21 Best Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s considered one of our favorite places to visit 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 finances, a digital nomad in Mexico trying to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat trying to quiet down, you’ll discover actions in Puerto Vallarta to maintain you busy. 

Town is break 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 part of the city you keep in, as getting round is straightforward.

You’ll, nonetheless, wish to select your zone fastidiously based mostly on the vibe you’re after and the finances you might have.

Right here’s my record of the highest 21 issues to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!

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

• Marina – extra upscale than the resort zone, with the Marriott Resort, Westin & extra.
• Resort Zone – only a few minutes drive from the airport, this space has many resorts, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
• Centro (Previous 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 provides inexpensive lodging.
• Centro (Romantic Zone) – situated on the south facet of the River Cuale, you’ll discover quite a few bars, cafes, eating places and Playa Los Muertos Seaside. This can be a common space with a big LGBTQ neighborhood. The lodging ranges from finances to prime finish.
• Conchas Chinas – that means “Chinese language Shells” based mostly 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 accommodation and neighbourhood guide. And, for a whole rundown on travelling to town of PV, try our detailed guide here.

Be aware, this submit has been up to date in 2022 to incorporate the most recent greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta, the present costs and addresses and extra. Take pleasure in your journey.

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 simplest ways to get a really feel for town, and most areas of PV are reachable by strolling.

Mexico is already one of many cheapest countries to travel, however when you are able to do issues without cost, like strolling and sightseeing, it can save you much more cash.

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

Be aware: the best time to travel to Mexico if you wish to stroll round cities can be within the winter months, or within the shoulder season. In any other case, it may be unbearably scorching and also you’ll most definitely wish to be on the seaside 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 food is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and one of the simplest ways to be taught extra in regards to the tasty delicacies is to affix a tour. This can be a should do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.

We’ve executed meals excursions all world wide, and our favourite ones are in Mexico.

In Puerto Vallarta, try Vallarta Meals Excursions. This firm provides a mixture of tradition, strolling, and meals excursions, making it an effective way to be taught in regards to the metropolis of PV whereas concurrently feasting and dealing off the energy.

There are a couple of foodie excursions on provide with Vallarta Meals Excursions, however we went on the “Original Downtown Tour“, which took us by the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as nicely. You may also be part of their evening taco tour.

We extremely advocate this tour! Click here to be taught extra and examine out the video we made:

3. See Rhythms Of The Evening (probably the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta)

When you’re searching for a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night can 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 price each penny. This is among the prime tours in Puerto Vallarta.

The night begins with a sundown cruise (together with 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.

You’ll then be proven to your seat within the out of doors auditorium, which is surrounded by palm bushes. The seats are all staggered, so although there are folks sitting in entrance of you, you’ll don’t have any points seeing the present.

The present depicts varied tales of the traditional Hispanic civilization and Mexican folklore. Through the efficiency, there’s dwell music, dancing, contortionists, fire-twirlers, and extra.

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

When you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at evening, that is it. Don’t miss this present! Click here to learn more about the tour and to book tickets.

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

4. Watch Sundown

There’s simply one thing in regards to the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and particularly, 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 wherever alongside the Malecon, up the hill behind the Church of Our Girl of Guadalupe, or from El Barracuda which is our favorite seaside bar.

As soon as the solar goes down, the celebration begins in PV — there are such a lot of bars and golf equipment, the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is known.

*Be aware: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. When you have an opportunity, attempt to go to there as nicely.

5. Calm down on Playa las Gemelas

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

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

Different guests have skilled fully 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 seaside and nothing else…not even any bogs. Carry a cooler stuffed with beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.

The stroll to the seaside is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, but it surely’s value it while you see the view.

To achieve right here, you’ll wish to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance alongside the highway). There isn’t any precise parking for the seaside, 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. That is by far our favorite beach in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it! Click here for directions.

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 extremely rated Mex-ology tour and loved a late afternoon of Mezcal, Tequila, Raicilla, craft beer, Kahlua espresso and different handcrafted cocktails.

To go together with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist absorb the alcohol.

The dishes we had had been full parts of fish tacos, meat tacos, seafood “enchiladas”, onion rings, crickets (sure, crickets!) and delectable dessert.

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

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

Click here to be taught extra in regards to the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour on Get Your Information, or for those who desire, you possibly can be taught extra and e book by Viator.

7. Eat Recent Oysters

Whereas Mexico is considered one of the best countries in the world for food and there’s undoubtedly a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, generally it’s good to eat road (seaside) meals. When you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be pleased to know which you can get recent oysters on the seaside.

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 on, sprinkle with some salt and add some scorching sauce for those who like. Take pleasure in!

☞ SEE ALSO: Playa del Carmen Mexico: The Ultimate Travel Guide

8. Go to San Pancho

About an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta is the seaside 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, but it surely’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to. What’s stunning is that although it’s not a really huge place, there are many things to do in San Pancho.

You may go {golfing} for the morning (or late afternoon), eat some actually good worldwide meals, take Spanish classes, do yoga, go online, watch the newborn turtles be launched and extra.

It’s a cool place to spend the afternoon because it’s simply an hour away from Puerto Vallarta. Replace 2022: sadly, the golf course in San Pancho is closed now.

To get from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho, you possibly can lease a automotive, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or join a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.

Be aware: the ocean right here is kind of tough and isn’t an ideal place for swimming. You might try Bucerias 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 take care of the busy site visitors that whizzes alongside the slim streets.

