Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s one of many prime 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 funds, a digital nomad in Mexico seeking to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat seeking 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 simple.
You’ll, nevertheless, wish to select your zone rigorously based mostly on the vibe you’re after and the funds you have got.
Puerto Vallarta Neighbourhoods & Zones
Right here’s a fast rundown of the zones in Puerto Vallarta beginning on the 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 resorts, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
- Centro (Previous 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 gives reasonably priced lodging.
- Centro (Romantic Zone) – positioned 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 well-liked space with a big LGBTQ group. The lodging ranges from funds to prime finish.
- Conchas Chinas – which means “Chinese language Shells” based mostly on the seashells discovered right here, this can be 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 an entire rundown on travelling to the town of PV, try our detailed guide here.
Finest Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta
After travelling round Puerto Vallarta extensively and having many unbelievable experiences, I’ve narrowed down the 21 finest issues to do on this stunning Mexican seaside city.
1. Stroll…In all places!
I’ve to place strolling as #1 on the checklist 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 most areas of PV are reachable by strolling.
Mexico is already one of many cheapest countries to travel to, however when you are able to do issues at no 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 get a lay of the land. You by no means know what you’ll stumble throughout when discovering the town on foot — simply ensure to put on good footwear because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven.
Word: the best time to travel 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 scorching and also you’ll more than likely wish to be on the seaside all day.
2. Be a 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 food is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and one of the best ways 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 achieved meals excursions all around the globe, and our favourite ones are in Mexico.
In Puerto Vallarta, try Vallarta Meals Excursions. This firm gives a mixture of tradition, strolling, and 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 number of foodie excursions on supply 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 properly. You may also be a part of their evening taco tour.
We extremely suggest this tour. Click here to be taught extra and test out the video we made:
3. See Rhythms Of The Evening (the most effective issues to do in Puerto Vallarta)
In case you’re searching for a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night will likely be one thing you gained’t wish to miss.
We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not large followers of enormous group excursions, this present was spectacular and price each penny. This is without doubt one of the prime tours in Puerto Vallarta.
The night begins with a sundown cruise (together with an open bar) throughout Banderas Bay to Las Caletas, which is a gorgeous personal cove. While you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a superbly 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 though 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. In the course of 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.
In case you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at night time, 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 concerning the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and particularly, Puerto Vallarta. Among the best sunsets we’ve ever seen have been from right here. Seize a drink and benefit from the present.
Nice viewing locations embody 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.
As soon as the solar goes down, the get together 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 the most effective free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.
*Word: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. In case you have an opportunity, attempt to go to there as properly.
5. Chill out 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 fairly than the Pacific. I feel this is without doubt one of the best beaches in Mexico.
Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. Once we visited, there have been fairly a number of 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 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. Deliver 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, however it’s price it once you see the view.
To succeed in right here, you’ll wish 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 seek out some on the road, or within the few roadside spots in entrance of Girasol Sur Condos.
Alternatively, you’ll be able to take a neighborhood bus and get dropped off right here. That is by far my favorite beach in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it.
Playa las Gemelas Seaside Tackle: Carr. Costera a Barra de Navidad 2354, Sur, 48390 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click here for directions.
6. Be a 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 latest 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 go together with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist absorb the alcohol.
The dishes aren’t snacks, however fairly, 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 tip of it, however you’ll be taught quite a bit concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.
We had an amazing 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 here to be taught extra concerning the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour, it’s the most effective issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.
7. Eat Contemporary Seafood
Whereas Mexico is one in all the best countries in the world for food and there’s undoubtedly a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, typically it’s good to eat avenue (seaside) meals.
In case you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be completely satisfied to know that you may 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’ll be able to sit and revel in your plate of meals by the water, or you’ll be able to take them to go. Squeeze some lime juice, sprinkle with some salt, and add some scorching sauce should you like.
Another choice is to hitch this tasty seafood experience which incorporates the oysters listed above, and rather 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’ll be able to wash all of it down with limitless beer. This unbelievable tour sells out quick. Learn more here.
