Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.
Located along the Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is one of the best vacation spots in Mexico.
It boasts postcard views and rich cultural heritage and offers opportunities for adventure and active lifestyle such as hiking, snorkeling and diving. With tons of things to do in Puerto Vallarta, let’s take a closer look at some of the best activities in this coastal city.
Best things to do in Puerto Vallarta: an overview
1. Walk along Puerto Vallarta Malecon
After landing in Puerto Vallarta, stroll along Malecon, a 1-mile long promenade that runs along the waterfront from Hotel Rosita and leads to Zona Romantica. This will help you to stretch your legs after the flight and get familiar with the city.
Fringed by the tall palm trees, Malecon is a lovely venue complete with public art and numerous benches where you can sit down and enjoy the view of the stunning Bahia de Banderas (the Bay of Flags).
2. Join a free walking tour of Puerto Vallarta
A walking tour of Puerto Vallarta is the best way to learn the history of the city as well as some of the best restaurants and places to visit from a local guide. Walking tours of Puerto Vallarta take place every day and typically last about 1,5-2 hours.
A free walking tour takes place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. and noon, and on Saturdays at 9 a.m. No reservations are required.
The meeting point is in downtown Puerto Vallarta at the Municipal Tourism Office in the Old City Hall building, across the street from the north side of the Main Square.
3. Check out Zona Romantica
If you want to party and have fun on a weekend night, look no further than Zona Romantica! This part of the town is happening, hip, and diverse, and you can find tons of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all sorts of demographics.
Aside from being a fun place, Zona Romantica is very popular with ex-pats and international visitors. Zona Romantica has all attributes of a typical Mexican town with colorful buildings, small local restaurants and artisan stores.
In recent years, it has become one of the most popular places for the LBTQ community in the city, and you can find many LBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants in this part of town.
4. Adore Iglesia de Nuestra Señora De Guadalupe
An unmissable landmark of Puerto Vallarta, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe sits in the heart of Zona Romantica. Adorned by the crown at the top, this gorgeous church dominates the Puerto Vallarta skyline and is easily recognized by its ornate details.
Take a step inside to marvel at the beautiful paintings and altar made from marble. The church was named after Lady of Guadalupe, and if you happen to visit Mexico in December, you will have a chance to watch the celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 12.
5. And stop around other churches in Puerto Vallarta
While the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe dominates the Puerto Vallarta landscape, it’s not the only landmark in Puerto Vallarta that’s worth a stop. Other churches that are worth a stop are Paradise Church in Puerto Vallarta Old Town and the Parish of Our Lady of Refuge in 5 de Diciembre.
6. Stroll along Los Muertos Pier
Los Muertos Pier is a busy place where locals and tourists come to experience the scenic views and the lively atmosphere of this coastal town.
7. Go on a food tour
There are many types of food tours in Puerto Vallarta that offer a glimpse into Mexican gastronomy and culture, all while allowing you to explore the city on foot. Mexican cuisine is more than tacos and burritos and Puerto Vallarta’s food tour is an excellent way to learn about different regional dishes.
FUN FACT: Did you know that in 2010, UNESCO designated Mexico’s cuisine as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity? No other country’s cuisine has earned this title before!
8. Explore best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a great destination for food lovers! As a vegan, I was able to find tons of options, and never had to eat boring food, because Puerto Vallarta has a great selection of restaurants for all tastes and price points.
Here is a quick overview of some of the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta:
- The Green Place – one of the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta for plant-based eaters, the Green Place offers a great selection of comfort vegan food and a convenient location in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
- Veggitalia – popular Italian restaurant with great options for vegans and vegetarians. Yummy pizza made right on the spot and their mousse deserts are absolutely delicious.
- Planeta Vegetariano – whether you are a vegan/vegetarian or not, you will LOVE this place! Planeta Vegetariano is considered one of the best eateries in Puerto Vallarta where you can try tons of great entrees from their huge buffet. Staff is super friendly and many visitors come here several times per day.
9. And don’t forget to try some street food
The street food in Puerto Vallarta is really amazing, and you shouldn’t miss out in it! There are many tacos stands all around Puerto Vallarta and the options are literally countless. Even if you are vegan or vegetarian, you will find plenty of options, as tacos in Puerto Vallarta come with some many toppings! 😃
10. Parasail along the Pacific Coast
What a better way to see the beautiful skyline of Puerto Vallarta than by parasailing? Take a parasailing tour to get your dose of adrenaline and enjoy incredible views of the coastline. Parasailing is one of the best things to do in Puerta Vallarta if you are craving some adventure.