Alongside the Malecon, you might have the gorgeous ocean on one facet, and lots of retailers, eating places, and bars on the opposite (promoting $1 margaritas and Coronas). There are additionally quite a few artwork installations and road performances right here.

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

The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

There are quite a few resorts, resorts, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and flats for lease in Puerto Vallarta. There actually is one thing for everybody, with Airbnb and Booking.com being the preferred methods to e book. 

10. Be part of a Chocolate Making Class

The Choco Museum is among the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. When you’re enthusiastic about 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 arms soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then ensure that to affix one of many courses on the Choco Museo.

Discover ways to make conventional mole sauce, scorching chocolate truffles, or particular person sweets. Click here to be taught extra about workshops and courses.

☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Record of The Prime 21

11. Mountain Biking Journey

Though lounging by the seaside and devouring tacos is at all times a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it is likely to be a good suggestion to get some train each on occasion! This is among the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t wish to miss.

Eco Experience is an eco-conscious firm in Puerto Vallarta that provides mountain biking and climbing journeys within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.

When you’re into journey and being lively, this is among the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that ought to be on the prime of your record. 

They’ve biking excursions for freshmen and superior riders, plus they provide completely different size journeys as nicely — from 15 to 48 kilometers (9.3 – 30 miles).

The routes move by villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine bushes, and extra. Click here to be taught extra about Eco Experience and the biking and climbing journeys they provide.

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

12. Chill Out on Los Muertos Seaside

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

There are distributors wandering up and down the seaside 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 additional south from there’s thought of the LGBTQ space, which is at all times busy and a variety of enjoyable.

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

Nevertheless, on the south facet of the pier, the water was calm and kids had been swimming. Once we hungout at Los Muertos seaside in the summertime, the water was calm all over the place — and we even noticed numerous small Manta Rays!

At all times be aware of the ocean and when doubtful, at all times ask an area if it’s secure to swim.

☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Awesome Things To Do in Mexico

13. Wander The Previous City

Puerto Vallarta has a phenomenal previous city 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 in the direction of the Romantic Zone. As most individuals take the Malecon or the principle streets, you’ll have the quiet “higher” roads principally 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.

14. Go Scuba Diving

Getting out on the water is at all times a good suggestion when travelling, however so is getting underneath it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent degree. 

Whether or not you’re scuba 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 courses 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 one of the best in Mexico, it’s at all times good to get out for a dive.

Count on to see turtles, rays, eels, and extra. Banderas Scuba Republic is situated within the Romantic Zone, cease by and examine them out.

Be aware: We didn’t personally dive with Banderas Scuba Republic, they had been simply extremely reviewed on TripAdvisor. At all times do your personal unbiased analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm.

15. Be part of a Free Strolling Tour

Strolling by yourself is nice, however if you wish to be taught a bit extra in regards to the metropolis of Puerto Vallarta, together with its tradition, historical past, and structure, then it’s greatest to affix a strolling tour with a educated information.

That is one of the best factor to do in Puerto Vallarta in your first day within the metropolis so you may 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.

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

16. Be part of the Free Artwork Stroll

Puerto Vallarta has essentially the most artwork galleries of any Mexican coastal metropolis. On Wednesday evenings, lots of the artwork retailers 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 a information, however there’s often wine and tequila given to guests…without cost. 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 here to be taught 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 Lady Of Guadalupe while you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this stunning piece of structure. When you’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 images 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 have the ability to benefit from the celebrations for the Our Girl of Guadalupe Competition, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.

18. Go to Mismaloya

Situated on 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 Evening 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 beautiful bay is backed by thick jungle, there are eating places lining the seaside 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, but it surely’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.

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

19. Verify Out The Markets

Visiting the markets in Mexico is at all times a deal with. In Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover meals, fish, clothes, and memento markets.

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

Additionally, if you would like produce and fish, try the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get one of the best number of seafood.

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 here for instructions.

20. Do Some Mountain climbing

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 gorgeous water on the opposite.

You’ll hike alongside stone stairs and slim paths, whereas arriving at pretty secluded bays alongside the way in which. When you’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins taking part in within the water.

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 seaside, and one of many many eating places on provide.

To get again to Boca, 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 out of doors lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click here. 

21. Spend A Evening On The City

The Puerto Vallarta nightlife is superior. It doesn’t matter what type of a celebration you’re searching for, you’ll discover it in PV.

From seaside bars and nightclubs to cantinas and breweries, an evening out in Puerto Vallarta is certain to be memorable. Whereas a lot of the happenin’ nightlife is across the Romantic Zone, you’ll discover bars throughout town.

Dance the evening away at Co-De or one of many many common Malecon nightclubs (Zoo, Mandala or La Vaquita) or watch your favorite sports activities group on the large display at locations like El Torito Sports Bar & BBQ House, Players and El Soñador. 

For dwell music, you possibly can’t go flawed with Incanto, Roxy Rock House, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you might have 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 be taught extra about one of the best locations to sip and dance, try our submit: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Best Places to Drink and Dance.

Bonus! Volunteer With Canines

When you’re an animal lover, why not spend a couple of hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?

Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals wants 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 focus. 

The Acopio shelter is situated just a bit bit outdoors of the middle of town, however be sure you contact Mates 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, here. 

Now You Know What To Do in Puerto Vallarta

I hope this record of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta helps you propose your journey. Whereas town is kind of touristy, it’s common for good cause and we actually take pleasure in our visits right here.

Make certain to pattern the tasty road meals each time you possibly can, discover the native markets, and revel in strolling across the metropolis. Tell us what you’d add to this record within the feedback under. Glad travels

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