31 Finest Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta in 2023

Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s one of many prime locations to go to in Mexico. There are quite a few enjoyable issues to do in Puerto Vallarta — it has one thing for everybody.

Whether or not you’re a backpacker on a funds, a digital nomad in Mexico trying to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat trying to cool down, you’ll discover actions in Puerto Vallarta to maintain you busy. 

Town is cut up up into neighbourhoods (zones), with the countless issues to do in Puerto Vallarta unfold out alongside Banderas Bay and past. In actuality, it doesn’t actually matter which a part of the town you keep in, as getting round is straightforward.

You’ll, nonetheless, wish to select your zone fastidiously primarily based on the vibe you’re after and the funds you’ve got.

Replace 2023: This record has been up to date to incorporate extra issues to do in Puerto Vallarta in 2023. Now we have additionally eliminated out-of-date or completely closed gadgets.

Puerto Vallarta Neighbourhoods & Zones

Right here’s a fast rundown of the zones in Puerto Vallarta beginning on the Puerto Vallarta Airport and going south:

• Marina – extra upscale than the lodge zone, with the Marriott Resort, Westin & extra.
• Resort Zone – only a few minute’s drive from the airport, this space has many accommodations, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
• Centro (Outdated PV) – smaller properties, residential space, the Malecon (oceanfront promenade) runs alongside right here, many eating places and bars. This space is on the north facet of the River Cuale and gives inexpensive lodging.
• Centro (Romantic Zone or Zona Romantica) – positioned on the south facet of the River Cuale, you’ll discover quite a few bars, cafes, eating places and Playa de Los Muertos Seashore. This can be a well-liked space with a big LGBTQ group. The lodging ranges from funds to prime finish.
• Conchas Chinas – that means “Chinese language Shells” primarily based on the seashells discovered right here, it is a extra prosperous/posh space of Puerto Vallarta with gated communities and high-end condos.

Study extra about the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta with our lodging and neighbourhood information. And, for an entire rundown on travelling to the town of PV, try our detailed information right here.

Finest Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta

After travelling round Puerto Vallarta extensively and having many unimaginable experiences, I’ve narrowed down the 31 greatest issues to do on this stunning Mexican seashore city.

1. Stroll…In all places!

I’ve to place strolling as #1 on the record of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to get a really feel for the town, and since Puerto Vallarta sits on a comparatively flat cove with mountains behind it, most areas of PV are reachable by strolling (though you could find yourself going uphill for those who enterprise quite a lot of blocks from the Malecon).

Mexico is already one of many most cost-effective international locations to journey to, however when you are able to do issues free of charge, like strolling and sightseeing, it can save you much more cash.

This can be a nice approach to see what the distributors are promoting, to individuals watch, and get a lay of the land. You by no means know what you’ll stumble throughout when discovering the town on foot — simply make certain to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven. 

Be aware: the greatest time to journey to Mexico if you wish to stroll round cities could be within the winter months, or within the shoulder season. In any other case, it may be unbearably scorching and also you’ll probably wish to be on a tropical seashore all day.

2. Be part of a Meals Tour

Do you know that Mexico’s delicacies has made the record of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO? This award hasn’t been granted to some other nationwide meals group.

Mexican meals is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and one of the best ways to study extra in regards to the tasty delicacies is to hitch a tour. This can be a must-do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.

We’ve achieved these sorts of excursions all around the globe, and our favorite ones are in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta’s meals excursions are a number of the greatest general.

In Puerto Vallarta, try Vallarta Meals Excursions for a cool avenue meals tour. This firm gives a mixture of tradition, strolling, and Puerto Vallarta’s meals excursions, making it a good way to study in regards to the metropolis of PV whereas concurrently feasting and dealing off the energy.

There are a number of foodie excursions on provide with the corporate, however we went on the “Unique Downtown Tour“, which took us by way of the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as nicely. You can too be part of their night taco tour.

We extremely advocate this tour. Click on right here to study extra and test out the video we made about our favourite Puerto Vallarta Meals Tour.

3. See Rhythms Of The Night time (One of many Finest Issues to do in Puerto Vallarta)

For those who’re searching for a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night time will probably be one thing you gained’t wish to miss.

We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not huge followers of huge group excursions, this present was spectacular and value each penny. This is among the prime excursions in Puerto Vallarta.