11. Shop in La Isla Del Rio Cuale
Looking to get some souvenirs for your friends and family back home? Head to the Rio Cuale, a cute area that is linked to Puerta Valla by bridge crossings. While it used to be separated from the city, now this lush oasis is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, between Zona Romantica and the downtown of Puerto Vallarta.
If you want some local flair, visit Mercado Municipal Rio Cuale (the municipal market), one of the best places to find handcraft goods and tasty treats in Puerto Vallarta.
12. Enjoy the Rhythms of the Night
This experience definitely looks one of the most touristy things to do in Puerto Vallarta with big groups and everything being so carefully organized, but let me tell you: It’s well worth it!
The Rhythms of The Night is a spectacular performance that tells the history of pre-Hispanic Mexico through a colorful display with music, dancing and fire performance. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that will take your breath away, and in my opinion, totally worth the price tag, even if you are not a fan of organized tours.
The experience includes a dinner cruise along the Bahias de Banderas where you get picked up by a boat and enjoy the stunning Puerto Vallarta sunset before arriving to Las Caletas, a private beach with an amphitheater where this acrobatic performance takes place.
The tour begins around 7 p.m. and ends at 1 p.m. when you return to Puerto Vallarta by boat.
13. Relax at Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens
If you don’t have time to take a day trip from Puerto Vallarta, but crave a quick getaway from the city, take a ride to Puerto Vallarta’s Botanical Gardens located slightly outside of the city.
This place offers a perfect mix of hiking, green spaces, and artful decorations, and you can also take a dip in the clear waters of Rio Hormones, so don’t forget to bring your swimsuit.
Keep in mind that the water is a bit chilly so bring a towel in addition to comfortable hiking shoes. Tickets to Vallarta Botanical Gardens cost 200 Pesos per person, and the ride is about 25 minutes away from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
14. Explore the spectacular Sierra Madre mountains
Although there’s no hiking Puerto Vallarta, there are many cool hiking trails in the nearby mountains that are perfect for outdoor lovers For example, there’s a gorgeous trail from Boca De Tomatlan to Las Animas makes for a nice space from the city.
The trail will boasts spectacular views of the Pacific on one side and dense jungle on the other.
The hike takes about two hours to complete and at the end you will arrive to a beautiful bay with several secluded beaches where you can relax and if you get lucky, spot some animals playing in the waters.
15. Climb Cerro De La Cruz
Exploring the great outdoors is one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Although there are plenty of outdoor opportunities in the area, you don’t have to go too far to enjoy them.
Climb to the top of the peak that is called Cerro de la Cruz for the ultimate view of Puerto Vallarta. The trail begins just outside of downtown Puerto Vallarta near the end of Abasolo Street and has plenty of signs leading you toward the stairs.
When you get to the top you will be tired and sweaty, but the panoramic view from the top is well worth it. If you decide to attempt this arduous climb, make sure to bring at least one bottle of water.
16. Explore Puerto Vallarta beaches
Let’s admit it, you look forward to the beach if you plan a trip to Puerto Vallarta. The city and the surrounding area have numerous beaches, so let’s take a look at some of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
Playa de Los Muertos
Whether you want to swim or just relax, visiting the beach is one fo the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
Playa de Los Muertos (or the Beach of the Dead) located in the middle of the city is a great place to watch the sunset or have a picnic in the middle of the day. This popular beach boasts tons of stores and restaurants and you can also catch a street vendor selling tasty snacks.
Playa las Gemelas
If you decide to rent a car in Puerto Vallarta, I recommend exploring some of the nearby beaches. One of them is Playa Las Gemelas that sits about 20 minutes away from Puerto Vallarta. This gorgeous beach lacks the crowds of Puerta Vallarta but provides enough scenery to make you want to spend at least a couple of hours there.
PRO TIP: Certain hotels in Puerto Vallarta also provide transportation to Playa Las Gemelas, so if you don’t feel like renting a car, ask your hotel if they offer a ride there.
Playa los Camarones
Located in the middle of Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone, Playa Camarones is a perfect spot if you want to swim, relax and have a good time. Here you can also explore numerous options for adventures such as paddle boarding, banana rides, and parasailing.
