Choose from 18 Fun Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
ShowingFilter 1-18 of 18 listings.
Aquaventuras Park
With a host adrenaline-fueled activities both in and out of the water, swimming areas suitable for all ages, and a dolphin and sea lion park, there’s something for the whole family to get excited about at the Aquaventuras Park. Just minutes from the beach in Neuvo Vallarta, the park centers around a gigantic swimming area, equipped with 10 thrilling water slides and toboggans, a rafting river, and a children’s play zone with a pirate ship, paddling pools, and mini slides.
After making a splash at the aqua park, visitors can also tackle Mexico’s tallest climbing wall, pick up speed on the zip-line course, or take on the ‘Challenge’ obstacle course. Poolside sunbeds and lounge areas, plus a restaurant, cafe, and snack bar are also available.
Practical Info
Aquaventuras Park is located in Nuevo Vallarta, around 5 miles (8 km) from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult admission is $25 and youth admission is $19.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, Aquaventuras Park also offers opportunities to swim with dolphins or sea lions for an additional fee. Prices start from $99 for adults and $89 for children, and reservations are required.
Address: Carretera a Tepic Kilómetro 155, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Hours: Daily 10am–5pm
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $19
From $ 25
El Tuito
A small and charming Mexican town located just an hour's drive from Puerto Vallarta, El Tuito draws visitors with its slow-paced, traditional vibe. With only one main road, you'll find that most of this village's attractions are centrally located and make for easy walking. The main plaza is home to the majority of the town's activity, as well as the main church and El Tuito's historical center.
Note the Spanish colonial homes with their unique orange glazing, try the local artisan cheeses for which the area is known, sample delicate pastries from the local bakery, note the murals at the city hall and stop by the Church of St Peter, which boasts a giant boulder as its main alter. El Tuito is a great day trip from Puerto Vallarta if you're looking for an authentic dive into the true Mexican town experience.
Practical Info
Drive south from Puerto Vallarta on Highway 200, and look for signs signaling the road to El Tuito.
Address: El Tuito, Mexico
From $ 129
Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos)
For an authentic and lively Puerto Vallarta beach experience, the Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos) can’t be beat. Located just south of Olas Altas Beach in the Romantic Zone, this gay-friendly stretch of sand fronts a pier and is lined with bars and restaurants. Locals and families also love this beach and its diverse crowd.
The Basics
Playa de los Muertos is the Romantic Zone’s top attraction and crowded compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta’s beaches. The water can be good for swimming, and out of the water the ambiance and people watching will keep you entertained. Come evening, the beachfront restaurants serve gourmet cuisine against the backdrop of romantic Vallarta sunsets.
You can visit the Beach of the Dead independently or as part of a beach-hopping tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Beach of the Dead is ideal for all beachgoers. Families may prefer to be near the pier, where swimming can be better for children.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
Playa de los Muertos is located in the south of Puerto Vallarta, across the bridge over the Cuale River from the north side. Take the bus that says Centro (downtown) or a taxi; if you’re driving, follow Highway 200.
When to Get There
As with all of Puerto Vallarta, the Beach of the Dead is lovely pretty much year-round. Winter sees large numbers of visitors; during this time, plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and take advantage of the beach’s limited street parking.
Romantic Zone Highlights
No visit to Playa de los Muertos is complete without a stroll along the winding cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone (Old Town). With artisan shops, farmers markets, and street-side taco stands, this area of Vallarta maintains a more traditional, laid-back feel than the rest of the city. Don’t miss a walk along the newly reconstructed pier.
Address: El Centro, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 310
Gringo Gulch
Antique, charming, historic—all of these have been used to describe this quaint little neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Known as the site where the first settlers decided to live, Gringo Gulch offers spectacular views of downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Rio Cuale. A steep, staircase-slung hillside dotted with white-washed villas, this is one of the most romantic and captivating neighborhoods in this 500-year-old town, and it also served as the site of Richard Burton’s film Night of the Iguana, starring Elizabeth Taylor. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this neighborhood, see its numerous beautiful mansions and experience some of the best views in Puerto Vallarta.
