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 high 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 price range, a digital nomad in Mexico trying to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat trying to calm 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, need to select your zone rigorously based mostly on the vibe you’re after and the price range you’ve got.

Replace 2023: This record has been up to date to incorporate extra issues to do in Puerto Vallarta in 2023. We’ve additionally eliminated out-of-date or completely closed gadgets.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 Lodge, Westin & extra.
• Lodge Zone – only a few minute’s drive from the airport, this space has many motels, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
• Centro (Outdated PV) – smaller houses, residential space, the Malecon (oceanfront promenade) runs alongside right here, many eating places and bars. This space is on the north aspect of the River Cuale and gives reasonably priced lodging.
• Centro (Romantic Zone or Zona Romantica) – positioned on the south aspect 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 neighborhood. The lodging ranges from price range to high 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 lodging and neighbourhood information. And, for an entire rundown on travelling to the town of PV, take a look at 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 lovely Mexican seaside city.

1. Stroll…All over the place!

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 it’s possible you’ll 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 nations 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 strategy to see what the distributors are promoting, to folks 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 be certain to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven. 

Notice: the greatest time to journey 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 need to be on a tropical 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 meals is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and one of the best ways to be taught extra concerning the tasty delicacies is to affix a tour. This can be a must-do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.

We’ve performed these sorts of excursions all all over the world, and our favorite ones are in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta’s meals excursions are among the greatest total.

In Puerto Vallarta, take a look at 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 be taught concerning the metropolis of PV whereas concurrently feasting and dealing off the energy.

There are just a few foodie excursions on supply with the corporate, however we went on the “Unique Downtown Tour“, which took us via the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as properly. You may as well be part of their night taco tour.

We extremely advocate this tour. Click on right here to be taught extra and examine 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 in search of a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night time can be one thing you received’t need to miss.

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

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

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

Facet be aware: You may as well go to Las Caletas through the day for snorkeling and enjoyable.

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

The present depicts varied tales of the traditional Hispanic civilization and Mexican folklore. Through 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 be taught extra concerning the tour and to guide tickets.

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

4. Watch Sundown

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

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

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

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 famous. Benefit from the sundown, it’s among the finest free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. 

*Notice: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. When you’ve got an opportunity, attempt to go to there as properly for a extra hidden seaside expertise.

5. Loosen up on Playa las Gemelas

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

Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. After we visited, there have been fairly just a few 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 depends upon the climate and the time of 12 months.

There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seaside and nothing else…not even any bathrooms. Deliver a cooler crammed 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 price it while you see the view (generally you possibly can see humpback whales from right here).

To achieve right here, you’ll need to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance, alongside the street). There isn’t a precise parking for the seaside, so that you’ll want to search 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 might not be a hidden seaside, however it’s by far my favourite seaside 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 Lovely Seashores To Test 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 seaside, it stays relaxed.
• Playa Las Animas: That is one other one of many seaside locations that’s solely a brief boat tour from Puerto Vallarta. It’s a less-crowded seaside in comparison with the extra well-liked seashores on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and gives eating choices and water sports activities leases. It’s an incredible location for these in search of a extra laid again seaside expertise with fundamental facilities.
• Majahuitas Seashore: One other attractive seaside accessible by boat tour from Puerto Vallarta. This secluded seaside is understood for its tranquility and clear waters. With restricted services, it’s superb for guests in search of a extra untouched and serene seaside 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 seaside is lined with resorts and has a number of eating choices accessible. It’s quieter than Puerto Vallarta’s predominant seashores, making it appropriate for households and people in search of a extra relaxed ambiance.

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

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

Throughout our current 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 quite, 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 top of it, however you’ll be taught rather a lot concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.

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

Click on right here to be taught extra concerning 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 certainly one of the most effective nations on the earth for meals and there’s positively a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, generally it’s good to eat avenue (seaside) meals.

For those who’re an oyster lover, you’ll be blissful to know that you would be able to get contemporary 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 luxuriate 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 affix 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 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 shocking is that although it’s not a really large place, there are many issues to do in San Pancho.

The easiest way to be taught all about San Pancho is to take pleasure in a leisurely bike experience across the city. A motorbike makes it straightforward to see a number of hidden gems and inform tales concerning the space. There are some locations to lease 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 lease a automobile, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or be part of a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.

Notice: the ocean at San Pancho is kind of tough and isn’t an incredible place for swimming. For those who’re in search of a seaside day journey, you possibly can take a look at 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 site visitors that whizzes alongside the slim streets.

Alongside the Malecon, you’ve got the gorgeous ocean on one aspect, 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 truly, wandering alongside the Malecon is among the hottest issues to do in La Paz as properly.

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 gear, meals, and drinks are included. Study extra right here.

The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

There are quite a few resorts, motels, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and flats for lease in Puerto Vallarta.

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

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

For those who’re an enormous Elizabeth Taylor fan, you’ll most likely need 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 interested by 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 be certain to affix one of many lessons on the Choco Museo.

There are just a few tasty lessons accessible. Click on right here for the chocolate truffle class, and click on right here for chocolate drinks and chocolate bars! Becoming a member of certainly one of 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.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Listing of The High 21

11. Be part of a Mountain Biking Journey

Though lounging by the seaside and devouring tacos is at all times a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it may be a good suggestion to get some train each from time to time! This is among the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t need 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 ought to be on the high of your record. 

The routes cross via villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine bushes, and extra, earlier than ending off at a ranch the place you possibly can loosen up in a hammock, or swim within the pool.