The night begins with a sundown cruise (together with an open bar) throughout Banderas Bay to Las Caletas, which is a phenomenal personal cove.

If you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a fantastically lit space with tiki torches and candles.

Facet observe: You can too go to Las Caletas throughout the day for snorkeling and stress-free.

You’ll then be proven to your seat within the outside auditorium, which is surrounded by palm bushes. The seats are all staggered, so though there are individuals sitting in entrance of you, you’ll haven’t any points seeing the present.

The present depicts numerous tales of the traditional Hispanic civilization and Mexican folklore. Throughout the efficiency, there’s reside music, dancing, contortionists, fireplace twirlers, and extra.

Following the present, you’ll take pleasure in a big buffet dinner earlier than returning to Puerto Vallarta by boat.

For those who’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at night time, that is it. Don’t miss this present. Click on right here to study extra in regards to the tour and to e-book tickets.

⇒ See Additionally: Issues To Do in Mazatlan – 21 Experiences You Don’t Wish to Miss

4. Watch Sundown

There’s simply one thing in regards to the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and specifically, Puerto Vallarta. A few of the greatest sunsets we’ve ever seen have been from right here. Seize a drink and benefit from the present.

Nice viewing locations embody anyplace alongside the Malecon, up the hill behind the Church of Our Girl of Guadalupe, or from El Barracuda — the sunsets we skilled at this seashore bar had been top-notch.

For those who’re right here within the whale watching season (December to March) you possibly can see the attractive humpback whales enjoying within the waves at sundown from right here.

As soon as the solar goes down, the social gathering begins in PV — there are such a lot of bars and golf equipment, the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is known. Benefit from the sundown, it’s among the finest free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. 

*Be aware: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. You probably have an opportunity, attempt to go to there as nicely for a extra hidden seashore expertise.

5. Loosen up on Playa las Gemelas

Surprisingly, nearly 20 minutes drive south of Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover stunning seashores that appear to be they need to be Cancun or Playa del Carmen slightly than the Pacific. I believe this is among the greatest seashores in Mexico.

Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. Once we visited, there have been fairly a number of waves, however no riptides or undertows, and the waves had been enjoyable to swim in.

Different guests have skilled utterly calm water right here, so it actually simply is determined by the climate and the time of 12 months.

There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seashore and nothing else…not even any bogs. Carry a cooler full of beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.

The stroll to the seashore is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, nevertheless it’s value it while you see the view (generally you possibly can see humpback whales from right here).

To succeed in right here, you’ll wish to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance, alongside the highway). There isn’t any precise parking for the seashore, so that you’ll want to seek out some on the road, or within the few roadside spots in entrance of Girasol Sur Condos.

Alternatively, you possibly can take an area bus and get dropped off right here. This will not be a hidden seashore, however it’s by far my favourite seashore in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it.

Playa las Gemelas Seashore Tackle: Carr. Costera a Barra de Navidad 2354, Sur, 48390 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click on right here for instructions.

Different Stunning Seashores To Examine Out:

• Playa Los Muertos: Playa de Los Muertos is a brief stroll from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Playa los Muertos has eating places, solar loungers, and water sports activities leases. It’s a handy spot for each sunbathing and eating and whereas it’s not precisely a secret seashore, it stays relaxed.
• Playa Las Animas: That is one other one of many seashore locations that’s solely a brief boat tour from Puerto Vallarta. It’s a less-crowded seashore in comparison with the extra well-liked seashores on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and gives eating choices and water sports activities leases. It’s a fantastic location for these searching for a extra laid again seashore expertise with fundamental facilities.
• Majahuitas Seashore: One other beautiful seashore accessible by boat tour from Puerto Vallarta. This secluded seashore is thought for its tranquility and clear waters. With restricted amenities, it’s superb for guests searching for a extra untouched and serene seashore expertise.
• Nuevo Vallarta: Positioned only a 30-minute taxi experience or an hour by bus from Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta Seashore gives an expansive stretch of sand superb for sunbathing and swimming. The seashore is lined with resorts and has a number of eating choices out there. It’s quieter than Puerto Vallarta’s principal seashores, making it appropriate for households and people searching for a extra relaxed ambiance.

6. Be part of a Booze Tour (with a facet of meals)

For these of you who wish to drink tequila – it’s Mexico, who doesn’t?! – this tour is for you.

