Are you planning a trip to my beautiful hometown, Puerto Vallarta? Or maybe you’re considering it but wondering what the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta are?
I was raised in Puerto Vallarta from the age of 3 until I was 16. I haven’t lived full-time in Vallarta for over 15 years, but I frequently visit as my family still lives here. Puerto Vallarta is undeniably my home!
This city holds a special place in my heart, not just because of the familiarity, but because it is truly a slice of heaven on Earth.
I know what you’re thinking, “of course you think it’s wonderful, it’s your hometown.” And yes, you’re absolutely right, I am biased. But stick with me—once you’ve read about all the exciting things this vibrant Mexican city has to offer, you can judge for yourself.
In this blog post, I’ll highlight all the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. We’ll explore popular attractions, along with fun, free, and outdoor adventures that showcase the area’s natural beauty—plus the best day trips for those looking to discover the surrounding areas!
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Located in the state of Jalisco on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by beautiful beaches and green mountains.
It is a very popular destination due to its numerous outdoor activities and unique attractions—Vallarta is the number one return-to destination city all over Mexico, as well as among the five safest cities in the country!
With its fantastic beaches, rich culture, delicious food, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder Puerto Vallarta is one of the most sought-after destinations in all of Mexico!
Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta
While Puerto Vallarta is a great destination year-round thanks to its tropical climate, certain times of the year offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
The peak season runs from October to April, with plenty of sunshine but manageable warm temperatures, and no rain. This is also the busiest time in Vallarta.
If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the shoulder season from May to September. While you may experience a few rain showers, you will enjoy lower hotel rates and fewer tourists.
Puerto Vallarta experiences two main seasons:
Best Ways to Get Around Puerto Vallarta
Getting around Puerto Vallarta is relatively easy. Taxis and Uber are easily accessible, and Uber is very inexpensive.
Another great way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus or walking. The bus system in Puerto Vallarta goes all over the city and is cheap. Most local buses (especially in touristy areas) are clean and many of them even feature air-conditioning, so it’s a nice ride.
With most of the top attractions being in the Centro or Zona Romántica area, you can catch a bus to this area and go from there. Walking is the easiest way to sight see once you arrive at “El Centro” or “Old Town”.
Of course, if walking is difficult for you, then taking a taxi or Uber will be your best bet.
Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s jump into the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. There are so many fabulous things to do that it can be hard to narrow down the top attractions.
The following are my favorites and, honestly, are things you won’t want to miss when you visit.
As a bonus, many of these are also free activities!
Experience the Papantla Flyers
If you want to witness a traditional and exhilarating Mexican ritual, be sure to catch the Papantla Flyers. This ancient ritual involves dancers climbing up a pole and performing acrobatics while suspended by ropes.
This rich cultural experience dates back over 450 years. Originating from the Totonac people of Veracruz, this ceremony was designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009.
The ceremony is typically accompanied by a musician at the top of the pole, playing a flute and drum, setting a rhythmic tone for the flyers.
This cool ritual is a powerful symbol of the area’s indigenous past and a testament to human bravery. It’s a unique sight that you won’t want to miss.
Visit Viejo Vallarta (Old Town) – Romantic Zone
The Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) of Puerto Vallarta, also known as Viejo Vallarta (Old Vallarta) is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Vallarta. You will love wandering its charming streets—pebble roads, colorful buildings… it’s so full of life!
This neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta is a good mix of authentic and modern vibes. If you want to mingle with locals but also enjoy a vibrant expat community, this place is for you.
You will find some of the best local restaurants in this area, with many being local favorites. And if you’re up for more after your meal, the vibrant nightlife offers plenty of options to keep the evening going.
The Romantic Zone is also renowned as a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, known for its inclusive vibe and gay-friendly venues.
Viejo Vallarta is a great place if you want to escape the large resort style hotels. Here are some of the highlights in this neighborhood:
Playa Los Muertos – One of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta is Playa los Muertos. This beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and activities nearby, where you can relax on its soft golden sands while drinking micheladas (our traditional hangover cure!).