Playa Mismaloya
This beach became famous after a couple of scenes from the movie Night of the Iguana were filmed here. This beach is located near Los Arcos National Marine Park just 9 miles south of Puerto Vallarta between Conchas Chinas and Boca de Tomatlan.
PRO TIP: You can catch a bus to Playa Mismaloya from Zona Romantica and Boca de Tomatlan or take a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta.
Playa Las Animas
Great for some fun, Las Animas is a very narrow beach that has tons of small cafes and restaurants. One of the biggest draws of this beach is the countless opportunities for an adventure such as parasailing, water skiing, and paddle boarding, among the things.
PRO TIP: If you decide to take a trip to one of the beaches near Puerta Vallarta, don’t forget to bring some cash. Small beaches around Puerta Vallarta rarely accept credit cards, so I recommend exchanging some money in Puerto Vallarta ahead of your visit.
17. Spot some wildlife
Did you know that you can swim with dolphins in their natural environment and watch the whales along the coastline of Puerto Vallarta? The city is located along the Pacific Coast and the Bahia de Banderas boasts an amazing array of biodiversity such as several species of dolphins, turtles and even orcas!
Whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta is from December through March, when hundreds of humpback whales arrive in Bahia de Banderas from the Pacific Coast of Canada and United States to give birth to their offspring.
If you are visiting Puerto Vallarta in winter, consider joining one of whale watching tours during which you can observe these marine giants jump from the water splashing water in every direction. It’s a wonderful and humbling experience for any traveler who visits Puerto Vallarta.
18. Do some scuba diving
Mexico has some of the best scuba diving in the world, and getting a close encounter with the amazing biodiversity in the waters of Bahia de Banderas is next level!
Most scuba diving sites are located a short boat ride away from the city, and although there’s no barrier reef like in Mexico’s Caribbean, here you can spot all sorts of fish, turtles, rays and other marine animals. The best conditions for diving in Puerto Vallarta are from November through May when the weather is sunny and there are no storms, but the water is also chilly, so don’t forget a wetsuit.
Some of the best PADI-certified companies in Puerto Vallarta are Banderas Scuba Republic and Vallarta Adventures.
19. Join a zip-lining tour
Thrill-seekers, this one is for you: zip lining is not one of the most famous activities in Puerto Vallarta, but it’s definitely lots of fun!
To experience it, join a day tour from Puerto Vallarta where you can soar above the rain forested mountains and soak up the incredible views of the ocean in the distance.
20. Partake in a dancing session on Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is a central point of Puerto Vallarta where many events and social gatherings take place.
One of the most popular events is the weekly dancing session that takes place every Sunday in the square. Whether you are traveling by yourself, or with friends, it’s a great way to mingle with the locals and meet new people.
21. Ride an ATV in the jungle
If you want to continue adventures after zip lining, book an ATM tour of the jungle near Puerto Vallarta. This is a super fun experience where you get to explore backroads and small villages outside the town. Most ATV tours tend to have small groups and you don’t need a prior experience to join it.
22. Visit Islas Marietas
One of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta is the uninhabited Islas Marietas (Or Marieta Islands) also called “The Galapagos of Mexico,” thanks to their abundance of rare wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else.
These protected islands are home to many types of fish and birds such as pelicans, brown boobies, egrets, and others.
Besides wildlife watching, a trip to Marietas Islands also includes snorkeling and kayaking, as well as a visit its crown feature, “the Hidden Beach.”
And if you get lucky, you could also spot a whale making a splash, as these marine mammals often swim around the Puerto Vallarta Bay.
PRO TOP: If you just want to watch whales, you can also buy a whale watching tour ahead of your trip. These tours typically last a few hours and stay closer to the bay. The best time to spot whales is from December through March.
23. Explore Boca De Tomatlan
Taking a drive (or a boat ride) to Boca De Tomatlan is one of themost fun adventures because from here you can visit many popular beaches in the area like Playa Colomitos, Animas, Quimixto, and Yelapa. Boca De Tomatlan is a convenient jumping point if you want to explore the Jalisco Coastline. Just don’t forget to bring enough cash, as local boat drivers don’t accept credit cards.
24. Finish a day with an epic sunset
Sunsets on the Pacific Coast of Mexico are beyond spectacular and the best part is that unlike many other cool things to do in Puerto Vallarta, they are absolutely free!
Sunset watching is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta!
