Puerto Vallarta is a vacation spot that has been welcoming travellers for a few years, and it’s one in every of 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 finances, 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.
Town is cut 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, nevertheless, need to select your zone fastidiously based mostly on the vibe you’re after and the finances you’ve.
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 – only a few minutes drive from the airport, this space has many lodges, eating places, malls, a Walmart & Sams Membership.
- Centro (Outdated PV) – smaller houses, residential space, the Malecon (oceanfront promenade) runs alongside right here, many eating places and bars.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 presents 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. It is a standard space with a big LGBTQ neighborhood. The lodging ranges from finances to high finish.
- Conchas Chinas – that means “Chinese language Shells” based mostly 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.
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 the easiest way 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 international locations to journey to, however when you are able to do issues free of charge, like strolling and sightseeing, it can save you much more cash.
It is a nice solution to see what the distributors are promoting, to folks 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 that to put on good sneakers because the sidewalks and roads are very uneven.
Notice: 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 scorching and also you’ll most certainly need to be on the seashore all day.
2. Be a 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 another nationwide meals group.
Mexican meals is a lot greater than tacos and quesadillas and the easiest way to be taught extra concerning the tasty delicacies is to hitch a tour. It is a should do in Puerto Vallarta for foodies.
We’ve achieved meals excursions all around the globe, and our favorite ones are in Mexico.
In Puerto Vallarta, try Vallarta Meals Excursions. This firm presents a mixture of tradition, strolling, and meals excursions, making it a good way to be taught concerning the metropolis of PV whereas concurrently feasting and dealing off the energy.
There are a number of foodie excursions on supply with Vallarta Meals Excursions, however we went on the “Authentic Downtown Tour“, which took us via the middle of PV on either side of the river. We ate quite a few dishes and tried some drinks as nicely. You may also be part of their night taco tour.
We extremely advocate this tour. Click on right here to be taught extra and test out the video we made:
3. See Rhythms Of The Night time (top-of-the-line 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 can be one thing you received’t need to miss.
We noticed this efficiency and though we’re not massive followers of huge group excursions, this present was spectacular and value each penny. This is among the high 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 gorgeous personal cove. Whenever 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 outside auditorium, which is surrounded by palm timber. The seats are all staggered, so regardless that there are folks 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 reside 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 evening, 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 Wish to Miss
4. Watch Sundown
There’s simply one thing concerning the sunsets on the Pacific Coast, and specifically, Puerto Vallarta. A few of 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 seashore bar.
As soon as the solar goes down, the social gathering 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 top-of-the-line free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.
*Notice: Puerto Escondido is one other epic Pacific Coast vacation spot for sunsets in Mexico. If in case you have an opportunity, attempt to go to there as nicely.
5. Chill out 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 fairly than the Pacific. I believe this is among the finest seashores in Mexico.
Playa las Gemelas has turquoise water and whitish sand. Once we visited, there have been fairly a number of waves, however no riptides or undertow, and the waves have been enjoyable to swim in.
Different guests have skilled fully calm water right here, so it actually simply will depend on the climate and the time of yr.
There are simply 2 condominium complexes on the seashore and nothing else…not even any bogs. Deliver a cooler crammed with beer, water, and snacks, and spend the day.
The stroll to the seashore is pretty steep and down some uneven steps, nevertheless it’s value it if you see the view.
To succeed in right here, you’ll need to park at Condominios Girasol Sur (in entrance alongside the highway). There isn’t any precise parking for the seashore, so that you’ll want to search out some on the road, or within the few roadside spots in entrance of Girasol Sur Condos.
Alternatively, you’ll be able to take a neighborhood bus and get dropped off right here. That is by far my favorite seashore in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss it. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Be a 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 associate with the booze, you’ll get some tasty meals to assist absorb the alcohol.
The dishes we had have 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 top of it, however you’ll be taught so much concerning the traditions and creation of those alcoholic drinks.
We had an awesome 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 on right here to be taught extra concerning the Mex-ology Tequila, Tacos & Cocktails Tour, it’s top-of-the-line issues to do in Puerto Vallarta.
7. Eat Recent Seafood
Whereas Mexico is one in every of the perfect international locations on the earth for meals and there’s positively a Puerto Vallarta restaurant for everybody, typically it’s good to eat road (seashore) meals.
Should you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be blissful to know you can get contemporary oysters on the seashore. Slightly 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’ll be able to sit and luxuriate in your plate of meals by the water, or you’ll be able to take them to go. Squeeze some lime juice, sprinkle with some salt and add some scorching sauce when you like.
Another choice is to hitch this tasty seafood expertise which incorporates the oysters listed above, and way 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’ll be able to 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, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to. What’s stunning is that regardless that it’s not a really massive place, there are many issues to do in San Pancho.
The easiest way to be taught all about San Pancho is to fulfill up with Samuel and luxuriate in a leisurely bike journey across the city. Samuel will present you a lot of hidden gems and inform tales concerning the space. This enjoyable expertise is very rated and reasonably priced and consists of the biking gear, and a few meals and drinks. Study extra right here.
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’ll be able to lease a automobile, take the bus for round 50 pesos, or be part of a day tour of San Pancho and close by Sayulita.
Notice: the ocean right here is kind of tough and isn’t an awesome place for swimming. You could possibly 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 proper spot to take pleasure in a stroll, with out having to take care of the busy visitors that whizzes alongside the slim streets.
