Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide, your ultimate resource for exploring this tropical paradise. Discover pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, authentic Mexican cuisine, and a rich cultural tapestry. From the bustling Malecón to serene mountain trails, our guide unveils the best of Puerto Vallarta, ensuring a memorable adventure filled with sun, sand, and culture.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, a popular beach destination on Mexico's Pacific coast, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period is ideal for several reasons:
Pleasant Weather: The dry season offers warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it perfect for beach activities, swimming, and outdoor exploration.
Whale Watching Season: From December to March, you can witness humpback whales in the bay, as they migrate to the area for breeding.
Outdoor Activities: Ideal conditions for water sports like snorkeling, diving, and fishing, as well as hiking and sightseeing.
Cultural Events: The period includes several cultural events and festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
However, a few considerations should be kept in mind:
Peak Tourist Season: The months of December, January, and around Easter witness a surge in tourist numbers, making it busier and often more expensive.
Cooler Evenings: Nights can be cooler, especially from December to February, so bringing a light jacket is advisable.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and potentially find lower prices, the months of late April, May, and October can be good alternatives. They offer the tail end of the dry season's benefits with fewer tourists. The rainy season, from June to October, is less ideal for beach-goers due to higher humidity and the chance of rain, though the landscape is lusher and prices lower.
Getting to Puerto Vallarta and Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
Getting to Puerto Vallarta
By Air
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR): This is the main airport serving Puerto Vallarta, located just north of the city. It handles both domestic and international flights, with good connectivity to major cities in North America and some direct flights from Europe.
From the Airport to the City: You can take a taxi, a shared shuttle service, or use ride-hailing apps to reach your destination in the city. Authorized taxi services are available at the airport.
By Bus
Long-distance buses connect Puerto Vallarta with other major cities in Mexico. The bus terminal in Puerto Vallarta is located about 10 km from the downtown area.
By Car
If you’re driving from nearby cities or regions, Puerto Vallarta is accessible via major highways. However, parking can be challenging in the city, especially during peak seasons.
Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
Walking
The downtown area, especially the Malecón (boardwalk) and the Zona Romántica, is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.
Public Buses
Public buses are an economical way to get around and can take you to most parts of the city and nearby beaches. They are frequent but can be crowded.
Taxis
Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. They don’t typically use meters, so it’s a good idea to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Rental Cars
Renting a car can be useful if you plan to explore more of the surrounding areas like the Nayarit coast, but it's not necessary if you're planning to stay within Puerto Vallarta.
Bicycles and Scooters
In some areas, especially along the Malecón, renting a bicycle or a scooter can be a fun way to explore.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Puerto Vallarta
Top 15 Attractions in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, nestled on the Pacific coast of Mexico, offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and beachside leisure. Here are some of the top attractions in Puerto Vallarta:
The Malecón: A seaside promenade lined with sculptures, shops, restaurants, and bars, perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during sunset.
Playa de los Muertos and Pier: The most famous beach in Puerto Vallarta, known for its lively atmosphere, beachside bars, and the iconic pier.
Zona Romántica (Old Vallarta): A charming area with cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and a traditional Mexican vibe.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church: A beautiful church that is an iconic symbol of the city, known for its detailed architecture and cultural significance.
Isla Río Cuale: A peaceful island in the middle of the Cuale River, offering craft markets, restaurants, and a serene escape from the bustle of the city.
Marina Vallarta: A modern marina area with upscale dining, shopping, and beautiful yachts. It's a great place to walk around or set off on a boat tour.
Vallarta Botanical Gardens: Located a bit south of the city, these gardens showcase the rich flora of the region and offer hiking trails, a river for swimming, and a restaurant.
El Eden: An eco-tourism park located in the jungle where the movie “Predator” was filmed. It's popular for zip-lining and swimming in natural pools.
Los Arcos Marine Park: A group of granite islands visible from the city's southern beaches, popular for snorkeling, diving, and bird watching.
Mismaloya Beach: A beautiful beach located south of the city, known for its clear waters and the backdrop for the film “The Night of the Iguana.”
Mirador de La Cruz: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and bay, accessible by a hike or a taxi ride.
Bucerías and Sayulita: Nearby small towns north of Puerto Vallarta, popular for their laid-back atmosphere, artisan markets, and surfing.
