vallarta Fast Facts

Puerto Vallarta is a beachside city in the state of Jalisco on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It has a population of around 200,000 people, many of whom are expats from the US and Canada. 

The two major traveler / expat groups in Puerto Vallarta are retirees and LGBT tourists, who actually balance each other out pretty well. The vibe is mostly laid-back, but expect to pass by the occasional beach club and pushy vendor as well. 

The currency in Puerto Vallarta is Mexican pesos (you can use USD in many places, but don’t be that guy), the language is Spanish (but English is usually spoken/understood in the touristy zones), and the cost of living is pretty reasonable. Expect to pay around 2 usd for a beer on the beach, 5 to 10 usd for a midrange meal, and anywhere from 20 usd and up for a night in a hotel or Airbnb .

One of many hidden beaches, accessible only by foot or boat, on the Puerto Vallarta coast

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a long, thin city spread along the Pacific coastline, with the ocean on one side and the jungle-covered mountains on the other. 

It’s divided into many neighborhoods and each one has a different personality for a different type of traveler. 

Nuevo Vallarta, the Marina, and the Hotel Zone are modern and swanky, with the all-inclusive resorts that have become almost synonymous with the city itself.

For something a little more casual (and more fun, in my opinion) check out the central / downtown neighborhoods of 5 de Diciembre , El Centro, and the Zona Romantica. 

Finally, for a more artsy, local, lowkey stay, book your hotel or Airbnb in the small towns of Boca de Tomatlan to the south or Sayulita in the north.

This Puerto Vallarta neighborhood guide breaks down the pros and cons of each neighborhood and has suggestions for unique, romantic, and just plain nice places to stay in each one! 

Sayulita, a colorful surf town 1.5 hours north of Puerto Vallarta

What to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is probably one of the most diverse places in Mexico. There are jungles, mountains, beaches, clubs, galleries, boutiques, resorts… Puerto Vallarta is a hodgepodge of all the best vacation destinations rolled into one.

I’ve been living in Mexico for about a year now, hopping to a new city every month, and Puerto Vallarta remains one of my absolute favorite places because there’s just SO MUCH to do. 

Of course, the number one reason to visit Puerto Vallarta is the idyllic beaches lining the long coast. This guide to the 12 best beaches in Puerto Vallarta ranks each one in categories like ‘most beautiful’ and ‘most fun,’ so you can make sure you’re only visiting the best ones.

And the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. From spectacular shows to panoramic viewpoints to romantic beach picnics to tacos crawls, this roundup of the 16 best things to do in Puerto Vallarta at night has everything you need to plan a jam-packed evening itinerary as well. 

But, don’t get too wild, because getting up early in the morning for a jungle hike is one of the highlights of any visit to this natural oasis. 

I did nine hikes during my stay in Puerto Vallarta (each one within two hours or less of the city by public transport) and wrote step-by-step guides for every single one. Use this Puerto Vallarta hiking roundup to choose and do your favorites! 

Finally, don’t forget to capture the beauty of Puerto Vallarta with this list of the best Instagram spots in the city. Or, give back on your vacation by volunteering with the heart-meltingly adorable dogs looking for love (and new homes) at SPCA Puerto Vallarta!

Fresh marlin and shrimp

What to Eat and Drink in Puerto Vallarta

Whatever you want, Puerto Vallarta has it. This is a city of excess – excessive sun, excessive fun, and of course, excessive drinking.

You can always get buckets of Corona beers on the beaches for around 2 usd per bottle, or margaritas and cocktails for around 5 to 10 usd if that’s more your thing. 

Blondie’s is a popular spot near Muertos Beach because they serve alcoholic slushies. For something a little less sugary sweet, this Puerto Vallarta craft beer guide will take you to three breweries in the city (and two more in the surrounding towns as well). 

The food in Puerto Vallarta is similarly varied. From shrimp kabobs on the beach to five-star meals, you can find anything you’re looking for. 

Because it’s so hot, I found food was less of a priority for me than usual while I was living in Puerto Vallarta, but there are still some good eats on offer. Veggitalia is a delicious vegetarian Italian kitchen, and there’s also a fab weekly market in Olas Altas every Saturday morning with bagels, greek food, Indian stands, and more. 

And if you find yourself overspending, this guide to the best cheap eats in Puerto Vallarta is here to help keep you satisfied and under-budget during your stay! 

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

What’s the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

The high season in Puerto Vallarta is from mid-December to mid-April. That’s when the weather is the coolest but the crowds are at their fullest. 

However, I stayed in Puerto Vallarta during high season and it was still seriously hot and humid. If you go in the low season in the summer, make sure you’re prepared for the weather, because hiking or any activity that doesn’t involve being completely submerged in water is going to be pretty miserable. 

So, the high season (winter) is the coolest but most crowded and most expensive. The low season (summer) is the hottest but the cheapest. 

What about spring and fall? 

These are actually the ideal times to visit because the weather mostly cooperates (it may be a little wet and hot) but the crowds still haven’t arrived en-masse and you won’t have to deal with high season prices! 

Jungle trek to Colomitos Cove

Plan Your Trip With This Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide

I lived in Puerto Vallarta for six weeks and wrote a ton of content on the city to help you follow in my footsteps! 

Whether you’re into hiking, craft beer, good food, or just chillin’ at the beaches, the guides linked throughout this article (and conveniently listed again below) will make sure you plan the best trip for you, your budget, and your travel style.

So, bookmark this page, book your flight, and plan your Puerto Vallarta dream trip today!

Ready to go?

Explore  unique stays on Airbnb  – like  this open-air earth house  with a private pool or  this 66 ft. yacht  – and the  top-rated hotels on Booking.com  to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in Puerto Vallarta.

Then, check out more  food, nature, and cultural experiences on Airbnb  to round out your itinerary (or book a curated  multi-day Mexico tour  to finish your travel planning in one click!).

This article is part of the Puerto Vallarta Planner Series. Read the rest below:

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: The Definitive Ranking

12 Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta: Ranked

9 Step-by-Step Guides to Hiking in Puerto Vallarta

16 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta at Night (On Any Budget)

6 Best Cheap Eats in Puerto Vallarta (With Map + Prices)

The Complete Guide to Craft Beer in Puerto Vallarta

16 Best Instagram Spots in Puerto Vallarta (for that perfect pic)

How to Change a Pup’s Life with SPCA Puerto Vallarta

Or, check out the complete  Mexico Series  for 50+ more articles on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country.

Like it? Pin it!

Did you know every time you read an article on Slight North, you're also planting trees for the monarchs in Mexico? Start here to learn more about our mission and how to get the most out of the site!

My husband and I are avid hikers and decided to visit here instead of Cobo San Lucas because of your article. Thank you for the detailed information. We are familiar with the Yucatan, but have never ventured to this area previously.

That’s awesome. The hiking in the jungles of PV is so beautiful and makes it one of my favorite destinations in Mexico! I think you guys will really love it!

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Discover Puerto Vallarta

Puerto vallarta, a beach destination with a taste of mexico.

Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture , gastronomy and traditions ; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.

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Whether it’s on an adventure exploring steep rivers in the jungle or a relaxing and pampering trip, Puerto Vallarta has a wide range of activities and experiences waiting for you.

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Puerto Vallarta Cuisine

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Plan your trip.

We have made a special selection of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta . Whatever your plan is: romance, adventure, relaxation, family or friends, you can find the perfect options to start planning your next visit.

Family Vacation

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Find in our directory your ideal hotel, restaurants, art galleries, tour operators and so much more to enjoy during your visit to Puerto Vallarta .

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We’ll let you in on what’s happening in this fascinating destination: important events, reviews, travel tips, and latest news, to inspire and start planning your next trip to Puerto Vallarta.

What's on in Puerto Vallarta this Fall and Winter Season

Puerto Vallarta is gearing up to host a variety of exciting events as the rainy season gives way to the festive season.  ... Read more

Discover the Puerto Vallarta Sign: A Vibrant Tribute to Artistic Heritage on the Malecon

Featuring Puerto Vallarta's children and other icons such as the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the surrounding nature ... Read more

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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico offers a wide variety of pet-friendly hotels that guarantee a comfortable stay for travelers accompanied by their pets ... Read more

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Puerto Vallarta Travel Blog: Our 2 Week Itinerary And Vacation Guide

Published: October 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Delcina Markowski

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, a tropical paradise nestled on the Pacific coast of Mexico. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta is a top destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Known for its charming cobblestone streets, picturesque sunsets, and diverse range of activities, Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adrenaline junkie, a foodie, or a history enthusiast, this coastal city has it all.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through a two-week itinerary that showcases the best of Puerto Vallarta. From the beautiful Malecon to the lush jungles and beyond, get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover its unique blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern amenities. From the moment you arrive at the Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a genuine sense of Mexican culture.

During your stay in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on pristine beaches, indulge in delicious local cuisine, explore historic sites, and embark on thrilling outdoor adventures. So grab your sunscreen, put on your sandals, and let’s dive into the wonders of Puerto Vallarta!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Malecon

Your Puerto Vallarta adventure begins as you arrive at the Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport. Located just a short distance from the city center, getting to your accommodation is a breeze. Whether you choose a luxurious beachfront resort or a cozy boutique hotel, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and stunning ocean views.

Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to start exploring the heart of Puerto Vallarta – the Malecon. This iconic waterfront promenade stretches along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, charming street performances, and an array of shops and restaurants.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the impressive sculptures that line the pathway. Marvel at the famous ‘Caballito de Mar’ statue, a symbol of Puerto Vallarta, and snap some photos against the backdrop of the sparkling ocean.

As you venture further along the Malecon, you’ll come across numerous galleries showcasing local artwork and traditional crafts. Take some time to explore these cultural hubs, where you can appreciate the talent of local artists and perhaps even find a unique souvenir to bring back home.

When hunger strikes, indulge in the flavors of Puerto Vallarta at one of the many local eateries dotted along the Malecon. From mouthwatering street tacos to fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes, the culinary scene here is a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try some ceviche, a classic seafood dish marinated in citrus juices, and pair it with a refreshing margarita.

As the sun sets, the Malecon transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. Street performers, musicians, and dancers captivate passersby with their talents, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Join in the fun or simply find a cozy spot to enjoy the mesmerizing sunset over the shimmering waters.

After a full day of exploration, head back to your accommodation and reflect on the beauty and charm of Puerto Vallarta. Your first day sets the stage for an incredible journey ahead, filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

Day 2: Beach Hopping in Riviera Nayarit

On day two of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, get ready to explore the stunning beaches of Riviera Nayarit, a paradise located just north of Puerto Vallarta. Hop in a taxi or rent a car to embark on this beach-hopping adventure.

Start your day by visiting the vibrant beach town of Sayulita. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and world-class surf, Sayulita offers a laid-back vibe and an abundance of shops, cafes, and art galleries. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the turquoise waters, or catching a few waves if you’re feeling adventurous.

After enjoying Sayulita’s charm, make your way to Punta Mita, a luxurious resort destination with pristine beaches and breathtaking views. Relax on the soft white sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulge in water sports such as paddleboarding or snorkeling. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the famous Marieta Islands, a protected marine reserve just off the coast of Punta Mita, known for its hidden beach and vibrant marine life.

For a touch of exclusivity, head to the coastal village of San Pancho (officially known as San Francisco). With its uncrowded beaches and tranquil atmosphere, San Pancho is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Riviera Nayarit. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, admire the colorful murals, and savor a delicious seafood meal at one of the beachfront restaurants.

As the sun sets, make your way back to Puerto Vallarta and prepare for an evening filled with culinary delights. Indulge in a romantic beachfront dinner, where you can savor fresh seafood specialties while enjoying a picturesque sunset as your backdrop. Alternatively, head to the Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta’s old town, where you can dine at one of the charming local restaurants and explore the vibrant nightlife that the area has to offer.

After a day of beach-hopping in Riviera Nayarit, you’ll surely be captivated by the beauty and diversity of the coastal region. Take in the breathtaking scenery, unwind on the pristine beaches, and let the calming sound of the ocean waves wash away any remaining stress.

Day 3: Exploring the Historic Downtown

On day three of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, it’s time to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the city by exploring its historic downtown area. Known as the Zona Centro, this charming district is a testament to Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant past and architectural beauty.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic El Malecon, the vibrant seaside promenade that stretches along the coast. Admire the stunning views of Banderas Bay while browsing through the numerous art galleries, boutiques, and souvenir shops lining the street. Don’t forget to stop by the famous Seahorse statue, a symbol of Puerto Vallarta.

Next, make your way to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe), a stunning architectural masterpiece that is the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Marvel at the intricate details of the church’s facade, adorned with a mix of baroque and neoclassical elements. Step inside to experience the tranquil ambiance and admire the beautiful stained glass windows.

Continue your exploration through the cobblestone streets, where you’ll find a plethora of shops selling traditional crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Take your time to browse through the colorful markets, interact with local artisans, and pick up some unique mementos to remember your trip.

For a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene, head to the Mercado Municipal, the city’s main market. Here, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, spices, and local specialties. Take the opportunity to sample regional dishes such as street tacos, tamales, and ceviche. Don’t forget to try some delicious local fruits and spices to add a touch of Puerto Vallarta to your own cooking back home.

As the afternoon rolls around, take a break from exploring and relax at one of the charming cafes located in the historic downtown area. Sip on a freshly brewed Mexican coffee or enjoy a traditional dessert like flan or tres leches cake while taking in the lively atmosphere of the bustling streets.

End your day with a visit to the Los Arcos Amphitheater, a popular gathering place in the heart of the city. Catch a live performance or simply sit back and enjoy the people-watching as locals and tourists alike come together to enjoy the lively ambiance.

After a day of immersing yourself in the history and culture of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s charm and heritage. Reflect on the sights and experiences you’ve encountered and get ready for the exciting adventures that await you in the coming days.

Day 4: Whale Watching Tour

Get ready for a truly unforgettable experience on day four of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary as you embark on a thrilling whale watching tour. From December to March, Banderas Bay becomes a playground for humpback whales, offering a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Start your day by joining a reputable whale watching tour operator. Board a comfortable boat and set sail into the open waters of Banderas Bay, where your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights about the behavior and conservation efforts surrounding these incredible marine mammals.

As you navigate the bay, keep your eyes peeled for the telltale signs of whales. Watch in awe as massive humpbacks breach the surface, gracefully displaying their acrobatic skills. Listen to the haunting sounds of their melodic songs, a truly mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe of their intelligence and beauty.

Aside from humpback whales, you may also encounter other marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and even orcas, making each moment on the tour even more exciting and unpredictable.

Throughout the excursion, your guide will provide interesting facts and information about the biology, migration patterns, and conservation efforts of these incredible creatures. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving their natural habitat and the challenges they face in the wild.

After an exhilarating day on the water, return to the shore with memories that will last a lifetime. Reflect on the awe-inspiring moments and feel a sense of gratitude for being able to witness these gentle giants in their natural environment.

For the rest of the day, take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Puerto Vallarta. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim in the ocean, or simply unwind with a good book and a cool tropical drink.

In the evening, head to one of Puerto Vallarta’s renowned seafood restaurants and savor a meal of fresh ceviche or grilled fish caught locally. Bask in the culinary delights while reliving the incredible experiences of the day.

Remember, whale watching tours are highly regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of the whales and their environment. Choose a responsible tour operator that supports sustainable tourism practices to ensure a positive and ethical experience.

Day four of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the majesty of humpback whales in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary adventure and create memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Day 5: Day Trip to Yelapa

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on day five of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary with a charming day trip to Yelapa. Located south of Puerto Vallarta, Yelapa is a hidden gem known for its tranquil beaches, lush jungle scenery, and laid-back atmosphere.

Start your day by taking a scenic boat ride from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa. As you glide across the turquoise waters of Banderas Bay, soak in the breathtaking coastal views and feel the gentle breeze on your face.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the soft sound of waves lapping against the shore and the vibrant colors of Yelapa’s charming beachfront town. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity and beauty of this secluded paradise.

One of the must-visit spots in Yelapa is the stunning waterfall, which is nestled in the heart of the jungle. Embark on a short hike through the lush vegetation, navigating narrow paths and crossing babbling streams. As you reach the waterfall, marvel at its cascading beauty and take a refreshing swim in the clear pool beneath it.

After cooling off, head back to the beach and indulge in a sumptuous seafood lunch at one of the local beachfront restaurants. Feast on freshly caught fish, shrimp, or ceviche while savoring the breathtaking ocean views.

With its laid-back atmosphere, Yelapa is the perfect place to relax and simply soak up the sun. Find a cozy spot on the soft sandy beaches, unwind in a hammock, or take a leisurely swim in the calm waters.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the pristine coastline at your own pace. Discover hidden coves and secluded beaches, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of Yelapa.

Before returning to Puerto Vallarta, take some time to explore Yelapa’s vibrant town center. Stroll through the streets, browse the local craft shops, and interact with the friendly locals. You can also visit the small hilltop chapel, which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

As the day comes to a close, bid farewell to the tranquility of Yelapa and return to Puerto Vallarta. Reflect on the serene beauty and peaceful moments you experienced on this day trip, and be grateful for the chance to discover this hidden paradise.

Day five of your Puerto Vallarta adventure is all about relaxation, natural beauty, and embracing the slow-paced charm of Yelapa. Prepare to be captivated by its untouched landscapes and heartfelt hospitality.

Day 6: Ziplining Adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains

Get ready to soar through the treetops on an adrenaline-pumping ziplining adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains on day six of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary. Prepare for an exhilarating day filled with breathtaking views, thrilling rides, and unforgettable memories.

Start your day by journeying into the lush forests of the Sierra Madre Mountains, where you’ll find a variety of ziplining tour operators ready to guide you through this adrenaline-fueled experience. Strap on your harness, listen to the safety briefing, and get ready to feel the rush of flying through the air.

As you glide from one platform to another, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, dense jungle, and sparkling rivers below. Feel the wind in your hair and the surge of excitement as you fly with the birds and take in the panoramic vistas.

Each zipline offers a unique perspective of the natural beauty of the Sierra Madre Mountains. As you zip through the forest canopy, keep an eye out for native wildlife, such as exotic birds, butterflies, and maybe even the occasional monkey swinging through the trees.

Between ziplines, you may have the opportunity to traverse treetop bridges or enjoy short hikes that allow you to fully appreciate the biodiversity of this remarkable ecosystem. Learn about the diverse flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about preserving this pristine natural environment.