Practical Info
Gringo Gulch was named after the affluent North Americans who settled there in the early 1960s. To get there, head up the stone-lined pathway uphill, north of the Rio Cuale bridge. Once you’re at the corner of Zaragoza and Miramar, you’ve reached the beginning of Gringo Gulch.
Address: Zaragoza and Miramar, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 30
Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port
Sail into the calm Bay of Banderas for a warm Mexican welcome at Puerto Vallarta. This lovely beach resort city is on the mid-west coast of Mexico, lapped by the Pacific Ocean. Make your way downtown from the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal for an aquatic, eco-friendly or relaxing shore excursion.
How to Get to Puerto Vallarta
If your ship is mooring at Puerto Vallarta, you’ll dock at the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal, 3 miles (5km) north of the city center. Alternatively, your ship might anchor just offshore, in which case a tender will float you ashore. Taxis line up to take you downtown; negotiate the fare (around US$5) before you head off.
One Day in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s number one attraction is the beach, and the full-facility resorts lining the sands. After soaking up the rays, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade to shop for silver jewelry and ceramics, sculptures and glassware. Soak up the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets on a Small Group City Tour, and if you’re docked for the evening take a sunset cruise across Banderas Bay and dine on the sands by candlelight.
Or spend the day getting up close and personal with dolphins or sea lions, or setting sail for snorkeling and swimming on a day trip to Marietas Islands. Other eco-escapades take you zipping across the rainforest canopy, or cutting trails through the coastal mountains on an ATV adventure.
Port Information
Puerto Vallarta is a popular cruise port, visited by cruise liners operated by Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess Spanish is the local language, but English is widely spoken and understood in Puerto Vallarta. The local currency is Mexican pesos, and you’ll find it’s cheaper if you use pesos rather than US dollars. There are ATMs throughout Puerto Vallarta.
How to Get to Puerto Vallarta
If your ship is mooring at Puerto Vallarta, you’ll dock at the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal, 3 miles (5km) north of the city center. Alternatively, your ship might anchor just offshore, in which case a tender will float you ashore. Taxis line up to take you downtown; negotiate the fare (around US$5) before you head off.
One Day in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s number one attraction is the beach, and the full-facility resorts lining the sands. After soaking up the rays, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade to shop for silver jewelry and ceramics, sculptures and glassware. Soak up the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets on a Small Group City Tour, and if you’re docked for the evening take a sunset cruise across Banderas Bay and dine on the sands by candlelight.
Or spend the day getting up close and personal with dolphins or sea lions, or setting sail for snorkeling and swimming on a day trip to Marietas Islands. Other eco-escapades take you zipping across the rainforest canopy, or cutting trails through the coastal mountains on an ATV adventure.
Port Information
Puerto Vallarta is a popular cruise port, visited by cruise liners operated by Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess Spanish is the local language, but English is widely spoken and understood in Puerto Vallarta. The local currency is Mexican pesos, and you’ll find it’s cheaper if you use pesos rather than US dollars. There are ATMs throughout Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Atlatengo LB, Las Glorias, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 65
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe)
Puerto Vallarta’s Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe was built over the course of several decades in the first half of the 20th century. Built in rustic pink stone, to a neo-baroque design, one of the prettiest details is the crown that tops the church bell tower.
The liveliest time to visit the church is December 1 to 12, when crowds celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with street processions, festive food and mariachi music. The festival coincides with the anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta, so locals have even more reason to celebrate.
The liveliest time to visit the church is December 1 to 12, when crowds celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with street processions, festive food and mariachi music. The festival coincides with the anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta, so locals have even more reason to celebrate.
Practical Info
The parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is on Calle Hidalgo, behind Puerto Vallerta’s main square, the Zocalo.
Address: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 35
Las Caletas
The private beach resort of Las Caletas is a day-trip destination like no other for spoiling the senses.
