Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s one among our favorite 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 price range, a digital nomad in Mexico trying to spend a month, a pair wanting a week-long trip, or an expat trying to quiet down, you’ll discover actions in Puerto Vallarta to maintain you busy.
The town is break up up into neighbourhoods (zones), with the countless 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 straightforward.
You’ll, nonetheless, wish to select your zone rigorously primarily based on the vibe you’re after and the price range you will have.
Right here’s my record of the highest 21 issues to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!
Right here’s a fast rundown of the zones in Puerto Vallarta beginning on the airport and going south:
- Marina – extra upscale than the lodge zone, with the Marriott Resort, Westin & extra.
- Resort Zone – just some minutes drive from the airport, this space has many motels, 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 facet of the River Cuale and gives reasonably priced lodging.
- Centro (Romantic Zone) – positioned on the south facet 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 neighborhood. The lodging ranges from price range to prime finish.
- Conchas Chinas – that means “Chinese language Shells” primarily based on the seashells discovered right here, this can be 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 an entire rundown on travelling to the town of PV, try our detailed information right here.
Notice, this submit has been up to date in 2022 to incorporate the most recent finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta, the present costs and addresses and extra. Take pleasure in your journey.
1. Stroll…In every single place!
I’ve to place strolling as #1 on the record 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 least expensive nations to journey, however when you are able to do issues free of charge, like strolling and sightseeing, it can save you much more cash.
This can be a nice approach to see what the distributors are promoting, to individuals watch, and to get a lay of the land. You by no means know what you’ll stumble throughout when discovering the town on foot — simply ensure to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven.
Notice: the perfect 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 wish to be on the seaside all day.
2. Be part of a Meals Tour
Do you know that Mexico’s delicacies has made the record of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO? This award hasn’t been granted to some other 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 affix a tour. This can be a should do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.
We’ve achieved meals excursions all world wide, and our favorite ones are in Mexico.
In Puerto Vallarta, try 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 a couple of foodie excursions on provide with Vallarta Meals Excursions, however we went on the “Original Downtown Tour“, which took us by the middle of PV on each side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as effectively. It’s also possible to be a part of their evening taco tour.
We extremely advocate this tour! Click here to be taught extra and test out the video we made:
3. See Rhythms Of The Night time (the most effective issues to do in Puerto Vallarta)
In case you’re searching for a mini Cirque de Soleil-type cultural present and dinner expertise, then Rhythms of The Night shall be one thing you received’t wish to miss!
We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not large followers of huge group excursions, this present was spectacular and price each penny. This is likely one of the prime excursions in Puerto Vallarta.
The night begins with a sundown cruise (together with open bar) throughout Banderas Bay to Las Caletas, which is a lovely personal cove. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a superbly 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 bushes. The seats are all staggered, so regardless that there are individuals sitting in entrance of you, you’ll don’t have any points seeing the present.
The present depicts varied tales of the traditional Hispanic civilization and Mexican folklore. Throughout the efficiency, there’s reside music, dancing, contortionists, fire-twirlers, and extra.
Following the present, you’ll get pleasure from a big buffet dinner earlier than returning to Puerto Vallarta by boat.
In case you’re questioning what to do in Puerto Vallarta at evening, that is it. Don’t miss this present! Click here to learn more about the tour and to book tickets.
⇒ See Additionally: Issues To Do in Mazatlan – 21 Experiences You Don’t Wish to Miss
4. Watch Sundown
There’s simply one thing concerning the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and particularly, 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 embody wherever alongside the Malecon, up the hill behind the Church of Our Girl of Guadalupe, or from El Barracuda which is our favorite seaside bar.
As soon as the solar goes down, the celebration begins in PV — there are such a lot of bars and golf equipment, the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is famous.
*Notice: 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. Loosen up on Playa las Gemelas
Surprisingly, nearly 20 minutes’ drive south of Puerto Vallarta, you’ll discover seashores that appear to be they need to be Cancun or Playa del Carmen slightly than the Pacific. I feel this is likely one of the finest seashores in Mexico.
Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. Once we visited, there have been fairly a couple of waves, however no riptides or undertow, and the waves had been enjoyable to swim in.
Different guests have skilled fully calm water right here, so it actually simply relies on the climate and the time of 12 months.
There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seaside and nothing else…not even any bogs. Convey a cooler full of beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.
The stroll to the seaside is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, however it’s price it if you see the view.
To succeed in right here, you’ll wish to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance alongside the street). There isn’t a precise parking for the seaside, 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 a neighborhood bus and get dropped off right here. That is by far our favorite seaside in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it! Click here for directions.
6. Be part of a Booze Tour (with a facet of meals)
For these of you who prefer to drink tequila – it’s Mexico, who doesn’t?! – this tour is for you.
Throughout our current journey to Puerto Vallarta, we joined the extremely rated Mex-ology tour and loved a late afternoon of Mezcal, Tequila, Raicilla, craft beer, Kahlua espresso and different handcrafted cocktails.
To go together with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist absorb the alcohol.