Los Muertos Pier – Located directly on Playa Los Muertos. It’s a gathering spot popular for sunset views, leisurely walks, and as a departure point for water taxis to nearby beaches such as Yelapa, Mismaloya, and Las Ánimas.
Olas Altas Street – A lively street filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and nightlife.
Cuale River Island – Isla Cuale is a little island that you can access through a pedestrian bridge that connects downtown Puerto Vallarta (Centro) and the Romantic Zone. It’s a little oasis above the river, surrounded by green. Inside, you’ll find a colorful local artisan market, art galleries, and restaurants.
Free Walking Tour
While you’re in Downtown/Zona Romantica area, take advantage of the free walking tour. It starts at the Municipal Tourism Office in the Old City Hall building.
Be sure to check their website for the schedule, as tours aren’t offered every day. The tour lasts around two hours and it’s led by a local guide who will take you on a journey through the city’s history, culture, architecture, and hidden gems. Don’t forget to tip your guide!
The Malecon
Of course, no visit to Puerto Vallarta would be complete without a stroll along the Malecon. Located downtown Puerto Vallarta between the Hotel Zone and Old Town (Romantic Zone).
The Malecon is a mile-long boardwalk in the heart of the city—a beautiful sunset spot and a lively area frequented by locals and visitors.
You can easily walk from El Malecón to the Romantic Zone. The walk typically takes about 15–20 minutes—depending on how many “strategic” stops you make along the way. It’s a beautiful walk, and I recommend doing it in the evening.
You will find plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries, and bars. Plus, The Malecon is beautifully decorated with iconic sculptures. And, you’ll often see street performers and local artists displaying their work. Plus, Los Arcos Amphitheater hosts free live music performances, adding to the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
No matter what, don’t leave El Malecon without tasting some street food—it’s absolutely delicious! Try local favorites like elote or esquites (Mexican corn), tamales, churros, and more!
Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Also located in the downtown area, another wonderful place to visit in Puerto Vallarta is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She is a stunning architectural beauty with an iconic crown topped tower.
My favorite thing is to see the sun glow through the beautiful stained-glass windows and illuminate the altar. This experience makes for a wonderful moment of solitude.
Release Baby Sea Turtles
I’ve been lucky enough to release baby sea turtles and watch them crawl toward the ocean many times, it never gets old. It’s such a heartwarming experience!
They’re released at sunset to increase their chances of survival—since that’s when predators like birds are no longer feeding—which makes the experience even more beautiful with the stunning sunset colors as a backdrop.
Did you know that only about 1 in 100 baby turtles actually survive? That’s why conservation efforts are so important to protect this beautiful species.
Every year, thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles return to the same beaches to lay their eggs. On average, around 100 eggs per turtle. Sadly, many of these nesting areas are now crowded with establisments and tourists, which means fewer chances of survival.
Thankfully, several sea turtle camps and sanctuaries around Puerto Vallarta work hard to protect them. They collect the eggs, monitor them, and organize safe, guided releases.
Participating in this activity isn’t just a memorable experience, it also supports vital conservation efforts to help ensure the survival of this beautiful species.
When?
The main season for releasing baby sea turtles in Puerto Vallarta runs from August to December, although it can sometimes happen outside of those months depending on weather and environmental conditions.
Where?
Cost?
You can join for free, but a small donation will go a long way.
Visit The Best Beaches in Vallarta
Being a coastal town, Puerto Vallarta is, of course, known for its beautiful beaches. You can enjoy them from morning to evening, tanning, swimming, trying out water sports, catching a sunset, or even joining a beach party.
Each beach has its own vibe, from lively spots with restaurants and bars to quiet, hidden gems. But the one thing they all have in common is how stunning they are when the sun sets. Enjoying a sunset is one of the best free things to do in PV, so make sure to catch a few!
Here’s a list of some of the best beaches to check out:
Playa de los Muertos: Located in the heart of the Romantic Zone, one of the most popular and vibrant beaches, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and activities.