The former home of maverick movie director John Huston, this tropical beach haven is surrounded by protected rainforest and palms.
There’s everything you could possibly need for a relaxed, luxurious day at the beach. Chill-out in a hammock, de-stress with a soothing massage, take a guided diving or kayaking tour, snorkel with sea lions, learn to cook paella or stroll through the bird-filled orchid gardens.
Las Caletas can also be visited at night for a magical dinner under the stars and Mexican dance show.
Practical Info
Las Caletas is around 12 miles (19 km) from Puerto Vallarta on the southern shores of the Bay of Banderas.
The beach can only be reached by catamaran from Puerto Vallarta marina.
Address: Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
From $ 129
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
With over 20 acres of lush tropical gardens, blooming with an incredible array of native Mexican flora, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens are among the best in the country and visiting the gardens makes a scenic day trip from nearby Puerto Vallarta. An expanse of dry tropical forest, stretching along the Rio Horcones, the gardens’ unique ecosystem showcases an impressive diversity, with over 3,000 different plant species represented.
Follow the network of walking trails through the fragrant rose gardens and the shady palm gardens, then marvel at the colorful Orchid House, or stroll through the hillside agave plantation, home to an impressive 6,000 plants. Additional highlights include bird watching, swimming in the river and tucking into traditional Mexican cuisine at the Gardens' Hacienda de Oro Restaurant.
Practical Info
The Vallarta Botanical Gardens are located around 30km south of Puerto Vallarta and are open daily (except Mondays) from 10am – 6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is Mex$80.
Address: Carret. Barra De Navidad Km. 24, El Tuito, Jal. Mexico 48400, Mexico
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: Mex$80
From $ 113
Zona Romantica
Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica)—also called the Old Town, South Side, or Old Vallarta—sits away from the hotel zone and just steps from Los Muertos Beach. With artisan shops, streetside taco stands, and lively cantinas, this area of winding cobblestone streets maintains a more traditional, laid-back feel than the rest of the city.
The Basics
The Zona Romantica boasts more restaurants, bars, and cafes per square foot than anywhere else in Puerto Vallarta, making it a great place to sample the local cuisine and soak up a bit of Mexican culture. Visitors can shop for Mexican art, lounge on golden-sand beaches, or walk along the newly reconstructed pier. On weekends, the Old Town Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh local produce and food, as well as handicrafts.
Visit the Old Town independently or as part of a Puerto Vallarta sightseeing tour that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. There’s also a beach-hopping tour and a popular food tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- See Old Vallarta as part of a small-group or private sightseeing tour.
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the tourist areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach the Zona Romantica, located in the south of Puerto Vallarta, across the bridge over the Cuale River from the north side. Take the bus marked “Centro” (downtown) or a taxi. Or, if you’re driving, follow highway 200.
When to Get There
Puerto Vallarta can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Wet weather is likely from July through September.
Los Muertos Beach
Located just south of Olas Atlas Beach in the Old Town, Los Muertos Beach is Puerto Vallarta’s best known and most-visited beach. It’s popular with families and often crowded, though locals would argue it’s the perfect spot for people watching. There’s lots to see and do here, including vendors, activities, sun, surf, and sand. In the evenings, the beachfront restaurants serve gourmet cuisine against the backdrop of romantic Vallarta sunsets.
Address: Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 52
Sayulita
Whether it’s the waves that rhythmically roll towards beaches covered in thatched-hut palapas, or the marlin, shrimp, and mahimahi tacos that are served with a squeeze of lime, there’s something exotic and nearly utopian about small town Sayulita. When compared to neighboring Puerto Vallarta—its glitzy, grown-up cousin—Sayulita is a laidback village where the pace of life is just right. “Discovered” by surfers in the 1960s, this Nayarit darling is the trendy new hotspot for escaping the nearby resorts. Thanks to the gentle, beginner-friendly waves that lap at Sayulita Bay, the town has become one of Mexico’s best for learning to ride the waves. Brides looking to say “I Do” now flock to the town in droves, drawn by the area’s affordable lodging and wealth of white sand beaches. Grab a snorkel and hop aboard a cruise to the Marieta Islands, where dozens of species of tropical fish all scour the coral reef. Or, hire a longboard and paddle into a world-class, righthand wave—perhaps choosing to standup paddle just before drinks at sunset. Add in some yogis, a healthy food scene, and a collection of coastal hiking trails, and Sayulita is the Mexican beach town that’s easier to reach than leave.