You can watch the sun go down anywhere around Malecon, or, if you want to get a more exclusive spot, climb up to the hill behind the Church of Our Lady Guadalupe, from where you can enjoy the show and check out some local bars once the sun gets down.
25. Take a day trip from Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is located in Jalisco, one of the most scenic and biodiverse states in Mexico where you can enjoy outdoor opportunities that many surrounding areas have to offer.
Here are some of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta:
Los Arcos National Marine Park
A shorter alternative to Islas Marietas, Los Arcos National Marine Park offers opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving under 30 minutes away from Puerto Vallarta.
Swimming under these natural arches is an incredible experience, and besides active things, you can also spot numerous wildlife here. A tour of the Los Arcos National Marine Park departs from Puerto Vallarta by boat and takes about 3-4 hours.
Yelapa
A sleepy fishing village, Yelapa is a perfect getaway from the bustling Puerto Vallarta. This destination has a nice beach framed by the lush hills and can only be accessed by boat which makes it even more special.
Besides the beach, you can explore the town more inland and check out the church and grab a bite in one of the restaurants.
Sayulita
A hip beach town about one hour away from Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is one of many Pueblos Magicos in Mexico that are particularly popular with younger visitors thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and good parties.
It is popular with surfers and has a fair share of events. You can reach Sayulita by bus from Puerto Vallarta or take a guided day tour from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita.
Planning on visiting Sayulita? Read my article on how to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta
Tequila
Tequila is one of the most popular day trips from Puerto Vallarta. This small town offers a perfect escape, as it takes you to the mountainous area of Jalisco where you can learn everything about the production of the famous drink.
There are a couple of museums in town including the National Museum of Tequila and Museo Los Abuelos. There are also distilleries Casa Sauza, Disteleria la Alborada and Casa Orendain that offer tours and samples.
FUN FACT: Did you know that tequila is registered by the Mexican government? According to its stipulations, only drinks made in five states (Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas) and following a strict set of production rules could have a legal name of tequila.
San Sebastian Del Oeste
Nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains, San Sebastian Del Oeste is one of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta if you want a change of scenery. This gorgeous pueblos magico dates back the mining days when Spanish conquistadors extracted precious metals from the surrounding mountains.
Here you can hike the mountains, ride an ATV and explore pueblo’s main square surrounded by cobblestone streets and small restaurants and shops.
Although you can see the highlights of San Sebastian in just a day, I suggest spending a night here, as the sunrises and sunsets are unbeatable and you can also climb to La Bufa, the highest point from where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the mountains.
Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is divided into several areas some of which are closer to the center, and others are further. While it is not a big town, you should know that every area has its own pluses and minuses.
Hotel Zone
Located along Puerto Vallarta’s main road, Francisco Medina Ascencio, this area offers the largest number of hotels in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a great area to stay if you are looking for a place that’s not far from the airport and within walking distance from the city’s downtown.
Marina Puerto Vallarta
The northernmost area of Puerto Vallarta, Marina Puerto Vallarta is about 5 minutes away from the airport and about 10-15 minutes from downtown by car. Marina is home to many stores, restaurants, and the gorgeous El Faro Lighthouse.
Old Vallarta
Old Vallarta (more commonly known as Zona Romantica) is one of the most happening neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta. To feel its true atmosphere, walk along its cobblestone streets, where you can find artsy shops, restaurants, and galleries. This neighborhood has plenty of hotels and Airbnbs, so, there’s no surprise many that visitors choose to stay here.
El Centro
El Centro or Downtown Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta if you want to be in the middle of action. Here you will find plenty of authentic flair as well as proximity to some landmarks such as Malecon. Downtown Puerto Vallarta sits south of Hotel Zone and to the north of Rio Cuale.
Conchas Chinas
Conchas ChinasTranslated as “Chinese Shells” from Spanish, Conchas Chinas is an upscale area south of Puerto Vallarta along the scenic coast. Home to some of the most beautiful properties in Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is great if you want a quiet and relaxed getaway.
Right nearby you can find the famous Conchas Chinas beach with soft white sand, and beautiful rock formations that form small pools of water. If you have a rental car, I highly recommend taking a quick trip from downtown Puerto Vallarta to check out out!
Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta has many accommodation options from very basic hotels great for backpackers and budget travelers to upscale resorts aimed at luxury travelers. Let’s take a quick look at a couple of options.