After an exhilarating morning of ziplining, take a break to refuel with a delicious picnic lunch provided by your tour operator. Take a moment to relax, soak in the surroundings, and recharge your energy for the remaining ziplines.

The adventure continues as you tackle the longer and faster ziplines, each offering a rush of adrenaline and a sense of accomplishment. Challenge yourself with the highest ziplines, experiencing an unparalleled feeling of freedom as you soar above the treetops.

As the day draws to a close, return to your accommodation with a sense of pride and satisfaction from conquering the ziplines amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Reflect on the memories made, the triumphs achieved, and the natural wonders that you had the privilege to witness.

Take the evening to relax and rejuvenate your body after the exhilarating adventure. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment at one of the many wellness centers in Puerto Vallarta. Bask in the joy and excitement of the day’s activities, and get ready for new adventures that lie ahead on your Puerto Vallarta journey.

Day six is all about embracing the thrill of ziplining and immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the Sierra Madre Mountains. It’s a day you’ll never forget and will leave you with a sense of awe for the beauty and diversity of Puerto Vallarta’s landscapes.

Day 7: Relaxing Day at a Luxury Resort

On day seven of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, treat yourself to a day of pure relaxation and indulgence at one of the city’s luxurious resorts. Escape from the everyday hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of paradise.

Start your day by enjoying a delightful breakfast at the resort’s restaurant. Whether you prefer a traditional Mexican spread or an international buffet, savor a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views of the resort’s surroundings.

After breakfast, make your way to the resort’s pool area or private beach. Reserve a comfortable lounge chair, grab a refreshing drink from the poolside bar, and soak up the warm Mexican sun. Take a dip in the infinity pool, feeling the cool water against your skin as you enjoy panoramic views of the sparkling ocean.

Indulge in some pampering by booking a spa treatment at the resort’s wellness center. Choose from an array of rejuvenating options, such as a relaxing massage, a revitalizing facial, or a soothing body wrap. Let the expert therapists melt away any tension and help you achieve a state of pure bliss.

Many luxury resorts in Puerto Vallarta offer a range of activities to cater to your interests. Whether you enjoy yoga, water sports, cooking classes, or art workshops, you’ll find a variety of options to engage in throughout the day. Participate in a yoga session by the beach, learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes, or unleash your creativity with a painting class.

For lunch, tantalize your taste buds with the resort’s gourmet offerings. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared with the freshest ingredients by talented chefs. Whether you choose to dine at one of the resort’s elegant restaurants or have a picnic on the beach, the culinary experience will be a feast for your senses.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the resort’s lush gardens, relishing in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Pause by tranquil fountains or find a secluded spot to sit and read a book as you embrace the serenity of the environment.

As the day comes to an end, watch the vibrant colors of the sunset paint the sky while sipping a refreshing cocktail at the resort’s rooftop bar or beachside lounge. Savor the magical atmosphere and reflect upon the tranquil and revitalizing day you have experienced.

Wrap up your day of relaxation with an exquisite dinner at one of the resort’s fine dining restaurants. Indulge in gourmet flavors and impeccable service, allowing yourself to be enveloped in the luxury and sophistication that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Day seven is dedicated to unwinding and embracing the luxurious amenities and services of a Puerto Vallarta resort. Immerse yourself in a world of comfort and tranquility, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated for the remaining days of your vacation.

Day 8: Mexican Cooking Class

On day eight of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of Mexico with a Mexican cooking class. Learn to create authentic dishes using fresh local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Start your day by visiting a local market where your expert chef instructor will guide you through the colorful stalls, introducing you to the key ingredients that give Mexican cuisine its unique and delicious taste. Learn about the various types of chilies, aromatic herbs, and essential spices used in Mexican cooking.

After the market visit, head to the cooking school where you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and a refreshing beverage. Don your apron, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey.

The cooking class will take you step by step through the process of preparing traditional Mexican dishes. From salsas and guacamole to tamales and enchiladas, you’ll learn the secrets behind creating authentic flavors and mastering the art of Mexican cuisine.

As you chop, dice, and sauté, your instructor will share stories and insights about the history and cultural significance of each dish. Gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage that has shaped Mexican cuisine and its regional variations.

Once the cooking is complete, gather around the dining table and savor the fruits of your labor. Indulge in a feast of the dishes you prepared, accompanied by freshly made tortillas and a variety of salsas. Take pleasure in the flavors and textures of the meal while enjoying the lively conversations and camaraderie among your fellow cooking enthusiasts.

After the class, you’ll receive a recipe booklet so you can recreate the dishes back home and share the flavors of Mexico with your loved ones.

To round off the day, explore the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Vallarta. Head to the Zona Romantica or the Malecon area and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Whether you choose to sip on margaritas at a beachfront bar, dance to Latin rhythms in a local club, or simply people-watch from a cozy cafe, the energy of Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife will leave you with lasting memories.

Day eight is dedicated to embracing the art of Mexican cuisine through a hands-on cooking class. Indulge in the flavors, connect with the local food culture, and take home new culinary skills that will allow you to savor the tastes of Mexico long after your trip is over.

Day 9: Sailing and Snorkeling in Banderas Bay

Day nine of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary is all about exploring the crystal-clear waters of Banderas Bay as you embark on a sailing and snorkeling adventure. Get ready to set sail, immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean, and discover the thriving marine life that lies beneath the surface.

Start your day by meeting your friendly and experienced crew at the marina. Board a luxurious sailing yacht or catamaran and set off on a scenic cruise along the coastline. Feel the cool ocean breeze on your face as you glide across the calm waters of Banderas Bay.

As you sail, enjoy the breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, with its towering mountains, golden beaches, and charming seaside villages. Let the peacefulness of the ocean and the sound of the waves create a sense of calm and tranquility within you.

After a pleasant sail, drop anchor at a secluded bay or reef known for its pristine snorkeling opportunities. Don your snorkel gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters, ready to explore the vibrant underwater world.

Discover a rainbow of tropical fish, graceful rays, and playful sea turtles as you snorkel alongside coral reefs and submerged rock formations. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colors and the diversity of marine life that call Banderas Bay home.

Guided by knowledgeable and eco-conscious crew members, you’ll learn about the importance of marine conservation and how to explore the underwater world responsibly. They’ll share fascinating insights about the various species you encounter and the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

After snorkeling, climb back onboard the sailing vessel and indulge in a delicious lunch or snacks prepared by the crew. Savor the flavors as you bask in the warm sun and relish the stunning views of the bay.

As the day continues, enjoy the thrill of sailing once more. Feel exhilarated as the wind fills the sails and the vessel glides across the glittering waters. Relax on deck, feeling the gentle rocking of the boat and taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.

End the day with a toast to the beauty of Banderas Bay as you enjoy a refreshing beverage and watch the sun paint the sky with vibrant hues during the sunset. Feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences and natural wonders you’ve encountered throughout the day.

Day nine is an adventure-filled day of sailing and snorkeling, allowing you to connect with the beauty of the ocean and discover the wonders that lie beneath the surface. It’s a day that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the marine life and the stunning coastal landscapes of Puerto Vallarta.

Day 10: Visit to the Botanical Gardens

On day ten of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, venture into the lush beauty of Vallarta Botanical Gardens, a hidden gem nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains. This enchanting oasis showcases the vibrant flora and fauna of the region, offering a peaceful and educational escape from the bustling city.

After breakfast, make your way to the gardens either by joining a guided tour or with a private transport. As you enter the gates, prepare to be captivated by the explosion of colors and aromas that surround you.

The Vallarta Botanical Gardens span over 64 acres and are home to an impressive collection of over 3,000 species of tropical plants. Wander along the shaded pathways that wind through different themed gardens, each offering a unique horticultural experience.

Explore the Orchid House, where a dazzling array of orchids from around the world showcase their delicate blooms. Admire the native plants in the Tropical Forest Garden, and learn about their medicinal uses and cultural significance in Mexican traditions.

Make your way to the Butterfly Garden, where you’ll be enchanted by the vibrant butterflies fluttering among the flowers. Witness the life cycle of these graceful creatures and gain a deeper understanding of their role in the ecosystem.

As you stroll through the gardens, keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife that calls this sanctuary home. Spot colorful species like hummingbirds, parrots, and toucans flitting among the trees, providing a symphony of melodies as you explore.

Take a moment to relax at one of the garden’s tranquil viewpoints, where you can soak in the stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the lush vegetation that stretches as far as the eye can see. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Make a stop at the Hacienda de Oro, the garden’s on-site restaurant, for a delightful lunch. Indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the picturesque views and the serene ambiance that permeates the gardens.

Before leaving, visit the gift shop where you’ll find a range of locally sourced and sustainable products, including handicrafts, botanical books, and plants. Take home a small piece of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to remember your visit.

As you bid farewell to this botanical paradise, reflect on the tranquility and serenity you experienced during your exploration. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens offer a glimpse into the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the beauty and biodiversity of the region.

Day ten is a day of immersion in nature, where you can escape the city and connect with the vibrant flora and fauna of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. It’s a day that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired by the wonders of the natural world.

Day 11: Shopping at the Artisan Markets

On day eleven of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and support the talented artisans by exploring the bustling artisan markets of the city. Get ready to discover unique handicrafts, beautiful artwork, and a treasure trove of souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip.

Start your day by visiting the Mercado Municipal, also known as the local market. This bustling marketplace is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local products. Take your time to wander through the maze of stalls and interact with the friendly vendors, who are more than happy to share their knowledge and stories.

Next, make your way to the nearby Flea Market (Mercado de Pulgas). This vibrant market is filled with a diverse array of goods, including clothing, accessories, home decor, and vintage finds. Browse through the eclectic mix of items and unleash your inner treasure hunter as you hunt for unique gems.

For a more authentic and immersive shopping experience, head to the Zona Romantica and explore the charming streets lined with boutique shops and galleries. Here, you’ll find a variety of locally made crafts, artwork, and jewelry, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Puerto Vallarta.

Take your time to admire the intricate handiwork of Huichol beadwork and embroidery, or marvel at the colorful ceramics and pottery that depict traditional Mexican motifs. Support the local artists by purchasing their creations and bring a piece of Puerto Vallarta’s creative spirit back home with you.

As you shop, don’t be afraid to engage with the artisans themselves. Many vendors are happy to share the stories behind their crafts or even demonstrate their techniques. Take the opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of the artwork and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.

When hunger strikes, take a break from shopping and indulge in a delicious meal at one of the local eateries in the Zona Romantica. You’ll find an abundance of options, from street tacos and freshly made ceviche to international cuisine and fusion dishes.

As the day comes to a close, consider visiting the Isla Cuale market, located on an island in the Cuale River. This market is renowned for its array of traditional Mexican handicrafts, including silver jewelry, woven textiles, and leather goods. Enjoy the tranquil setting as you peruse the market stalls and find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your time in Puerto Vallarta.

Day eleven is a day of exploration and appreciation for the local artisans of Puerto Vallarta. Discover the beauty of traditional crafts, support the local economy, and bring home unique pieces that will forever remind you of your time in this vibrant city.

Day 12: ATV Tour through the Jungle

Day twelve of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary offers an exhilarating adventure as you embark on an ATV tour through the lush jungles surrounding the city. Get ready to feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate rugged terrain, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the jungle.

Start your day by meeting your experienced ATV guide at the designated pickup location. After a safety briefing and some basic instructions, hop on your ATV and rev up the engine as you prepare for an off-road adventure.

As you venture deeper into the jungle, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees, tropical foliage, and the symphony of nature. Feel the thrill as you navigate through muddy trails, splash through shallow rivers, and conquer steep hills, all while enjoying the incredible scenery that unfolds before you.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the jungle, ensuring that you make the most of your ATV experience while also keeping you safe. They’ll share interesting facts about the local flora and fauna, providing insights into the rich biodiversity of the area.

Make stops at various scenic viewpoints, allowing you to pause and take in the breathtaking vistas of the jungle canopy, mountains, and valleys below. Capture some memorable snapshots to showcase the naturally wild beauty of Puerto Vallarta.

During the tour, you may also have the opportunity to visit hidden waterfalls or natural swimming holes. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, surrounded by the serenity of the jungle. This moment of tranquility amidst the adventure will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

As you navigate the ATV trails, keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife such as birds, monkeys, and even the occasional iguana or coati. The jungle is teeming with life and offers glimpses into the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta.

After a thrilling ride, return to the starting point with a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for the power and beauty of the jungle. Reflect on the adrenaline-filled moments, the connection with nature, and the memories created during this incredible ATV adventure.

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a delicious meal at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Mexican dishes or international cuisine. Relish in the satisfaction of a day well spent, filled with excitement, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences.

Day twelve is dedicated to experiencing the wild side of Puerto Vallarta through an exhilarating ATV tour. Get ready to get your adrenaline pumping, embrace the untamed beauty of the jungle, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 13: Sunset Cruise

As your Puerto Vallarta adventure nears its end, day thirteen offers a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind with a magical sunset cruise. Set sail on the calm waters of Banderas Bay as you soak in the breathtaking beauty of a Puerto Vallarta sunset.

Begin your evening by boarding a luxurious sailboat or catamaran, specially equipped to provide a comfortable and memorable experience. Feel the gentle sway of the boat as you leave the harbor and venture out into the open waters.

As the sun begins to lower on the horizon, you’ll witness the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant hues – pinks, oranges, and purples painting a breathtaking picture. Find a cozy spot on the deck, recline on a cushioned lounge chair, or even dip your feet into the calming waters as you prepare to witness a truly magical moment.

As you sail along the coastline, take in the picturesque views of Puerto Vallarta’s iconic landmarks, such as the Los Arcos rock formations and the stunning Malecon. Listen to the soothing sound of the waves and feel the cool breeze against your skin as you bask in the tranquility of the tropical paradise.

During the cruise, indulge in delicious drinks from the open bar, such as margaritas, tropical cocktails, or a glass of champagne. Savor the flavors of the beverages as you toast to the beauty of the sunset and the memories you’ve made throughout your time in Puerto Vallarta.

As the sun dips below the horizon, be prepared for a spectacle that will take your breath away. The vibrant colors wash over the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the water, and creating a tranquil aura. This moment of connection with nature and the stunning surroundings will leave you feeling a deep sense of gratitude and awe.

After the sun has set, the cruise continues with the starry night sky as its backdrop. Revel in the ambiance as the boat makes its way back to the harbor, allowing you to savor this final evening at sea.

As you disembark, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of the sunset cruise and the unforgettable journey you’ve experienced in Puerto Vallarta. Whether you choose to continue the evening with a romantic beachfront dinner or head to one of the vibrant bars for some live music and dancing, this day will be etched in your memory as a perfect way to bid farewell to this tropical paradise.

Day thirteen is dedicated to embracing the tranquility and beauty of a sunset cruise, allowing you to reflect on the remarkable journey you’ve had in Puerto Vallarta and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 14: Departure and Farewell

On the final day of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting destination. Although it’s difficult to say goodbye, take this day to reflect on the incredible experiences, unforgettable moments, and cherished memories you’ve created throughout your journey.

Start your day by enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, savoring the flavors of Mexico one last time. Take a moment to soak in the surroundings and embrace the peaceful ambiance that Puerto Vallarta offers.

Before checking out, use this time to pack your belongings and ensure that you have all your souvenirs, photographs, and cherished memories safely stored. Double-check your travel documents to ensure a smooth departure process.

Even though it’s time to say goodbye, there are still a few hours left to make the most of your final moments in Puerto Vallarta. Take a walk along the beach, feel the soft sand beneath your toes, and let the gentle waves touch your feet one last time.

If time allows, visit one of your favorite spots in the city for a final taste of Puerto Vallarta’s culinary delights. Indulge in your favorite Mexican dishes or revisit a charming café to enjoy a cup of rich Mexican coffee. Take the opportunity to savor the flavors and appreciate the culinary heritage of this vibrant city.

As you make your way to the airport, take a moment to reflect and express gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and connections made during your time in Puerto Vallarta. Embrace the memories and the sense of adventure that will remain with you long after your departure.

As you step onto the plane, carry the spirit of Puerto Vallarta with you, knowing that this tropical paradise will always have a special place in your heart. Depart with a sense of fulfillment and the knowledge that you’ve experienced the best that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

As you say goodbye to this vibrant destination, remember that Puerto Vallarta will always welcome you back with open arms. Until we meet again, carry the memories of your journey and let the beauty of Puerto Vallarta inspire future adventures.

Day fourteen marks the end of your Puerto Vallarta adventure, but the memories, experiences, and the spirit of this remarkable destination will stay with you forever. Farewell, Puerto Vallarta, until we meet again!

As your Puerto Vallarta adventure comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced in this tropical paradise. From the stunning beaches to the lush jungles, the vibrant culture to the delectable cuisine, Puerto Vallarta offers a blend of beauty, adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness that captivates every traveler.

Throughout your trip, you’ve explored the historic downtown, soaked up the sun on pristine beaches, embarked on thrilling adventures, and indulged in the flavors of Mexico. You’ve witnessed stunning sunsets, encountered marine life in their natural habitat, and connected with the vibrant local culture and traditions.

It’s the memories of strolling along the Malecon, exploring the hidden gems of Riviera Nayarit, and experiencing the thrill of ziplining through the jungle that will stay with you long after you leave. It’s the taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, the warmth of the local people, and the embrace of the natural wonders that will continue to inspire your wanderlust.

Puerto Vallarta has shown you the beauty of the world, both within and beyond its shores. It’s a destination that has filled your heart with awe, gratitude, and a renewed sense of adventure. The memories you’ve made here will forever be a cherished part of your travel story.

As you bid farewell to Puerto Vallarta, take with you the spirit of this vibrant city. Let the colors, the flavors, and the energy continue to ignite your passion for exploration. Remember the laughter, the moments of serenity, and the exhilaration of new experiences.

While your time in Puerto Vallarta may have come to an end, the spirit of adventure and discovery will accompany you on future travels. Let the memories of this incredible journey inspire your next adventure, as you embark on new destinations, embrace new cultures, and create new stories to tell.

Farewell, Puerto Vallarta. Your beauty, hospitality, and vibrant energy will always hold a special place in our hearts. Until we meet again on another journey, may your shores continue to welcome travelers with open arms, ready to be swept away by the magic that is Puerto Vallarta.

