Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s one of many prime locations to go to in Mexico. There are quite a few enjoyable issues to do in Puerto Vallarta — it has one thing for everybody.

Whether or not you’re a backpacker on a finances, a digital nomad in Mexico trying to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat trying to calm down, you’ll discover actions in Puerto Vallarta to maintain you busy. 

Town is break up up into neighbourhoods (zones), with the infinite issues to do in Puerto Vallarta unfold out alongside Banderas Bay and past. In actuality, it doesn’t actually matter which a part of the town you keep in, as getting round is simple.

You’ll, nonetheless, need to select your zone fastidiously primarily based on the vibe you’re after and the finances you’ve got.

Puerto Vallarta Neighbourhoods & Zones

Right here’s a fast rundown of the zones in Puerto Vallarta beginning on the airport and going south:

• Marina – extra upscale than the resort zone, with the Marriott Resort, Westin & extra.
• Resort Zone – only a few minute’s drive from the airport, this space has many inns, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
• Centro (Previous PV) – smaller houses, residential space, the Malecon (oceanfront promenade) runs alongside right here, many eating places and bars. This space is on the north aspect of the River Cuale and gives reasonably priced lodging.
• Centro (Romantic Zone) – positioned on the south aspect of the River Cuale, you’ll discover quite a few bars, cafes, eating places and Playa Los Muertos Seaside. This can be a standard space with a big LGBTQ group. The lodging ranges from finances to prime finish.
• Conchas Chinas – that means “Chinese language Shells” primarily based on the seashells discovered right here, it is a extra prosperous/posh space of Puerto Vallarta with gated communities and high-end condos.

Study extra about the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta with our lodging and neighbourhood information. And, for a whole rundown on travelling to the town of PV, take a look at our detailed information right here.

Finest Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta

After travelling round Puerto Vallarta extensively and having many unimaginable experiences, I’ve narrowed down the 21 finest issues to do on this stunning Mexican seashore city.

1. Stroll…In every single place!

I’ve to place strolling as #1 on the listing of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to get a really feel for the town, and most areas of PV are reachable by strolling.

Mexico is already one of many most cost-effective nations to journey to, however when you are able to do issues without spending a dime, like strolling and sightseeing, it can save you much more cash.

This can be a nice solution to see what the distributors are promoting, to individuals watch, and get a lay of the land. You by no means know what you’ll stumble throughout when discovering the town on foot — simply be sure to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven. 

Be aware: the finest time to journey to Mexico if you wish to stroll round cities can be within the winter months, or within the shoulder season. In any other case, it may be unbearably sizzling and also you’ll almost certainly need to be on the seashore all day.

2. Be part of a Meals Tour

Do you know that Mexico’s delicacies has made the listing of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO? This award hasn’t been granted to another nationwide meals group.

Mexican meals is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and one of the best ways to be taught extra concerning the tasty delicacies is to hitch a tour. This can be a must-do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.

We’ve finished meals excursions all world wide, and our favorite ones are in Mexico.

In Puerto Vallarta, take a look at Vallarta Meals Excursions. This firm gives a mixture of tradition, strolling, and meals excursions, making it an effective way to be taught concerning the metropolis of PV whereas concurrently feasting and dealing off the energy.

There are just a few foodie excursions on supply with Vallarta Meals Excursions, however we went on the “Unique Downtown Tour“, which took us by way of the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as effectively. You may as well be part of their night taco tour.

We extremely suggest this tour. Click on right here to be taught extra and test out the video we made:

3. See Rhythms Of The Night time (among the best issues to do in Puerto Vallarta)

Should you’re searching for a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night time might be one thing you received’t need to miss.

We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not huge followers of huge group excursions, this present was spectacular and price each penny. This is among the prime excursions in Puerto Vallarta.

The night begins with a sundown cruise (together with an open bar) throughout Banderas Bay to Las Caletas, which is a lovely personal cove. While you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a fantastically lit space with tiki torches and candles.

You’ll then be proven to your seat within the out of doors auditorium, which is surrounded by palm timber. The seats are all staggered, so although there are individuals sitting in entrance of you, you’ll haven’t any points seeing the present.

The present depicts numerous tales of the traditional Hispanic civilization and Mexican folklore. Through the efficiency, there’s stay music, dancing, contortionists, fireplace twirlers, and extra.

Following the present, you’ll take pleasure in a big buffet dinner earlier than returning to Puerto Vallarta by boat.

