Have you ever visited a place for a day and instantly wished you could stay forever? Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is exactly one of those places. Nestled in Banderas Bay, this charming town is a top destination in Mexico, and it’s easy to see why. The Pacific Ocean hugs one side while the Sierra Madre mountains embrace the other, making it a breathtaking spot.
The stunning scenery includes a beautiful church with a tree-lined plaza and the picturesque promenade known as the Malecon. Puerto Vallarta bustles with tourists arriving by boat and plane, and though it’s home to many all-inclusive resorts, the city holds tight to its traditions and culture. Walk around town, and you might see a cowboy trotting up cobblestone streets or hear a mariachi band serenading beachgoers.
There’s more to do here than just beach lounging. You can hike, snorkel, mountain bike, fish, or even skydive! With so many activities, you’ll be planning your return visit before you leave. I first visited Puerto Vallarta a few years ago, planning to stay for a month. Like many others, I fell in love and chose to live here as a digital nomad. Even during the offseason, I’ve enjoyed every moment of my two years here. Now, I’m thrilled to introduce Puerto Vallarta to you in this comprehensive travel guide.
Finding a place to stay in Puerto Vallarta is a breeze, with numerous options across different neighborhoods. Here’s a brief overview of some top spots:
– The Marina: Convenient for those disembarking from cruise ships and packed with family-friendly all-inclusive resorts and a golf course. San Tropico, a boutique hotel, offers a relaxing garden and outdoor pool, plus bikes for guests.
– Hotel Zone: Aptly named, this area brims with hotels. It’s split between beachfront resorts and a vibrant local scene with shops and dining options. Suites Mar Elena is a good non-resort choice with comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool.
– 5 de Diciembre: A mainly residential area between the Hotel Zone and Centro, ideal for beach access and public transport. Casa de Chayo Boutique Hotel offers stunning ocean views and a homey feel.
– El Centro: The heart of Puerto Vallarta, featuring the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the main square, and the Malecon. El Centro has some of the city’s best shopping and dining. Luna Liquida hotel, close to the church, offers breathtaking views from its infinity pool.
– Zona Romantica: Despite its name, this area isn’t just for couples. It’s the most fun part of the city, packed with accommodation options, cafes, restaurants, bars, and vibrant nightlife. La Casa del Descanso is a charming B&B in a prime location.
There are countless activities to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta, from beach hopping to adrenaline-pumping adventures and exploring the local food and nightlife. Here are the top things to do:
– Stroll the Malecon: This scenic oceanfront promenade stretches from El Centro to the Zona Romantica. You can admire palm trees, crashing waves, sculptures, and local artists. From mid-November to mid-April, take a free walking tour every Tuesday at 9:30 AM.
– Cultural experiences: Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culture is evident everywhere. Visit the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Plaza de Armas, especially on a Sunday evening, to enjoy street food and traditional music.
– Hiking: For breathtaking views, hike Cerro de La Cruz or the trail from Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas beach. The latter offers seaside views and secluded beaches where you can reward yourself with shrimp tacos and a margarita.
– Explore the Rio Cuale: Between El Centro and the Zona Romantica, Rio Cuale features a market, cultural center, and spots to eat and drink. The island is lively on weekends with local families, and you can catch live music at Babel Bar.
Puerto Vallarta also boasts a rich culinary scene, from taco stands to high-end beachside dining. Some top dining spots include:
– Fredy’s Tucan: A bustling breakfast spot popular with everyone.
– Menu del dia place: A local joint in the Romantic Zone offering daily changing menus at great prices.
– Barracuda: An established seafood restaurant perfect for a sunset dinner on the beach.
When it comes to beaches, Puerto Vallarta has a variety to suit your needs:
– Los Muertos Beach: The quintessential city beach, famous for its sail-shaped pier and vibrant activities.
– Mismaloya: A historic beach where “The Night of the Iguana” was filmed, close to Los Arcos National Marine Park.
– Las Gemelas: Two hidden beaches south of town, ideal for a quiet escape.
For boat tours, snorkeling, and more adventurous excursions, check out some of the best tours in Puerto Vallarta:
– Rhythms of the Night: An enchanting show on a hidden beach with dinner and drinks.
– Vallarta Food Tours: A guided tour through the city’s best eateries.
– Marieta Islands tour: A day trip for snorkeling and exploring hidden beaches, complete with an open bar and meal.
Safety is often a concern for travelers, but Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination. While it’s wise to take standard precautions, the city’s heightened police presence ensures your visit is secure.
That’s it for this Puerto Vallarta travel guide! It took me two years of enjoying tacos and beach days to compile this information. I hope it helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy your stay in this paradise, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!
