Best Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a complete fantasy in the middle of the Pacific coast. Here you will find the perfect fusion of culture and exceptional gastronomic offerings. You can start at the Malecon, where a cozy atmosphere and spectacular ocean views await you, and continue exploring the Sierra Madre on horseback or on a cruise.

Extreme sports are one of its inexhaustible proposals, as well as beach escapades accompanied by a glass of Tuba, a handcrafted beverage that will surprise your palate. Besides, one of its best kept secrets is the quality of the local cocoa. Ready to discover Puerto Vallarta? Here is a list of plans you can't miss.

The Pacific breeze, the smell of salt and street art merge in Puerto Vallarta's Malecon. Walking along this area is a great plan that can be accompanied with a refreshing coconut water. If you go early you will have time to take pictures without crowds in its famous sculptures, as it is the canvas of artists who anchor their works to the sea. One of the most outstanding is La Rotonda del Mar, which symbolizes the relationship between humans and the sea.

Along the way you will find craft stores and beach bars to kill your cravings for Mexican delicacies. And if you come by at night, you will witness the vibrant atmosphere and folkloric shows by the sea.

About a five-minute walk away is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the main local attractions. Here you can see the replica of the bell tower of the Imperial Crown of Mexico, the stained glass windows and the atmosphere dedicated to the Mexican patron saint. If you go in December you can not miss the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe that will bring you closer to the Mexican culture with its procession and traditional music.

To optimize time you can book a guided tour of Puerto Vallarta. These types of experiences usually explore these attractions and even offer a visit to a tequila distillery to learn about the elaboration process and enjoy a tasting of Mexico's national drink.

Details of interest

• Price: Entrance to the church is free. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour from €19 per person.
• Hours: The Malecon is open 24 hours a day, but the vibrant atmosphere and popular shows take place between 17:00 and 23:00. The church is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00 and on Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00. If you feel like taking a tour you can take advantage of different schedules from 9:00.
• How to get there: both attractions are easy to reach on foot from the center, but there are also bus routes from other areas.

Mexican food is exquisite and if you have the opportunity to try it on the coast, you will surely take home an unforgettable experience. In fact, Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the most important gastronomic destinations in Mexico. You will discover it as you walk through its colorful streets because the smell of tacos al pastor and tortillas will surely be tempting.

From tropical fruits to spicy dishes, every bite is a journey through the local culture. There are so many options to eat and hence many tourists prefer to book a gastronomic tour. This way, you'll chase the smells and flavors with an itinerary that encompasses the most famous restaurants and street stalls, as well as the hidden corners that reflect the authenticity of Puerto Vallarta.

It's the perfect opportunity to sample chiles in the local markets, a sensory experience that mixes mouth-watering smells and local bustle. You might discover how ripe an avocado needs to be to make guacamole and take advantage of the fact that Puerto Vallarta's fish stands out for its freshness and is accompanied by traditional drinks and ocean views.

Details of interest

• Price: generally, a local dish can be around 15 €, although there are more affordable options on the street. If you plan to join a guided gastronomic tour, it costs around 56 € per person, which usually includes several tastings in different restaurants.

Venture into the Mexican jungle where fun surprises await you, such as becoming a horseman and mastering the trails of the Sierra Madre. You don't need to be an expert, as you will ride a docile horse used to interacting with visitors. This experience combines adventure, nature and culture and meanders through valleys and rivers.

During the ride you will witness the tropical environment and reach the most beautiful hideaways of Puerto Vallarta. There are varied routes and one of the most fun ones takes you to a waterfall, so you can refresh yourself and return refreshed to the city.

To take advantage of this plan I suggest you book a horseback ride in Puerto Vallarta in advance. Although you can buy it on site, there are so many options that it is preferable to guarantee one that includes lunch, handcrafted drinks and a complete experience with an expert horseback riding guide.

Details of interest

• Price: from 95 € per person.

In Puerto Vallarta cruises are unforgettable, as they take place in a tropical environment with dreamlike views. From traditional shows to species sightings, you can't miss it!

Rhythms of the Night Show Cruise

If you want to watch the sunset and explore the nightlife from another angle, I suggest booking a Rhythms of the Night dinner cruise and show This sensory experience offers a vibrant atmosphere and combines gastronomy, culture and nature. The itinerary usually includes a ride across the Bay of Flags, so you can delight in the postcard-perfect scenery.

While the jungle surrounds the boat you can enjoy dinner under the stars with the sound of the waves in the background. What makes this experience even more special is that you will witness the Rhythms of the Night theatrical show, which involves the traditions and history of Mexico. This show includes dances, acrobatics, music and choreographies inspired by ancient Mesoamerican rituals.

• Price: about 159 € per person.

Whale Watching Cruise

For a closer look at the animal world you can book a whale watching cruise in Puerto Vallarta. On board you will witness the contrast of the crystal clear waters with the mountains that surround this coastal city. Most importantly, you will arrive at a strategic point where the humpback whales will delight you with an acrobatic show.

Most whales that migrate to give birth to their calves are quite generous because they allow people to approach at a prudent distance. This way, you will be able to see how they feed and train the smaller whales themselves. These waters are ideal to form their families, as they are warmer and calmer. It is important to maintain a respectful attitude and opt for months like September, when there is a greater migratory flow.

• Price: approximately 93 € per person.

Why limit yourself to sampling the cuisine when you can also learn its recipes? Although they are legendary techniques that take years to perfect, a cooking class can be a rewarding and profitable experience. Mexicans are known for their hospitality and sometimes offer this type of activities in front of the sea so you can enjoy the sea breeze while you savor the different dishes.