All biking gear, information, snacks, and drinks are included. Click on right here to be taught extra about Eco Trip and the biking and mountaineering journeys they provide.

*Notice: for those who’d quite 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 seaside 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 seaside eating places and bars right here.

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

Close to the south aspect of the pier, you’ll discover a number of native households spending the day (particularly on weekends), whereas farther south from there’s thought-about the LGBTQ space, which is at all times busy and loads of enjoyable.

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

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

After we visited Playa Los Muertos seaside in the summertime, the water was calm in all places — and we even noticed a number of small Manta Rays! All the time be aware of the ocean and when doubtful, 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 seaside gives among 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 an exquisite previous city (Zona Romantica) with cobbled streets and vibrant houses climbing up the hill. From close to the Church of Our Woman 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 houses 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 an incredible 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. Deliver a number of 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 at all times a good suggestion when travelling, however so is getting underneath it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent stage. 

Whether or not you’re scuba diving licensed or not, take a look at 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 most effective in Mexico, it’s at all times good to get out for a dive.

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

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

You’ll be able to 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 be taught a bit extra concerning the metropolis of Puerto Vallarta, together with its tradition, historical past, and structure, then it’s greatest to affix one of many free strolling excursions with a educated information.

Becoming a member of one of many many accessible free strolling excursions is the most effective 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, most 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 folks artwork. A go to right here is certainly one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Entrance is free, there isn’t any information, however there’s normally wine and tequila given to guests…free of charge. The Artwork Stroll runs from the top of October to the top of Might, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday.

This can be a yearly occasion. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Artwork Stroll.

17. Go to the Church Of Our Woman Of Guadalupe

You’ll be able to’t miss the Church Of Our Woman Of Guadalupe while you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this lovely 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 Woman of Guadalupe Pageant, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.

Tackle: Our Woman 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. 

As of late, 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 may be, nonetheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, but it surely’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.

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

Tackle: Discover Mismaloya on the map, right here. Lease a automobile, 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 High 21

19. Test Out The Markets

Visiting the markets in Mexico is at all times 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 good place to buy contemporary produce. This market runs from 6:00am to three:00pm, three hundred and sixty five days a 12 months. Click on right here for instructions.

Additionally, if you need contemporary produce and fish, take a look at the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get the most effective choice 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 spot 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 received’t actually discover mountaineering within the metropolis itself. However, for those who take a bus, or drive your automobile out to Boca de Tomatlan, you are able to do a very nice day hike to Las Animas. The trail winds alongside the ocean, with the jungle on one aspect and the gorgeous water on the opposite.

Take a look at this highly-rated, reasonably priced 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 slim paths, whereas arriving at beautiful secluded bays alongside the best way. For those who’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins taking part in within the water. You may as well be part of whale watching excursions from right here.

All the 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 supply.

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

Because the journey is usually a bit complicated to do by yourself, an incredible choice is to affix this reasonably priced 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 celebration you’re in search of, reside music or DJs, you’ll discover it in PV.

From seaside 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 large display at locations like El Torito Sports activities Bar & BBQ Home, Gamers and El Soñador. 

For reside music, you possibly can’t go improper 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, take a look at El Colibri, Bar La Playa, and Twisted Palms.

To be taught extra about the most effective locations to sip and dance, take a look at our submit: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Finest Locations to Drink and Dance.

For extra relaxed nightlife, you possibly can head out to among 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 just a few hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?

Buddies of Puerto Vallarta Animals want volunteers to spend time with the canines (and cats!) on the shelter. You’ll be able to assist out by strolling canines, feeding them and naturally, giving them a number of love and a spotlight. 

The Acopio shelter is positioned just a bit bit outdoors of the middle of the town, so that you’ll must pry your self from Banderas Bay, however ensure you contact Buddies 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 folks per day are allowed to go to this attractive web site — ensure you guide on-line forward of time.

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

Not solely is the snorkelling and the seaside itself attractive, however on the boat experience on the market you’ll most definitely 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 just’ll need 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 an exquisite and scenic place to flee the town. There are many mountaineering 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 just plan your mountaineering journeys within the winter months from December to February, or go away 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, but it surely’s now a UNESCO-protected village preserving its colonial attraction.

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 previous 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 in search of 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 great spot to haggle for a singular memento 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 most likely come throughout the pushy tequila tasting salesman who strategy you on the road and received’t allow you to go away the dialog.

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

The easiest way 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 seaside, you possibly can see them splashing and taking part in 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 among 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 attraction.

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 normally vary from $10 to $20 USD, but it surely’s at all times a good suggestion to verify present charges earlier than departure. Some vacationers additionally go for organized excursions, which frequently embrace lunch, drinks, or snorkeling stops.

These will be booked via quite a few tour businesses in Puerto Vallarta.

Issues Not To Do in Puerto Vallarta

As with in all places on the earth, generally there are some issues that you just 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. For that reason, 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 shows providing too-good-to-be-true items in change to your time, and at all times learn any contract completely.

DON’T Assist Distributors Promoting Protected Species

You may encounter seaside distributors promoting gadgets like coral jewellery or merchandise constituted of turtle shells. Shopping for such merchandise can help unlawful commerce and hurt the setting.

Equally, any venders who’re providing to take photographs with unique animals ought 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 kind of touristy, it’s well-liked for good cause! We’ve at all times loved our visits right here and I’m positive you’ll as properly.

Be certain to pattern the tasty avenue meals every time you possibly can, discover the native markets, and luxuriate in strolling across the metropolis. Completely satisfied travels 😀

Like This Article? Pin it!