31 Greatest 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 seeking to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat seeking to calm down, you’ll discover actions in Puerto Vallarta to maintain you busy. 

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

You’ll, nevertheless, wish to select your zone rigorously based mostly on the vibe you’re after and the price range you’ve.

Replace 2023: This checklist has been up to date to incorporate extra issues to do in Puerto Vallarta in 2023. We’ve got additionally eliminated out-of-date or completely closed gadgets.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 – just some minute’s drive from the airport, this space has many lodges, 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• Centro (Outdated PV) – smaller houses, residential space, the Malecon (oceanfront promenade) runs alongside right here, many eating places and bars.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 facet of the River Cuale and presents 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 Seaside. This can be a widespread 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.

Be taught extra about the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta with our lodging and neighbourhood information. And, for an entire rundown on travelling to town of PV, take a look at our detailed information right here.

Greatest Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta

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

1. Stroll…All over the place!

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

Exploring on foot is the easiest way to get a really feel for 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 in case you enterprise various 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 method 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 town on foot — simply be sure that to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven. 

Word: the finest 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 sizzling 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 checklist of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO? This award hasn’t been granted to another nationwide meals group.

Mexican meals is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and the easiest way to be taught extra concerning the tasty delicacies is to hitch a tour. This can be a must-do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.

We’ve carried out these sorts of excursions all world wide, and our favorite ones are in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta’s meals excursions are among the finest general.

In Puerto Vallarta, take a look at Vallarta Meals Excursions for a cool avenue meals tour. This firm presents 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 a couple of foodie excursions on supply with the corporate, however we went on the “Unique Downtown Tour“, which took us by means of the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as properly. You too can be part of their night taco tour.

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

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

Should you’re in search of a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night time might be one thing you received’t wish to miss.

We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not huge 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 a ravishing non-public cove.

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

Aspect observe: You too can 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 despite the fact that 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. Throughout the efficiency, there’s stay music, dancing, contortionists, fireplace twirlers, and extra.

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

Should you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at evening, that is it. Don’t miss this present. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the tour and to ebook 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 few of the finest 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 Woman of Guadalupe, or from El Barracuda — the sunsets we skilled at this seashore bar have been top-notch.

Should you’re right here within the whale watching season (December to March) you possibly can see the attractive humpback whales taking part in 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. 

*Word: 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 properly for a extra hidden seashore expertise.

5. Chill out on Playa las Gemelas

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

Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. After we visited, there have been fairly a couple of waves, however no riptides or undertows, and the waves have 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 yr.

There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seashore and nothing else…not even any bathrooms. Deliver a cooler stuffed with beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.

The stroll to the seashore is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, however it’s price it if you see the view (typically 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 street). There is no such thing as a precise parking for the seashore, 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 a neighborhood bus and get dropped off right here. This might not be a hidden seashore, however it’s by far my favourite seashore in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it.

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

Different Stunning 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 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 widespread seashores on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and presents eating choices and water sports activities leases. It’s an awesome location for these looking for a extra laid again seashore expertise with fundamental facilities.
• Majahuitas Seaside: One other attractive seashore accessible by boat tour from Puerto Vallarta. This secluded seashore is thought for its tranquility and clear waters. With restricted amenities, it’s ultimate for guests looking for a extra untouched and serene seashore expertise.
• Nuevo Vallarta: Positioned only a 30-minute taxi journey or an hour by bus from Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta Seaside presents an expansive stretch of sand ultimate for sunbathing and swimming. The seashore is lined with resorts and has a number of eating choices obtainable. It’s quieter than Puerto Vallarta’s fundamental seashores, making it appropriate for households and people looking for a extra relaxed ambiance.

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

For these of you who prefer 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 reasonably, 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 quite a bit concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.

We had an awesome day with our information. A lot enjoyable actually, that she took us out for some late-night shenanigans the place the expats and locals prefer 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 one in every of the most effective nations on this planet for meals and there’s positively a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, typically it’s good to eat avenue (seashore) meals.

Should you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be pleased 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 sizzling sauce in case you like.

An alternative choice is to hitch this tasty seafood expertise which incorporates the oysters listed above, and far 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 unbelievable tour sells out quick. Be taught 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 finest day journeys from Puerto Vallarta.

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

One of the best ways to be taught all about San Pancho is to get pleasure from a leisurely bike journey across the city. A motorbike makes it straightforward to see numerous hidden gems and inform tales concerning 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 automobile, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or be part of a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.

Word: the ocean at San Pancho is sort of tough and isn’t an awesome place for swimming. Should you’re in search of a seashore 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 get pleasure from a stroll, with out having to take care of the busy site visitors that whizzes alongside the slender streets.

Alongside the Malecon, you’ve 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 sizzling 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 properly.

An effective 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. Be taught extra right here.

The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

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

There actually is one thing for everybody, with Reserving.com having essentially the most numerous choices of lovely flats, lodges, 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 get pleasure from their romantic Vallarta vacation and right this moment it’s a stunning villa-turned lodge.

Should you’re an enormous 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. Should you’re considering 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 palms soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then be sure that to hitch one of many lessons on the Choco Museo.

There are a couple of tasty lessons obtainable. 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 every of The Choco Museum’s enjoyable workshops and lessons is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta when it rains.