El Malecón Sculpture Tours: Guided tours that explore the series of sculptures along the Malecón, each with its own story.
Casa Kimberley: The former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, now a museum and boutique hotel.
Whale Watching Tours: Available from December to March, these tours offer the chance to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Top 15 Activities to do in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers a wide array of activities that go beyond its main attractions, providing visitors with plenty of options to enjoy the natural beauty, culture, and adventure that the area has to offer:
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the diverse marine life in the Bay of Banderas and nearby sites like Los Arcos Marine Park.
Sailing and Boat Tours: Enjoy a day of sailing, with options ranging from luxury yacht tours to romantic sunset cruises.
Whale Watching (Seasonal): From December to March, join a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Deep Sea Fishing: Known for excellent deep-sea fishing, Puerto Vallarta offers excursions for catching marlin, sailfish, and other species.
Parasailing: Experience the thrill of parasailing and get a unique view of the city and coastline from above.
Food and Tequila Tasting Tours: Sample traditional Mexican cuisine and learn about tequila's production and varieties.
Canopy and Zip-Lining Tours: Adventure through the jungle canopy on zip-lining tours, available in various locations around Puerto Vallarta.
Surfing and Paddleboarding: Head to nearby beaches like Sayulita for surfing lessons and paddleboarding.
Horseback Riding: Enjoy horseback riding tours in the jungle or along the beach.
Jungle and Mountain Hiking: Explore the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains with guided hiking tours.
Spa and Wellness: Indulge in spa treatments that incorporate traditional Mexican healing practices.
Golf: Play a round of golf at one of the area's scenic golf courses.
Cultural Workshops and Classes: Participate in cultural workshops, including cooking classes, pottery, and painting.
Yoga and Fitness: Join a yoga class on the beach or at one of the local studios for a relaxing experience.
Explore the Art Scene: Visit art galleries during the Art Walk, a popular event showcasing local and international artists.
Best Shopping
Shopping in Puerto Vallarta offers a diverse range of options, from traditional Mexican handicrafts to contemporary art and fashion. Here's a guide to some of the best shopping experiences in Puerto Vallarta:
Old Town (Zona Romántica): Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Town to find a variety of shops selling traditional Mexican goods, including clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. This area is known for its charming atmosphere and unique finds.
Isla Río Cuale Flea Market: Located on the Isla Río Cuale, this flea market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, handmade crafts, silver jewelry, and other traditional Mexican items at reasonable prices.
The Malecón: Along this seaside boardwalk, you'll find numerous shops and galleries offering everything from high-quality tequila and souvenirs to local art.
Marina Vallarta: The Marina area has a variety of shops selling upscale clothing, home decor, and accessories. The Marina Vallarta Market, held on Thursdays, is also a great place to find local crafts and food items.
Art Galleries: Puerto Vallarta has a thriving art scene, and you can find numerous galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. The Art Walk on Wednesday evenings is a popular event for exploring these galleries.
Basilio Badillo Street: Known as the "Street of Cafes," this street in the Romantic Zone is also home to several boutiques and shops selling unique clothing, jewelry, and art.
Huichol Art: Unique to the region, Huichol art is vibrant and intricate, featuring beadwork and yarn paintings that make for beautiful souvenirs.
When shopping in Puerto Vallarta, it's always a good idea to compare prices, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Don't hesitate to haggle in markets and street stalls – it's part of the shopping culture in Mexico. Also, make sure to look out for authentic and locally made products to support local artisans.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Puerto Vallarta, renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, also boasts an exciting entertainment and nightlife scene. Here's what you can expect:
Bars and Clubs
The Malecón: This oceanfront boardwalk is lined with bars and clubs offering everything from casual drinks to lively dance floors. Popular spots include La Vaquita, Mandala, and Zoo.
Zona Romántica: Known for its LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, this area features a variety of bars, clubs, and cabarets, especially along Olas Altas Street.
Many bars and restaurants host live music, ranging from traditional Mexican mariachi to jazz and rock bands.
Theatrical performances, including drag shows and cabarets, are a popular form of entertainment, particularly in the Zona Romántica.
During the day, beach clubs along Playa Los Muertos and other beaches offer a relaxed setting with music, drinks, and sunbathing. By night, some transform into vibrant party spots.