The dishes we had had been full parts of fish tacos, meat tacos, seafood “enchiladas”, onion rings, crickets (sure, crickets!) and delectable dessert.
Not solely will you be having enjoyable, and feeling a bit tipsy by the tip of it, however you’ll be taught so much concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.
We had a terrific day with our information. A lot enjoyable in truth, that she took us out for some late-night shenanigans the place the expats and locals prefer to hangout.
Click here to be taught extra concerning the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour on Get Your Information, or if you happen to want, you possibly can be taught extra and e book by Viator.
7. Eat Recent Oysters
Whereas Mexico is likely one of the finest nations on this planet for meals and there’s positively a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, generally it’s good to eat avenue (seaside) meals. In case you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be completely happy to know you could get contemporary oysters on the seaside.
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 on, sprinkle with some salt and add some sizzling sauce if you happen to like. Take pleasure in!
☞ 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 seaside city of San Pancho (San Francisco), which is likely one of the finest day journeys from Puerto Vallarta.
This small city isn’t as quiet because it as soon as was, however it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to. What’s shocking is that regardless that it’s not a really large place, there are many issues to do in San Pancho.
You may go {golfing} for the morning (or late afternoon), eat some actually good worldwide meals, take Spanish classes, do yoga, log on, watch the infant turtles be launched and extra.
It’s a cool place to spend the afternoon because it’s simply an hour away from Puerto Vallarta. Replace 2022: sadly, the golf course in San Pancho is closed now.
To get from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho, you possibly can lease a automobile, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or join a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.
Notice: the ocean right here is sort of tough and isn’t a terrific place for swimming. You may try Bucerias 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 right spot to get pleasure from a stroll, with out having to take care of the busy visitors that whizzes alongside the slim streets.
Alongside the Malecon, you will have the attractive ocean on one facet, and lots 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 hot-spot, particularly within the late afternoon and evenings when it’s a cooler temperature. And truly, wandering alongside the Malecon is likely one of the hottest issues to do in La Paz as effectively.
The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
There are quite a few resorts, motels, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and flats for lease in Puerto Vallarta. There actually is one thing for everybody, with Airbnb and Booking.com being the most well-liked methods to e book.
10. Be part of a Chocolate Making Class
The Choco Museum is likely one of the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. In case 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 palms soiled and EAT some scrumptious chocolate, then ensure to affix one of many lessons on the Choco Museo.
Learn to make conventional mole sauce, sizzling chocolate truffles, or particular person goodies. Click here to be taught extra about workshops and lessons.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Listing of The High 21
11. Mountain Biking Journey
Though lounging by the seaside and devouring tacos is at all times a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it may be a good suggestion to get some train each every now and then! This is likely one of the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t wish to miss.
Eco Experience is an eco-conscious firm in Puerto Vallarta that provides mountain biking and mountain climbing journeys within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.
In case you’re into journey and being lively, this is likely one of the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that needs to be on the prime of your record.
They’ve biking excursions for learners and superior riders, plus they provide totally different size journeys as effectively — from 15 to 48 kilometers (9.3 – 30 miles).
The routes go by villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine bushes, and extra. Click here to be taught extra about Eco Experience and the biking and mountain climbing journeys they provide.
*Notice: if you happen to’d slightly mix train with consuming, Vallarta Meals Excursions has a brand new tour known as Bikes & Bites…test it out.
Not into biking, however nonetheless wish to be within the mountains?
Though we’ve by no means achieved this in Mexico, zip-lining by the attractive cover is likely one of the hottest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll be on the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains and might journey by the jungle over 2 miles (3.2kms) of zipline. This highly-rated ziplining experience is a superb exercise in Puerto Vallarta. And, if you end up within the Yucatan, ziplining is likely one of the finest issues to do in Cancun as effectively.
12. Chill Out on Los Muertos Seaside
That is the seaside 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 seaside eating places and bars right here.
There are distributors wandering up and down the seaside as effectively, however they aren’t too pushy. Close to the south facet of the pier, you’ll discover a number of native households spending the day (particularly on weekends), whereas additional south from there’s thought-about the LGBTQ space, which is at all times busy and plenty of enjoyable.
We’ve visited this seaside a couple of instances now. Throughout December, the waves had been extremely large and the surf and undertow had been unbelievably robust. The tough water began from the pier and went north to the La Langosta Loca restaurant.
Nonetheless, on the south facet of the pier, the water was calm and kids had been swimming. Once we hungout at Los Muertos seaside in the summertime, the water was calm in every single place — and we even noticed a number of small Manta Rays!
At all times be aware of the ocean and when unsure, at all times ask a neighborhood if it’s protected to swim.
☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Superior Issues To Do in Mexico
13. Wander The Previous City
Puerto Vallarta has a lovely previous city with cobbled streets and vibrant houses climbing up the hill. From close to the Church of Our Girl of Guadalupe, you’ll see rock/cement steps heading up the hill.