Throughout our latest journey to Puerto Vallarta, we joined the highly-rated Mex-ology tour and loved a late afternoon of Mezcal, Tequila, Raicilla, craft beer, Kahlua espresso, and different handcrafted cocktails.

To associate with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist take in the alcohol.

The dishes aren’t snacks, however slightly, full parts of fish tacos, meat tacos, seafood “enchiladas”, onion rings, crickets (sure, crickets!), and delectable desserts.

Not solely will you be having enjoyable, and feeling a bit tipsy by the tip of it, however you’ll study so much in regards to the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.

We had a fantastic day with our information. A lot enjoyable the truth is, that she took us out for some late-night shenanigans the place the expats and locals wish to hangout.

Click on right here to study extra in regards to the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour, it’s among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. 

7. Eat Recent Seafood

Whereas Mexico is one in all the perfect international locations on the earth for meals and there’s positively a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, generally it’s good to eat avenue (seashore) meals.

For those who’re an oyster lover, you’ll be comfortable to know that you may get contemporary oysters on the seashore. Just below the bridge that crosses the River Cuale, you’ll see many distributors promoting these tasty morsels.

Plastic tables and chairs are arrange so you possibly can sit and revel in your plate of meals by the water, or you possibly can take them to go. Squeeze some lime juice, sprinkle with some salt, and add some scorching sauce for those who like.

An alternative choice is to hitch this tasty seafood expertise which incorporates the oysters listed above, and way more.

You’ll additionally eat ceviche and aguachile, fish fillets, tacos, quesadillas, soups…as many seafood dishes as you need! It’s all included. Plus, you possibly can wash all of it down with limitless beer. This unimaginable tour sells out quick. Study extra right here. 

☞ SEE ALSO: Playa del Carmen Mexico: The Final Journey Information

8. Go to San Pancho

About an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta is the seashore city of San Pancho (San Francisco), which is among the greatest day journeys from Puerto Vallarta.

This small city isn’t as quiet because it as soon as was, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to. What’s shocking is that though it’s not a really huge place, there are many issues to do in San Pancho.

One of the best ways to study all about San Pancho is to take pleasure in a leisurely bike experience across the city. A motorcycle makes it simple to see numerous hidden gems and inform tales in regards to the space. There are some locations to hire bikes across the city of San Pancho all alongside the principle avenue. 

San Pancho is a cool place to spend the afternoon because it’s simply an hour away from Puerto Vallarta. To get from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho, you possibly can hire a automotive, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or be part of a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.

Be aware: the ocean at San Pancho is sort of tough and isn’t a fantastic place for swimming. For those who’re searching for a seashore day journey, you could possibly try close by Bucerias and Sayulita for swimming.

9. Stroll The Malecon

One of many many nice issues about Puerto Vallarta is the lengthy Malecon (oceanfront promenade) which runs for about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile).

That is the proper spot to take pleasure in a stroll, with out having to cope with the busy visitors that whizzes alongside the slender streets.

Alongside the Malecon, you’ve got the attractive ocean on one facet, and lots of outlets, eating places, and bars on the opposite (promoting $1 margaritas and Coronas). There are additionally quite a few artwork installations and avenue performances right here.

The Malecon is the scorching spot, particularly within the late afternoon and evenings when it’s a cooler temperature. And really, wandering alongside the Malecon is among the hottest issues to do in La Paz as nicely.

A good way to discover a extra off-the-beaten-path space of the Malecon is to be part of this enjoyable biking expertise. Biking tools, meals, and drinks are included. Study extra right here.

The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

There are quite a few resorts, accommodations, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and residences for hire in Puerto Vallarta.

There actually is one thing for everybody, with Reserving.com having probably the most numerous choices of gorgeous residences, accommodations, hostels, and funky household guesthouses. 

Take a look at Casa Kimberly for a novel lodge expertise. Casa Kimberly is the place Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton used to take pleasure in their romantic Vallarta vacation and immediately it’s a stunning villa-turned lodge.

For those who’re a giant Elizabeth Taylor fan, you’ll in all probability wish to keep at Casa Kimberly.

10. Be part of a Chocolate Making Class

The Choco Museum is among the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. For those who’re occupied with studying the historical past behind cocoa, plus discovering out how chocolate is made (from harvest to manufacturing), then the museum is for you.