Should you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at night time, that is it. Don’t miss this present. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the tour and to e-book tickets.

⇒ See Additionally: Issues To Do in Mazatlan – 21 Experiences You Don’t Need to Miss

4. Watch Sundown

There’s simply one thing concerning the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and specifically, Puerto Vallarta. Among the finest sunsets we’ve ever seen have been from right here. Seize a drink and benefit from the present.

Nice viewing locations embrace anyplace alongside the Malecon, up the hill behind the Church of Our Woman of Guadalupe, or from El Barracuda — the sunsets we skilled at this seashore bar have been top-notch.

As soon as the solar goes down, the occasion begins in PV — there are such a lot of bars and golf equipment, the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is known. Benefit from the sundown, it’s among the best free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. 

*Be aware: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. You probably have an opportunity, attempt to go to there as effectively.

5. Calm down on Playa las Gemelas

Surprisingly, nearly 20 minutes drive south of Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover seashores that appear like they need to be Cancun or Playa del Carmen fairly than the Pacific. I believe this is among the finest seashores in Mexico.

Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. After we visited, there have been fairly just a few waves, however no riptides or undertows, and the waves have been enjoyable to swim in.

Different guests have skilled fully calm water right here, so it actually simply is dependent upon the climate and the time of yr.

There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seashore and nothing else…not even any bogs. Carry a cooler stuffed with beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.

The stroll to the seashore is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, but it surely’s value it whenever you see the view.

To achieve right here, you’ll need to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance, alongside the street). There isn’t a precise parking for the seashore, so that you’ll want to seek out some on the road, or within the few roadside spots in entrance of Girasol Sur Condos.

Alternatively, you possibly can take an area bus and get dropped off right here. That is by far my favorite seashore in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it.

Playa las Gemelas Seaside Tackle: Carr. Costera a Barra de Navidad 2354, Sur, 48390 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click on right here for instructions.

6. Be part of a Booze Tour (with a aspect of meals)

For these of you who prefer to drink tequila – it’s Mexico, who doesn’t?! – this tour is for you.

Throughout our latest journey to Puerto Vallarta, we joined the highly-rated Mex-ology tour and loved a late afternoon of Mezcal, Tequila, Raicilla, craft beer, Kahlua espresso, and different handcrafted cocktails.

To associate with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist take in the alcohol.

The dishes aren’t snacks, however fairly, full parts of fish tacos, meat tacos, seafood “enchiladas”, onion rings, crickets (sure, crickets!), and delectable desserts.

Not solely will you be having enjoyable, and feeling a bit tipsy by the top of it, however you’ll be taught quite a bit concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.

We had an excellent day with our information. A lot enjoyable in actual fact, that she took us out for some late-night shenanigans the place the expats and locals prefer to hangout.

Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour, it’s among the best issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. 

7. Eat Recent Seafood

Whereas Mexico is one among one of the best nations on the planet for meals and there’s undoubtedly a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, generally it’s good to eat avenue (seashore) meals.

Should you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be completely satisfied to know that you may get recent oysters on the seashore. Just below the bridge that crosses the River Cuale, you’ll see many distributors promoting these tasty morsels.

Plastic tables and chairs are arrange so you possibly can sit and revel in your plate of meals by the water, or you possibly can take them to go. Squeeze some lime juice, sprinkle with some salt, and add some sizzling sauce for those who like.

An alternative choice is to hitch this tasty seafood expertise which incorporates the oysters listed above, and far more.

You’ll additionally eat ceviche and aguachile, fish fillets, tacos, quesadillas, soups…as many seafood dishes as you need! It’s all included. Plus, you possibly can wash all of it down with limitless beer. This unimaginable tour sells out quick. Study extra right here. 

☞ SEE ALSO: Playa del Carmen Mexico: The Final Journey Information

8. Go to San Pancho

About an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta is the seashore city of San Pancho (San Francisco), which is among the finest day journeys from Puerto Vallarta.

This small city isn’t as quiet because it as soon as was, but it surely’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to. What’s shocking is that although it’s not a really huge place, there are many issues to do in San Pancho.

The easiest way to be taught all about San Pancho is to take pleasure in a leisurely bike trip across the city. A motorbike makes it simple to see numerous hidden gems and inform tales concerning the space. There are some locations to lease bikes across the city of San Pancho all alongside the principle avenue. 

