There’s a reason for all the buzz around Puerto Vallarta–there’s always something fun to do and breathtaking to see! From tequila tours, stunning coastlines, delicious cuisine, lively nightlife and unique culture, everyone will be entertained. Check out these top 10 things to do on your Puerto Vallarta getaway.
Bask in the sun at Playa Los Muertos
Situated on the southern tip of the famous Malecón in Zona Romántica, Playa Los Muertos is Puerto Vallarta’s most frequented beach. Although it gets crowded in the afternoons and on weekends, you’ll never run out of fun things to do–especially people watching! Its lively ambiance, stunning views, beachside eateries and calm waves make this the perfect chill spot for the day.
Stroll the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta
Since most areas are reachable by foot, it’s easy to experience local culture and charm by strolling along the cobblestone streets to each destination. Take in the sights of traditional Mexican architecture, small shops, the famous Malecón seaside promenade, the stunning Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, the buzzing main square and more. For old-time movie buffs, take a trip down memory lane and visit the famous neighborhood on the hill, “Gringo Gulch,” where many famous expats lived in the 50s and 60s–like Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.
Colorful papel picado in front of the Parish. (Photo by: @natasha_cip)Explore Zona Romántica
Nestled just south of the Río Cuale, Zona Romántica is home to more cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, bakeries, intimate restaurants, art galleries and traditional Mexican pueblo-style architecture. If you’re visiting from November to May, be sure to stop by the weekend farmers’ market at Lázaro Cárdenas Park for artisanal chocolate, organic fruits, cheese, soap, handmade items and much more.
Vibrant buildings of Zona Romantica. (Photo by: @heather_becker23)Take a tequila tour
There’s no better place to taste test tequila than Mexico! Puerto Vallarta offers some of the best tequila tours in the region–so, why not take advantage? One of the most popular tours is the Mexology tour, where you’ll try a range of mezcal, tequila, raicilla, hand-crafted cocktails and more. During a tequila tour, you’ll learn about the tequila making process, the best ways to taste test it and how to know if you’re drinking quality tequila.
Hand-crafted cocktail on the Mexology Tour. (Photo by: @jclegg2)Channel your inner foodie around town
Calling all foodies! Puerto Vallarta is no stranger to serving up some of the best authentic and locally sourced fare you can find in the region. Be sure to stop for a tasty breakfast at Fredy’s Tucan or delicious tacos at Pancho’s Takos. Check out some other great places to eat in Puerto Vallarta.
Breakfast of champions at Fredy's Tucan. (Photo by: @sboileau1)Browse local vendors in Isla Cuale
Reachable via short, bouncy, hanging bridges along the Cuale River, Isla Cuale is a small island with open-air stalls of local vendors and souvenir shops. Considered a continuation of the larger municipal market, you’ll find a restaurant, art gallery, a photo-worthy fountain and tons of unique finds to bring home with you.
Walking over a bridge to get to Isla Cuale. (Photo by: @mgerbic)Take a day trip
Mexico’s Pacific coast is too beautiful to see just one area. Although Puerto Vallarta has drawn most of the attention to the Mexican state of Jalisco, there are a few other coastal gems worth exploring! Discover marine life in the secluded Marieta Islands, unwind in the small coastal village of Yelapa, lounge on the pristine beaches of Mismaloya or catch some waves with the surfers in Sayulita. Whichever way you go, these day trips from Puerto Vallarta will make your vacay unforgettable.
Beach bar in Sayulita. (Photo by: @robertizer)Go whale watching
If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta between December and February, you have to add whale watching to your list of must-dos! Each winter, humpback whales are seen migrating down to Mexico’s Pacific coast to give birth to their calves before making the trek back up to Alaska. Many local tour companies offer whale watching cruises, where you’ll learn all about their annual migration and other cool facts. Seeing these massive sea creatures in person is surely an experience you’ll never forget!
Experience Los Arcos National Marine Park
Nature and adventure enthusiasts don’t have to go far for a unique offshore experience. Situated just 50 meters from the southern shore of the Bahía de Banderas, this group of three small islands will take your breath away. Los Arcos’ unique shapes and natural arches are home to sea turtles, rays, puffer fish and tons of other vibrant marine life–visitors can swim, kayak or paddle board beneath the arches to experience the natural beauty up close. This adventure is definitely a must-do when visiting Puerto Vallarta!
We still can't get over this view! (Photo by: @hziggy13)Take an off-road adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains
While we can never get enough of the beautiful beaches of Puerto Vallarta, you can’t visit the region and not spend some time in a different part of the great outdoors! The breathtaking and lush Sierra Madre Occidental, spanning northwest to southeast through much of northwestern and western Mexico, is home to tons of hiking paths and mountain biking trails that wind through villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine trees and much more. You don’t want to miss out on this adventure! For other hiking options, you can also take a bus out to Boca de Tomatlan, which has incredible views of the jungle on one side and the ocean on the other.
Views from the Sierra Madre Mountains are unmatched. (Photo by: @jarib_torres)Ready to start checking these items off your must-do list? Explore these fantastic Puerto Vallarta beach vacation deals and start packing your bags. Adventure awaits!