Take the steps and proceed strolling alongside the again roads in direction of the Romantic Zone. As most individuals take the Malecon or the primary 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. Convey a number of water and put on good sneakers.
14. Go Scuba Diving
Getting out on the water is at all times a good suggestion when travelling, however so is getting beneath it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent stage.
Whether or not you’re scuba licensed or not, try Banderas Scuba Republic. This firm is PADI acknowledged and the workforce 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 the perfect in Mexico, it’s at all times good to get out for a dive.
Count on to see turtles, rays, eels, and extra. Banderas Scuba Republic is positioned within the Romantic Zone, cease by and test them out.
Notice: We didn’t personally dive with Banderas Scuba Republic, they had been simply extremely reviewed on TripAdvisor. At all times do your individual impartial analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm.
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 affix a strolling tour with a educated information.
That is the perfect factor to do in Puerto Vallarta in your first day within the metropolis so you will 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.
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 here for particulars.
On the lookout for extra Mexico posts? See Additionally:
Issues To Do in San Pancho – A Listing of The High 15
Issues To Do in Playa del Carmen – A Listing of The High 21
Issues To Do in Guanajuato – A Listing of The High 10
Locations To Go to in Mexico – High 33 Spots
Backpacking Mexico – High Causes To Journey Right here Now
16. Be part of the Free Artwork Stroll
Puerto Vallarta has probably the most artwork galleries of any Mexican coastal metropolis. On Wednesday evenings, lots 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 people artwork. A go to right here is certainly one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.
Entrance is free, there is no such thing as a information, however there’s normally wine and tequila given to guests…free of charge. The “artwork stroll” runs from the tip of October to the tip of Might, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday. This can be a yearly occasion. Click here to be taught extra concerning the Artwork Stroll.
17. Go to the Church Of Our Girl Of Guadalupe
You may’t miss the Church Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe if you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this lovely piece of structure. In case 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 non secular 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 likely one of the finest locations to go to in Puerto Vallarta.
If you end up within the metropolis from December 1 – 12, you’ll have the ability to benefit from the celebrations for the Our Girl of Guadalupe Competition, which incorporates candlelight processions, vibrant parades, and naturally, meals.
18. Go to Mismaloya
Positioned on 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.
Lately, Puerto Vallarta has extra tourism, whereas the bay at Mismaloya remains to be comparatively quiet. That is one other nice day journey from Puerto Vallarta.
The beautiful bay is backed by thick jungle, there are eating places lining the seaside 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, however it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A Listing of the High 21
19. Examine Out The Markets
Visiting the markets in Mexico is at all times 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 superb place to buy contemporary produce. This market runs from 6:00am to three:00pm, one year a 12 months. Click here for instructions.
Additionally, in order for you produce and fish, try the Municipal Market in December 5. Go early to get the perfect number of seafood.
Within the strip of distributors, you’ll discover meats, greens, tortillas, and different gadgets. This can be a excellent spot to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting a neighborhood market is likely one of the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Click here for instructions.
20. Do Some Climbing
You received’t actually discover mountain climbing within the metropolis itself. However, if you happen to take a bus, or drive your automobile out to Boca de Tomatlan, you are able to do a very nice day hike to Las Animas. The trail winds alongside the ocean, with the jungle on one facet and the attractive water on the opposite.
You’ll hike alongside stone stairs and slim paths, whereas arriving at pretty secluded bays alongside the best way. In case 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 seaside, and one of many many eating places on provide.
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 likely one of the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for out of doors lovers. For extra info on how to do that hike, click here.
21. Spend A Night time On The City
The Puerto Vallarta nightlife is superior. It doesn’t matter what kind of a celebration you’re searching for, you’ll discover it in PV.
From seaside 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 evening away at Co-De or one of many many standard Malecon nightclubs (Zoo, Mandala or La Vaquita) or watch your favorite sports activities workforce on the massive display screen at locations like El Torito Sports Bar & BBQ House, Players and El Soñador.
For reside music, you possibly can’t go unsuitable with Incanto, Roxy Rock House, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you will have a few choices in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss Monzon and Los Muertos. For cocktail lovers, try El Colibri, Bar La Playa, and Twisted Palms.
To be taught extra about the perfect locations to sip and dance, try our submit: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Greatest Locations to Drink and Dance.
Bonus! Volunteer With Canines
In case you’re an animal lover, why not spend a couple of hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?
Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals wants volunteers to spend time with the canine (and cats!) on the shelter. You may assist out by strolling canine, feeding them and naturally, giving them a number of love and a spotlight.
The Acopio shelter is positioned just a bit bit exterior of the middle of the town, however be sure to 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, here.
Now You Know What To Do in Puerto Vallarta
I hope this record of issues to do in Puerto Vallarta helps you intend your journey. Whereas the town is sort of touristy, it’s standard for good purpose and we actually get pleasure from our visits right here.
Be certain that to pattern the tasty avenue meals at any time when you possibly can, discover the native markets, and revel in strolling across the metropolis. Tell us what you’ll add to this record within the feedback beneath. Completely happy travels 
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