If you wish to get your fingers soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then make certain to hitch one of many lessons on the Choco Museo.

There are a number of tasty lessons out there. Click on right here for the chocolate truffle class, and click on right here for chocolate drinks and chocolate bars! Becoming a member of one in all The Choco Museum’s enjoyable workshops and lessons is among the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta when it rains.

Choco Museum Tackle: Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez 128, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Discover it on the map right here.

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11. Be part of a Mountain Biking Journey

Though lounging by the seashore and devouring tacos is all the time a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it is perhaps a good suggestion to get some train each every so often! This is among the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t wish to miss.

The group at Jaguar Expertise in Puerto Vallarta gives epic mountain biking journeys within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.

For those who’re into journey and being energetic, this is among the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that needs to be on the prime of your record. 

The routes cross by way of villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine bushes, and extra, earlier than ending off at a ranch the place you possibly can calm down in a hammock, or swim within the pool.

All biking tools, information, snacks, and drinks are included. Click on right here to study extra about Eco Trip and the biking and climbing journeys they provide.

*Be aware: for those who’d slightly mix train with consuming, Vallarta Meals Excursions has a brand new tour known as Bikes & Bites…test it out.

12. Chill Out on Playa Los Muertos Seashore

That is the seashore south of the Playa de Los Muertos Pier. And, as with the stretch of sand north of the pier, there are loads of actions happening — from swimming and browsing to parasailing and boating. Plus, you’ll discover quite a few seashore eating places and bars right here.

There are distributors wandering up and down the seashore as nicely, however they aren’t too pushy.

Close to the south facet of the pier, you’ll discover numerous native households spending the day (particularly on weekends), whereas farther south from there may be thought-about the LGBTQ space, which is all the time busy and loads of enjoyable.

We’ve visited this seashore a number of occasions now. Throughout December, the waves had been extremely huge and the surf and undertow had been fairly robust. The tough water began from the pier and went north to the La Langosta Loca restaurant.

Nonetheless, on the south facet of the pier, the water was calm and kids had been swimming.

Once we visited Playa Los Muertos seashore in the summertime, the water was calm all over the place — and we even noticed numerous small Manta Rays! All the time be aware of the ocean and when unsure, ask an area if it’s protected to swim.

Los Muertos is among the greatest seashores in Puerto Vallarta, and in Mexico as a complete. This seashore gives a number of the greatest water actions in Puerto Vallarta.

Los Muertos Pier Tackle: Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click on right here for instructions.

☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Superior Issues To Do in Mexico

13. Wander The Outdated City

Puerto Vallarta has a phenomenal outdated city (Zona Romantica) with cobbled streets and vibrant properties climbing up the hill. From close to the Church of Our Girl of Guadalupe, you’ll see rock/cement steps heading up the hill.

Take the steps and proceed strolling alongside the again roads towards the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica). As most individuals take the Malecon or the principle streets, you’ll have the quiet “higher” roads mainly to your self.

You’ll come throughout properties draped in vines, cats sleeping on steps and fairly wrought-iron balconies. After you’ve completed exploring and having fun with the peace and quiet, you possibly can come out close to the Rio River.

For a tremendous view, you possibly can hike as much as the Mirador Cerro de La Cruz. It takes about half-hour and is a bit strenuous, however the view is spectacular. Carry numerous water and put on good sneakers.

Mirador Cerro de La Cruz Tackle: Abasolo LB, Cerro, 48304 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get instructions right here.

14. Go Scuba Diving

Getting out on the water is all the time a good suggestion when travelling, however so is getting beneath it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent stage. 

Whether or not you’re scuba diving licensed or not, try Banderas Scuba Republic. This firm is PADI acknowledged and the group is PADI licensed.

At this scuba store, you possibly can take lessons and classes to get your certification, or if you have already got your Open Water, you possibly can go for some dives. Whereas scuba diving in Puerto Vallarta isn’t the perfect in Mexico, it’s all the time good to get out for a dive.

Whereas scuba diving is a lot better in Cozumel, round PV you possibly can nonetheless count on to see turtles, rays, eels, and extra. Banderas Scuba Republic is positioned in Zona Romantica, cease by and test them out.

All the time do your individual unbiased analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm. Examine critiques, security, and certifications, and even cease by the dive diving heart to get a really feel for the place earlier than committing.