San Pancho is a cool place to spend the afternoon because it’s simply an hour away from Puerto Vallarta. To get from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho, you possibly can lease a automobile, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or be part of a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.

Be aware: the ocean at San Pancho is kind of tough and isn’t an excellent place for swimming. You may take a look at close by Bucerias and Sayulita for swimming.

9. Stroll The Malecon

One of many many nice issues about Puerto Vallarta is the lengthy Malecon (oceanfront promenade) which runs for about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile). That is the proper spot to take pleasure in a stroll, with out having to take care of the busy site visitors that whizzes alongside the slim streets.

Alongside the Malecon, you’ve got the attractive ocean on one aspect, and plenty of outlets, eating places, and bars on the opposite (promoting $1 margaritas and Coronas). There are additionally quite a few artwork installations and avenue performances right here.

The Malecon is the sizzling spot, particularly within the late afternoon and evenings when it’s a cooler temperature. And truly, wandering alongside the Malecon is among the hottest issues to do in La Paz as effectively.

An effective way to discover a extra off-the-beaten-path space of the Malecon is to be part of this enjoyable biking expertise. Biking gear, meals, and drinks are included. Study extra right here.

The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

There are quite a few resorts, inns, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and residences for lease in Puerto Vallarta. There actually is one thing for everybody, with Reserving.com having essentially the most numerous choices of gorgeous residences, inns, hostels, and funky household guesthouses. 

10. Be part of a Chocolate Making Class

The Choco Museum is among the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Should you’re inquisitive about studying the historical past behind cocoa, plus discovering out how chocolate is made (from harvest to manufacturing), then the museum is for you.

If you wish to get your arms soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then be sure to hitch one of many lessons on the Choco Museo.

There are just a few tasty lessons out there. Click on right here for the chocolate truffle class, and click on right here for chocolate drinks and chocolate bars! Becoming a member of one among The Choco Museum’s enjoyable workshops and lessons is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta when it rains.

Choco Museum Tackle: Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez 128, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Discover it on the map right here.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Listing of The Prime 21

11. Be part of a Mountain Biking Journey

Though lounging by the seashore and devouring tacos is all the time a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it is likely to be a good suggestion to get some train each every now and then! This is among the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t need to miss.

The crew at Jaguar Expertise in Puerto Vallarta gives epic mountain biking journeys within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.

Should you’re into journey and being lively, this is among the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that needs to be on the prime of your listing. 

The routes cross by way of villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine timber, and extra, earlier than ending off at a ranch the place you possibly can loosen up in a hammock, or swim within the pool. All biking gear, information, snacks, and drinks are included. Click on right here to be taught extra about Eco Experience and the biking and mountain climbing journeys they provide.

*Be aware: for those who’d fairly mix train with consuming, Vallarta Meals Excursions has a brand new tour known as Bikes & Bites…test it out.

12. Chill Out on Los Muertos Seaside

That is the seashore south of the Los Muertos Pier. And, as with the stretch of sand north of the pier, there are plenty of actions occurring — from swimming and browsing to parasailing and boating. Plus, you’ll discover quite a few seashore eating places and bars right here.

There are distributors wandering up and down the seashore as effectively, however they aren’t too pushy. Close to the south aspect of the pier, you’ll discover numerous native households spending the day (particularly on weekends), whereas farther south from there’s thought-about the LGBTQ space, which is all the time busy and plenty of enjoyable.

We’ve visited this seashore just a few occasions now. Throughout December, the waves have been extremely huge and the surf and undertow have been fairly robust. The tough water began from the pier and went north to the La Langosta Loca restaurant.

Nonetheless, on the south aspect of the pier, the water was calm and kids have been swimming. After we visited Los Muertos seashore in the summertime, the water was calm in all places — and we even noticed numerous small Manta Rays! At all times be aware of the ocean and when unsure, ask an area if it’s protected to swim.

Los Muertos is among the finest seashores in Puerto Vallarta, and in Mexico as an entire. This seashore gives a few of the finest water actions in Puerto Vallarta.

Los Muertos Pier Tackle: Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Click on right here for instructions.

☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Superior Issues To Do in Mexico

13. Wander The Previous City

Puerto Vallarta has a lovely outdated city with cobbled streets and vibrant houses climbing up the hill. From close to the Church of Our Woman of Guadalupe, you’ll see rock/cement steps heading up the hill.