Practical Info
Sayulita is located approximately 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. By car, the journey takes about 45 minutes. By compestela (public transport), expect to spend about 1.5 hours on the journey from the international airport. Waves are best in the winter months on large, northerly swells, but there are small waves breaking at all times of year for beginners hoping to learn. Around town, there’s no need for a rental car, as golf carts, taxis, and hiking trails are the easiest means of transport.
Address: Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 42
Los Arcos
At Los Arcos Marine Park in Puerto Vallarta there are islands to visit, reefs to dive, tunnels to swim through, and caves to explore, providing plenty of the arches that give Los Arcos (the Arches) its name. This protected area is famous for its abundant wildlife, both above and below the ocean’s surface, and is a popular snorkeling spot.
The Basics
Los Arcos is reachable only by boat, and most visitors arrive as part of a Puerto Vallarta day cruise that includes relaxing at sea and snorkeling in the caves of Los Arcos. The marine life is stupendously varied, from clown and puffer fish to rays and sea turtles. Sightseeing cruises typically also visit other must-see Puerto Vallarta attractions, such as the malecon (waterfront promenade), Romantic Zone, and Mismaloya Beach. There are also small-group snorkeling tours and popular South Shore private sightseeing cruises. Puerto Vallarta city highlights tours let you view Los Arcos from the shore and include hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Los Arcos is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers, and first-time visitors to Puerto Vallarta.
- Bring sunblock and a hat or sunglasses, as there’s little shade out on the bay. Also wear comfortable clothing, and tote a bathing suit, towel, and change of clothes.
- Snorkeling gear is provided on most Puerto Vallarta boat tours; bring your own if visiting independently.
How to Get There
Los Arcos lies off the coast of Mismaloya, in the south of Banderas Bay. The easiest way to reach Los Arcos is on a snorkeling or sightseeing tour. Cruise boats head out to Los Arcos from the Puerto Vallarta malecon and Marine Terminal.
When to Get There
Los Arcos Marine Park is lovely year-round. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during Puerto Vallarta’s high season (winter). Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Wet weather is likely from July through September.
Mismaloya Beach
A small sandy beach on a picturesque jungle-fringed cove, Mismaloya sits just south of Puerto Vallarta along the coast of Banderas Bay. In 1964, John Huston’s movie The Night of the Iguana put this now-famous beach town on the map. A popular day trip from Puerto Vallarta, it offers several seafood restaurants, thatched-roof palapas, and one large resort.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
From $ 23
Marina Vallarta
One of the major attractions in Puerto Vallarta, Marina Vallarta is a self-contained stretch of boardwalk, white sand and retail outlets that has become so well-known for its beauty and success that it was a model for its sister cities of Cabo, Mazatlan, Ixtapa and Cancun. Easily identifiable by its large, 450-slip marina and lush 18-hole golf course, Marina Vallarta’s main attraction is its beautiful promenade, whereupon you’ll find numerous boutique beachfront shops and restaurants, including a lighthouse that makes for great viewing of the bay.
Practical Info
The Marina Vallarta is conveniently located next to the Puerto Vallarta International Airport and is about 15 minutes away from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 65
Boca de Tomatlan
Tucked into the corner of the Bahia de Banderas of the Pacific Ocean is the quiet fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan. A wonderful throwback to a simpler way of life, this charming seaside town is sandwiched between the Horcones River, Boca Bay and the mountains of Puerto Vallarta. Popular among divers and Caribbean escape artists alike, this little slice of tranquility lies just 10 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta and is the idyllic retreat for all who dream of tropical beaches, rich forest jungle, peace and quiet.