You may click on right here to seek for extra PADI-certified dive outlets in Puerto Vallarta.

15. Be part of a Free Strolling Tour

Strolling by yourself is nice, however if you wish to study a bit extra in regards to the metropolis of Puerto Vallarta, together with its tradition, historical past, and structure, then it’s greatest to hitch one of many free strolling excursions with a educated information.

Becoming a member of one of many many out there free strolling excursions is the perfect factor to do in Puerto Vallarta in your first day within the metropolis so you will get your bearings.

Each Tuesday (9:00am and midday), Wednesday (9:00am and midday) and Saturday (9:00am), there are free excursions placed on by the Municipal Tourism Workplace.

Tackle: The assembly level for the free strolling tour is on the Municipal Tourism Workplace, which is within the Outdated Metropolis Corridor Constructing. The tour is about 2 hours lengthy and no reservation is required. Click on right here for particulars.

16. Be part of the Free Artwork Stroll

Puerto Vallarta has many artwork galleries. On Wednesday evenings, lots of the artwork outlets open their doorways and permit guests inside to view the items.

All mediums of artwork are on show, together with work, sculptures, pottery and people artwork. A go to right here is unquestionably one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Entrance is free, there isn’t any information, however there may be often wine and tequila given to guests…free of charge. The Artwork Stroll runs from the tip of October to the tip of Could, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday.

This can be a yearly occasion. Click on right here to study extra in regards to the Artwork Stroll.

17. Go to the Church Of Our Girl Of Guadalupe

You may’t miss the Church Of Our Girl Of Guadalupe while you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this stunning piece of structure. For those who’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta when it’s raining, a visit to this church is a good suggestion.

Whether or not you’re non secular or not, I like to recommend taking a peek inside, and naturally, taking a great deal of photographs of the ornate exterior. This church is among the greatest locations to go to in Puerto Vallarta.

If you end up within the metropolis from December 1 – 12, you’ll be capable to benefit from the celebrations for the Our Girl of Guadalupe Competition, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.

Tackle: Our Girl of Guadalupe, Hidalgo 370, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get instructions right here.

18. Go to Mismaloya

Positioned within the southern a part of Banderas Bay, you’ll discover the fishing village of Mismaloya. That is the place tourism within the Puerto Vallarta space all began, again in 1963 with the filming of Night time Of The Iguana. 

Nowadays, Puerto Vallarta has extra tourism, whereas the bay at Mismaloya remains to be comparatively quiet. That is one other nice day journey from Puerto Vallarta.

The gorgeous bay is backed by thick jungle, there are eating places lining the seashore and also you’ll have views of the Los Arcos Marine Park. There’s, nonetheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.

For those who love horses, this horseback using journey is a must-do in Mismaloya! This journey gives small teams, and a extra genuine expertise. Study extra and e-book right here.

Tackle: Discover Mismaloya on the map, right here. Hire a automotive, take the bus, rent a taxi, or be part of a tour to get to Mismaloya on a day journey to this picturesque fishing village.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A Listing of the Prime 21

19. Examine Out The Markets

Visiting the markets in Mexico is all the time a deal with. In Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover conventional Mexican Dishes, fish, clothes, and memento markets (notably near Marina Vallarta).

Don’t miss the Municipal Market of Colonia Emiliano Zapata, which is a superb place to buy contemporary produce. This market runs from 6:00am to three:00pm, twelve months a 12 months. Click on right here for instructions.

Additionally, if you’d like contemporary produce and fish, try the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get the perfect collection of seafood.

The Mercado Municipal Rio Cuale is one other bustling and enjoyable market in Puerto Vallarta the place guests can discover conventional Mexican crafts, contemporary veggies, and native meals.

Within the strip of distributors, you’ll discover meats, greens, tortillas, and different gadgets. This can be a excellent place to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting an area market is among the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Click on right here for instructions to the Municipal Market.

20. Do Some Mountaineering At Boca de Tomatlan

You gained’t actually discover climbing within the metropolis itself. However, for those who take a bus, or drive your automotive out to Boca de Tomatlan, you are able to do a extremely nice day hike to Las Animas. The trail winds alongside the ocean, with the jungle on one facet and the attractive water on the opposite.

Take a look at this highly-rated, inexpensive day journey — which incorporates transportation from Puerto Vallarta, snacks, snorkelling gear, and a drink on the restaurant on the finish. Discover out extra right here. 