Take the steps and proceed strolling alongside the again roads towards the Romantic Zone. As most individuals take the Malecon or the principle streets, you’ll have the quiet “higher” roads mainly to your self.

You’ll come throughout houses draped in vines, cats sleeping on steps and fairly wrought-iron balconies. After you’ve completed exploring and having fun with the peace and quiet, you possibly can come out close to the Rio River.

For a tremendous view, you possibly can hike as much as the Mirador Cerro de La Cruz. It takes about half-hour and is a bit strenuous, however the view is spectacular. Carry numerous water and put on good sneakers.

Mirador Cerro de La Cruz Tackle: Abasolo LB, Cerro, 48304 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get instructions right here.

14. Go Scuba Diving

Getting out on the water is all the time a good suggestion when travelling, however so is getting beneath it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent degree. 

Whether or not you’re scuba licensed or not, take a look at Banderas Scuba Republic. This firm is PADI acknowledged and the crew is PADI licensed.

At this scuba store, you possibly can take lessons and classes to get your certification, or if you have already got your Open Water, you possibly can go for some dives. Whereas scuba diving in Puerto Vallarta isn’t one of the best in Mexico, it’s all the time good to get out for a dive.

Whereas scuba diving is a lot better in Cozumel, round PV you possibly can nonetheless anticipate to see turtles, rays, eels, and extra. Banderas Scuba Republic is positioned within the Romantic Zone, cease by and test them out.

At all times do your individual unbiased analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm. Verify evaluations, security, and certifications, and even cease by the dive middle to get a really feel for the place earlier than committing. You’ll be able to click on right here to seek for extra PADI-certified dive outlets in Puerto Vallarta.

15. Be part of a Free Strolling Tour

Strolling by yourself is nice, however if you wish to be taught a bit extra concerning the metropolis of Puerto Vallarta, together with its tradition, historical past, and structure, then it’s finest to hitch a strolling tour with a educated information.

That is one of the best factor to do in Puerto Vallarta in your first day within the metropolis so you may get your bearings.

Each Tuesday (9:00am and midday), Wednesday (9:00am and midday) and Saturday (9:00am), there are free excursions placed on by the Municipal Tourism Workplace.

Tackle: The assembly level is on the Municipal Tourism Workplace, which is within the Previous Metropolis Corridor Constructing. The tour is about 2 hours lengthy and no reservation is required. Click on right here for particulars.

16. Be part of the Free Artwork Stroll

Puerto Vallarta has many artwork galleries. On Wednesday evenings, most of the artwork outlets open their doorways and permit guests inside to view the items.

All mediums of artwork are on show, together with work, sculptures, pottery and folks artwork. A go to right here is unquestionably one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Entrance is free, there isn’t any information, however there’s normally wine and tequila given to guests…without spending a dime. The Artwork Stroll runs from the top of October to the top of Could, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday. This can be a yearly occasion. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Artwork Stroll.

17. Go to the Church Of Our Woman Of Guadalupe

You’ll be able to’t miss the Church Of Our Woman Of Guadalupe whenever you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this stunning piece of structure. Should you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta when it’s raining, a visit to this church is a good suggestion.

Whether or not you’re spiritual or not, I like to recommend taking a peek inside, and naturally, taking a great deal of photographs of the ornate exterior. This church is among the finest locations to go to in Puerto Vallarta.

If you end up within the metropolis from December 1 – 12, you’ll be capable of benefit from the celebrations for the Our Woman of Guadalupe Pageant, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.

Tackle: Hidalgo 370, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. Get instructions right here.

18. Go to Mismaloya

Situated within the southern a part of Banderas Bay, you’ll discover the fishing village of Mismaloya. That is the place tourism within the Puerto Vallarta space all began, again in 1963 with the filming of Night time Of The Iguana. 

As of late, Puerto Vallarta has extra tourism, whereas the bay at Mismaloya continues to be comparatively quiet. That is one other nice day journey from Puerto Vallarta.

The gorgeous bay is backed by thick jungle, there are eating places lining the seashore and also you’ll have views of the Los Arcos Marine Park. There may be, nonetheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, but it surely’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.

Should you love horses, this horseback using journey is a must-do in Mismaloya! This journey gives small teams, and a extra genuine expertise. Study extra and e-book right here.