Choco Museum Handle: 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 Checklist of The Prime 21

11. Be part of a Mountain Biking Journey

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

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

Should you’re into journey and being lively, this is among the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that needs to be on the high of your checklist. 

The routes go by means 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 gear, information, snacks, and drinks are included. Click on right here to be taught extra about Eco Journey and the biking and mountain climbing journeys they provide.

*Word: in case you’d reasonably 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 Seaside

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 a variety 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 properly, 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 of the LGBTQ space, which is at all times busy and a variety of enjoyable.

We’ve visited this seashore a couple of instances now. Throughout December, the waves have been extremely huge and the surf and undertow have been fairly 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 have been swimming.

After we visited Playa Los Muertos seashore in the summertime, the water was calm in every single place — and we even noticed numerous small Manta Rays! All the time be conscious of the ocean and when doubtful, ask a neighborhood if it’s secure to swim.

Los Muertos is among the finest seashores in Puerto Vallarta, and in Mexico as a complete. This seashore presents among the finest water actions in Puerto Vallarta.

Los Muertos Pier Handle: 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 ravishing outdated 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 principally 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 numerous water and put on good sneakers.

Mirador Cerro de La Cruz Handle: 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 beneath 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 verify them out.

All the time do your individual unbiased analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm. Test opinions, security, and certifications, and even cease by the dive diving middle 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 be taught a bit extra concerning the metropolis of Puerto Vallarta, together with its tradition, historical past, and structure, then it’s finest to hitch one of many free strolling excursions with a educated information.

Becoming a member of one of many many obtainable free strolling excursions is the most effective 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.

Handle: 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 unquestionably one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Entrance is free, there is no such thing as a information, however there may be often 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 may’t miss the Church Of Our Woman Of Guadalupe if you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this lovely piece of structure. Should 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 finest 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 Competition, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.

Handle: 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 continues 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 seashore and also you’ll have views of the Los Arcos Marine Park. There’s, nevertheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, however it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.

Should you love horses, this horseback driving journey is a must-do in Mismaloya! This journey presents small teams, and a extra genuine expertise. Be taught extra and ebook right here.

Handle: 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 Checklist of the Prime 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 (significantly 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, one year a yr. Click on right here for instructions.

Additionally, in order for you 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 good spot to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting a neighborhood market is among the finest 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 mountain climbing within the metropolis itself. However, in case you take a bus, or drive your automobile 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 pretty secluded bays alongside the best way. Should you’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins taking part in within the water. You too can be part of whale watching excursions from right here.

The complete 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 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 finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for outside lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click on right here. 

For the reason that journey generally is a bit complicated to do by yourself, an awesome possibility is to hitch this inexpensive expertise with a neighborhood information, which incorporates meals, drink, and transport. Be taught 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 in search of, stay music or DJs, you’ll discover it in PV.

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

Dance the evening away at Co-De or one of many many widespread 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 stay 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 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 publish: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Greatest 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 just some minute’s drive from Puerto Vallarta’s metropolis middle.

22. Volunteer With Canines

Should you’re an animal lover, why not spend a couple 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 outdoors of the middle of 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.

Be taught 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 website — be sure to ebook on-line forward of time.

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

Not solely is the snorkelling and the seashore itself attractive, however on the boat journey on the market you’ll probably spot dolphins, manta rays, and in case you’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 finest Puerto Vallarta points of interest to assist get you out of the hustle and bustle of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Should you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta for an prolonged time period, and also you’ve spent a variety of it in central Puerto Vallarta, there’s little question that you just’ll wish to escape the noise and problem of 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 ravishing and scenic place to flee town. There are many mountain climbing trails right here starting from fast hour-long walks to multi-day hikes.

Should you don’t need warmth stroke, it’s extremely advisable that you just plan your mountain climbing 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, however it’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 prospect to style native espresso and go to the outdated mines for a deeper dive into the realm’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 looking 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 an excellent spot to haggle for a singular souvenir or just immerse your self within the vibrant native tradition.

29. Be part of a Tequila Tasting

Should you’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 received’t allow you to go away the dialog.

Whereas I don’t advocate heading into these guys’ outlets, a couple 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 finest locations to see them on this planet.

From the seashore, 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 journey will take you round 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta and as soon as there, you possibly can get pleasure from 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 essentially 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, however it’s at all times a good suggestion to verify present charges earlier than departure. Some vacationers additionally go for organized excursions, which frequently embody lunch, drinks, or snorkeling stops.

These might be booked by means of quite a few tour businesses in Puerto Vallarta.

Issues Not To Do in Puerto Vallarta

As with in every single place on this planet, typically 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 in case you 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 might 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 at all times learn any contract totally.

DON’T Help Distributors Promoting Protected Species

You would possibly encounter seashore distributors promoting gadgets like coral jewellery or merchandise made out of turtle shells. Shopping for such merchandise can assist unlawful commerce and hurt the surroundings.

Equally, any venders who’re providing to take images 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 checklist of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta helps you propose your journey. Whereas town is sort of touristy, it’s widespread for good motive! We’ve at all times loved our visits right here and I’m certain you’ll as properly.

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

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