You’ll hike alongside stone stairs and slender paths, whereas arriving at beautiful secluded bays alongside the way in which. For those who’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins enjoying within the water. You can too be part of whale watching excursions from right here.

The whole hike takes about 2 hours to finish, and when you arrive at Las Animas, all that’s left to do is benefit from the seashore, and one of many many eating places on provide.

To get again to Boca de Tomatlan, you possibly can take a ship from Las Animas, or hike again the way in which you got here. This is among the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for outside lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click on right here. 

Because the journey generally is a bit complicated to do by yourself, a fantastic choice is to hitch this inexpensive expertise with an area information, which incorporates meals, drink, and transport. Study extra about this enjoyable day journey right here.

21. Spend A Night time On The City

The Puerto Vallarta nightlife is superior. It doesn’t matter what form of social gathering you’re searching for, reside music or DJs, you’ll discover it in PV.

From seashore bars and nightclubs to cantinas and breweries, a night time out in Puerto Vallarta is bound to be memorable. Whereas many of the happenin’ nightlife is across the Romantic Zone, you’ll discover bars throughout the town and all alongside Banderas Bay.

Dance the night time away at Co-De or one of many many well-liked Malecon nightclubs (Zoo, Mandala or La Vaquita) or watch your favorite sports activities group on the massive display screen at locations like El Torito Sports activities Bar & BBQ Home, Gamers and El Soñador. 

For reside music, you possibly can’t go mistaken with Incanto, Roxy Rock Home, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you’ve got a few choices in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss Monzon and Los Muertos. For cocktail lovers, try El Colibri, Bar La Playa, and Twisted Palms.

To study extra about the perfect locations to sip and dance, try our put up: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Finest Locations to Drink and Dance.

For extra relaxed nightlife, you possibly can head out to a number of the Nuevo Vallarta bars or the golf equipment round Marina Vallarta only a few minute’s drive from Puerto Vallarta’s metropolis heart.

22. Volunteer With Canines

For those who’re an animal lover, why not spend a number of hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?

Pals of Puerto Vallarta Animals want volunteers to spend time with the canine (and cats!) on the shelter. You may assist out by strolling canine, feeding them and naturally, giving them numerous love and a spotlight. 

The Acopio shelter is positioned just a bit bit exterior of the middle of the town, so that you’ll need to pry your self from Banderas Bay, however be sure to contact Pals of PV Animals first earlier than arriving on the shelter.

Study extra about how one can make a distinction in a shelter canine’s life, right here. 

23. Go to Marietas Island

Whereas this isn’t technically a factor to do in Puerto Vallarta, a visit to Marietas Island is a wonderful day journey. Solely 116 individuals per day are allowed to go to this beautiful web site — be sure to e-book on-line forward of time.

Positioned a few 1-hour boat experience from the Puerto Vallarta marina, you’ll discover the Marietas hidden seashore.

Not solely is the snorkelling and the seashore itself beautiful, however on the boat experience on the market you’ll probably spot dolphins, manta rays, and for those who’re into whale watching, you possibly can usually see them right here. Discover out extra right here.

24. Go to The Vallarta Botanical Backyard

The Vallarta Botanical Backyard is among the greatest Puerto Vallarta points of interest to assist get you out of the hustle and bustle of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

For those who’re visiting Puerto Vallarta for an prolonged time period, and also you’ve spent loads of it in central Puerto Vallarta, there’s little doubt that you simply’ll wish to escape the noise and trouble of the town and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens are the proper place for that.

25 . Hike in The Sierra Madre Mountains

The Sierra Madre Mountain Vary is a phenomenal and scenic place to flee the town. There are many climbing trails right here starting from fast hour-long walks to multi-day hikes.

For those who don’t need warmth stroke, it’s extremely really useful that you simply plan your climbing journeys within the winter months from December to February, or depart very early within the morning earlier than the unforgiving Mexican solar rises.

27. Go to San Sebastian del Oeste

Make a journey to the close by Sierra Madre mountains and step again in time with a tour round San Sebastian del Oeste. This was as soon as a thriving silver mining city, nevertheless it’s now a UNESCO-protected village preserving its colonial appeal.

Cobblestone streets, panoramic mountain views, and centuries-old buildings make it a peaceable getaway from Puerto Vallarta’s hustle and events within the Romantic Zone.

