Best things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Find out more about those top places in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: Where Old-World Charm High-Fives Beachside Bliss (Think Cobblestone Strolls, Sunset Margaritas, and Maybe a Hidden Beach Adventure!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Pacific Paradise!
¡Hola, sun-seekers and history buffs! Get ready to fall head-over-heels for Puerto Vallarta, one of the most enchanting and historically rich towns gracing Mexico’s Pacific coast. Picture this: stunning beaches that will make your Instagram feed sing, an enchanting colonial-era center that whispers tales of old Mexico, all set against a dramatic backdrop of lush, tropical mountains that seem to reach for the sky.
Now, let's be real. Puerto Vallarta might not be the secret whispered among backpackers anymore (the word's definitely out!), but that's because it's undeniably one of Mexico’s star attractions, and for darn good reason! The beautifully faded grandeur of its Spanish colonial streets is like stepping into a vintage postcard, perfectly complemented by a mouth-watering array of traditional Mexican street foods that will have your taste buds doing the cha-cha. Add in bohemian art galleries showcasing local talent and a café culture so sophisticated it feels like it belongs in a city ten times its size, and you've got a recipe for a truly captivating getaway.
Don't let the daytime tranquility fool you. While Puerto Vallarta enjoys a leisurely pace under the warm Mexican sun, its terracotta-roofed old town truly comes alive as dusk settles. Forget the wild spring break chaos; this is a haven for a more discerning crowd – think sophisticated sun-kissers and Mexico’s vibrant LGBT community, all enjoying the lively evenings filled with music, laughter, and the clinking of margarita glasses.
But wait, there's a whole world of adventure waiting just beyond the charming cobblestone streets! The surrounding white sand beaches beckon for lazy days and sunset strolls, while the vibrant coral reefs offer incredible opportunities for snorkeling and diving into an underwater paradise. And for the adventurous souls, the lofty mountains surrounding the town are perfect for hiking and exploring, offering breathtaking panoramic views. But perhaps the most intriguing attraction of all? The world-famous cave beach (we're talking about the hidden Playa Escondida!), a truly unique and magical place to visit that feels like stepping into a secret world.
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Pacific paradise. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring historic colonial streets and indulging in delicious street food to relaxing on stunning beaches and discovering hidden natural wonders, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Puerto Vallarta a truly special and hilariously charming destination.
Top Attractions: Beaches, Charm, and Hidden Wonders!
Puerto Vallarta offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences:
Malecón: Seaside Stroll and Art
Wander along the Malecón, Puerto Vallarta's iconic seaside promenade, lined with sculptures, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. A must-see attraction for your sightseeing.
Zona Romántica (Old Town): Charm and Nightlife
Explore the Zona Romántica, the heart of old Puerto Vallarta, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, art galleries, and vibrant evening atmosphere. A key place to visit for experiencing the city's charm and nightlife.
Los Muertos Beach & Pier: Iconic Beach Scene
Relax on Los Muertos Beach, the city's most famous beach, and stroll along its iconic pier. A top thing to do for soaking up the sun and people-watching.
Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida): Natural Wonder
Take a boat trip to the Marietas Islands National Park, home to diverse marine life and the legendary Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida) (permits required!). A unique attraction and unforgettable place to visit.
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Architectural Landmark
Admire the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an iconic landmark with its ornate crown, overlooking the city. A noteworthy place to visit for architectural sightseeing.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Pacific paradise!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Puerto Vallarta vibe:
- Indulge in Street Food: Sample the delicious and affordable tacos, churros, and other local treats.
- Explore the Art Galleries: Discover the vibrant local art scene in the Zona Romántica.
- Take a Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Mexican dishes.
- Go Whale Watching (Seasonal): Witness the majestic humpback whales during their migration.
- Hike in the Sierra Madre Mountains: Explore the lush tropical forests surrounding the city.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Mexico that offer a perfect blend of stunning beaches, colonial charm, delicious food, and exciting adventures, Puerto Vallarta is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to fall in love with its laid-back charm – and maybe develop a slight addiction to those sunset margaritas! ¡Salud! (Cheers!)
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Marieta Islands
Set sail from the charming city of Puerto Vallarta to the Marieta Islands, where you can swim in one of the world’s most iconic beaches, the Playa del Amor. The beach, which is only accessible through a cave, is sunk down into a deep crater and filled with turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Tours of the Marieta Islands also include trips to the many coral reefs that pepper the sea.
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Whale Watching
Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places in Mexico to spot whales, dolphins and other ocean dwelling giants. For the best experience take an ecotour from the town where expert guides will take you out to sea to get up close with these majestic creatures.
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Yelapa
The Yelapa district of Puerto Vallarta is undoubtedly its most picturesque. Sandwiched between a perfect white sand beach and gently rolling tropical hills, this fisherman’s quarter is also the best place to taste the town’s award-winning seafood and immerse yourself in local culture. For the best experience, come just before sunset when most of the day-trippers will have left and you can get the most authentic experience of Mexican nightlife.
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Jardín Botánico
Located on the rolling Pacific Coast is one of Mexico’s most verdant landscapes, Puerto Vallarta’s world-class botanical gardens. Spread over rolling hillsides, the more time you leave to explore this wonderland the more hidden gems you will find: vast bromeliads playing host to innumerable hummingbirds; grottoes clad in Technicolor green mosses and ferns; and gentle rivers that are perfect for swimming.
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Boca de Tomatlán
Less touristy than Puerto Vallarta is the charming seaside village of Boca de Tomatlán, which can be easily reached via sea taxis. Once there laze on its pristine white sand beaches, go snorkeling in tropical reefs and make sure to try one of the ceviche tostadas that are served up at beachside stalls.
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Los Arcos
The real emblem of Puerto Vallarta are a series of Romanesque seaside arches, known simply as Los Arcos. The beautiful architectural ensemble makes for the perfect photo opportunity and looks particularly gorgeous at sunset. What is more, the plaza surrounding Los Arcos comes alive in the evenings with mariachi bands, gaucho parades and more.