Budget Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Comfort Inn Puerto Vallarta is a good basic hotel not far from the airport, however, if you are looking for a place closer to downtown Puerto Vallarta, you might want to try Hotel Rio Malecon.
Mid-Range Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
If you can afford to spend a bit more money, stay closer to the center of Puerto Vallarta. Hotel Suites La Fiesta is a great option, as it sits on a hill and offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.
You can also try Hotel Posada De Roger, built in gorgeous Mexican style and individually decorated rooms. The best part is that you are only 500 feet away from Los Muertos beach and the boardwalk.
Luxury Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Mondavi is one of the best resorts in Puerto Vallarta with stunning views of Banderas Bay. Located in the upscale Conchas Chinas district, it offers free transport to the center of the city. It’s a great option if you need a quiet getaway. But, if you want to stay closer to action, consider San Marino Vallarta Centro Beach Front along Los Muertos Beach.
How do you get from Puerto Vallarta Airport to hotel?
Right outside the airport, walk across the concrete bridge. You can catch one of yellow taxis as soon as you make your way down the stairs. Another option is to take a private transfer from the airport to your hotel that can be booked ahead of your trip.
Avoid unauthorized taxis at the airport that try to sell your expensive rides to the city.
PRO TIP: Want to avoid some of the tourist mistakes while visiting Puerto Vallarta? Check my Mexico travel tips!
How to get around Puerto Vallarta?
If you plan to stay in Puerto Vallarta and maybe take a couple fo tours, you can get around Puerto Vallarta on foot. The city is perfectly walkable, and if you need cover a bigger distance, you can take Uber.
But if you want to take some of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta, and explore more remote beaches where most tourists don’t go, you need to rent a car.
I recommend DiscoverCars, my favorite platform for renting cars in Mexico. It has great customer service, flexible rates and no hidden fees! It’s also has a wide inventory of all sorts of vehicles.
Never rented a car in Mexico? No problem! Check my complete guide to renting a car in Puerto Vallarta to navigate the process 🙂
Best things to do in Puerto Vallarta: FAQ
What is Puerto Vallarta known for?
Puerto Vallarta is known for its beaches, resorts and water activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. Framed by the lush slopes of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta is a getaway to adventure thanks to the perfect combination of the natural landscapes and many historic landmarks.
What is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
The shoulder season is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. During this time, you can enjoy mild weather, get a break from the crowds, and take advantage of lower prices on hotels and tours.
Summers in Puerto Vallarta can be hot with the temperature reaching close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters have more comfortable weather (temperatures stay between high 60s and mid 70s) and are considered a peak tourist season. The coldest month in Puerto Vallarta is January with an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the lowest in the 60’s.
Is Puerto Vallarta worth visiting?
While Puerto Vallarta is a resort town, it still managed to preserve its culture and originality. The town has numerous resorts and businesses that cater to tourists, however, it still boasts an authentic Mexican flair.
Aside from it, Puerto Vallarta is in the state of Jalisco, a big cultural destination in Mexico. You can explore the region by public transportation and take day trips from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara, Tequila and Sayulita, among other places.
Check my complete guide to the best things to do in Guadalajara, the cultural capital of Jalisco
Is it safe to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Crime rate is low in Puerto Vallarta and the city is generally safe to visit. Still always be on guard when walking around busy areas and avoid dark, empty streets at night.
Make sure to check the weather, before leaving for your trip, especially if you are going to visit Puerto Vallarta during the low season which lasts from June through October. During this time, Puerto Vallarta gets pummeled with storms which could affect your travel plans.
Do I need a car rental in Puerto Vallarta?
If you plan to spend time in the city, and take a couple of tours, you don’t need a car in Puerto Vallarta. I recommend renting a car if you want to take some day trips to places like Guadalajara, Tequila and further inland.
How to get around Puerto Vallarta?
While there are buses around Puerto Vallarta, the best way to get around this town is by Uber. It is relatively inexpensive and arrives within a couple of minutes. Avoid taxis because they typically don’t have meters, so you pay by zones.
The best things to do in Puerto Vallarta: final word
Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The area is home to some of the best beaches in Mexico, and offers many opportunities for recreation like hiking, diving and wildlife watching, among others.
There are also many cool day trips from Puerto Vallarta that you can take by renting a car or joining a guided tour. Whether you want to enjoy your time at the beach, enjoy the city or visit the surrounding mountains, you will love your time in this city!