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Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico + Top 21 Things To Do

Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s well known gems; nestled at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains on the Pacific Ocean in the heart of the Bahia de Banderas (Banderas Bay); Puerto Vallarta is a wonderful destination with a plethora of culture, adventure, fun, entertainment, great food, relaxation, and endless things to see and do. It’s impossible to be bored in this city! Puerto Vallarta (PV for short) is located in the state of Jalisco, and is one of the most welcoming cities in Mexico to the LGBTQ community; there’s even a rainbow street in La Zona Romantica district ! So whether you want to spend your entire vacation at an all-inclusive resort, do a weekend spa retreat only accessible by boat, hike to waterfalls, eat your way through the city, or spend all day at the beach – Puerto Vallarta has it all, and will welcome you with open arms! Contrary to popular belief, Puerto Vallarta isn’t just for lovebirds, despite the name La Zona Romantica (romantic zone.) This city is great for solo travelers, families and backpackers, as there are several hostels in the city and up North in Sayulita and San Pancho , the Nayarit Coast’s hippy beach towns.

When researching where to live in Mexico , I’m so glad that I came across Puerto Vallarta (PV for short), and ultimately selected it, because out of all our travels throughout Mexico, PV was our favorite because of the diversity of the mountains and the sea. Being from Hawaii , Puerto Vallarta really felt like home to me.

People who are from PV are called Patasaladas , which loosely translates to “salty feet”; this is not a derogatory term; in fact, people are proud of being a Patasalada! There are even drinks named after the wonderful people of Puerto Vallarta! (Just like people from Guadalajara are called Tapatios and people from Mexico City are called Chilangos .) After having spent three months living in the PV area, I now consider myself to be a Patasalada at heart, because I’m from a salty ocean, too! Just an island on the other side of the Pacific. 😉 The first thing I noticed upon landing in Puerto Vallarta, is how friendly the people are. They are genuinely happy, kind, outgoing, and proud people, and I loved chatting in Spanish with all the local Uber drivers, restaurant workers, hotel owners, etc. The hospitality in PV is outstanding, and the overall sentiment from locals is that they love and cherish tourists, because tourism is directly responsible for their income, and ultimately their livelihood and ability to feed their families.

In this blog post, I’ll cover the top 21 things to do in Puerto Vallarta , but before we dive in, I’d like to provide a brief history about the founding of this wonderful town. Spaniards arrived in the 1500’s and coined the name Bahia de Banderas , meaning “Bay of Flags”, referencing the colorful flags carried into battle by the indigenous population. Sailors, explorers and pirates used this bay as a rest stop between long voyages. Puerto Vallarta started to become a popular tourist destination in the 1930’s, but it wasn’t until 1964 when the release of the movie The Night Of The Iguana came out, which really put Puerto Vallarta on the map.

If you’ll be visiting Mexico, start off with reading my blog post on The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Mexico – Everything You Need To Know Before Traveling to Mexico

If you’ll be moving to Mexico, you may find my blog post on Everything You Need To Know About (Temporarily) Moving To Mexico to be a helpful resource in helping you plan your move, including where in Mexico to move to (the biggest question people have!)

We have traveled to 7 states and over 10 cities in Mexico, and you can find some great resources on things to do, where to eat, and what to see in each destination in my MEXICO ARCHIVES .

How To Get To Puerto Vallarta

You’ll fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport) – the airport code is PVR. There are direct flights from many major cities, such as Los Angeles and Seattle (where we live for part of the year). The airport is located just 20 minutes North of the downtown city center, and very easy to get to and from by Uber, which is very inexpensive in Mexico. A typical cost for an Uber to go 20 minutes, is between $5 – $10 USD.

Do You Need A Car in Puerto Vallarta?

It’s really not necessary, and I don’t advise it because the driving is a bit crazy (left-hand turns are made from the far right lane…what?!) 😳 and parking downtown is virtually impossible. Instead, I recommend taking Uber everywhere because it’s so affordable (just be sure to tip your driver in cash because Uber sadly takes such a huge cut and drivers therefore don’t earn as much), and rent a car on the weekends or when you want to do day trips or explore outside the city center. We loved using Avis because they were the only company we found who didn’t require us to purchase their car insurance, which can often be the same price or double the price of the car itself (they allowed us to use our credit card’s instead.)

When Is The Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta?

November – May is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta , as June – October is the rainy season and is hot and muggy. The only week I recommend avoiding, is Semana Santa (Holy Week – the week before Easter Sunday), as this is a huge holiday in Mexico and many places will be closed. Also, you’ll find that accommodation rates and airfare jumps up in price during this week.

What’s The Weather Like in Puerto Vallarta?

Divine. Truly, from November – May, the weather is unbelievably perfect. During our three months of living in Marina Vallarta and Bucerias (just 45 minutes North of PV), it did not rain a single time, and we only had 7 cloudy days in 12 weeks. It does get chilly in the evenings, especially if there’s wind (March is the start of the windy season), so bring a light jacket, sweater, and pants. Daytime temperatures average high 70’s – low 80’s and night time temperatures average low 60’s and can get into the low 50’s. If you’re visiting during the rainy season (June – October), bring a light rain jacket. The water temperature for swimming in the ocean varies greatly depending on where on the bay you are (we found that it was colder in PV than in Bucerias, which is right in the middle of the bay.)

Best Places To Eat in Puerto Vallarta

I’ve dedicated an entire blog post on where to find the best food in the Puerto Vallarta area, which you can find here: Top Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

Top 21 Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta

• Stroll the Malecon
• Go Hunting For Wall Murals
• Participate in the Weekly Wednesday Art Walk (6 – 10 PM)
• Visit Vallarta Botanical Gardens
• Get Your Grub On In Versalles, The Foodie Capital of Puerto Vallarta
• Take a Mole Making Class at Chocomuseo
• Take a Street Food Tour
• Take a Boat Ride to Colomitos Beach and Hike Back
• Do a Yoga Retreat at a Remote Resort Only Accessible By Boat
• Photograph the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Hike the Mirador Cerro De La Cruz
• Go Whale Watching (December – March)
• Walk The Gringo Gulch and Enjoy the Rio Cuale
• Go Stand Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking at Los Arcos
• Take a Scenic Drive South to Mismaloya
• Take a Luxurious Stroll in Marina Vallarta
• Get Your Adrenaline Fix with an Extreme Adventure (Ziplining, ATV, Rappel, Pendulum Swing, iFly, and Waterslide)
• Take a Day Trip to San Sebastian Del Oeste
• Take a Day Trip to Bucerias
• Take a Day Trip to San Pancho, Sayulita, and Punta De Mita
• Book a Photography Session

1) Stroll The Malecon

The Malecon is the heart of Puerto Vallarta right along the ocean, and is the most touristic part of the city. “Getters” will be shouting at you from all angles – Ven amigo, hola, bienvenidos! trying to get you to dine at their restaurant. Our rule of thumb for traveling anywhere in the world, is to avoid the tourist hot spots, as the food is usually going to be overpriced and subpar.

2) Go Hunting For Wall Murals

PV has some of the best wall art we’ve seen during our travels, and it adds stunning color and vibrancy to this already popping city. PV is home to many artists, as you will find during the Wednesday Art Walk (#3 on this list of top things to do in Puerto Vallarta). You’ll also find that Frida Khalo is Queen here in Mexico. She is revered and loved by so many, and you’ll see her face on everything – walls, tote bags, shoes…

To help you in your mural hunting, you can use the Interactive Street Art Map

This one really struck a chord with me – it spans an entire block with a kid playing the old school game of “telephone” with a string and aluminum can, and on the other side is a kid on a cell phone. Is this our modern-day society? Overrun by technology, oblivious of the reality that goes on around us? Or is this our new reality…

3) Participate in the Weekly Wednesday Art Walk (6 – 10 PM)

You can see which galleries are participating here .

4) Visit Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Located 35 minutes South of downtown by car, Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a must when you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta, especially if you’re looking for a break from the noisy downtown area. We spent an entire day here because of the river! Bring your swimsuit, as there’s a refreshing river with boulders to enjoy a peaceful day of quiet relaxation. The restaurant is also outstanding for a mid-day snack or lunch.

5) Get Your Grub On In Versalles, The Foodie Capital of Puerto Vallarta

Versalles was our favorite little expat / local neighborhood to dine out. Located just 15 minutes North of Puerto Vallarta in the Fluvial District, you’ll find all kinds of restaurants from authentic Greek (run by an expat from Greece), incredible tacos, Spanish food from the Galicia region (run by an expat from Spain), Caribbean food (run by a beautiful female chef from Curacao), and many other fun foodie gems. You can read more about the Versalles area in this blog post: Top Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta .

6) Take a Mole or Chocolate Class at Chocomuseo

One of my favorite things to do when I travel, is take a local food tour or cooking class. Chocomuseo offers both chocolate-making and mole-making classes! We took a private mole class, which lasted about 5 hours and included a trip to the local market to hand-pick the ingredients! It was a lot of fun; we learned about this delicious marinade paste, and got to eat the fruits of our labor and even take home our own jars of mole paste! You can read more about our experience, including booking your tour here: Our Mole Cooking Class in Puerto Vallarta .

7) Take a Street Food Tour

There are many companies offering street food tours, but Vallarta Food Tours is one of the highest rated with the most diverse tour offerings.

8) Take a Boat Ride to Colomitos Beach and Hike Back

There are several remote beaches along the South Coast of Puerto Vallarta, and Colomitos is one of them. The only way to get here is by boat (5 minutes) or by hiking (25 – 45 minutes depending on your speed and fitness level.) We took a boat there and hiked back to experience it all. The beach is tiny and nothing to write home about, but the hike was lovely and reminded us of the coast of Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera.

9) Do a Yoga Retreat at a Remote Resort Only Accessible By Boat

Puerto Vallarta is home to many yoga and wellness retreats. Treat yourself to a weekend at a remote resort. Xinilani Retreat and El Grullo Naturista Hotel both require taking a boat from Boca de Tomatlan to Qimixto. I have not personally stayed at either of these, so I cannot provide a personal endorsement, but I would do your research first, as they’re on the pricier side.

10) Photograph the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

This beautiful church combines three different architectural styles of Neoclassical (main building), Renaissance (towers) and Baroque (the crown). The streets surrounding it are charming, lined with cobblestones with white flags and red umbrellas hanging above. Be sure to see it at sunset when it lights up from Cerro De La Cruz (#11 on Top Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta!)

11) Hike the Mirador Cerro De La Cruz

Mirador means “lookout”, and this is where you can find the best birds eye views of the city, mountains and ocean. You’ll have to climb up several steep sets of stairs (also a great place for a leg workout!), but the views are rewarding. Sunset is the most busy time of day at the top. You can easily walk directly from the city center to the top, up steep cobblestone streets in lovely neighborhoods perched atop the hill. Simply put into Googlemaps “Cerro De La Cruz” and it’ll give you walking directions.

12) Go Whale Watching (December – March)

Whale watching season is from December through March where you’ll get to see spectacular humpback whales in action. This is where mamma whales come to give birth to their offspring in the protection of Banderas Bay. Ocean Friendly Tours Puerto Vallarta operates responsibly to protect marine life and focus on education.

13) Walk The Gringo Gulch and Enjoy the Rio Cuale

On the way to Cerro De La Cruz, you’ll walk through the Rio (River) Cuale and Gringo Gulch, aptly named for the Caucasian expats who bought homes in this area in the 1950’s and 1960’s before Puerto Vallarta became the tourist mecca it is today. There’s an artisan market along the river and several excellent restaurants (our favorite is Bonito Kitchen .)

14) Go Stand Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking at Los Arcos

Just South of the city center are rock formations that form a natural arc, called Los Arcos . This is a popular place for snorkeling tours, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. If you’re a strong swimmer, they’re close enough to swim to, but I would recommend taking a flotation device or boogie board to paddle on.

15) Take a Scenic Drive South to Mismaloya

Just a few minutes further South of Los Arcos, is a beautiful beach called Mismaloya , where several wealthy expats own homes. This beach reminded us of Greece , as it sparkled like the Mediterranean Sea as the sun danced off the impending evening light.

16) Take a Luxurious Stroll in Marina Vallarta

Marina Vallarta is a high-end residential neighborhood just 20 minutes North of Puerto Vallarta, and is where we spent the first two months of our stay in Mexico. We stayed at Hotel San Trópico in a quiet neighborhood just a ten-minute walk from the marina where all the fancy yachts are. You’ll find a peaceful marina here with a nice paved walking path and several restaurants and shops. A bonus is the giant iguanas sunning themselves along the water’s edge. Beware of crocodiles; apparently they live in the Marina! This has been confirmed by more than a handful of locals.

17) Get Your Adrenaline Fix with an Extreme Adventure

I wrote an entire blog post on this adventure because it was SO MUCH FUN. You can read it here: Extreme Adventure – A Must-Do Activity in Puerto Vallarta! My previous job was a Travel Concierge for Expedia’s Activities Division in Hawaii, so I sold fun activities to guests visiting the Hawaiian Islands . I have had the privilege of participating in countless activities, but this Mexican adventure definitely topped the list!

18) Take a Day Trip to San Sebastian Del Oeste

Located 1 hour, 40 minutes East of Puerto Vallarta set like a gem in the Sierra Madre Mountains, is a tiny town called San Sebastian Del Oeste . Because of the higher elevation, this region is known for its organic coffee production. Come explore what this town has to offer on a day trip.

You can read more in my blog post: San Sebastian Del Oeste is Jalisco’s Hidden Gem

19) Take a Day Trip to Bucerias

Bucerias, meaning place of divers , is located just 45 minutes North of Puerto Vallarta (20 minutes North of the PVR airport) and is actually in a different state called the Nayarit Coast , bordering Jalisco. Sasha and I lived in Bucerias for the last month of our stay in Mexico, and it was a fairytale lifestyle. We woke up every day to birds and parrots chirping, started our day with a walk on the beach, and ended the day at our infinity rooftop pool followed by a $12 USD one-hour massage on the beach. If you love water sports, Bucerias is for you! March is the start of the windy season, and because of its unique location in the middle of Banderas Bay, it’s an excellent place for kite surfing.

You can ready more about Bucerias on my blog post here: Why Bucerias Is Our Favorite Place To Live And Work Remotely In Mexico .

20) Take a Day Trip to San Pancho, Sayulita, and Punta De Mita

Located approximately one hour North of Puerto Vallarta, are the surfer hippy vibe towns of Sayulita and San Pancho , and the high-end beach town of Punta De Mita (made luxurious by the Four Seasons Hotel and high net worth guests who stay there). If you love to surf, enjoy the laid-back island vibes lifestyle, or just want a break from the city, these towns can all be visited on a day trip, as Sayulita and San Pancho are just 15 minutes’ drive from each other.

You can read more in my blog posts here: 12 Best Things To Do In Sayulita and San Pancho, Mexico is Your Hippy Dream Come True

21) Book a Beach Photography Session

Our good friends, Taylor and Diego own a photography company called Chas Studios , and they are so wonderful and talented. They took our baby moon photos on the beach, but you can select any location you’d like! There are so many photographic places in Puerto Vallarta, why not hire a local photographer to capture the moments with you in them!

Now you know the top 21 things to do in Puerto Vallarta! We loved the PV area so much, we plan to come back every year.

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About culturalfoodies

Aloha! My name is Lisa and I am the writer and photographer behind Cultural Foodies. I began this blog back in 2017 when my husband and I left our corporate careers in Seattle to travel abroad for half a year. Since then, our lifestyle has evolved into world travel digital nomads / business owners, so we live and travel all over the world all whilst working remotely.

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[…] For more fun ideas on Top Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta, check out my blog post: Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Puerto Vallarta: Top 20 Things To Do in PV […]

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[…] Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Puerto Vallarta: Top 20 Things To Do in PV […]

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[…] Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Puerto Vallarta: Top 20 Things To Do In PV […]

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[…] is almost always a queue. The service is friendly and the space reminded us of Miscellanea Cafe in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where we spent our last three months. This is a nice place to spend a lazy Sunday […]

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[…] to care about picking up their pet’s excrements. We noticed this in Mexico when we lived in Puerto Vallarta as well. This means that you’ll need to watch where you’re walking, as it can often […]

Thank you so much for such a comprehensive guide to PV.Thank you for sharing you blog with me on my Facebook post in the expat group. I really appreciate it.

culturalfoodies

My pleasure, Shawnie! I’m so glad you found it helpful. 🙂

super helpful post – 2 quick questions: how did you find a boat to take you to Colomitos – is the route back sign posted? and what are your thoughts on trying to rent a motorbike for some of the recommended day trips like San Sebastian Del Oeste?

Hi Elizabeth! There are tons of small boats and drivers at the marina as soon as you park, to take you to Colomitos, and yes, the route back is marked and easy to follow. Regarding renting a motorbike, I really don’t recommend it because of the safety on the roads. There are so many topes (speed humps) and pot holes with big trucks on the road, so I always cringe whenever I see people on motorbikes, especially without helmets! I know that helmets are not really a thing in many countries, but it still makes me so nervous, especially when I see their kids on there with them! You’re better off renting a car for road trips.

Insider's Guide: Tourist Activities for Wedding Guests in Puerto Vallarta | Chas Studios

[…] For another perspective on top things to do in Puerto Vallarta, check out our good friend’s well-written article, Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Top 20 Things To Do in PV. […]

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Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: How to Spend 3, 4 or 5 Days in PV

Planning to visit beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico?

You’re in for an amazing vacay because there’s so many unforgettable and fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico , a world-class beach destination in Jalisco, Mexico.

This Puerto Vallarta itinerary article covers it all — from laying on a hidden beach, to zip lining through jungle, to of course, tacos!  

Located on Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta has amazing beaches, water activities and boat tours to other stunning beach towns.

Behind the beaches to the west, you’re in the Sierra Madre mountains, and just north of Puerto Vallarta there’s the Sayulita pueblo magico (magic town).

Editor’s Pick: Best Puerto Vallarta Tour | Marietas Islands Tour to the Hidden Beach

If you’re wondering, How many days do I need in Puerto Vallarta? — Know that you can have a great trip with any amount of travel time.

This article offers options for 3 day, 4 day and 5 day trips, but even if you’re spending 2 days in Puerto Vallarta, you can still use this info to plan an epic trip.

After you discover all the amazing Puerto Vallarta excursions, experiences and must-see sites, there’s a thorough Puerto Vallarta Travel Planning Guide & FAQ that follows.