Cultural Shows
Look out for cultural performances that showcase traditional Mexican dance and music, often held in public spaces or specific venues like Teatro Vallarta.
Dining Out
Puerto Vallarta's culinary scene is active at night, with many restaurants offering beautiful seaside views and a range of cuisines, from traditional Mexican to international fare.
For a more subdued evening, enjoy a sunset dinner cruise or a walk along the Malecón, which offers stunning views of the bay and the city lights.
Safety Tips
Puerto Vallarta is generally considered safe, but it's always a good idea to take standard precautions when enjoying the nightlife, such as staying in groups and using reputable taxis for transportation.
Local Cuisine
Puerto Vallarta's food scene is a delightful blend of traditional Mexican flavors, fresh seafood, and international cuisines, reflecting the city's coastal location and cultural diversity. Here’s what you can expect:
Traditional Mexican Cuisine
Seafood: Being a coastal city, Puerto Vallarta offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Specialties include grilled fish, ceviche, shrimp tacos, and aguachile.
Street Food: Explore the street food scene with tacos al pastor, carne asada, tamales, and quesadillas from local street vendors and markets.
Regional Dishes: Try regional Jalisco dishes such as birria (a spicy stew), pozole (hominy soup), and sopes (corn cakes with various toppings).
Seafront Dining
Many restaurants along the Malecón and in the Romantic Zone offer dining with stunning sea views. These range from casual beachfront eateries to upscale gourmet restaurants.
Puerto Vallarta's culinary scene includes a variety of international options, such as Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean restaurants, catering to its diverse array of visitors.
Local Markets
Markets like Mercado Municipal and Mercado Emiliano Zapata offer a taste of local life, with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and cooked foods.
Don’t miss out on the famous taco stands and food carts. Joining a food tour can be a great way to explore these local flavors.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The city also caters to vegetarians and vegans, with several restaurants offering plant-based menus.
The food scene in Puerto Vallarta is a key part of its charm, offering something for every palate, from authentic street tacos to sophisticated international cuisine. Dining in Puerto Vallarta isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing the local culture, traditions, and the bounty of the Pacific.
Accommodations
When visiting Puerto Vallarta, choosing the right area to stay in can greatly enhance your experience, depending on your preferences for beaches, culture, dining, or nightlife. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Zona Romántica (Old Vallarta):
Ideal for those who want to experience Puerto Vallarta's traditional charm.
Home to Playa Los Muertos, one of the city's most popular beaches.
Packed with cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops.
Known for being LGBTQ-friendly with vibrant nightlife.
El Centro (Downtown):
Perfect for travelers interested in culture and history.
Close to the Malecón, art galleries, the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, and many cultural landmarks.
Offers a mix of traditional Mexican and modern establishments.
Marina Vallarta:
A more upscale area with luxury hotels and resorts.
Features a marina with yachts, golf courses, and high-end restaurants.
Slightly removed from the bustle of downtown but still within easy reach.
Hotel Zone:
Stretches along the beachfront north of downtown.
Home to many of the city’s larger resorts and all-inclusive hotels.
Offers easy beach access and proximity to shopping malls and various dining options.
Conchas Chinas and South Zone:
More secluded and upscale, with luxury villas and boutique hotels.
Offers beautiful beaches and more privacy, perfect for a tranquil retreat.
Nestled in the lush hillsides, providing stunning ocean views.
Nuevo Vallarta (in the neighboring state of Nayarit):
Known for its long, beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts.
Great for families or travelers looking for a more resort-centric vacation.
Offers numerous water sports and outdoor activities.
Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlán:
Located further south, these areas are quieter and more remote.
Offer a more authentic Mexican village experience.
Good bases for exploring nearby beaches and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
Travel Tips
Explore Beyond the Tourist Areas: While the beaches and the Malecón are highlights, venture into the surrounding areas for hiking, smaller beaches, and local villages.
Water Safety: Stick to bottled water for drinking. Most hotels and resorts have purified water, but it’s safer to use bottled water, especially outside these areas.
Dress Appropriately: Casual beachwear is great for the shore and around your hotel, but for dining out or visiting churches, more conservative attire is appropriate.
Language: Basic Spanish phrases can be very helpful, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Nightlife: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, but be cautious, especially if traveling alone or late at night.
