Puerto Vallarta

Mexico, North America

Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant coastal city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and colorful arts scene. The famous Malecon boardwalk is lined with sculptures, bars, and shops, while the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains offer lush hiking trails. Visitors can explore the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, enjoy local cuisine, and partake in vibrant nightlife, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Puerto Vallarta

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll the Malecón Boardwalk

Enjoy ocean views and vibrant local art along the boardwalk.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Admire stunning architecture and rich history in this iconic church.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Discover diverse flora in a beautiful natural setting.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Whale Watching Tour

Experience majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Rhythms of the Night Show

Enjoy a spectacular dinner show with cultural performances.

Booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Los Arcos National Marine Park

Explore vibrant marine life in stunning underwater landscapes.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Puerto Vallarta Market

Find local crafts, art, and souvenirs at the market.

No booking required
8

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Sunset Cruise

Sail across the bay and witness breathtaking sunsets.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Playa de los Muertos

Enjoy sunbathing and beach activities at this popular beach.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Malecon Sculptures

Explore unique art installations along the waterfront promenade.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Cooking Class

Learn to make traditional Mexican dishes from local chefs.

Booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Art Walk

Explore local galleries and meet artists during this weekly event.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Tequila Distilleries

Discover the process of tequila making and taste samples.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)