It will explain how to get to town, which airport to fly into, best time of year to visit, what to pack, and much more.

With so many unique things to do in Puerto Vallarta, sites to see and tacos to eat in this well-known Mexico beach town, let’s get to this Puerto Vallarta itinerary already

😎 Ready to plan the trip of your dreams? Let’s dive in!

3 Days in Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

Day 1: beaches of  puerto vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the best beach towns in Mexico , so you’re likely going to want to check out all the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta right away! Day 1 is also the ideal time to get your bearings and acclimate to the town.

Puerto Vallarta Malecon Art Walk

The Malecon Sculpture Art Walk with Gary Thompson, an expert in Puerto Vallarta culture and art, is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

On this beachfront walk, you’ll get to see the 15 large sculptures along the Puerto Vallarta Malecon, and learn about the talented artists who made them.

🚴‍♀️ Prefer a bike tour? Book the More Than A Bike Tour in the Malecon !

In addition to beaches, Puerto Vallarta is known as a very artsy city. In fact, some say it has more art galleries than any other Mexican beach destination.

Joining the free tour of the Malecon (Boardwalk) is the perfect way to see the beaches and art together.

The Malecon Sculpture Art Walk departs from the Millennium sculpture next to Hotel Rosita at 9:30am; but you should arrive at 9:15am.

Reservations are not required, but tips of about $100 pesos ($5USD) per person are customary at the end of the tour.

Note: If you don’t want to join the group tour, you can always just walk the Malecon yourself to check out the art galleries, sculptures, shops, cafes, and bars.

As the Malecon is Puerto Vallarta’s main pedestrian walkway, you’ll want to get an idea of what’s there.

Puerto Vallarta Brunch at La Tostaderia

The Malecon Art Walk ends near Galeria Pacifico Art Gallery, which is owned by the tour guide, Gary Thompson.

This is right near La Tostaderia, a picturesque outdoor cafe that has the best brunch in Puerto Vallarta. 🍽 Puerto Vallarta travel tip: Try the chilaquiles , one of the best Mexican breakfast foods.

World-Famous Playa los Muertos Beach

After eating, walk about 10 minutes over to Playa los Muertos beach. This is known as the best Puerto Vallarta beach, located right next to the Sail Dock and the Pier.

Playa los Muertos has a high-energy atmosphere, with beach clubs, bars, food vendors, beachfront massages and more.

If you want to check out some of the best Puerto Vallarta beach clubs, they’re all right here — like El Dorado Beach Club and Sapphire Ocean Club.

If you’re looking for a party beach club, head to Mantamar Beach Club to dance, swim and drink the day away.

🏝 Best Puerto Vallarta Beaches: PLAYA CONCHAS CHINAS

If you’re looking for a calmer beach, drive your rental car or take an Uber to Playa Conchas Chinas, a beautiful beach about 15 minutes away.

This beach is named after the conchas chinas , meaning “curly shells,” a beautiful spiral-shaped shell you’ll find along the shore.

At Conchas Chinas Beach , you can just lay your towel in the sand and jump right in the water.

You can also opt for a day pass to Grand Fiesta Americana or Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta , so you’ll have access to their amenities like the pools, beach chairs, umbrellas and restrooms. 

🏝 Best Puerto Vallarta Beaches: Playa Palmares

A bit further down the road, there’s Playa Palmares , where locals go to truly escape the crowds.

Here, you can get a day pass to the gorgeous Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa , and even enjoy a nice massage or relaxing spa treatment. 

Note: With day passes, you’ll pay an entrance fee, but that amount will go towards your food and drink tab.

While it’s paid at your entrance, it’s actually the hotel’s “minimum spend” amount, so the entrance cost is going to be applied toward food and drinks.

Puerto Vallarta Tacos for Dinner: Pancho’s Takos

Besides the beaches, most people who come to Mexico want to eat their fill of tacos!

In Puerto Vallarta, Pancho’s Takos is a must-try for some authentic tacos al pastor. The king of Mexican tacos, tacos al pastor is made with marinated pork that’s slow cooked on a spit.

🌱 Not a meat eater? You’ll love Planeta Vegetariano , a Puerto Vallarta vegan and vegetarian institution since 1995.

This locals’ favorite is popular with visitors as well — so there might be a wait, though it’s worth it and it often moves relatively quickly.

Pancho’s is known to have the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta, and some even say the overall best Mexican food in Puerto Vallarta. 

Best Taco Tours in PUERTO VALLARTA

After-dinner drinks in puerto vallarta.

The Zona Romantica neighborhood (where Pancho’s is located) has plenty of options.

Check out El Colibrí, among the best bars in Puerto Vallarta for cocktails, as well as Los Muertos Brewing, for locally-brewed beer, and Bar Morelos, for an all-night dance party.

🥂 Venture off the beaten path on the Secret Bars in Puerto Vallarta Tour with a local as your guide to show you the coolest bars in town.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 2 Days

Day 2: los arcos, shopping & a pirate ship 🏴‍☠️.

Start Day 2 in Puerto Vallarta with a morning tour to snorkel, kayak and stand up paddle board at Los Arcos.

For true early risers, there’s even sunrise kayaking tours to go paddle boarding without the crowds.

Los Arcos, or The Arches, is a well-known arched rock formation in Banderas Bay. It is among top excursions because it has the best Puerto Vallarta snorkeling reefs.

The calm waters around these rock arches also make this the perfect place to kayak , swim, snorkel , scuba dive and stand up paddle board .

Tour of Los Arcos Puerto Vallarta

• Stand Up Paddle and Snorkel in Los Arcos
• Bioluminescent Eco-Experience at Los Arcos
• Kayak & Snorkel at Los Arcos Marine Park

Brunch at Ono Smoothie Bowls

After working up an appetite on your Los Arcos tour, head to locals’ favorite, Ono Smoothie Bowls for brunch or lunch.

This cute cafe is known for smoothies, acai bowls, and light, healthy fare, in a prized location on lively Calle Basilio Badillo Street in the Zona Romantica.

Check out Zona Romantica & Viejo Vallarta

The Romantic Zone (Romantic Zone) and Viejo Vallarta (Old Town) are the two best neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta.

In these two areas, located right next to one another, you’ll find all the charming, colorful vintage buildings you’ve likely seen in photos of the town.

After eating, spend some time strolling Zona Romantica with a stop at the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe for photos.

This is the part of town famed actress Elizabeth Taylor once lived after filming The Night of the Iguana — You can even stay in her former home, now the Casa Kimberly Boutique Hotel .

🎥 Discover Puerto Vallarta’s glamorous history on the Old Town Hollywood Story Tour

Shop the Rio Cuale Market

If shopping is one of your must do in Puerto Vallarta activities, continue your walk along the Río Cuale (Cuale River) to the Isla Rio Cuale Market.

This fun outdoor market is the best place to shop for souvenirs and artisan crafts to bring home with you.

Be on the lookout for some huichol art so you can take a unique piece of Puerto Vallarta home with you.

Pronounced wee-chole, this is a colorful bead art made locally by the native Huichol people. It is an emblematic symbol of both Puerto Vallarta and Jalisco state.

Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise in Puerto Vallarta

Ahoy, mateys! ( Sorry, I had to 🤣) In the evening, you won’t want to miss one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta with kids — the Pirate Ship Cruise & Dinner Show.

There are a few companies offering tours on the pirate ships, and you can check out your options for below ⤵

Keep in mind you’ll want to book early, as these do often sell out in advance, especially on weekends, as this is also the premier booze cruise Puerto Vallarta has.

Mirador Cerro de la Cruz

For a more low key evening, catch the sunset at Mirador Cerro de la Cruz before dinner.

This lookout tower offers the best view of Puerto Vallarta, with 360° vistas of the entire town, the Bay of Banderas and the Sierra Madres mountain range.

If you’re looking for the best place to take beautiful Puerto Vallarta photos, the Mirador, meaning Lookout, is just the place.

To visit, follow the instructions on how to get to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz in this article .

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 3 Days

Day 3: mexico hidden beach tour or puerto vallarta zipline tour.

Did you know there’s a secret beach in Mexico ?! That’s right — the Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), on one of the Marietas Islands, is a true Mexico bucket list experience. 

Puerto Vallarta Tours to Islas Marietas

There are two types of tours to the Marietas Islands.

One tour takes you near the hidden beach to snorkel around the other islands, which average about $75USD.

The other tour (seen below ⤵) allows you to actually explore the Hidden Beach. These average $150-175USD, but are well worth the extra money.

As this Mexico hidden gem has grown in popularity thanks to social media and YouTube, the government now limits the number of daily visitors on the hidden beach to preserve it.

As only about 125 people may visit per day, do book your tour in advance if you want to go.

Best Islas Marietas Tours

Day trips to ride atvs & zip line.

While many visit Puerto Vallarta to lay on the beach and relax by the pool, those wanting to have an adrenaline rush, will also find it on a tour here.

There are several types of these tours, some that combine rappelling off a cliff and ziplining above the jungle canopy. Some tour companies also take guests through the jungles and Sierra Madre mountains on ATVs (all terrain vehicles).

The ATV tours are not only fun, but since you go off-road through the Sierra Madre mountains, you get to see a side of Puerto Vallarta many won’t.

Some tours also make stops at natural swimming pools, hidden waterfalls, and other beautiful places only locals know about.

Best Puerto Vallarta Zip line Tours & ATV TOURs

Best puerto vallarta restaurants for a farewell dinner.

Whichever tour you choose of the options listed above, you’re going to work up an appetite.

If this is your last night in Puerto Vallarta, you want to get very fancy!

In that case, check out the restaurant options in the Four Seasons Punta Mita or St. Regis Punta Mita . These two luxury hotels are located in the upscale Punta Mita area, about one hour west of Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re not looking to leave Puerto Vallarta, but want to have a fancy dinner, Cafe des Artistes and La Leche fit the bill.

At a more mid-range price, there’s two great beachfront options, El Dorado Restaurant and Blue Shrimp Puerto Vallarta .

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 4 Days

4 days in puerto vallarta itinerary, day 4: visit the bohemian beach town of sayulita, mexico.

Jump in an Uber, your rental car , or even join a group tour for one of the most popular day trips from Puerto Vallarta!

On Day 4, you’ll be heading to the pueblo magico , or magic town, of Sayulita, Mexico , in Nayarit state. This is the neighboring state to Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located.

🤔 What is a pueblo mágico?

The Mexico Tourism Secretary has designated about 135 pueblos (small towns) in the country as “magical.” Mexico pueblos magicos all have natural beauty, unique local customs, interesting folklore and other similar attributes.

The colorful beach town of Sayulita is located only about one hour west of Puerto Vallarta.

It makes for a great day trip to check out the town, relax on its much more low-key beaches, like Playa de los Muertos. and take a surfing lesson, as its one of the best Mexico surf towns .

Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita Tours

Best sayulita beaches: playa sayulita.

On Playa Sayulita, the town’s main beach, you’ll find surf schools offer surfing lessons for beginners and first-timers.

The waves just off of Playa Sayulita are on the smaller side, so many people visit Sayulita to learn how to surf.

Best Sayulita Beaches: Playa de los Muertos

Though it shares a name with the popular Puerto Vallarta beach, this is a totally different, unique experience.

Located behind this beach, you’ll find a small cemetery decorated in the festive style of many Mexican cemeteries; hence its name, playa de los muertos , or beach of the dead.

Visit Downtown Sayulita 

In its small downtown, Sayulita’s streets have colorful papel picado (confetti paper flags) hung year-round.

These traditional Mexican folk art flags are used throughout the country during festivals and holidays, but they stay up all year in Sayulita .

Stroll downtown for some great photos, and check out all the cool boutique shops and art galleries, like Evoke the Spirit , located on the same street as Sayulita Plaza.

This is the center of town, and the most Instagram worthy spot for photos in downtown Sayulita.

There are some restaurants in Sayulita Plaza, perfect for eating, drinking and people-watching.

If you want to head a bit off the main tourist area, Tacos al Pastor Tal Ivan, Yeikame Restaurant or El Itacate Restaurant, are some of the best restaurants in Sayulita .

Final Dinner in Puerto Vallarta

If this will be your last night in Puerto Vallarta, head here for some great restaurant options for a farewell dinner.

For some nightcap drinks afterwards, head here to see your options.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 5 Days

5 days in puerto vallarta itinerary, day 5: yelapa & majahuitas beach.

For a relaxing last day, the small town of Yelapa, Mexico , and beautiful Majahuitas beach, are the perfect ending to your 5 days in Puerto Vallarta.

To easily visit them both, book one of the tours below ⤵ 

Yelapa Day Trip from Puerto Vallarta 

Yelapa is a small fishing village near Puerto Vallarta, and a very popular day trip. It is only accessible by panga , or water taxi, on a one-hour boat ride.

You can catch a panga from Playa de los Muertos Pier, for about $25USD round trip. Boats run from about 9am-5pm daily.

Once arriving in Yelapa, you can spend the day relaxing on its relatively people-free beach and in a very natural setting.

There’s a small downtown area in town, and a few restaurants and beach bars on the main Yelapa beach, though there’s little else here.

Beyond the beach, you can take a short hike to Yelapa Waterfall . There are other waterfalls and hot spring pools deeper in the mountains, but you may want to hire a local guide to venture off the beaten path in Yelapa.

Majahuitas Day Trip from Puerto Vallarta

Majahuitas, like Yelapa, is one of the beaches of Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco. It’s main beach cove is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, perfect for those who want to spend a day in nature on a near-virgin beach.

There’s not much besides the beach, which is why many tours and visitors combine it with their trip to Yelapa.

You can access Majahuitas via the same panga (water taxi) you’ll take to Yelapa — which will make stops at several Cabo Corrientes beach towns, like Las Ánimas, Quimixto and Las Caletas.

As this will be your last night in Puerto Vallarta, head here for some great restaurant options for a farewell dinner. For some nightcap drinks afterwards, head here to see your options.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide & FAQ

Is it safe to travel to puerto vallarta.

Short answer: Yes — For the majority of travelers, Puerto Vallarta is safe.

Longer answer: Yes, and no. In reality, safety is a complex subject, and there’s no definitive answer to the Is Mexico safe? question.

For a deep dive into the topic of Mexico travel safety, head to this article, Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico .

However, in general, Puerto Vallarta is safe and so are the nearby beaches of Riviera Nayarit, like Sayulita , San Pancho , Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias and Punta Mita.

Now, just because Puerto Vallarta is safe, doesn’t mean you should let your guard down! The key to safe travel in Mexico is to make your own safety your highest priority.

For some general travel safety tips, check out this Mexico podcast below, which is all about safe travel in Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

Where is puerto vallarta located.

Puerto Vallarta is located in Jalisco state, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, about 200 miles west of Guadalajara , the second biggest city in Mexico.

The city is situated between the Bay of Banderas and Sierra Madre Mountains.

Puerto Vallarta Map

How do I get to Puerto Vallarta?

Wondering about airports in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico? Puerto Vallarta International Airport (Code: PVR) is located just 20-30 minutes from the main areas of Downtown and the Zona Romantica.

You can easily find direct flights and cheap tickets to Puerto Vallarta from many major cities in the U.S. ► Search for Flights to Puerto Vallarta now .

Best Puerto Vallarta Airport Transfers

What’s the best time to visit puerto vallarta.

As with all Mexico beach towns , the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta is cooler fall and winter months.

During these months, you’ll have cooler weather, and virtually no humidity or mosquitoes . ( Note: They are an issue all year, and only less so in the winter.)

Puerto Vallarta Weather

If you’re looking for a more festive, party atmosphere, the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta is either December, the busiest month for tourism, or March-April, during Spring Break.

For those hoping to see the whales migrating, Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching season runs from December-March.

What do I pack for Puerto Vallarta?

When packing for Puerto Vallarta remember that Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has a tropical climate.

As you can see by the weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot, and also humid 😥, for most of the year, so definitely pack this Water-To-Go Bottle .

This will both keep you hydrated, and also filter your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico .

Mosquitoes are also an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray , and bring reef-safe sunscreen so you practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

If you’re planning to drink a lot, these Anti-Hangover Pills need to be on your What to bring to Puerto Vallarta list .

🧳 Need more Puerto Vallarta packing tips? Head to this article, Packing List for Mexico: Outfit Ideas & FREE Printable Download .

Final Thoughts: Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

Is puerto vallarta worth visiting.

In a word: YES! Puerto Vallarta is one of the top beach towns in Mexico. However, there is so much more to it that makes Puerto Vallarta 100% worth visiting.

Besides beautiful beaches, Puerto Vallarta has a lot of old world charm — famously immortalized in the 1964 film,  The Night of The Iguana , with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

You can even stay in the home the two lovebirds owned, now the  Casa Kimberly Boutique Hotel .

With beaches along with the Bahía Banderas (Bay of Banderas) to one side, and the Sierra Madre mountain range on the other, Puerto Vallarta appeals to beach goers and adrenaline junkies alike.

To get your heart rate pumping on your trip, book one of these exhilarating ATV and Zipline Tours .

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

10 Incredibly Helpful Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips For First-Timers

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2024

Home » Destinations » Mexico » Puerto Vallarta » 10 Incredibly Helpful Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips For First-Timers

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Are you visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, for the first time? Check out these amazing Puerto Vallarta travel tips for first-timers that will save you stress!

This list of puerto vallarta travel tips was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Visiting Mexico and looking for Puerto Vallarta travel tips for first-timers? Then, you came to the right place.

Mexico has so much to offer, between the incredible coasts, the active volcanos, the vast mountain ranges, and the vibrant jungles. However, one of the most must-see destinations in Mexico is Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful beaches, incredible Sierra Madre mountains, lively city center, and rich cultural heritage. That’s why this is a popular tourist destination, especially during Spring break .

If you’re going to Puerto Vallarta, you might be overwhelmed by all the fun things to do and white-sand beaches.

This guide to Puerto Vallarta will review all the important information you need before traveling to Puerto Vallarta for the first time.

These travel tips for Puerto Vallarta will help you make the most of your time on the Mexican West Coast, avoid common mistakes other travelers make, and allow for a fun and safe Puerto Vallarta trip.

Perfect Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips for First-Timers

Planning a trip to puerto vallarta, mexico.

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (sometimes referred to as just PVR Mexico), can initially be overwhelming. After all, you have incredible beaches, beautiful mountains, and much more.