Booking a cooking class in Puerto Vallarta is a window to the heart of the local culture. You can learn how to prepare mole, ceviche, tacos and tortillas. You will cook with seasonal ingredients and in the process you will not only discover the recipes, but also the stories behind each dish.

For example, Pescado Zarandeado is a native Puerto Vallarta dish and its preparation draws on centuries-old techniques. As the class progresses you will feel your confidence increase and at the end you will enjoy a tequila and mezcal tasting.

This type of experience is usually accompanied by a tour of a local market. The colors of the tropical fruits are a visual spectacle and an atmosphere permeated with fresh smells, human warmth and the delights of the street stalls awaits you. In addition, they also usually include a visit to an authentic tortilla factory, where you will see how they are molded in an artisanal way and taste the sauces with which they are usually served.

Interesting details

• Price: around 106 € per person.
• Duration: this type of experience can take 4 to 5 hours.

Puerto Vallarta is also a famous destination for the wide range of adventure sports it offers. Its sunny days and controlled waves are the perfect combination to take your adrenaline to the limit. There are many plans of this style, specifically tourists are usually inclined to book a speedboat ride with a zip line experience.

Your day will probably start at full speed in a speedboat bouncing on the sea, safely so you can do it with your family. It is the easiest way to get to the hidden beaches of this Pacific paradise and on board you will enjoy the mountain scenery.

I am sure you will like it because they usually offer a complete itinerary and you can choose between natural slides, kayak rides and intense zip line jumps. In fact, Puerto Vallarta is home to the longest zip line in Mexico, ideal to jump into the void and let yourself be carried away by the feeling of pure freedom.

Details of interest

• Price: around 105 € per person.

During your trip you have to take advantage of a getaway to the most spectacular beaches of Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos Beach is considered the most famous thanks to its crystal clear waters and its iconic sail-shaped pier. It is ideal for taking pictures and sitting down to enjoy a Mexican drink in front of the sea.

It is popular for its water sports and its proximity to Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone, also known as Old Vallarta. Here you will find a bohemian neighborhood where nightlife is concentrated, as well as handicraft classes.

Details of interest

• How to get there: it is easy to get there on foot, although there are buses that connect both areas in less than ten minutes.

Puerto Vallarta harvests a type of cocoa that is considered magical. Hence the variety of chocolates that can be tasted. A chocolate route is ideal to learn about its history, which dates back to ancient civilizations that used it as an offering in religious ceremonies. Nowadays you can taste its dark chocolate and enjoy a pronounced flavor or delight yourself with Mexican chocolates spiced with cinnamon or chili.

During your vacations in Puerto Vallarta I suggest you sign up for a traditional chocolate workshop. They are usually offered in places like Planeta Cacao to discover how the authentic Mexican chocolate is prepared. You can also visit their cocoa gardens and feel the fresh aroma.

Another option is to visit the Chocolate Museum of Puerto Vallarta. During the visit you will discover the evolution of Mexican cocoa and the stages of chocolate production. I also recommend it because it usually includes live demonstrations and tastings of pastries, truffles and handmade chocolate.

Details of interest

• Hours: The Chocolate Museum is open from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm.
• Price: some exhibitions are free, but its main attraction are the workshops whose prices start at 30 €.

Tuba is a traditional drink consumed in Puerto Vallarta and other coastal cities in Mexico. It is made from fermented sap and is extracted from the coconut palm.

It originated in the Philippines, but in the 16th century it conquered different Mexican cities and caused a furor. It is probably due to its refreshing taste that allows you to beat the heat while walking along El Malecón and the beaches.

Consider that you have a choice between sweet or bitter Tuba and, although they are made from the same fruit, what changes is the time of harvest.

Details of interest

• Price: a glass of Tuba can be obtained from 2 €.

Puerto Vallarta offers you paradisiacal destinations within walking distance, hidden among its mountains and coves. You can take advantage of cruises to reach private beaches or go in search of its refreshing waterfalls. Let me tell you a little more!

Yelapa and Majahuitas Excursion

Booking an excursion to Yelapa and Majahuitas is a must for those looking to enjoy the jungle and the best beaches Puerto Vallarta has to offer. If you want to experience Mexico outdoors, be sure to bring enough energy to enjoy these beach towns.

You will witness the beauty of the Cola de Caballo waterfalls and enjoy the ambiance of the beach clubs in Yelapa. If you are up for it, there are perfect areas for water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing.

Excursion to San Pancho and Sayulita

The towns of the Riviera Nayarit are magical and have a sacred energy. You can book an excursion to San Pancho and Sayulita to enjoy different coves where you can take a dip or test your skills on a surfboard. But that's not all! San Pancho is a beach town known for the influence it receives from the Huichol culture, so get ready to immerse yourself in indigenous traditions and explore their crafts.

Excursion to Las Caletas Beach

If you want to recharge your batteries, I recommend booking an excursion to Las Caletas Beach. It is not as crowded as other beach destinations, as it is only accessible by boat, allowing you to enjoy a more private atmosphere. Here you can enjoy water activities and the kids are not left behind, as they can have fun at the Cala Teen Adventure Cove and Kids Adventure Park.

Although not usually included in this type of package, you can add additional activities such as cooking classes, snorkeling with sea lions and relaxing spa treatments.

Excursion to the Marietas Islands

To recreate yourself with the paradisiacal offer of the Mexican coast, you have to take advantage of the warmth and natural beauty of the islands near Puerto Vallarta. You could book an excursion to the Marietas Islands, which includes trips to Isla Larga and Isla Redonda. It is possible to spot cetaceans along the way and witness the variety of species that prowl the area.