Practical Info
The town of Boca de Tomatlan is located 10 miles south of Puerto Vallarta off of Highway 200 in the Mexican state of Jalisco.
Address: Boca de Tomatlan, Mexico
From $ 119
El Malecon
Like most boardwalks, Puerto Vallarta’s promenade, known as El Malecon, is dotted with sightseeing opportunities, cafes, shops, galleries, and performers. Overlooking the Bay of Banderas, the mile-long stretch offers scenic views during the day. And in the evening, the waterfront nightclubs and discos open their doors to party-seeking locals and visitors.
The Basics
Beginning at the Hotel Rosita, El Malecon spans the length of a mile (1.6 kilometers) along Puerto Vallarta’s beachfront, ending at the four giant stone arches of the Los Arcos Amphitheater. Many citywide tours of Puerto Vallarta include a visit to El Malecon. Visitors can also explore the promenade and its array of offerings by foot, bike, or Segway on various tours designed around sightseeing, eating, and drinking experiences. In addition to the shops, restaurants, and bars, sea-inspired statues pop up along the boardwalk, providing plenty of photo ops. When reaching the end of El Malecon, head a couple blocks east to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe—the Renaissance-style structure is a favorite city landmark and worth a stop.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes for biking and walking.
- The promenade is especially busy during summer nights.
- Free Wi-Fi is available along the boardwalk.
- The local nightlife scene starts up around 10pm.
How to Get There
El Malecon runs along Los Muertos beach and is about a 30-minute walk from central Puerto Vallarta.The nearest major airport is the Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, which is located four miles (6.4 kilometers) north of downtown Puerto Vallarta.
When to Get There
Between April and June is considered the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, right before the city reaches the hot summer months and when the temperatures are about 85°F (30°C). As for peak sightseeing times, tourists and locals head out to see migrating humpback whales in Banderas Bay from December to roughly mid-March. And from May to December, visitors can take part in turtle liberation ceremonies at participating hotels during the sea turtle preservation season.
Dining Along the El Malecon
A stroll along El Malecon allows visitors to sample a variety of local dishes and street food, from tacos to grilled corn to tejuino, a popular fermented iced drink made from the same corn dough as tortillas. As for cocktails, margaritas, mezcal, and craft beers are the go-to drinks when in this Mexican city.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Marietas Islands
The small, uninhabited Marietas Islands are located in the Bay of Banderas off Mexico’s Pacific coast. Making up a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, the islands are famous for their abundant wildlife and provide a chance to escape the crowds of many Mexican beach resorts, hop on a boat, and explore the islands’ natural delights.
The Basics
The islands are a haven for creatures such as dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. Boat tours allow you to see the wildlife, but visitors are only allowed to set foot on one area of the government-protected islands, a strip of sand dubbed the Hidden Beach. Snorkeling and scuba diving tours from Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta are the most popular ways to experience the islands and their coral reef, while whale-watching tours also run in winter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Diving and snorkeling tours typically last three to five hours, but some longer options include other activities such as kayaking.
- Diving tours often require PADI certification; if you are not certified, look for a beginner option.
- There is a cap on the number of daily visitors, so book your tour in advance.
How to Get There
It takes about 45 minutes to travel by boat from Punta de Mita to the Marietas Islands. Due to strict government protections, you must take a boat tour from a licensed tour operator.
When to Get There
Whale-watching season runs from December through March. For snorkeling and scuba diving, June through September offers the best visibility and warmest temperatures.
Conservation in the Marietas Islands
The Marietas Islands are an MAB Biosphere Reserve, meaning they are part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere program to improve the relationship between humans and the environment. Because the islands have become increasingly popular, causing interference and possible damage to the ecosystem, the Mexican government authority known as the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) has closed the islands to the public in the past. Efforts may be made to prevent future damage in a variety of ways, so enjoy visiting while you can and keep in mind the fragile nature of this important ecological environment.