The most crucial point in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico travel tips is to decide how much time you have and which activities you’re most interested in.

If you’re going to PVR Mexico for the beaches, you’re in luck.

Los Muertos Beach is the main beach in central Puerto Vallarta. It’s full of beachgoers, vendors, great sunsets. It’s easily accessible from Old Town and the Romantic Zone, two of the most popular neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta.

Camarones Beach is another beach in downtown Puerto Vallarta with fewer people. And if you want to escape the city, there are also many beaches near Puerto Vallarta for quick day trips .

Puerto Vallarta is inside Banderas Bay, so the waters are always calm and welcoming. Although, you can also find great surfing spots not too far from downtown.

If you want to balance beach time with more activities, don’t worry; there’s plenty of that too.

The many hiking trails often get overlooked by travelers but are a must-do for families traveling to Puerto Vallarta. There are dozens of great hikes for every level and age right in the mountain range behind the city.

Mexico is also known for its delicious food, so definitely step out of your comfort zone for a second to try some of the incredible street food and even the wide variety of international cuisine around El Centro.

If you’re worried about missing out on the best food, consider one of the Puerto Vallarta food tours, which will take you through the best of the best.

One of my biggest tips for traveling to Puerto Vallarta is to consider all your options and plan your Puerto Vallarta itinerary in advance.

Read more: Best Places to Visit in Mexico

How Long Do You Need in Puerto Vallarta?

You can easily spend months in Puerto Vallarta without ever getting bored. However, most of us don’t have that kind of time.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to unwind, soak up some sun, and spend most of the trip at the beach, then three to five days is perfect.

You can have a few days near the beach in the north hotel zone, at one of the incredible beach clubs, and time to walk around Zona Romantica and other cobblestone street neighborhoods.

If you want a little more adventure, I’d recommend seven to nine days to visit Puerto Vallarta.

With a week or more, you can have plenty of time to relax on the beaches, enjoy some fun hikes, explore the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta, and do anything else that might catch your eye.

How to Get to Puerto Vallarta

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta is relatively easy. There’s an international airport about 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta. The airport has direct flights from all over Mexico, North America, and other major cities and destinations.

Getting Around Puerto Vallarta Without a Car

Unless you’re planning day trips from Puerto Vallarta or want to explore the coastal city, you won’t need a car to get around Puerto Vallarta.

In central Puerto Vallarta, you can easily walk to most places. Downtown Puerto Vallarta has retained the quintessential feel with cobblestone streets and a mile-long boardwalk along the Pacific Ocean.

If you want to move further up and down the coast, you can take public buses or water taxis.

Buses frequently run through the city and service all the main areas for tourists and neighborhoods on the outskirts.

You can also find water taxis leaving Playa de los Muertos Pier to visit coves and hidden beaches. The taxi boat stops at Las Animas Beach, Quimixto, and Yelapa.

Taxis and Ride Shares in Puerto Vallarta

Taxis and rideshares are also an easy way to get around, especially if you don’t want to worry too much about navigation.

Uber tends to be more affordable than a taxi ride, and its pricing is transparent, so you don’t have to worry as much about getting scammed.

You can also book Did and InDriver as alternatives to Uber. Uber works the same way in Puerto Vallarta as in other areas. Open the application, set your pick-up and drop-off destination, and call a driver.

According to a survey from Statista , Uber is by far the most popular rideshare application, with an astonishing 85% of consumers in Mexico using Uber over its competitors. So, there should be no problems with Uber in Puerto Vallarta.

Book Popular Puerto Vallarta Activities in Advance

One of the best things you can do for your vacation in Puerto Vallarta is to book your activities in advance, especially during high season or for very popular activities.

Puerto Vallarta is a growing city, with more and more tourists and Mexican nationals visiting yearly for the warm weather and relaxation at some of the best beaches in Mexico.

The high season in Puerto Vallarta is from December through April, when everything is more crowded and likely to sell out.

The low season is from May to December, but it’s still best to come prepared and book in advance. Maybe you’ll even save money by doing so.

For example, people from all over the world come to Puerto Vallarta for the whale watching season, but these boat companies may fill up quickly, especially the good ones.

All-inclusiv e resorts, boutique hotels, and even homestays can fill up quickly, especially the popular ones. If you’re planning an all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta trip, the last thing you want is outrage prices or even no-vacancy resorts.

By planning and booking everything as soon as possible, you can avoid astronomical travel fares and the chance of paying hefty fees.

Use good travel insurance when booking; that way, you won’t have to worry about cancellation fees.

Travel insurance sometimes offers insurance on flights, hotels, activities, and rental bookings in case of a cancellation.

You can ensure you have a fun trip by booking your activities and accommodations as soon as possible.

Learn a little Spanish.

Most locals speak English because of the influx of tourists from the cruise ship terminal and other travelers every day. However, many people only speak Spanish.

Learning a few key phrases can go a long way. It will make everything much easier and show that you respect the local language and are making an effort.

Here are some phrases to start with before you travel to Puerto Vallarta:

• Hola: Hello
• Adiós: Goodbye
• Por Favor: Please
• Gracias: Thank You
• Cuánto Cuesta?: How Much?

It also might be helpful to learn some of the money amount translations, especially if you plan on shopping.

Set aside some time for a day trip or two.

There are a few day trips from Puerto Vallarta that really can’t be missed.

There are a few small, uninhabited nearby islands in Banderas Bay called Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas).

You can take a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands for a secluded escape from the bustling vibes of Puerto Vallarta. Check rates here .

Sayulita is another fun day trips from Puerto Vallarta. Sayulita is a small beach town on the Pacific Coast, about an hour and a half from Puerto Vallarta. There are many things to do in Sayulita, from surfing to hiking.

For a more cultural experience, a day trip to San Sebastian del Oeste is highly recommended. This small, cultural town is nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. It’s about one and a half hours from Puerto Vallarta, so it doesn’t take up much time, making a stop at San Sebastian worth it. Check rates here .

San Pancho (or San Francisco) is another quaint Mexican village about 30 miles (50 km) from Puerto Vallarta.

San Pancho is a unique little Mexican village filled with artists, art galleries, and low-key beach vibes. It’s what you imagine places like Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta to have been like years and years ago.

Los Arcos National Marine Park is a beautiful natural park perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. The warm waters of Los Arcos are home to many of Puerto Vallarta’s thriving marine life, like sea turtles, tropical fish, rays, and eels.

Boca de Tomatlán is another small fishing village near Puerto Vallarta. It’s about an hour away and easy to get to. It’s definitely a lesser-known Mexican town, so it feels more authentic.

Finally, Puerto Vallarta’s whale-watching tours are like none other. December through March is the best time for whale watching. Check rates here .

You’ll have to check the weather forecast ahead of time to make sure things are looking sunny and nice, but it’s an incredible experience either way.

Money in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta uses the Mexican peso (MXN), Mexico’s national currency. At the time of writing this, the Mexican peso converts to the following:

• 1 USD = 17.96 MXN
• 1 CAD = 13.06 MXN
• 1 GBP = 21.81 MXN
• 1 EUR = 18.87 MXN

Remember that a currency’s value is constantly fluctuating, so this can vary from day to day.

If you’re staying around the hotel zones, dining in upper-class restaurants, and shopping at large retailers, you can use your credit or debit cards for most things.

However, if you want to do anything else (including taking water taxis, city taxis, and attending other small events), you’ll need Mexican pesos on hand.

Some places accept USD as a form of payment, but they usually have low conversion rates.

So, you can come prepared and convert your currency to pesos before your trip, exchange money at an official money exchange counter (they also usually have lower currency exchange rates), or pull out money in the local currency at an ATM.

I think using an ATM is the most efficient and best value, depending on your bank account. This may only be beneficial if you have a bank with little-to-no ATM fees and no international charges.

Dining in Puerto Vallarta Tips

Alongside its lively nightlife, this huge city also has some excellent cuisine. Because of the influx of tourists, expats, and digital nomads, it also has excellent international cuisine.

If you’re looking for food with a view, you can eat somewhere along the boardwalk. Many restaurants, either in El Centro or in the hotel zones, have over-the-water dining options. The food is usually pretty good, and the view is even better.

There’s also some excellent seafood around the city, so make sure to try some of these dishes during your stay.

And, of course, stop at some of the street food vendors to try some local delights. You can’t go wrong with Mexican street tacos (el pastor, or pork, is the classic), tamales, and fresh fruit juices.

If you’re dining in, a 10%-15% tip is normal in Mexico. However, if you’re eating a joint that caters entirely to tourists or has impeccable service, they may expect a 20% tip.

Safety and Awareness in Puerto Vallarta

Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

Puerto Vallarta is relatively safe for tourists, especially as much of the economy has become reliant on tourism. The government doesn’t want anything bad to happen, and most locals want to keep the tourist economy flowing.

Currently, Puerto Vallarta has a crime index of 35.82 (Low) and a safety index of 64.17 (High). This is an excellent rating compared to another popular tourist destination in Mexico.

That being said, there’s significant income inequality between locals and tourists in Puerto Vallarta and most parts of Mexico. So, there are some scams and petty crimes to watch for.

Here are a few safety tips when traveling in Puerto Vallarta:

• If you’re using the ATMs, check the card reader for any attachments. ATMs should only be used inside bank buildings rather than street ATMs near downtown.
• Avoid going out late at night alone.
• Download offline Google Maps so you won’t have to worry about navigation, even when cell service isn’t great. You can also keep a Puerto Vallarta map on you, which may be harder to read.
• Stay in recommended neighborhoods like the Romantic Zone (which is also known as Old Town), the Hotel Zone (further away from town where most of the all-inclusive resorts are), and Centro (near the beach and high-energy).

If you’d like a few more resources and tips, you can join one of Puerto Vallarta’s Facebook groups before your Puerto Vallarta trip, like this Puerto Vallarta: Everything you Need or Want to Know group.

These groups are filled with free resources about safety in Puerto Vallarta and everything else you might want to know.

First-Timer’s Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta FAQs

Is puerto vallarta worth visiting.

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is worth visiting. There’s so much to do here, whether the family is drawn to the beautiful beaches, the lively energy, or the Sierra Madre mountains. There’s plenty of fun for everyone, no matter your interests.

You can even book ATV tours to make your trip to Sierra Madre more fun and adrenaline rush. You can book one here .

When is the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta is between December and April. The weather is cool but warm enough to enjoy the best beaches.

If you’re looking for the best deals, April to June is the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta. It’s not too hot, and things are a little more calm.

You’ll want to avoid the rainy season, though. The rainy season is from June to mid-September. While the rainy season isn’t all that bad, it can literally put a damper on your Puerto Vallarta Mexico vacation if it’s nothing but rain.

Where are the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta?

If you’re traveling to Puerto Vallarta, you may want to stay in one of the nicer neighborhoods for comfort and safety reasons.

Zona Romantica is one of the best neighborhoods for tourists. It’s popular because it’s one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in Mexico and a well-known gay neighborhood in Mexico, with several gay clubs around. But it’s also an excellent place for families and children.

The Hotel Zone is where all the all-inclusive resorts are located. It’s a bit further from town but in a beautiful area of Puerto Vallarta. And you’ll definitely feel safe and secure while staying here.

Marina Vallarta is also a well-established neighborhood on the north side of Puerto Vallarta. It’s close to the Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

Centro is also a great place to stay if you want to be right in all the action. While it’s a bit further from the international airport, everything else you need is here.

What should I know before going to Puerto Vallarta?

There are a few other things to know before your trip to Puerto Vallarta.

First, Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, so you can pack light. But bring plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Your other packing items may vary depending on the activities you do.

Also, it’s important to note that the water is unsafe for drinking. Bring a reusable bottle to refill with filtered water, and purchase bottled or filtered water instead of tap water.

Is it okay to travel to Puerto Vallarta right now?

Yes, it’s okay to travel to Puerto Vallarta right now. Thousands of people travel to Puerto Vallarta each week. But you can stay up-to-date on travel advisories and other safety considerations through your country’s embassy. For example, the U.S. Department of State always issues travel advisories for Mexico and other countries.

Should I bring pesos to Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, bringing a few pesos to Puerto Vallarta will be helpful if you can get them beforehand. This way, you can hop directly from the airport to Puerto Vallarta without exchanging money, using an ATM, or dealing with bad exchange rates with foreign currencies.

How do tourists get around in Puerto Vallarta?

Tourists get around in Puerto Vallarta by walking around town, taking taxis or Ubers from place to place, and boat taxis to more remote areas along the Pacific Coat.

What are the must-see attractions in Puerto Vallarta?

The Malecon Boardwalk in Central Puerto Vallarta is a top attraction. It’s a mile-long stretch with many souvenir shops, small restaurants, beach activities, and excellent views of the ocean.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens are also a must-see in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a great afternoon, especially with the whole family. It feels like an entirely different place than the bustling streets of Puerto Vallarta.

The Cuale Cultural Center is located at the eastern tip of the Cuale River Island. It offers family-friendly activities, such as painting, dance, and music workshops.

Is there tipping in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, there’s tipping in Puerto Vallarta. 10% is a standard tip, especially for more local restaurants. But 15% to 20% is also accepted, especially if the service and dining experience were phenomenal.

Where is Puerto Vallarta Mexico?

Puerto Vallarta is on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. It’s on the western side of the country, in the state of Jalisco. The small beach city is right on Banderas Bay, a calm and tranquil inlet.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips for First-Timers Wrap Up

If you want to make the most of your Mexico vacation, the best thing you can do is plan and prepare accordingly.

You’ll want to decide the activities and events that are most interesting to you, and make sure to leave plenty of time to enjoy the white sand beaches and warm waters around Puerto Vallarta.

Of course, you’ll want to come a little prepared, with some basic Spanish in your back pocket and familiarity with the Mexican peso as the local currency.

But you’re certain to have a fantastic trip, and you’ll make some unforgettable memories with the family.

Go ahead and grab your beach towel, and head to Mexico’s Resort City for a fun-filled family vacation!

Looking for more Puerto Vallarta travel resources? Check out the best all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resorts for families , 20 Things to do in Puerto Vallarta with Kids , Cancun or Puerto Vallarta: Which is the Ultimate Family Vacation Destination? , Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta: Which is the Better Vacation City? , all-inclusive Mexico family resorts , and the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta !

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36 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Posted on Published: April 12, 2022  - Last updated: July 30, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , Mexico , Travel Guides

There are so many amazing things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It’s a beautiful Mexican city that lies on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Puerto Vallarta has it all: it’s vibrant and fun, there’s delicious food, and there are many great outdoor adventures and attractions.

Justin and I spent a week in Puerto Vallarta and it really wasn’t enough. We would love to return for at least a month to explore the city more slowly, using Puerto Vallarta as a base to travel to neighboring small towns and villages. If you’re like us and you only have a week in PV, you can get a great overall feel for the city. Then, immediately plan your next vacation here!

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

In this Puerto Vallarta travel guide, we’ll cover some basic info about the city. Then, we’ll show you all of the best things to do within the city limits. Most of these places are walkable and you can get around the city on your own two feet. Then, we’ll describe the best tours from Puerto Vallarta that you might want to add to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

Table of Contents

An Overview of Puerto Vallarta Zones / Neighborhoods

Located on Banderas Bay on the Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is divided up into zones that are the main neighborhoods of the city. These are all located to the south of the airport. For reference, it doesn’t take long to get from the airport to the Hotel Zone. Our resort, Dreams Vallarta Bay , was only about a 10 minute drive from the airport and a 5 minute drive into downtown (~20 minute walk).

To the north of the airport, you leave the state of Jalisco and enter Nayarit. This is where you’ll find Neuvo Vallarta and the North Zone. I won’t be covering these regions in any detail in this article as we didn’t travel there. Many people choose to stay in Neuvo Vallarta instead of Puerto Vallarta because there are many beautiful beaches and resorts there, too.

In Puerto Vallarta, these are the five zones: Marina Vallarta, Hotel Zone, Downtown Puerto Vallarta (Centro), the Romantic Zone (Old Town), and the South Zone. Almost all of the activities you’ll find listed in this guide are located in downtown Puerto Vallarta or the Romantic Zone. Like I mentioned above, we stayed in the Hotel Zone, though you can also stay in Centro or the Romantic Zone to be even closer to the action.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta: Walk the Malecon

One of the most popular things to do in Puerto Vallarta is walk along the Malecon. The word “malecon” means boardwalk or pathway that runs along the edge of the coast. The Malecon starts on the north end at the statue, “Los Milenios” (“The Millennia”) and continues south to the Muelle de Playa Los Muertos, the large pier.

The vast majority of the Malecon is pedestrian only, so you can feel comfortable and safe walking here. It’s the center of all the action in Puerto Vallarta during the day and it becomes a hub for nightlife in the evening. There are rows of shops, restaurants, cafes, and even local entertainment, too. Here are some of the things you can see and do on the Malecon.

Watch the Danza de Los Voladores de Papantla

The Papantla Pole Flyers, also known as Los Voladores de Papantla or the Papantla Flying Men, is one of the most interesting things you’ll see in Puerto Vallarta. This traditional ritual ceremony was inscribed by UNESCO in 2009 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

It is a a fertility dance performed by several ethnic groups in Mexico and Central America. During the ritual, four men climb to the top of a tall wooden pole. A fifth man plays a small drum and a flute, performing songs dedicated to the wind and the sun.

The four men are attached to the pole with long ropes. They fling themselves from the top of it, slowly twirling upside-down around the pole and lowering down to the ground. In our case, one of the men who twirled in the air also played a flute while hanging upside-down, which is quite the feat!

If you would like to see the Danza de Los Voladores de Papantla in action, take a look at my Instagram post all about the Malecon. The last image in this carousel is actually a video of this traditional performance that we observed in Puerto Vallarta.

See the Public Art Sculptures

While there are many art galleries in Puerto Vallarta to visit, you’ll find lots of public art, too. This public art is outdoors for everyone to enjoy for free, at any time of the day. There is an open-air sculpture gallery along the Malecon where you’ll stumble upon many works of art.

I already mentioned “The Millennia” earlier, which is located on the northern end of the Malecon. When I mention the Puerto Vallarta sign later in the article, there’s another sculpture there, too (“The Boy on the Seahorse”. Here are a few more sculptures and statues to discover on the Malecon.

“Origin and Destination” is located on the corner of Allende and the Malecon. There are five sculptures within this display that represent humanity, knowledge, music, and time.

