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 welcoming 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 drink 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's a list of things you can't miss.

Puerto Vallarta's Malecon is where the Pacific breeze, the smell of salt and street art merge. Walking along this area is a great plan that can be accompanied with a refreshing coconut water. If you go early in the morning, you'll have time to take uncrowded photos of the famous sculptures, which are the canvas of artists who anchor their works in the sea. One of the highlights is La Rotonda del Mar, which symbolises the relationship between humans and the sea.

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

About five minutes' 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't miss the Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe which will bring you closer to the Mexican culture with its procession and traditional music.

To optimise 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 process of making tequila 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.
• Opening 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 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 opening times from 9:00.
• How to get there: Both attractions are easy to reach on foot from the centre, but there are also bus routes from other areas.

Mexican food is exquisite and if you get the chance to try it on the coast, you're sure to 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 colourful 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 dining options and hence many tourists prefer to book a gastronomic tour. This way, you'll chase the smells and tastes 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 chillies at the local markets, a sensory experience that mixes mouth-watering smells with the local hustle and bustle. You might discover how ripe an avocado needs to be to make guacamole and take advantage of the freshness of Puerto Vallarta's fish, accompanied by traditional drinks and ocean views.

Interesting details

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

Venture into the Mexican jungle where fun surprises await, such as becoming a horseman and mastering the trails of the Sierra Madre. You don't need to be an expert, as you will be riding 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 surroundings 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 make the most of this plan I suggest you book a horseback ride in Puerto Vallarta in advance. While you can buy it on the spot, there are so many options that it is preferable to guarantee one that includes lunch, handcrafted drinks and a complete experience with an expert riding guide.

Details of interest

• Price: from 95 € per person.

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

Rhythms of the Night cruise with show

If you want to watch the sunset and explore the nightlife from a different 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'll be treated to postcard-perfect scenery.

As 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'll witness the Rhythms of the Night theatrical show, which wraps up the traditions and history of Mexico. This show includes dances, acrobatics, music and choreography inspired by ancient Mesoamerican rituals.

• Price: around 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'll witness the contrast of the crystal clear waters with the mountains that tower over 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 safe distance. This way you can watch them feed and train the smaller whales themselves. These waters are ideal for raising their families, as they are warmer and calmer. It is important to maintain a respectful attitude and opt for months such as 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 such activities by the sea so you can enjoy the sea breeze while savouring the different dishes.

Booking a cooking class in Puerto Vallarta is a window into 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 can enjoy a tequila and mezcal tasting.

This type of experience is often accompanied by a tour of a local market. The colours of the tropical fruits are a visual spectacle and the atmosphere is infused with fresh smells, human warmth and the delights of the street stalls. They also usually include a visit to an authentic tortilla factory, where you'll see how tortillas are handmade and taste the sauces with which they're usually served.

Interesting details

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

Puerto Vallarta is also famous for its wide range of adventure sports. Its sunny days and controlled waves are the perfect combination to push your adrenaline to the limit. There are many such plans, specifically tourists are often inclined to book a speedboat ride with a zip-line experience.

Your day will probably start at full speed on a speedboat bouncing through the sea, safely so you can do it as a family. It's the easiest way to reach the hidden beaches of this Pacific paradise and on board you'll enjoy the mountain scenery.

I'm sure you'll like it because they usually offer a full itinerary and you can choose between natural water slides, kayak rides and intense zip line jumps. In fact, Puerto Vallarta is home to Mexico's longest zip line, ideal for taking the plunge and letting yourself be carried away by the feeling of pure freedom.

Interesting details

• Price: around 105 € per person.

During your trip you must make the most of a trip to Puerto Vallarta's most spectacular beaches. Playa Los Muertos is considered the most famous thanks to its crystal clear waters and iconic sail-shaped pier. It is ideal for taking pictures and sitting and enjoying 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 neighbourhood where nightlife is concentrated, as well as arts and crafts 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 civilisations that used it as an offering in religious ceremonies. Nowadays you can taste its dark chocolate and enjoy a pronounced flavour or delight yourself with Mexican chocolates spiced with cinnamon or chilli.

During your holidays in Puerto Vallarta I suggest you sign up for a traditional chocolate workshop. They are usually offered at places like Planeta Cacao to discover how authentic Mexican chocolate is made. You can also visit their cocoa gardens and smell 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.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: The Chocolate Museum is open from 10.30am to 5.30pm.
• Price: Some exhibitions are free, but the main attraction is the workshops, which start at €30.

Tuba is a traditional drink consumed in Puerto Vallarta and other coastal towns 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 became all the rage. 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 is available from 2 €.

Puerto Vallarta offers paradisiacal destinations within easy reach, hidden among its mountains and coves. You can take advantage of cruises to reach private beaches or head out in search of refreshing waterfalls - let me tell you more!

Yelapa and Majahuitas Excursion

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

You'll witness the beauty of the Cola de Caballo waterfalls and enjoy the beach club atmosphere in Yelapa. If you're up for it, there are perfect areas for water sports such as snorkelling, 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 its Huichol influence, so be prepared to immerse yourself in indigenous traditions and explore their handicrafts.

Excursion to Las Caletas Beach

If you want to recharge your batteries I recommend booking an excursion to Playa Las Caletas. It's not as crowded as other beach destinations, as it' s 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, snorkelling with sea lions and relaxing spa treatments.

Excursion to the Marietas Islands

For a taste of Mexico's coastal paradise, 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 roam the area.