☞ 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 without doubt one of 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 shocking is that though it’s not a really large place, there are many things to do in San Pancho.
One of the best ways to be taught all about San Pancho is to take pleasure in a leisurely bike trip across the city. A motorcycle makes it simple to see plenty 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 primary 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 can rent a car, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or join a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.
Word: the ocean at San Pancho is kind of tough and isn’t an amazing place for swimming. You might try 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 visitors that whizzes alongside the slender streets.
Alongside the Malecon, you have got the attractive ocean on one facet, and plenty of retailers, 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 without doubt one of the hottest things to do in La Paz as properly.
An effective way to discover a extra off-the-beaten-path space of the Malecon is to join this fun biking experience. Biking tools, meals, and drinks are included. Study extra here.
The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
There are quite a few resorts, resorts, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and residences for lease in Puerto Vallarta. There actually is one thing for everybody, with Booking.com having probably the most various choices of gorgeous residences, resorts, hostels, and funky household guesthouses.
10. Be a part of a Chocolate Making Class
The Choco Museum is without doubt one of the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. In case you’re excited 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 palms soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then ensure to hitch one of many courses on the Choco Museo.
There are a number of tasty courses accessible. Click here for the chocolate truffle class, and click here for chocolate drinks and chocolate bars! Becoming a member of one in all The Choco Museum’s enjoyable workshops and courses is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta when it rains.
Choco Museum Tackle: Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez 128, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Find it on the map here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Checklist of The Prime 21
11. Be a 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 every so often! This is without doubt one of the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t wish to miss.
The crew at Jaguar Expertise in Puerto Vallarta gives epic mountain biking trips within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.
In case you’re into journey and being lively, this is without doubt one of the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that needs to be on the prime of your checklist.
The routes cross by villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine bushes, and extra, earlier than ending off at a ranch the place you’ll be able to calm down in a hammock, or swim within the pool. All biking tools, information, snacks, and drinks are included. Click here to learn more about Eco Trip and the biking and climbing journeys they provide.
*Word: should you’d fairly mix train with consuming, Vallarta Meals Excursions has a brand new tour referred to as Bikes & Bites…test it out.
Not into biking, however nonetheless wish to be within the mountains?
Though we’ve by no means achieved this in Mexico, zip-lining by the attractive cover is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll be on the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains and might journey by the jungle over 2 miles (3.2kms) of zipline. This highly-rated ziplining experience is a good exercise in Puerto Vallarta. And, if you end up within the Yucatan, ziplining is without doubt one of the finest things to do in Cancun as properly.
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 plenty of actions occurring — 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 facet of the pier, you’ll discover plenty of 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 plenty of enjoyable.
We’ve visited this seaside a number of instances 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 facet of the pier, the water was calm and kids had been swimming. Once we visited Los Muertos seaside in the summertime, the water was calm in all places — and we even noticed plenty of small Manta Rays! All the time be conscious of the ocean and when unsure, ask a neighborhood if it’s secure to swim.
Los Muertos is without doubt one of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta, and in Mexico as a whole. This seaside gives a few of the finest water actions in Puerto Vallarta.
Los Muertos Pier Tackle: Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click here for directions.
☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Awesome Things To Do in Mexico
13. Wander The Previous City
Puerto Vallarta has a gorgeous outdated city 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. As most individuals take the Malecon or the primary 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’ll be able to come out close to the Rio River.
For an incredible view, you’ll be able to 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 plenty of water and put on good footwear.
Mirador Cerro de La Cruz Tackle: Abasolo LB, Cerro, 48304 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get directions 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 licensed or not, try Banderas Scuba Republic. This firm is PADI acknowledged and the crew is PADI licensed.
At this scuba store, you’ll be able to take courses and classes to get your certification, or if you have already got your Open Water, you’ll be able to go for some dives. Whereas scuba diving in Puerto Vallarta isn’t the perfect in Mexico, it’s at all times good to get out for a dive.