Conchas Chinas: Located just 10 minutes south of the Malecon. This beach offers a quiet, less crowded atmosphere, with stunning views and clear waters. The amenities are limited so come prepared with your own beach gear and essentials.
Playa Las Gemelas: Located just 20 minutes south of downtown. It’s a small shoreline with strikingly beautiful crystal-clear waters, and golden sandy beach. A hidden gem, so not many tourists will be around. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing time. There are no commercial establishments on the beach, so I recommend bringing your own essentials, such as a towel, water, and snacks.
Playa Mismaloya: Located a little further– 30 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Surrounded by lush mountains and nice calm waters.
Playa Las Animas: This beach is only accessible by boat or a scenic hike, and it offers complete isolation with beautiful turquoise waters. While it feels remote, you’ll find several beachfront restaurants and sunbeds where you can relax and spend the day.
Playa Quimixto: This beach can also only be reached by boat or a scenic hike
Sayulita (near Puerto Vallarta): While technically not part of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is just 45-minute drive from the airport. It’s famous for its bohemian, laid-back vibe, great surfing, eclectic shops, and charming small-town atmosphere.
Crossing the Epic Jorullo Bridge
The Jorullo Bridge is a massive suspension bridge located in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, within the Canopy River ecotourism complex.
First of all, this bridge is often called the “longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world!”. It spans approximately 470 meters (1,542 feet) and suspended about 150 meters (492 feet) above the ground.
The bridge is truly spectacular and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lush mountains. However, that’s just the beginning. This complex offers a wide range of adventure activities, including ATV/RZR tours that cross the bridge, ziplining, swimming at El Salto waterfall, tequila tasting, horseback riding tours, a restaurant, an infinity pool, and more!
There’s a lot of fun to be had in one place—this complex combines nature, adventure, and culture, all in one (very large) spot!
Holy Guacamole! The Best Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
No visit to Mexico is complete without trying our specialty: tacos!
Luckily for you, one of my favorite things to eat (probably like any other Mexican) is tacos, so you can bet I know where the best tacos in my hometown are.
I’m so passionate about this topic (LOL) that I actually wrote an entire article on the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta (you’re welcome!).
Here’s a quick rundown:
Explore Marina Vallarta
The first thing you will see when entering La Marina is a beautiful and huge whale sculpture.
La Marina is a residential area with several condominiums, hotels, and luxury residences in front of golf courses and the beach.
At the heart of La Marina there is a Promenade lined with yachts, shops, spas, galleries, cafes, and waterfront restaurants.
For a romantic rendezvous visit El Faro Lighthouse, which has a bar at the top and is a wonderful spot for sunset and cocktails.
During the high season, you can also find a weekly art and farmers market with local crafts, food, and live music.
These are my favorite restaurants in the area:
Sonora Prime: For premium steak and authentic Mexican dishes accompanied by delicious mixology, all within a chic setting.
El Coleguita: For fresh seafood served in generous portions.
Mr. Cream: For the best breakfast in town with beautiful views of the Marina.
Go Parasailing
One of the most unique things to do in Puerto Vallarta is to experience parasailing.
Secured to a parachute, you’ll ascend into the sky, not only getting your blood pumping but also enjoying the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the city!
Parasailing can be done all over Vallarta, simply walking along popular beaches like Los Muertos Beach, Playa Mismaloya, Playa Nuevo Vallarta, etc… and you will find plenty of local independent operators.
You can also book in advance from tour operators by simply searching online. The cost is between $50 to $80 USD and the duration is of approximately 15 min.
Hike to the Top of Mirador de La Cruz
Reaching the top of Mirador de La Cruz is a little adventure in itself. It’s relatively moderate, but requires ascending a staircase with over 300 steps. Takes around 20 minutes, depending on your pace.
Once you reach the top, your reward will be a 360-degree panorama of Puerto Vallarta and the Banderas Bay.
The beautiful bay sparkling and the city below. You can even see the emblematic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe from here.
Best of all, this activity is completely free. But keep in mind that the weather is always hot, so it’s better to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid getting super hot.