“La Rotonda del Mar” (“The Rotunda of the Sea”) is another impressive collection of sculptures on the corner of Aldama and the Malecon. These are eight high-back chairs with exaggerated human anatomy and fantasy imagery.

“In Search of Reason” is another sculpture where figures are seen climbing up a ladder. People love to climb up this ladder (I saw a bunch of kids climbing it when I was there). Just be careful if you decide to do this – watch your step and don’t fall off!

The Friendship Fountain is a beautiful work featuring three dolphins leaping into the air. The sculpture was designed by a sculptor from Santa Barbara, California. Puerto Vallarta and Santa Barbara are sister cities.

Watch an Artist Create Sand Sculptures

In addition to public art, you might have the opportunity to watch an artist create a sand sculpture before your eyes. We watched a man carving a beautiful sculpture out of sand right on the Malecon. It’s so detailed and truly amazing that someone can make this from sand.

We also saw a smaller sculpture beside it with a small “wishing well” where you can donate some coins to make a wish.

Get a Photo With the Puerto Vallarta Sign

Did you even visit Puerto Vallarta if you didn’t get a photo with the sign? You can’t miss the Puerto Vallarta sign when you walk past it on the Malecon. There are brightly painted letters that spell out Puerto Vallarta, and there might even be a little queue of visitors waiting to get their photo taken with it.

This Puerto Vallarta landmark was created for World Tourism Day in 2016. In between “Puerto” and “Vallarta”, you’ll find a seahorse statue, one of many statues and public art along the Malecon.

Go Shopping at Little Markets and Unique Stores

There are lots of shops on the Malecon where you can find unique handcrafted goods and local souvenirs. Some things that you can find while shopping in Puerto Vallarta include handblown and painted glassware, Talavera pottery , bottles of tequila, colorful art made by the Huichol tribe, silver jewelry, coffee beans, vanilla, and beach sarongs.

We really loved this shop on the Malecon that featured bead art produced by members of the Huichol tribe. You can’t miss the building (it’s brightly painted!) and there are colorful beaded animals for sale. We brought home some as gifts and one for ourselves, too.

Visit the ChocoMuseo Puerto Vallarta

Did you know that Puerto Vallarta has a chocolate museum? You can learn about the history of chocolate and how it is made from cacao. The museum also has lots of great interactive workshops, including how to make chocolate, truffles, or mole sauce. This is a bean to bar workshop at the ChocoMuseo. You’ll learn how to roast and grind cocoa beans, prepare three traditional chocolate drinks, and you’ll get to take home the chocolate you’ve made.

Muelle de Playa Los Muertos (Los Muertos Beach Pier)

The pier at Los Muertos Beach is a must visit in Puerto Vallarta. It was designed by an accomplished and award winning architect and unveiled in 2013. Its design is modern and nautical-themed, reminiscent of a sail. At night, it is illuminated with changing colors.

The Los Muertos Beach Pier is free for everyone to enjoy at any time of the day. Go for a wander out along the pier, admire the architecture, and enjoy the beautiful views all around. You’ll see the beach, buildings lining the beach, and mountains off in the distance. This beach pier is located in the middle of the Romantic Zone on the southern end of the Malecon.

Get Instagram Worthy Photos at the Colorful Buildings

When I was researching our trip to Puerto Vallarta, I kept seeing the same photo of these bright and colorful buildings. Yet, no one would explain where to find them. I’m going to save you the trouble and tell you exactly where to see the colorful buildings in Puerto Vallarta.

They’re located in the Romantic Zone, and it turns out that they are not really colourful buildings at all. In fact, they are the facade of a hotel. Walk to the Playa Los Arcos Hotel on the corner of Olas Altas and Basilio Badillo where you can’t miss them.

Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta: Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz

Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz (The Cross on the Hill Lookout) offers one of the most amazing views in Puerto Vallarta. It’s 100% free to visit and one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Like many lookouts, it requires a little work to get to the top. Trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Mirador de la Cruz is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Malecon. You’ll start at the dead end at the far eastern side of Abasolo Street. As it will be a steady uphill climb to reach the end of Abasolo Street, I recommend taking an Uber or a taxi here. It will save you a lot of work, and you can save your energy for climbing the hill/stairs.

Once you’re at Abasolo Street, there is an uphill climb to the staircase. Once you reach the staircase, you’ll see two sets of stairs and a funicular. The funicular was not operating when we visited, so we had to climb the stairs to the top. I spoke to a friend of mine who visits Puerto Vallarta frequently and she let me know that the funicular hasn’t been operational during any of her visits. This makes me wonder if it still works at all?

We climbed the stairs to the top of the La Cruz hill, and it wasn’t too much work. Mirador La Cruz del Cerro offers a couple of different vantage points. One of these is right by the giant cross and looks out to the surrounding mountains extending off into the distance.

The most popular viewpoint is situated on the opposing side at the additional staircase structure. Climb up a couple more flights of stairs and you’ll be treated to panoramic views overlooking Puerto Vallarta and the Pacific Ocean. These views are spectacular and not to be missed.

Visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens

The  Vallarta Botanical Gardens  are absolutely gorgeous. You can visit the plant conservatory, forest preserve, experience the nearby hiking trails, visit a vanilla plantation, and more. Relax among orchids, cacti, and coffee trees. You can marvel at butterflies and hummingbirds that are native to the area.

You’ll need to take an Uber or taxi to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens as it’s located about 30 minutes from Centro. There’s also the local bus to “El Tuito” at the corner of Carranza and Aguacate streets, in the Romantic Zone. The bus stops here every 30 minutes and you can take it back to PV, too. The fare is 30 pesos.

You can also visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens as part of a tour if you don’t feel like taking public transportation. There’s a tour that visits the gardens, a distillery, and also includes a coffee tour. Book your tickets here.

Discover Beautiful Street Art

Puerto Vallarta is a very colorful city. One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta is discover all of the murals and street art. Nearly around every turn, you’ll find art splashed across the walls. While you can see public art in the form of sculptures on the Malecon, the street art is all over town.

You can find colourful street art by walking around Centro and the Romantic Zone. Some of these are on the streets near the Malecon, others are on the way to local restaurants, and some we discovered coming down the hill from Mirador de la Cruz.

Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe

One of the most memorable landmark buildings in Puerto Vallarta is the Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe). Notably, there is a large crown at the top of its main clock tower. You can admire this beautiful church in downtown Puerto Vallarta, and it’s only a short walk from the Malecon. The church recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, and it is free to visit.

The Artisan Market on Isla Cuale (Cuale Island)

Isla Cuale (Cuale Island) is a small island off the Malecon boardwalk. You’ll walk over a bridge that crosses Cuale Island. I suggest making a diversion and taking a stroll on the island itself.

You will find lots of artisan booths with all sorts of unique handmade wares and souvenirs. If you love visiting museums, there’s the Cuale Archaeological Museum on the island that has a fantastic collection of pre-Columbian figurines.

Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta: Take a Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour with a local guide can be one of the best ways to learn about a new place. There are a number of walking tours in Puerto Vallarta, both paid and free.

For a free two-hour walking tour led by a certified guide (arranged by the Municipal Tourism Office), meet at the Municipal Tourism Office in the Old City Hall building. You’ll walk through the historic old town, learning about Puerto Vallarta’s history, architecture, culture and more. The tours happen every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:00am and 12:00pm, as well as Saturdays at 9:00am.

You can also have a more personalized and intimate experience by scheduling a private walking tour for just you and your partner/group. This is a very well reviewed two hour walking tour where you’ll learn about the history of the city, check out the street art, visit the local market, sample food, and more. Book your tour here.

See Rhythms of the Night

Rhythms of the Night  is the number one activity on the list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. It’s an evening experience that you won’t soon forget! It all starts on a boat cruise at sunset through the Bay of Banderas.

Then, you’ll be welcomed onto the beach for an authentic dinner beneath the stars as you watch the Rhythms of the Night performance. There are vibrant dancers and drummers in spectacular costumes.  Book your ticket  to Rhythms of the Night ahead of time as it’s likely to sell out nightly.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta: Go to the Beach

Of course, spending the day at the beach is one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. We stayed at an all-inclusive resort with a nice sandy beach for this reason. If you don’t want to stay at a resort, don’t fret. There are beautiful beaches in and around Puerto Vallarta that are easy to access.

Playa Camarones (“Shrimp Beach”) is one of the cleanest beaches in Puerto Vallarta that’s also Blue Flag certified. This stretch of beach is along the northern edge of downtown Puerto Vallarta (near “The Millennia” sculpture on the Malecon). You can sunbathe here, enjoy food and drinks from the restaurants and bars that line the beach, or even participate in some watersports.

Playa Los Muertos is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta. It’s south of Centro and located in the Romantic Zone. Los Muertos Beach is a very lively place. You can try watersports, go swimming, or sample drinks and food from restaurants and bars. The Los Muertos Pier offers a great view of the beach and the surrounding area.

Lastly, Playa Las Gemelas is a pair of small beaches about 9km south of Puerto Vallarta. This is one of the prettiest beaches in Puerto Vallarta, but also one of the smallest beaches. It can get quite busy and crowded here on weekends and during the high season. There aren’t any vendors or shops on the beach, so make sure you bring everything you need for the day with you.

See Whales and Dolphins From the Coast

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see whales and dolphins from the shores of Puerto Vallarta. Going whale and dolphin watching is one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. While it might be best to book a tour, you may be able to spot some whales from the beach if you’re looking closely.

Whale watching season runs from December to March in Puerto Vallarta, though it can extend from November to May sometimes. January and February are the best months for spotting whales. Our resort had a “whale alert bell” that they’ll ring if someone sees a whale, in order to alert others to look out to the ocean!

Puerto Vallarta Nightlife

Puerto Vallarta is a super popular destination for its nightlife. While you can hit up the well-known tourist traps like Señor Frogs, I don’t necessarily recommend that spot in particular. In Puerto Vallarta, there’s really something for everyone when it comes to nightlife.

You can visit chill pubs, local craft breweries, beach bars, nightclubs, cocktail bars, LGBT-friendly bars, sports bars, live music venues, and so much more. Puerto Vallarta is one of the most gay-friendly destinations with lots of gay bars and a huge pride celebrations. The Romantic Zone is home to most of the LGBT-friendly bars.

Whether you enjoy dancing, sipping cocktails or wine at a wine bar, or meeting new people, Puerto Vallarta has some of the best nightlife around. You could hop from one bar to the next and likely not try them all across several vacations in Puerto Vallarta. If you want to party like a VIP, check out this nightclub tour where you’ll have unlimited drinks and skip the lines at three trendy clubs (with reserved tables, too).

Stay at a Beautiful Resort in Puerto Vallarta

While you might opt to stay at a local hotel or Airbnb apartment, Puerto Vallarta has many luxurious all-inclusive resorts. It all depends on what kind of holiday you’re looking for. We were searching for something super relaxing where we could relax by the beach and pool with unlimited food and drink. If you’re looking for a stress-free and worry-free vacation, consider one of Puerto Vallarta’s all-inclusive resorts.

Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa is a luxurious five star property by AMR Collection, nestled on the edge of a golden sand beach in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. There are two resorts at this location. Dreams Vallarta Bay is a family-friendly resort, while Secrets Vallarta Bay is an adults-only resort. 

Justin and I stayed for one week at the  Dreams Vallarta Bay resort , although we had day passes to the  Secrets Vallarta Bay resort  and divided our time between both properties. You can enjoy time at the beach and pool, yummy tropical drinks, and a luxurious place to call home. We loved the views from our balcony, which even had a jetted tub on it. Want to stay elsewhere in town? Browse this handy map for accommodations in Puerto Vallarta.

Watch the Sunset in Puerto Vallarta

It goes without saying that you need to watch the sunset in Puerto Vallarta every night if you can. When we visited Puerto Vallarta, there was a brilliant sunset every evening without fail.

You can watch the sunset from the Malecon, from your resort or hotel’s beach, from a rooftop restaurant like La Traviata, or from the Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz. As long as you’re facing the Pacific Ocean, you’re in for a treat.

Dine at Amazing Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

There are so many awesome restaurants in Puerto Vallarta that you’ll love. It goes without saying that you’ll be able to try authentic Mexican food in Puerto Vallarta. However, there are a variety of restaurants for every taste with all kinds of cuisine. I also loved the low costs of dining out at restaurants in the city. Even ordering a taco feast didn’t seem to cost too much!

Justin and I went to several vegan restaurants in Puerto Vallarta , as well as vegan-friendly ones. We mostly ate Mexican food, but also enjoyed Italian food and even vegan ramen. Some of our favorite restaurants included 100% Vegana Taqueria, The Green Place, Mr. Vegan, Restaurante Vegetariano Mary, Vegan Ramen Mei and La Traviata.

Visit Craft Breweries in Puerto Vallarta

Love beer? While we had our fair share of Coronas at the all-inclusive resort, I prefer heading out to the local craft breweries to sample the local brews. Puerto Vallarta is home to three craft breweries: Monzon Brewing, Los Muertos Brewing, Los Cuentos, and Cerveza El Terrible.

Los Muertos Brewing has two locations, one of which is located downtown near Monzon Brewing, so you could visit both of them in one trip. El Terrible is far from the tourist area in the northeast end of town, though you can pick up bottles at the local liquor stores.

Don’t feel like planning your day? You can take a three hour tour with a local guide to sample up to 15 different kinds of craft beer in Puerto Vallarta. The Craft Brews and Bites tour features Mexican-produced microbrews and the city’s best pizza.

Coffee Shops and Cafes in Puerto Vallarta

I’m a massive fan of coffee and coffee shops, and there’s no shortage of fabulous cafes in Puerto Vallarta. Yes, you’ll find Starbucks in PV, but you’ll also be able to visit a variety of independently-owned coffee shops, too.

Though there are a number of coffee shops in Centro and the Romantic Zone, one of my favorite coffee shops is La Ventana . There are a variety of hot and iced beverages, and you can request plant-based milk here (I believe they have soy and almond). There’s a cute patio on the side of the street or you can sip coffee in the small plant-filled indoor cafe.

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Best Tours From Puerto Vallarta

While I love all of the free things to do in Puerto Vallarta, you can discover so many other interesting sights and attractions by booking a tour. These tours will allow you to explore the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta. The adventures you have here will create a lifetime of memories!

Islas Marietas National Park & Hidden Beach

Take a day trip to the Marietas Islands and the Hidden Beach for an unforgettable day. There’s a maximum capacity of 15 people on this small group tour. In fact, access to the Hidden Beach is protected and limited to a set number of visitors per day to protect the wildlife at the national park.

While you’ll only be able to spend 15-20 minutes at the Hidden Beach (time is limited by the national park), it’s a once in a lifetime experience. You’ll also be able to go snorkeling and enjoy some other beautiful regions around the Marietas Islands on this trip.  Book your tour here.

Take an ATV Tour Through the Jungle

Seeking an adventure? You can ride ATVs and go zip lining all in one tour! Travel by ATV through small villages and through the Sierra Madre Mountains. Fly through the jungle on an exhilarating zipline. As you experience this adventure, you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful areas of Puerto Vallarta, too.  Book your tour here.

Yelapa and Majahuitas (Snorkeling Trip)

From Puerto Vallarta, you’ll take a boat cruise to the brilliant coves of  Yelapa and Majahuitas . Admire the scenery and you might be able to spot some dolphins and whales. Go snorkeling at the Majahuitas Cove for the chance to see amazing marine wildlife. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy the breathtaking Yelapa beach and its hidden waterfall.  Book your tour here.

Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

Puerto Vallarta is an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. There’s so much life to discover under the sea. While it might not be as amazing as the Caribbean for snorkeling (Cozumel and the Riviera Maya in particular), you can still see lots of fish and sea life in Puerto Vallarta.

You can book this snorkeling tour to Los Arcos National Marine Park, where you’ll surely see lots of wildlife in this protected marine zone. You’ll explore underwater caves, coral reefs, and beautiful beaches. You can also go scuba diving with a 5-star PADI center where you can choose from several renowned diving locations.

Go Skydiving

This is for the adventurous folks out there! You can go skydiving in Puerto Vallarta. Soar up in the sky high above the mountains, the city and the Pacific Ocean. I am a little bit too scared to try skydiving, but I know that there are adrenaline junkies who would adore this adventure. Book your skydiving tandem jump here.

Go Parasailing

Ever wanted to try parasailing? Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place to try it for the first time (or a great tour for veteran parasailers, too). You’ll start right from the beach and sail high up in the air for a bird’s eye view of Puerto Vallarta. I love parasailing for the breathtaking scenery and the fact that it’s so quiet and peaceful up in the sky. Book your parasailing trip here.

Take a Whale Watching Tour

As I mentioned earlier, Puerto Vallarta is an amazing destination for whale watching and dolphin watching. Your best odds of seeing whales is to travel to PV between December and March, especially in January and February.

While you can see them from time to time from the shore, it’s best to take a whale watching tour. Your guides will be able to point out the whales so you can see these incredible creatures up close. Here is a highly rated half day whale watching tour I know you’ll love.

Hop On Hop Off Bus in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has its own Hop On Hop Off Bus . Buses run every hour and make various stops around the city. Get off the bus whenever the points of interest strike your fancy. Get back on the bus when you’re done. Your ticket also includes a tequila tasting, a lounger on Mangos beach, and entry to a chocolate factory.

Best Day Trips From Puerto Vallarta

Want to get outside of Puerto Vallarta? Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic base for exploring the region, whether you stay in Jalisco or venture out to Nayarit. There are a number of small towns and villages near Puerto Vallarta to check out. You can visit some of these places on your own by renting a car , taking a taxi or public bus, or taking a tour.

One thing that we had planned to do (but didn’t end up having the chance) was to take a day trip to Sayulita. Sayulita is about an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta, but it’s a great little spot to spend the day from what I heard from friends. You can enjoy the beach, go surfing, wander around the little restaurants and cafes, and more.

It’s possible to reach Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta by public bus, hiring a driver, or taking an Uber. You might have issues taking an Uber back to Puerto Vallarta from Sayulita, so plan for alternate arrangements back if you take an Uber to get there. To make your journey extra easy and enjoyable, you can  book a day trip tour  to San Pancho and Sayulita.