Whereas scuba diving is much better in Cozumel, round PV you’ll be able to nonetheless count on to see turtles, rays, eels, and extra. Banderas Scuba Republic is positioned within the Romantic Zone, cease by and test 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 heart to get a really feel for the place earlier than committing. You can click here to seek for extra PADI-certified dive retailers in Puerto Vallarta.
15. Be a 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 a strolling tour with a educated information.
That is the perfect 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 Office.
Tackle: 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 a part of the Free Artwork Stroll
Puerto Vallarta has many artwork galleries. On Wednesday evenings, most 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 folks 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 may be often wine and tequila given to guests…at no cost. The Artwork Stroll runs from the tip of October to the tip of Might, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday. This can be a yearly occasion. Click 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 Lady Of Guadalupe once you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this stunning piece of structure. In case 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 photographs of the ornate exterior. This church is without doubt one of the finest 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 Woman of Guadalupe Festival, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.
Tackle: Hidalgo 370, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get directions 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 Of The Iguana.
Lately, 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 seaside and also you’ll have views of the Los Arcos Marine Park. There may be, nevertheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, however it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.
In case you love horses, this horseback using journey is a must-do in Mismaloya! This journey gives small teams, and a extra genuine expertise. Learn more and book here.
Tackle: discover Mismaloya on the map, here. Rent a car, take the bus, rent a taxi, or be a part of a tour to get to Mismaloya.
☞ SEE ALSO: Things 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 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, one year a 12 months. Click here for instructions.
Additionally, if you need recent produce and fish, try the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get the perfect collection of seafood.
Within the strip of distributors, you’ll discover meats, greens, tortillas, and different objects. This can be a good spot to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting a neighborhood market is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Click here for instructions to the Minicipal Market.
20. Do Some Climbing
You gained’t actually discover climbing within the metropolis itself. However, should you take a bus, or drive your car 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 facet and the attractive water on the opposite.
Take a look at this highly-rated, affordable day trip — which incorporates transportation from Puerto Vallarta, snacks, snorkelling gear, and a drink on the restaurant on the finish. Discover out extra here.
You’ll hike alongside stone stairs and slender paths, whereas arriving at pretty secluded bays alongside the way in which. In case you’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins taking part in within the water.
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 seaside, and one of many many eating places on supply.
To get again to Boca, you’ll be able to take a ship from Las Animas, or hike again the way in which you got here. This is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for out of doors lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click here.
For the reason that journey is usually a bit complicated to do by yourself, an amazing choice is to hitch this reasonably priced expertise with a neighborhood information, which incorporates meals, drink, and transport. Study extra about this enjoyable day journey here.
21. Spend A Evening On The City
The Puerto Vallarta nightlife is superior. It doesn’t matter what type of get together 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 many of the happenin’ nightlife is across the Romantic Zone, you’ll discover bars throughout the town.
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 crew on the massive display at locations like El Torito Sports Bar & BBQ House, Players and El Soñador.
For reside music, you’ll be able to’t go mistaken with Incanto, Roxy Rock House, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you have got 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 the perfect locations to sip and dance, try our publish: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Best Places to Drink and Dance.
Bonus Actions in Puerto Vallarta
There are a number of extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that I needed so as to add to the checklist.
22. Volunteer With Canine
In case you’re an animal lover, why not spend a number of hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?
Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals want volunteers to spend time with the canines (and cats!) on the shelter. You may assist out by strolling canines, feeding them and naturally, giving them plenty of love and a focus.
The Acopio shelter is positioned just a bit bit exterior of the middle of the 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.
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 — be sure you book online ahead of time.
Positioned a couple of 1-hour boat trip 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 trip on the market you’ll more than likely spot dolphins, manta rays, and whales. Discover out extra here.
Now You Know What To Do in Puerto Vallarta
I hope this checklist 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 motive! We’ve at all times loved our visits right here and I’m certain you’ll as properly.
Make sure that to pattern the tasty avenue meals each time you’ll be able to, discover the native markets, and revel in strolling across the metropolis. Comfortable travels 😀