Go Whale Watching
Unfortunately, you can only enjoy this activity during whale season, which runs from December to March, with the peak occurring between January and February. However, taking a boat tour and going whale watching is definately one of the best a things to do in Puerto Vallarta!
It is not guaranteed, but with a little bit of luck, you will witness humpback whales, and with a lot of luck (I have only seen them once in my life), you can even spot Orcas or killer whales. Another amazing sight is witnessing calf swimming and jumping with their mothers.
I grew up doing this every year with my family, so I have a lot of heartwarming memories whenever I think back on those times. One family, one boat, plenty of sun and snacks—and bam! A whale jumping right in front of us!
There are several options for whale watching excursions, but be sure to check reviews and choose a reliable tour provider.
I would recommend doing private tours or small group tours if possible. This will allow you to have a more intimate experience, set your own schedule, take swimming or snorkeling breaks, and enjoy snacks and drinks of your choice.
Just be careful not to get stuck with big commercial tour companies (they have a way of sucking the magic out of the experience!)
Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a profoundly moving experience you will remember forever.
Explore Vallarta Botanical Gardens
If you love nature, then a visit to Puerto Vallarta’s Botanical Gardens is a must. This unique sanctuary is home to a large variety of species of plants and birds.
You will find many types of tropical plants, including native plants and their wonderful orchid collection.
You can take a guided tour or explore one of the many hiking trails to see the diverse plants that call this beautiful place home. Plus, there is a river you can swim at and a restaurant with beautiful views.
Get Ready to Dive, Paddle, and Fun Water Sports!
Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic destination for water sports enthusiasts. From surfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving, the options are endless!
For top snorkeling and diving, visit Los Arcos for caves, tunnels, and rich marine life, or Las Marietas Islands for deeper dives (more about these cool spots below).
If you’re into extreme sports, the bay’s consistent winds make Vallarta a great spot for kitesurfing. Nuevo Vallarta Beach and Bucerías are two of the top locations, popular for their steady wind conditions and wide open spaces.
Some beaches also offer gear like paddleboards for rent, or you can book a guided paddleboard tour to Los Arcos online.
If you want something more thrilling, you can rent jet skis. You will find vendors renting them out along the beach, or you can also book in advance online.
For a more relaxed time, embark on a sunrise or sunset cruise to try your hand at fishing.
No matter your vibe, there is something for everyone!
Go Ziplining!
For the adventure seekers, ziplining in Vallarta is a must-try!
They’ll take you right into the heart of the jungle, where you will be surrounded by beautiful, lush tropical landscapes. Hanging from a harness, you will zipline across mountains over the jungle and enjoy some serious panoramic views.
There are a few different zipline tours to choose from, so do a little research and pick the one that excites you the most. It’s an incredibly fun and safe activity!
Rhythms of the Night Cruise and Dinner Show
Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures is a sunset cruise that departs from Puerto Vallarta to Las Caletas, where you’ll arrive at a secluded beach illuminated by torches.
You will enjoy a “feast for the senses” with a candle-lit buffet dinner and a truly mesmerizing live performance, blending traditional dance, music, acrobatics, and storytelling to immerse you in the rich culture of Mexico — Cirque du Soleil style!
And I’m dead serious when I say Cirque du Soleil style! Rhythms of the Night is intertwined with Cirque du Soleil through its creation by Gilles Ste-Croix, a co-founder of Cirque du Soleil, and draws heavy inspiration from Cirque’s theatrical style.
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, and you can depart from either Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta.
Check Vallarta Adventures site for prices, dates, timing, and book in advance!
Best Day Trips from Puerto Vallarta
One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta is exploring its surroundings. Drive just 30 minutes in almost any direction, and you’ll come across something new to discover.
Whether it’s a quiet beach, a mountain town, or a charming surf village. There’s so much to experience, all just a short drive away.
If you’re interested in diving deeper about the incredible travel opportunities near Puerto Vallarta, check out my article ‘Best Towns to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta,’ where I dive deep into all the best places to visit that are only a short drive from PV.