San Sebastian del Oeste

San Sebastian del Oeste is a remote tropical village surrounded by the mountains and lush greenery. It was once notable for its silver mines. Today, only about 600 people live in the sleepy village of San Sebastian. Walk on cobblestone streets to marvel at the old architecture and the colorful village square. You’ll also visit an organic coffee farm and a silversmith workshop. Book your day trip here.

El Tuito is another little town near Puerto Vallarta that’s a bit under the radar. The town’s name means “small beautiful valley” and it’s a bright and vibrant place to visit. During your day in El Tuito, you’ll learn about the town’s history on a walking tour, visit the botanical gardens, sample food and drink from an artisan bakery and a local distillery, and enjoy an authentic traditional Mexican lunch. Book your day trip here.

Want to see more photos of Puerto Vallarta?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

More Travel Blog Posts About Mexico

Seeking inspiration and advice for more upcoming trips to Mexico? Here are some more travel articles that can help you:

• Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• Vegan Guide for Playa del Carmen
• How to Spend 1 Day in Playa del Carmen
• 50 Best Mayan Ruins and Archaeological Sites in Mexico
• Things to Do in Riviera Maya, Mexico
• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• Chacchoben Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya
• The Best Day Trips From San Miguel de Allende
• 7 Days in Guanajuato State Itinerary

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

49 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (the complete list) in 2024

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: December 5, 2022  - Last updated: March 12, 2024

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Because of its diverse landscape and inviting local culture, there are so many things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

This travel guide covers all the must do experiences, activities and sights to see in Puerto Vallarta.

You’ll find free and inexpensive things to do, as well as the best tours and excursions for day trips from Puerto Vallarta.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

1. Stroll the Malecon

The Malecon is the famous seaside boardwalk that stretches for 6 miles.

It’s free to walk around, enjoy the sights, street performers, food vendors and public art.

Don’t miss visiting at sunset and after dark for the night market.

If you only have a day or 2 to explore Puerto Vallarta, I recommend checking out this private bike tour of the Malecon and nearby attractions.

Your guide will show you the best of the Malecon and the surrounding sights, as well as provide history and interesting facts along the way.

2. Go Beach Hopping

There are so many different beaches in Puerto Vallarta. In downtown, the most popular are Olas Atlas and Los Muertos beaches.

Here are a few of my other favorite beaches in Puerto Vallarta:

• Playa Las Gemelas has white sand and clear water
• Playa Madagascar had the best vibe that reminded me of the Caribbean
• Playa del Holi for a calm beach away from the crowds with shallow water. 

Read more about this in my planning guide to the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta .

3. Shop at the Rio Cuale Market

Under the lush vegetation of the Isla Cuale market, you can shop for souvenirs in the shade on a hot sunny day.

The breeze from the river is cool and the market is picturesque.

4. Feed the Stray Cats in Cat Park (Gatos Parque)

There’s a stray cat population that lives in the east end of the Isla Cuale.

Most are docile and friendly and will accept food, water and face rubs from visitors.

5. Take a Free Walking Tour of Downtown Puerto Vallarta

The Puerto Vallarta tourist information center offers free walking tours 3 days per week.

You can join in on Tuesday and Wednesday at 9am and noon, and on Saturdays at noon.

The tours last about 2.5 hours, and you’ll learn all kinds of history and facts about Puerto Vallarta.

No need to pre-register, just show up about 10 to 15 minutes before departure to sign in.

The meeting point is at the old municipal hall, adjacent to Plaza Principal des Armas.

Address : C. Juárez 361, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

6. Take a Free Walking Tour of the Art Sculptures Found Along the Malecon

On Tuesday mornings at 9:30, the owner of the Pacifico Art Gallery sponsors a free walking tour of the public art sculptures found along the Malecon.

Meet at the Millennium sculpture at the far end of the Malecon near the Rosita Hotel.

7. Tour the city sights on the Hop on Hop Off Bus

If you only have one day to explore Puerto Vallarta, the hop on hop off bus is the perfect tour to see the sights and choose the areas you want to explore more.

Or, do this on your first day and ride the whole route to get a better understanding of the city and its history without walking. 

More information and tickets here .

8. Learn About the Importance of Manual Lepe

Manuel Lepe was a prestigious Puerto Vallarta artist, whose paintings have a very distinct style that became synonymous with Puerto Vallarta.

Look for his paintings all over the city.

9. Shop for Traditional Huichol Art

The Huichols are indigenous people who live mostly in the Sierra Madre mountain regions of Jalisco and Nayarit.

Their most recognizable art is delicate beadwork, which takes hours of meticulous and precise skill.

10. Take a Self-guided Walking tour of the Murals and Street art in Centro

It doesn’t take more than a few minutes walking through Centro to realize how colorful the streets are with gorgeous murals.

One of the best ways to see the city is to wander the streets in search of your favorite mural.

11. Take photos with the iconic Puerto Vallarta Letters on the Malecon

12. Find Umbrella Street for Fun Photos

One of my favorite streets in Puerto Vallarta is Iturbide. You’ll find it if you walk straight up from the Puerto Vallarta letters on the Malecon.

13. Admire the Stunning Architecture (inside and out) of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Known locally as the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, visitors can respectfully walk inside for a few minutes or even attend mass.

14. Take a Walking Taco Tour

A must do activity in Puerto Vallarta is to taste the different street tacos.

Street tacos in Puerto Vallarta are almost like their own sub-culture.

But if you’ve never eaten from a street cart, it might seem a little intimidating at first.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on the flavors of al pastor and birria tacos!

Join a tour through Vallarta Eats Food Tours for 3.5 hours of mouthwatering food and drinks.

15. Go on a Tequila and Mezcal Tasting Experience

Since Tequila can only be produced in the state of Jalisco, you can’t visit Puerto Vallarta without sampling some tequila.

Hint – it’s not as bad as you think!

We booked this fun experience where we visited La Catrina Cantina Bar and sampled a total of 14 cocktails all with a tequila or mezcal base.

16. Join free Bachata salsa dancing lessons

Also at La Catrina Cantina (no tour required) every Saturday evening they offer free Bachata and Salsa dancing lessons.

But there’s also a lively dancefloor every night that they’re open, so if you just want to let loose, this is your place to do it.

Bonus – this entire bar is decorated with the coolest Catrina and sugar skull art for great photo opportunities.

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 315, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

17. Visit the Butterfly Sanctuary and release a butterfly for its first flight

Learn about all the native species of butterflies in the region at the Butterfly Sanctuary Mariposario Jardin Magico.

For 270 pesos (14 dollars) you’ll get a guided tour through this peaceful and Zen-like greenhouse and then get to release a butterfly for its first flight.

Uber or taxis can take you there and pick you up.

Address: C. Golondrina 60, Campo Verde, 48290 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

18. Participate in a Temazcal Ceremony

This is a traditional steam hut cleansing ceremony meant to purify and cleanse participants.

19. Book an Appointment at Hamam Turkish Spa

For about $150, try the 2 hour authentic Turkish bath ritual – including 7 courses of sauna, steam room, exfoliation, hot marble, massage and clay mask treatments. 

All the staff were trained in Turkey, so it’s an authentic experience. You’ll find it in the Zona Romantica.

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 240 A, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

20. Stroll Through the Vallarta Botanical Gardens

This is one of the most spectacular botanical gardens you may ever visit.

Admire over 300 species of orchids, visit the hummingbird hotel and do some light hiking on the many trails.

The gardens are located about 30 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, and you can take a bus to get there.

Tip: we took this tour which included sampling coffee in a local village and a fun tequila tasting, in addition to visiting the gardens.

Address: Carretera Puerto Vallarta, Carr. Costera a Barra de Navidad Km 24, 48425 Jal., Mexico

21. Try Refreshing Agua Fresca

The most popular drink among locals in Puerto Vallarta is Agua Fresca.

This translates to fresh fruit water and there are so many different flavors.

The most popular flavors are hibiscus (jamaica) and horchata.

22. Try Tacos Al Pastor for about 1 Dollar

Eat your way through city and try tacos al pastor – arguably the most popular type of food here in Puerto Vallarta.

Al pastor is marinated pork that is cooked on an open flame spit. It’s shaved off and served in a corn tortillas with pineapple, onions and cilantro.

You can try them from a street cart for about 1 dollar each (20 to 25 pesos), or visit a sit down restaurant like Panchos Takos or Pepe’s.

23. Splurge on a Fancy Dinner at Sunset

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most glowing and captivating sunsets.

There are several restaurants in Centro (up a few blocks in the hills) that have stunning views of the city.

I recommend La Capella for Italian classics or La Traviata for pizza.

24. Hike up to the Mirador Cerro de la Cruz

A steep hike but worth it for the best views of the city and the entire Banderas Bay.

25. Climb up the Faro de Matamoros

This is an old lighthouse for great views of the city but nowhere near as steep as Cerro de la Cruz.

26. Hike to Palo Maria Waterfall

And then cool off in the natural pool and waterslide once you arrive.

From the highway across from the Garza Blanca resort, it’s about a 40 minute hike along the river.

It can be tricky to find, so you can hire a guide to take you there .

27. Travel back in time to San Sebastian del Oeste

This was once a thriving mining town in the 1700s, but is now a quiet village high up in the Sierra Madre mountain range.

The streets are so narrow that only one vehicle can pass at a time.

It takes about 2 hours to get there from Puerto Vallarta.

We joined this San Sebastian tour which includes pickup, stops in villages for coffee and local treats, lunch in San Sebastian and a guided tour of the village.

28. Hike to Los Colomitos Beach

This is the smallest beach in Mexico, with a pristine beach and Caribbean-like water.

Take a 30 minute bus ride to Boca de Tomatlan and then cross the river to get to the hiking path (about 30 to 45 minutes depending on your speed).

You can keep going further to other beaches, like Las Animas, or take a water taxi back to Boca. 

29. Watch the Sunset from the Los Muertos Pier

Watch locals go fishing and admire the golden light that reflects off all the beachfront condos.

Tip – grab a beer at the nearby OXXO corner store!

30. Take a Photo with Your Sweetheart Under the Love Bridge

This is the one that Elizabeth Taylor built to connect to Richard Burton’s house. 

You can find it in Gringo Gulch, not far from the pedestrian bridge.

31. Enjoy Free Mariachi Music with Locals

Visit Plaza de Armas (across the street from the Malecon.

Every night its set up as a night market with food and artisan vendors.

The municipal band plays twice per week and encourages dancing in the square.

32. See a Drag Show in the Zona Romantica

The Zona Romantica includes the very welcoming LGBTQ+ district, and because of this there are so many venues that host drag shows.

The Palm Cabaret and Bar host many shows in which you can buy tickets for.

But many bars in the area also have free shows where drag queens perform for tips.

Address: Olas Altas 508, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

33. Wednesday Night Art Walk (free)

On Wednesday nights from 6 to 10pm, you can check out the Vallarta ArtWalk for free.

Visit 16 participating galleries in Centro Historico (historic district) and shop for paintings, jewelry, sculptures, ceramics and more.

View the map area here .

34. Rhythms of the Night

This is one of the top rated excursions in Puerto Vallarta.

You’ll head out on a sunset cruise to a private cove to watch a Cirque du Soleil style show.

Then you’ll have dinner on the beach, only lit by candles and tiki torches.

Read my full Rhythms of the Night review here , or watch the video .

35. Learn to Make Mole Poblano Sauce

Mole poblano is a spicy chocolate based sauce used in many popular Mexican dishes like enchiladas.

This is the perfect way to try something new and unique in Puerto Vallarta and perfectly authentic.

Join this tour where you’ll purchase ingredients from a local market and learn to make the dish from scratch and bring home a jar of your creation!

36. Go for Cheap Massages on the Beach in Bucerias

Bucerias is a small community about 30 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta.

It’s known for its 5-mile stretch of soft sandy beaches.

Among the beach bars and sun bathers, you’ll find many massage tents offering fantastic massages while you listen to the calming waves.

37. Learn to Surf in Sayulita

Or just soak up the lively and colorful beach town vibes!

Sayulita is about one hour north of Puerto Vallarta, but a fun day trip or even a great place to spend a few days.

The waves are calm and consistent at the beach in Sayulita, which is why its a great place to learn.

Trust me, even if you’ve never done it before, you’ll be just fine.

You can watch my video here of use learning how to surf to make you feel better about it!

38. Make your own Chocolate from Scratch

At Planeta Cocao, you’ll get a tour of this chocolate plantation by learning all about the history of the cacao bean and the different trees that grow them.

Then you’ll make your own chocolate from scratch, including shelling the beans and milling them into any type of chocolate you want.

Address: San Vicente 120, 63735 Tondoroque, Nay., Mexico

39. Visit the Crocodile Sanctuary

Learn about the importance of crocodiles for the area’s natural ecosystems at the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary.

This is a rescue and rehabilitation center where you’ll meet all kinds of crocodiles and other native animal species.

Every visitor gets a guided tour by either a veterinarian or a certified biologist and you’ll leave with a newfound love for these prehistoric animals.

You can watch my full video tour of the El Cora Sanctuary here .

40. Go Whale Watching

Every year from December to March, Humpback Whales make their way back to the warm waters of Banderas Bay.

41. Release Baby Sea turtles

From August to December each year, thousands of sea turtles hatch from their nests buried in the sand.

At night until the moonlight, they make the mad dash across the beach to get to the ocean.

But predators know this, and are waiting to swoop them up.

In turn, there are several organizations who collect the sea turtles and bring them to the water by hand so they make it safely.

You can join in on one of the release nights and save the baby sea turtles!

42. Find the Hidden Beach

Go to Marietas Island (Islas Marietas) to find the hidden beach in the middle of the water.

To get there, you’ll take a boat and then swim under a small cave opening to reach the inside.

Since this beach is a protected site, there are a limited amount of people allowed to visit each week.

So you’ll have to join a certified tour to get there.

View info and prices on the highest rated hidden beach tour here .

43. Soak in the Natural Hot springs at Nuevo Ixtlan 

About 1.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta at the base of the Sierra Madre mountains, you’ll find natural hot springs.

There’s actually several hot springs that surround Puerto Vallarta .

At Nuevo Ixtlan, there are about 30 stone tubs which hold 2-6 people each.

We thoroughly enjoyed soaking in the highly therapeutic mineral water here.

The hot springs are a little tricky to find, and the road to get in is rough, so I recommend joining a tour

This is the tour we booked – it comes with a fresh grilled lunch and finishes with massages on the beach.

44. Zipline Among the Rainforest Treetops

Join the best zipline tour in Puerto Vallarta .

Start with a speedboat experience, soar on a series of 15 ziplines, then end with tequila and a dip in the natural river pools (including a natural waterslide)!

45. Test Your Fears on the Jorullo Bridge

The Jorullo Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the world that can support vehicles.

Most people choose to take an ATV tour and ride across this bridge.

On this tour , you’ll ride an ATV through the mountains, stop at a waterfall, cross the bridge for suspended views of the valley below, finish with tequila tasting (to calm your nerves or celebrate your survival).

46. Tour Multi-million Dollar Oceanfront Homes and Villas

Have you ever wondered what those massive oceanfront mansions are like up close?

Through the International Friendship Club, you can tour them!

This organization offers weekly tours of these homes in support of the  Cleft Palate Surgery Program.

Find more information here.

47. Cycle 40 miles along the coastline up to Punta de Mita

Punta de Mita is a swanky area where the rich and famous hang out.

And the coastline has a similar feel to southern California.

On this guided tour , you’ll make stops along the way for great photo opportunities, fresh coconut water and other surprises.

48. Kayak in the Bioluminescent Waters

At sunset, you’ll paddle out from Mismaloya beach to Los Arcos National Park, admiring all the marine life while there’s still daylight.

As night settles in, you’ll start to see the glowing plankton come alive in the bioluminescent water.

View the tour here .

49. Los Arcos National Marine Park

Los Arcos is one of the best places to go snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta.

These massive granite rocks that shoot out from the ocean are surrounded by colorful coral reefs and the area is famous for its vast biodiversity.

Join this tour where you can snorkel here and swim with the dolphins in the wild.

More Puerto Vallarta Posts:

Insider’s Guide to the Best Breakfasts in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta Travel Blog: Our 2 Week Itinerary and Vacation Guide

Puerto Vallarta Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems Travel Guide

14 Unique Day Trips from Puerto Vallarta with Itineraries (+ hidden gems and secret spots) for 2024

The 5 Most Affordable Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta (Romantic Zone)

7 Puerto Vallarta Scams: How to Avoid Them and Stay Safe

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Puerto Vallarta

Come to Puerto Vallarta (or just 'Vallarta' to many) to laze on the dazzling sandy beaches, browse in the quirky shops, nosh in the stylish restaurants and wander the picturesque central streets and enticing malecón (boardwalk).

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Playa Palmares

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Playa Conchas Chinas

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On Isla Río Cuale, this museum has a small but very well-presented collection of pre-Hispanic ceramics by the Chupícuaro culture (400 BCE–200 CE), plus…

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From snorkeling in jungle-backed coves, to unwinding in the Sierra Madre mountains and exploring uninhabited islands, Puerto Vallarta offers amazing day trips

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Sunbathing and sipping margaritas is just one of many ways to spend a vacation in Puerto Vallarta. Mexico's prettiest resort town is also one of its most diverse. Old Vallarta—El Centro and the Zona Romántica—is a goldmine of quirky boutiques and winding cobblestone streets. In Marina Vallarta, shopping centers and deluxe hotels spread around the city's yacht marina. And from Costalegre to the Riviera Nayarit, miles of sandy beaches and scores of stellar restaurants and lively nightclubs, surrounded by historic mountain towns, keep visitors returning again and again.

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5 Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips You Need to Know

Before jetting off on your vacation to puerto vallarta, read up on our travel tips to prep yourself for all the destination has to offer. here are our 5 puerto vallarta travel tips.

Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, Puerto Vallarta is one of the premier seaside destinations in the entire Western Hemisphere. With a host of awesome activities to do and spectacular sights to see, this coastal city truly has something for everyone.

If you are traveling to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll want to be sure to be prepared for all that the city and surrounding area have to offer to get the most out of your trip. In this guide, our travel experts at Vallarta Adventures help you get prepared for all things Puerto Vallarta. Read on for 5 Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips You Need to Know , and book your next Puerto Vallarta adventure with our award-winning team today!

Tip #1: Know When to Travel

Before all else, you’ll want to figure out when, exactly, you are visiting Puerto Vallarta. Finding the perfect travel time requires weighing several factors, including the region’s weather , crowd sizes, and prices.