Don’t miss the possibility to style native espresso and go to the outdated mines for a deeper dive into the world’s wealthy historical past.

28. Go to Cuale Island Flea Market

Nestled proper within the coronary heart of Puerto Vallarta, the Cuale Island Flea Market is a treasure trove for these searching for genuine Mexican crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs.

Located on the picturesque Isla Rio Cuale, this market has a enjoyable and bustling ambiance the place native distributors showcase a various vary of products. It’s a perfect spot to haggle for a novel souvenir or just immerse your self within the vibrant native tradition.

29. Be part of a Tequila Tasting

For those who’ve spent any time strolling across the Romantic Zone in Puerto Vallarta, you’ve in all probability come throughout the pushy tequila tasting salesman who method you on the road and gained’t allow you to depart the dialog.

Whereas I don’t advocate heading into these guys’ outlets, a number of good ones embody La Cava de Tequila, Don Julio Cocina y Tequila, Rancho Tequila, and Tequila Herradura VIP Tasting Room.

One of the best ways to do a tequila tasting is as a part of a tour. The Connoisseur Tequila Tasting Tour, the Tequila Museum and Tequila Tasting, and the Metropolis and Tequila Tasting excursions are 3 of the highest-rated tequila tasting excursions within the metropolis.

30. Be part of a Whale Watching Tour

There’s nothing extra majestic than seeing humpback whales within the wild and Puerto Vallarta is among the greatest locations to see them on the earth.

From the seashore, you possibly can see them splashing and enjoying within the horizon, placing on a present for the vacationers, however if you wish to stand up shut and private with them, then a Whale Watching Tour is a particular should.

GetYourGuide has a number of the highest-rated excursions like this one, and this one consists of dolphin watching.

31. Sail To Yelapa

The distant and tranquil village of Yelapa is positioned about 20 miles (30kms) south of Puerto Vallarta and is the proper escape from the bustling metropolis.

The boat experience will take you round 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta and as soon as there, you possibly can take pleasure in pristine seashores, scrumptious native pies, hikes to close by waterfalls and a stunning appeal.

We advocate this enjoyable tour with GetYourGuide because it takes you to 2 of probably the most picturesque tropical coves in all of Mexico on a day journey to Yelapa and Majahuitas.

For a extra luxurious journey, hop on a yacht with this thrilling (and really highly-rated) yacht crusing journey that features a journey to Yelapa and the falls.

Costs for a one-way journey often vary from $10 to $20 USD, nevertheless it’s all the time a good suggestion to verify present charges earlier than departure. Some vacationers additionally go for organized excursions, which regularly embody lunch, drinks, or snorkeling stops.

These will be booked by way of quite a few tour companies in Puerto Vallarta.

Issues Not To Do in Puerto Vallarta

As with all over the place on the earth, generally there are some issues that you simply shouldn’t do whereas overseas. Moral and sustainable tourism is paramount and we don’t endorse the next.

DON’T Go to The El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary

El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary has been accused of being merciless to the animals it’s supposed to guard.

In 2019, Animal Defenders Worldwide (ADI) launched a video that confirmed crocodiles being mistreated on the sanctuary. Because of this, we advocate that for those who do go to the sanctuary, you report any mistreatment of animals to the authorities.

DON’T Be part of a Time-Share Rip-off

Puerto Vallarta has its share of timeshare promoters, a few of whom will be fairly aggressive. Whereas not all timeshares are scams, it’s important to be cautious.

Keep away from displays providing too-good-to-be-true presents in change on your time, and all the time learn any contract totally.

DON’T Assist Distributors Promoting Protected Species

You would possibly encounter seashore distributors promoting gadgets like coral jewellery or merchandise constructed from turtle shells. Shopping for such merchandise can assist unlawful commerce and hurt the setting.

Equally, any venders who’re providing to take photographs with unique animals needs to be ignored.

FAQs About Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta

Now You Know What To Do in Puerto Vallarta

I hope this record of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta helps you intend your journey. Whereas the town is sort of touristy, it’s well-liked for good cause! We’ve all the time loved our visits right here and I’m certain you’ll as nicely.

Ensure to pattern the tasty avenue meals every time you possibly can, discover the native markets, and revel in strolling across the metropolis. Pleased travels 😀

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