Address: Marietas Islands, Mexico
From $ 42
Sierra Madre Mountains
The jungle-clad Sierra Madre mountains stretch along Mexico’s western coast from Santa Cruz to Arizona. In this wilderness escape you can trek through the forest, discover off-the-beaten-path villages, and experience outdoor adventures such as ziplining and rappelling.
The Basics
Puerto Vallarta, where the mountains separate the coast from inland Guadalajara, is a common jumping-off point for Sierra Madre tours. Excursions to the Sierra Madres offer varied opportunities for exploration, whether you want to hike, zipline, raft the river, speed through jungle paths on an ATV or mountain bike, or explore hidden villages and cultural sites. Longer combination tours allow you to experience multiple activities in one day, and some tours visit Puerto Vallarta’s beaches en route to the mountains. Private tours are available for a personalized experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Sierra Madre mountains are an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes suitable for walking on rough terrain.
- For rafting and ATV tours, it’s a good idea to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
How to Get There
The town of Puerto Vallarta lies on Mexico’s western coast and is bordered by the Sierra Madre jungle. Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport is located roughly 15 minutes by road from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Most Sierra Madre tours include transportation into the mountains, while independent travelers get there by taxi or rental car.
When to Get There
The area is most crowded between January and March, when whale watching off the coast of Puerto Vallarta is at its best. Visit between April and June for mild weather and fewer crowds.
What to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Swim and snorkel in the Marietas Islands, go sailing on Banderas Bay, take surf lessons in nearby Sayulita and Punta Mita, or look for humpback whales and dolphins. When you’ve had your fill of water sports, experience Puerto Vallarta’s food and drink culture on a tequila tasting or food walking tour, during which you can sample fresh seafood, tacos, and other regional specialties.
Address: Highway 200, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 69
Nuevo Vallarta
A luxurious and spacious hotel and resort zone, Nuevo Vallarta lies at the center of beautiful Banderas Bay—a long, sandy stretch of beach and cool Pacific water known for its small fishing villages. Born from the tourist boom that was Puerto Vallarta in the 1970s, Nuevo Vallarta was built to offer all that the traveler could want: luxury hotels, fine dining, boutique shopping and some fabulous water sport attractions. The Marieta Islands preserve lies just a few miles offshore, and the water here is home to countless species of fish and larger marine life including the elusive sea turtles. Whale-watching is another seasonal event and one that shouldn’t be missed, much like a visit to this pristine part of Puerto Vallarta.
Practical Info
Nuevo Vallarta is located about 15 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta airport. The American dollar and Mexican peso are widely accepted.
Address: Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 35
Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)
Located near Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas) is famous for its 42-mile (68-kilometer) stretch of picturesque coast. Jungle, sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life define this area, which is ideal for watersports and land adventures alike.
The Basics
Most tours exploring Banderas Bay’s terrestrial and aquatic offerings leave from Puerto Vallarta. Explore the bay’s waters on a snorkeling excursion, some of which also include kayaking and a visit to Marietas Islands National Park. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for a scuba diving tour to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves, and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Sailing tours are another option for experiencing the picturesque bay. On land, you can pedal along the coastline on a biking tour, delve into local culture on a taco-tasting tour, or explore the jungle on a day trip to nearby Las Caletas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banderas Bay is a must-see for nature and beach lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor excursions.
- Proof of PADI certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb aquatic or terrestrial wildlife.
When to Get There
April through June is the best time to visit Banderas Bay, when rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists. January through March is the best time for whale watching, although the area tends to be crowded during this time.
How to Get There
Part of the Pacific Ocean, Banderas Bay borders Puerto Vallarta and stretches between Punta Mita in the north and Cape Corrientes in the south. Puerto Vallarta is the main jumping-off point for tours and activities in the area. The closest international airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, located roughly three miles (five kilometers) from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Among the most popular outdoor activities in Banderas Bay, whale watching tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, which travel to the bay in early December for mating and calving. Most of these excursions leave from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 32