While Puerto Vallarta is most appealing to many travelers during the winter seasons, these months also come with the year’s most astronomical travel fares (winter is, however, the only season to whale watching in Puerto Vallarta .) Summer in Puerto Vallarta is beautiful but hot and rainy — and fall, though affordable, can come with sporadic showers.

In terms of both price and agreeable weather, we recommend booking your stay sometime during April – June.

For more information about seasonalities and the weather in Puerto Vallarta, plus a dailiy weather forecast, visit this link.

Tip #2: Book Early and Build an Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular travel destinations in all of North America. At this coastal hotspot, reservations for hotels, resorts, and tour activities tend to fill up fast.

To ensure that you get to do everything on your Vallarta list, you’ll want to book as early as possible and build an itinerary so you don’t miss out on all this spectacular region has to offer. Here at Vallarta Adventures, we proudly lead a number of tours ranging from intensive outdoor excursions to laid-back sunset cruises. Explore all of our Puerto Vallarta tours here .

Puerto Vallarta is also a city that offers a myriad of cultural events you cannot miss, so make sure you check this list of the best Puerto Vallarta events , before choosing your travel dates.

Tip #3: Pack for the Outdoors

Located near the equator, Puerto Vallarta experiences warm temperatures year-round. As such, some of its most popular activities and attractions are outdoors. When traveling to Puerto Vallarta, pack outdoor clothes and gear suitable for warm weather. Swimsuits and sunscreen are essentials.

An umbrella is also an excellent choice: it can double as a sun shield on clear days and rain guard should sporadic showers show up. Be sure to pack a good pair of shoes for hikes and other outdoor excursions, and always check the local forecast before traveling.

Tip #4: Check Exchange Rates

When traveling to Puerto Vallarta or anywhere in Mexico, you’ll want to be sure to manage your money properly so you have enough to spend and never spend more than you have to. This starts by knowing when to exchange your U.S. dollars for pesos. Check the exchange rate before traveling: it’s a good idea to hold on to your US dollars if the exchange rate at a particular shop, hotel or restaurant is 21 pesos or fewer to the dollar.

If the exchange rate is more than 21 pesos to the dollar, you’ll want to withdraw pesos from an ATM and use them instead. U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in Puerto Vallarta, but try not to carry too much cash on your person. You should also pack your credit and debit cards to be safe, but don’t rely on them. Many places in Puerto Vallarta do not accept credit or debit cards.

Tip #5: Get Familiar With Puerto Vallarta Transportation

Getting around in Puerto Vallarta isn’t difficult, but it can be expensive if done incorrectly. You’ll encounter the city’s rampant taxi cab population the minute you step outside the airport. Cabs are perhaps the fastest way to get to where you’re going, but they’re not always the cheapest. If you elect to take a cab, it’s worth trying to negotiate the cab fare with the driver. If you’re polite, you may be able to get a deal on the rate.

Uber and InDriver apps are available and certainly more affordable than taxis; however, there are certain places where they won't be welcome such as the airport and some hotels. The other downside is that there are areas and times where it can be hard to find a ride, so make sure you don't opt for this option when you are in a rush.

In terms of cost and convenience, riding a bus is perhaps the best way to get around Puerto Vallarta. There are plenty of stops both in the city and in many neighboring hotspots, and the fares are a fraction of taxi fares. The bus is by far the most affordable means of getting from Puerto Vallarta Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) to the hotel zones. Renting a car is also an option but expect to pay hefty fees for the privilege.

Learn More and Book Your Puerto Vallarta Adventures Here

Want to learn more about traveling in Puerto Vallarta? Ready to book the best tours the region has to offer? Explore our website here at Vallarta Adventures to learn more about our many award-winning tours , and contact us for booking information and travel assistance today!

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Luxury Latin America Blog

Luxury travel news and reviews for mexico, central america, and south america, a guide to luxury rooms with a view in puerto vallarta.

There are plenty of beach resort areas in Mexico where you can take a vacation, but many of them are primarily purpose-built long resort strips without a whole lot else to offer. The city of Puerto Vallarta, however, is a different story. You have the chance to stay in a thriving city filled with culture, great restaurants, and an art-filled malecón walkway along Banderas Bay.  It has great air connections with the USA and Canada too, so it’s easy to get to for even a holiday weekend trip.

You have plenty of great hotels and resorts to choose from in the area. Some are in the heart of the action, while others spread out along the bay. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Puerto Vallarta where you can get a great room with a view.

Ocean Views From Your Balcony

The most luxurious place to stay in P.V. on most counts is Hotel Mousai. This 72-room tower with panoramic views is audacious and brash, with bold design elements and amenities that go well beyond the norm. You’ll enjoy butler service, a heated toilet seat, entertainment and lighting functions controlled from an iPad, and one of the highest rooftop infinity pools in the region.

See our detailed review here and if you’re ready to vacation like a rock star, check out their penthouse suite here .

Mousai shares some facilities with its slightly older sister property, Garza Blanca , which is right on the water. Garza Blanca features suites with kitchens and views of the bay with the famous Los Arcos rock formations not too far away.

You also get great views from rooms at Secrets Vallarta Bay on the main Puerto Vallarta beach. Secrets Vallarta Bay is adults-only, while there’s a Dreams on the other side that is family-friendly. Both are all-inclusive resorts, with no gotcha fees and plenty of quality liquor and good wine to enjoy during your stay. To get your own plunge pool right over the beach, book the Preferred Club Master Suite Swim Out Oceanfront category at either resort.

At the high-rise Westin Puerto Vallarta , you get this view below over the palm trees and shady pool complex. This resort in the marina area is close to the airport and a golf course, plus it has some neighborhood restaurants and bars you can walk to, handy since this is not an all-inclusive hotel.

Some guests really like this one at night because you can see the lights of PV in the distance and you can see boats coming in and out of the marina.

Puerto Vallarta Views From the Center

If you’d like a little foreground with your ocean background, the most romantic view in Puerto Vallarta might be from Hacienda San Angel downtown, right behind the main church. This was once the private home of Richard Burton. There are magical views from the restaurant and pool area that everyone shares. If you stay in their Celestial Suite though, you get a large private terrace where you can sit and take in this view:

Later the owner launched Casa Kimberly , which was the Elizabeth Taylor side of the equation for the area’s most famous temporary residents. This house, which Burton gave her on her 32nd birthday, was connected by a bridge over the street. For the best views, stay in the suite that bears her name and get a walkaround balcony taking in the city and the sea, your own small pool, and a bathroom that’s as big as the sleeping area.

If you like being able to walk out the front door and be in the heart of the action, these two evocative boutique hotels will really make you feel like you’re in Mexico.

If you want to be downtown and be on the beach, the top choice is Villa Premiere , where every room has an ocean view. That’s the view from one room in the photo at the top of this post. Book the Honeymoon Suite for your own Jacuzzi and hammock on a private terrace looking out at the water.

Rather View a Golf Course?

Some people are not beach people, which is why there are plenty of happy homeowners in Puerto Vallarta who are not facing the water. Some of them would rather look out at the wide expanse of lawn known as a golf course. There are two courses in Vallarta itself: Vista Vallarta Golf Course high on a hillside, then another that’s just 10-15 minutes from the historic center.

If that’s your idea of the ideal view, head straight to Hotel Casa Velas , situated a couple of blocks from the beach on the centrally located Marina Vallarta Golf Club. Here you get all the usual adults-only resort amenities on an all-inclusive basis, including use of a nearby beach club, but some of the best suites have a balcony with this visa instead of the sea.

See our review of Casa Velas and then check out all the options at Preferred Hotels or at their website .

These aren’t the only hotels with a view in Puerto Vallarta of course: the destination has more than 80 hotels to choose from. So besides the luxury options here, you could cash in some loyalty points at a Hilton, Marriott, or Sheraton, or upgrade your convention stay room at the Fiesta Americana.

We had a great stay at Velas Vallarta many years ago when my daughter was along, taking advantage of the all-inclusive location right on the beach. I returned later for a writers’ conference and had some terrific meals there. You could turn a stay there into a luxury one by booking a three-bedroom oceanfront suite or the four-bedroom presidential suite.

If you’re more the villa type than the hotel type, you’ve got lots of rental options too. Check out the house we stayed in a few years ago in this post about Punta del Cielo villa .

For more information on the area, including frequent events and the long list of things to do and see, check out the official Puerto Vallarta website .

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Article by Timothy

Timothy Scott is the founder and editor of Luxury Latin America and has been covering the region as a travel journalist since the mid-2000s. He has visited each country we cover multiple times and is based in a UNESCO World Heritage city in central Mexico, where he owns a home. See contact information here .

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Puerto Vallarta - Riviera Nayarit

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See a different side of Mexico on the Pacific coast.

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Downtown Puerto Vallarta

A visit to Downtown Puerto Vallarta, located on Mexico's Pacific coast, is a delightful exploration of vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and rich history, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. The heart of this popular tourist destination is undoubtedly the Malecón boardwalk along Banderas Bay, a bustling hub of activity and charm.

As you stroll along the Malecón, the fresh ocean air accompanies you, and waves gently lapping against the shore provide a soothing soundtrack. This pedestrian-only boardwalk is closed to motorized traffic, allowing you to leisurely explore the area without the usual hustle and bustle of city streets.

On either side of the Malecón, you'll find a variety of shops selling everything from local crafts and souvenirs to high-end fashion and jewelry. Art lovers will be thrilled by the numerous art galleries showcasing the works of local and international artists, while foodies can indulge in a culinary journey through the many restaurants and eateries that offer a range of cuisines, from authentic Mexican dishes to international fare.

A stop at the small amphitheater near the main square is a must for those visiting with children. Here, you'll find an array of working artists, clowns, and entertainers providing a lively and colorful spectacle that is sure to delight the little ones.

A visit to Downtown Puerto Vallarta is more than just a sightseeing excursion; it's an engaging cultural experience that brings together art, history, entertainment, and gastronomy in one vibrant setting. Whether you're exploring the shops along the Malecón, laughing at a clown's antics, or admiring the cathedral's interior, you'll find yourself drawn into the city's welcoming and lively spirit.

Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta

A visit to Mismaloya, located just south of Puerto Vallarta, offers an authentic slice of Mexico. This charming area, which first gained recognition as the filming location for the 1964 film "The Night of the Iguana," is now renowned for its beautiful beaches, relaxed ambiance, and genuine Mexican vibe.

Mismaloya's beaches are undeniably beautiful. The golden sand, clear waters, and swaying palm trees create a tropical paradise that invites you to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, taking a leisurely swim, or simply lounging on the beach with a good book, you'll find Mismaloya's beaches to be the perfect setting for a day of relaxation.

But Mismaloya is not just about the beach. This area is also known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly resorts. These resorts offer a range of amenities and activities for all ages, ensuring that every family member has a memorable vacation. These resorts cater to various interests and preferences, from kid's clubs and water sports to spa services and gourmet dining.

Mismaloya's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the nearby downtown area of Puerto Vallarta. This vibrant city offers a mix of adventure and culture with its bustling markets, historic landmarks, and diverse dining options. Whether browsing local crafts at a market, admiring the architecture of a historic building, or savoring the flavors of Mexican cuisine, you'll find that Puerto Vallarta offers a wealth of experiences to discover.

Whale-Watching in Banderas Bay

Embarking on a whale-watching adventure in Puerto Vallarta's Banderas Bay is an extraordinary experience that allows you to witness one of nature's most majestic creatures in its natural habitat.

From December to March, the warm waters of Banderas Bay become a haven for humpback whales, who migrate here to mate and give birth. These magnificent creatures, known for their acrobatic breaches and hauntingly beautiful songs, provide an awe-inspiring, thrilling, and humbling spectacle.

As you board your whale-watching vessel and set off into the bay, the anticipation builds. The knowledgeable guides on board share fascinating insights about humpback whales, their migratory patterns, and behaviors, enhancing the experience and deepening your understanding of these magnificent creatures.

As the boat moves gently on the water, you might be lucky to witness other behaviors, such as tail slapping, spy-hopping, or even a mother tenderly interacting with her calf. Each encounter is a unique and magical experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Beyond the thrill of the whale sightings, the cruise itself offers stunning views of the Puerto Vallarta coastline and the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains, adding to the overall beauty of the experience.

Islas Marietas National Park

A visit to the Islas Marietas National Park, situated off the coast of Puerto Vallarta-Nayarit, promises an unforgettable journey into one of the world's most unique ecological sanctuaries. This group of uninhabited islands, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a vibrant testament to the rich biodiversity of our planet and offers a captivating adventure for nature lovers and explorers alike.

The journey begins with a boat ride across the azure waters of the Pacific, offering awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline and the vast ocean expanse. As you approach the islands, their distinctive rock formations and abundant bird life become visible, hinting at the natural wonders that await.

Upon arrival, one of the most striking features is the famous "hidden beach," also known as "Playa del Amor" or "Love Beach." This secluded patch of sand, nestled within a crater and accessible only by swimming or kayaking through a tunnel during low tide, is a sight to behold. The contrast of the golden sand, turquoise waters, and the surrounding rock formations creates an enchanting setting that feels like something out of a fantasy novel.

But the islands' allure extends beyond their physical beauty. They are a sanctuary for various bird species, including the blue-footed booby, native to the Pacific and most famously seen in the Galapagos Islands. Seeing these birds, known for their distinctive blue feet, in their natural habitat is a delight for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

In-Destination Support

Funjet's end-to-end service means we also support you in destination. Our destination management company Amstar, have a track record of 28 years delivering exceptional experiences and world-class services in some of the world's most beautiful destinations. Their team of travel professionals can be easily recognized by their signature blue-flowered shirt. They are there to greet you when you land, provide you with door-to-door transportation to your hotel, help you find activities beyond the resort, and to be there for you and answer any questions you may have. Find them at your hotel during the day or by calling +52-(322)-209-1011 from 9am to 5pm central time.

Weddings by Funjet

Open, friendly, and welcoming, the heart of West Coast Mexico beats with art and culture inspired by romance and beauty that weaves through the towns and natives. The artistic scene attracts travelers from around the world, and the diversity of locals and foreigners has long been one of its greatest assets. Watch hunchback whales leap out of the Pacific, gaze at the Sierra Madre mountains from the beach, and savor the fresh seafood cuisine to fully embrace the exotic environment. A trip to Puerto Vallarta can't be made complete without a trip to El Malecón, a seaside boardwalk with authentic offerings from Huichol art to Tuba (coconut wine). Don't forget to visit the Playa del Amor, the "beach of love" at Marietas Islands in Riviera Nayarit, a private oasis of crystal blue waters and white sand.

Puerto Vallarta Vacation Packages FAQ

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• Puerto Vallarta Gay Bar Tour has been nominated for the Travel & Hospitality Awards 2024

Aug 14, 2024 | Press Release

Puerto Vallarta Gay Bar Tour has been nominated by the Travel & Hospitality Awards for 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 14/08/2024

Travel & Hospitality Awards +44 (0) 800 048 8265 [email protected]

United Kingdom, 14/08/2024: The Travel & Hospitality Awards is proud to announce that Puerto Vallarta Gay Bar Tour has been nominated for the Americas travel awards programme.

Nominations remain open for further entrants for the Americas Travel Awards for the accommodation, tour and activities categories for 2021. For interested companies who would like to be put forward please submit a nomination .

Recipients of Travel & Hospitality awards were scrupulously selected based on the aggregation of reviews from multiple third-party sources. Selected by a panel of experts who analyze submission material, review customer feedback and compare each entrant on their given specialty, each winner is awarded for the details that make them distinct.

For more details on Travel & Hospitality awards, go to www.thawards.com

About the Company: THE TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY AWARDS is an annual celebration of excellence across all sectors of the travel industry. The independent awards programme is an annual celebration of excellence for the best hotels, spas, restaurants and tour operators.

Media Contact:

Stanley Lucas | Public Relations Travel & Hospitality Awards | +44 (0) 800 048 8265 | [email protected]

Related Links: www.thawards.com 3221484960

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Prosecutors seek detention for Pentagon employee charged with mishandling classified documents

Gun told authorities he was going to Mexico on a fishing trip. Prosecutors say he agreed to a search of his home. Inside they found other classified documents. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes)

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A judge ruled Tuesday over prosecutors’ objections that a Defense Department civilian employee who is a U.S.-Turkish dual citizen can remain free on home detention while he awaits trial on accusations he mishandled classified documents.

Gokhan Gun, 50, of Falls Church, was arrested Friday outside his home and charged with mishandling classified material.

When he was arrested, Gun was on his way to the airport for trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, according to an FBI affidavit. He was carrying papers including a document that was marked Top Secret.

Gun told authorities he was going to Mexico on a fishing trip. Prosecutors say he agreed to a search of his home. Inside they found other classified documents.

At a detention hearing Tuesday in federal court in Alexandria, prosecutors asked that Gun remain jailed while awaiting trial. They said they may bring additional charges, including possible charges under the Espionage Act, if the ongoing investigation can prove that he not only mishandled classified documents but sought to disseminate documents relevant to the national defense to a foreign power.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Rodregous said the fact that Gun was arrested carrying classified documents, as well as his intelligence-community credentials, on the way to the airport for a purported Mexican fishing trip was circumstantial evidence of his intent to distribute the documents.

“You don’t need your intelligence-community credentials to go fishing,” Rodregous said.

But U.S. Magistrate Judge Ivan Davis said it was “too far of a leap” to assume that his trip to Mexico was connected to his mishandling of documents. He said until the government provides stronger evidence, the case is no different than any other classified-documents case and the presumption is that Gun should be free while he awaits trial.

Despite Davis’ ruling, it appears unlikely Gun will go free any time soon. Prosecutors indicated they will appeal Davis’ ruling to a district court judge, and as a result Davis delayed implementing his order.

Davis also required that Gun be subject to home detention and GPS monitoring if and when he is released pretrial.

Gun is a electrical engineer with the Joint Warfare Analysis Center and has worked there since September. He holds a Top Secret security clearance.

In court papers, prosecutors say he printed out classified documents at his office, often late in the day when co-workers had left, and took them home.

He was born in Turkey and became a U.S. citizen in 2021, according to court papers. In the past 20 years, he has taken 15 overseas trips, including seven trips to Turkey, where his parents live, according to the affidavit.

Gun’s attorney, Rammy Barbari, declined comment after Tuesday’s hearing.

previous coverage

• Defense Department engineer charged with retaining classified documents

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