“If you’re interested in diving deeper into the incredible travel opportunities near Puerto Vallarta, check out my article, ‘Best Towns to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta.’ where I dive deep into all the best places to visit that are only a short drive from PV.”
Visit Los Arcos National Marine Park
A visit to Los Arcos National Park is a beautiful day trip that offers an exciting adventure just 20-30 minutes by boat from Puerto Vallarta.
The park is a protected marine area and home to abundant sea life. From many types of colorful tropical fish to cute sea turtles to huge manta rays and octopi.
It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with plenty of guided tours available (which you can easily find online).
You can choose from private or group tours, and generally, they include transportation and entry fees. With the tours, local experts share fascinating insights about the park’s ecosystem and conservation efforts.
Take a Boat Ride to the Marietas Islands and Find the Hidden Beach
Another fantastic day trip to explore hidden beaches and marine caves is a 45-minute boat ride to Las Islas Marietas.
This is also a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Which means we can enjoy the natural beauty only while contributing to conservation efforts.
Marietas Island is the perfect place to snorkel through underwater caves and observe the rich birdlife.
You can also explore the famous Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), a hidden beach that’s only accessible by swimming or kayaking through a narrow rock tunnel.
Cruise to Yelapa
A day trip to Yelapa is the perfect escape from Puerto Vallarta’s lively tourist scene and vibrant urban energy, and this is why you won’t regret it: This small fishing village can only be reached by water taxis, which already tells you it’s secluded and surrounded by nothing but natural beauty.
You can swim in the calm, clear waters of its cove, kick back on the beach with a cold drink in hand—and really, what else do you need? There is also the option to venture out to explore the charming, car-free streets of Yelapa’s town, or take a hike to the nearby waterfalls.
Sayulita
Just an hour away from Puerto Vallarta sits what many consider the best beach town in the area. Sayulita is a charming beach town that offers relaxation, adventure, and local culture. It’s a great escape from the more crowded Puerto Vallarta.
Stroll through its streets and find colorful local markets, cool street art created by local artists, and pop into galleries and workshops that showcase the incredible talent from the region.
Sayulita is also very famous for its surfing scene and yoga retreats.
And when the sun goes down, the town comes alive with bars, restaurants, live music, and street performers. From chilled-out beachfront bars to lively dance spots, you’re guaranteed to have fun!
If you like this vibe, you can always opt to stay overnight; there are plenty of accommodation options.
Mascota
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Madre Mountains, just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta. The small town of Mascota presents a complete contrast to the busy beachside vibe of Puerto Vallarta.
Forget about the bustling coastal tourist scene. Mascota is a traditional Mexican town known as a Pueblo Magico (Magic Town). As you stroll along the cobblestone streets, you will find colorful colonial buildings and friendly locals. It is steeped in tradition and rich history.
Mascota has a few attractions to check out, like Templo de la Preciosa Sangre (Temple of the Precious Blood) and Mascota Archaeological Museum, home to a collection of artifacts that trace the region’s history back to pre-Columbian times.
But honestly—for me—the best thing to do here is simply walk its streets and absorb the authenticity of this Mexican town. Take it in with all your senses—especially your taste buds! Believe me, people in towns like this have a way with food that’s just on another level.
If you rather stay overnight, there are plenty of great accommodation options.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into the incredible travel opportunities near Puerto Vallarta, check out my article:
“Best Towns to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta“
Final Thoughts on The Best Things to Do In Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is an extraordinary destination that offers so many exciting things to do. The true beauty of Puerto Vallarta is that it is attractive to every type of traveler at almost any time of year.
It is a favorite destination in Mexico, not only budget friendly but also beautiful.
The locals are friendly, the food is fantastic, and there is no limit to how much fun you can have in Puerto Vallarta. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Puerto Vallarta has something for you.
If you are looking to explore other stunning destinations in Mexico, don’t miss my article ‘Best Hidden Gems in Mexico‘. Uncover the lesser-known treasures and extraordinary experiences that await you beyond the familiar holiday spots!