Tackle: discover Mismaloya on the map, right here. Lease a automobile, take the bus, rent a taxi, or be part of a tour to get to Mismaloya.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A Listing of the Prime 21

19. Verify Out The Markets

Visiting the markets in Mexico is all the time a deal with. In Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover meals, fish, clothes, and memento markets.

Don’t miss the Municipal Market of Colonia Emiliano Zapata, which is a good place to buy recent produce. This market runs from 6:00am to three:00pm, three hundred and sixty five days a yr. Click on right here for instructions.

Additionally, if you need recent produce and fish, take a look at the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get one of the best number of seafood.

Within the strip of distributors, you’ll discover meats, greens, tortillas, and different gadgets. This can be a good spot to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting an area market is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Click on right here for instructions to the Minicipal Market.

20. Do Some Mountaineering

You received’t actually discover mountain climbing within the metropolis itself. However, for those who take a bus, or drive your automobile out to Boca de Tomatlan, you are able to do a extremely nice day hike to Las Animas. The trail winds alongside the ocean, with the jungle on one aspect and the attractive water on the opposite.

Take a look at this highly-rated, reasonably priced day journey — which incorporates transportation from Puerto Vallarta, snacks, snorkelling gear, and a drink on the restaurant on the finish. Discover out extra right here. 

You’ll hike alongside stone stairs and slim paths, whereas arriving at beautiful secluded bays alongside the best way. Should you’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins enjoying within the water.

All the hike takes about 2 hours to finish, and when you arrive at Las Animas, all that’s left to do is benefit from the seashore, and one of many many eating places on supply.

To get again to Boca, you possibly can take a ship from Las Animas, or hike again the best way you got here. This is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for out of doors lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click on right here. 

For the reason that journey could be a bit complicated to do by yourself, an excellent possibility is to hitch this reasonably priced expertise with an area information, which incorporates meals, drink, and transport. Study extra about this enjoyable day journey right here.

21. Spend A Night time On The City

The Puerto Vallarta nightlife is superior. It doesn’t matter what form of occasion you’re searching for, you’ll discover it in PV.

From seashore bars and nightclubs to cantinas and breweries, an evening out in Puerto Vallarta is certain to be memorable. Whereas a lot of the happenin’ nightlife is across the Romantic Zone, you’ll discover bars throughout the town.

Dance the night time away at Co-De or one of many many standard Malecon nightclubs (Zoo, Mandala or La Vaquita) or watch your favorite sports activities crew on the massive display at locations like El Torito Sports activities Bar & BBQ Home, Gamers and El Soñador. 

For stay music, you possibly can’t go unsuitable with Incanto, Roxy Rock Home, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you’ve got a few choices in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss Monzon and Los Muertos. For cocktail lovers, take a look at El Colibri, Bar La Playa, and Twisted Palms.

To be taught extra about one of the best locations to sip and dance, take a look at our put up: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Finest Locations to Drink and Dance.

Bonus Actions in Puerto Vallarta

There are just a few extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that I wished so as to add to the listing.

22. Volunteer With Canines

Should you’re an animal lover, why not spend just a few hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?

Mates of Puerto Vallarta Animals want volunteers to spend time with the canines (and cats!) on the shelter. You’ll be able to assist out by strolling canines, feeding them and naturally, giving them numerous love and a spotlight. 

The Acopio shelter is positioned just a bit bit outdoors of the middle of the town, however ensure you contact Mates of PV Animals first earlier than arriving on the shelter. Study extra about how one can make a distinction in a shelter canine’s life, right here. 

23. Go to Marietas Island

Whereas this isn’t technically a factor to do in Puerto Vallarta, a visit to Marietas Island is a superb day journey. Solely 116 individuals per day are allowed to go to this attractive web site — ensure you e-book on-line forward of time.

Situated a couple of 1-hour boat trip from the Puerto Vallarta marina, you’ll discover the Marietas hidden seashore. Not solely is the snorkelling and the seashore itself attractive, however on the boat trip on the market you’ll almost certainly spot dolphins, manta rays, and whales. Discover out extra right here.

Now You Know What To Do in Puerto Vallarta

I hope this listing of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta helps you propose your journey. Whereas the town is kind of touristy, it’s standard for good motive! We’ve all the time loved our visits right here and I’m positive you’ll as effectively.

Ensure that to pattern the tasty avenue meals each time you possibly can, discover the native markets, and revel in strolling across the metropolis. Blissful travels 😀

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