Alongside the Malecon, you’ve the gorgeous ocean on one facet, and plenty of retailers, eating places, and bars on the opposite (promoting $1 margaritas and Coronas). There are additionally quite a few artwork installations and road performances right here.
The Malecon is the hot-spot, particularly within the late afternoon and evenings when it’s a cooler temperature. And really, wandering alongside the Malecon is among the hottest issues to do in La Paz as nicely.
An effective way to discover a extra off-the-beaten-path space of the Malecon is to hitch this enjoyable biking expertise. Biking tools and a few drinks are included. Study extra right here.
The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
There are quite a few resorts, lodges, boutiques, hostels, Airbnbs, and flats for lease in Puerto Vallarta. There actually is one thing for everybody, with Airbnb and Reserving.com being the most well-liked methods to e book.
10. Be a part of a Chocolate Making Class
The Choco Museum is among the many free issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Should you’re fascinated with 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 be sure that to hitch one of many courses on the Choco Museo.
Learn to make conventional mole sauce, scorching chocolate truffles, or particular person candies. Click on right here to be taught extra about workshops and courses.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Record of The High 21
11. Mountain Biking Journey
Though lounging by the seashore and devouring tacos is at all times a good suggestion when travelling to Mexico, it is likely to be a good suggestion to get some train each every so often! This is among the Puerto Vallarta actions you don’t need to miss.
Eco Trip is an eco-conscious firm in Puerto Vallarta that provides mountain biking and mountaineering journeys within the surrounding jungle trails of the Occidental Sierra Madre.
Should you’re into journey and being energetic, this is among the issues to do in Puerto Vallarta that must be on the high of your record.
They’ve biking excursions for newbies and superior riders, plus they provide completely different size journeys as nicely — from 15 to 48 kilometers (9.3 – 30 miles).
The routes move via villages, waterfalls, rivers, pine timber, and extra. Click on right here to be taught extra about Eco Trip and the biking and mountaineering journeys they provide.
*Notice: when you’d fairly mix train with consuming, Vallarta Meals Excursions has a brand new tour known as Bikes & Bites…test it out.
Not into biking, however nonetheless need to be within the mountains?
Though we’ve by no means achieved this in Mexico, zip-lining via the gorgeous cover is among the hottest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll be on the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains and may journey via the jungle over 2 miles (3.2kms) of zipline. This highly-rated ziplining expertise is a superb exercise in Puerto Vallarta. And, if you end up within the Yucatan, ziplining is among the finest issues to do in Cancun as nicely.
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 a number 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 nicely, however they aren’t too pushy. Close to the south facet of the pier, you’ll discover a lot of native households spending the day (particularly on weekends), whereas additional south from there may be thought of the LGBTQ space, which is at all times busy and a number of enjoyable.
We’ve visited this seashore a number of instances now. Throughout December, the waves have been extremely massive and the surf and undertow have been unbelievably robust. The tough water began from the pier and went north to the La Langosta Loca restaurant.
Nevertheless, on the south facet of the pier, the water was calm and kids have been swimming. Once we hungout at Los Muertos seashore in the summertime, the water was calm in every single place — and we even noticed a lot of small Manta Rays!
All the time be aware of the ocean and when doubtful, at all times ask a neighborhood if it’s secure to swim.
☞ SEE ALSO: 51 Superior Issues To Do in Mexico
13. Wander The Outdated City
Puerto Vallarta has a gorgeous outdated 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 principle streets, you’ll have the quiet “higher” roads principally 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’ll be able to come out close to the Rio River.
For a tremendous view, you’ll be able to 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. Deliver a lot 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 below it. The diving in Mexico is subsequent degree.
Whether or not you’re scuba licensed or not, try Banderas Scuba Republic. This firm is PADI acknowledged and the group is PADI licensed.
At this scuba store, you’ll be able to take courses and classes to get your certification, or if you have already got your Open Water, you’ll be able to 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 have been simply extremely reviewed on TripAdvisor. All the time do your personal unbiased analysis when selecting a scuba diving firm.
15. Be a 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 the perfect 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.
The assembly level is on the Municipal Tourism Workplace, which is within the Outdated Metropolis Corridor Constructing. The tour is about 2 hours lengthy and no reservation is required. Click on right here for particulars.
Searching for extra Mexico posts? See Additionally:
Issues To Do in San Pancho – A Record of The High 15
Issues To Do in Playa del Carmen – A Record of The High 21
Issues To Do in Guanajuato – A Record of The High 10
Locations To Go to in Mexico – High 33 Spots
Backpacking Mexico – High Causes To Journey Right here Now
16. Be a 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 retailers 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 is no such thing as a information, however there may be normally wine and tequila given to guests…free of charge. The “artwork stroll” runs from the top of October to the top of Might, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, each Wednesday. It is a yearly occasion. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Artwork Stroll.
17. Go to the Church Of Our Girl Of Guadalupe
You possibly can’t miss the Church Of Our Girl Of Guadalupe if you go to. Towering over the middle of Puerto Vallarta is that this lovely 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 non secular or not, I like to recommend taking a peek inside, and naturally, taking a great deal of pictures 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 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.
Nowadays, 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 beautiful 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’s, nevertheless, the Barcelo Resort which takes up a lot of the bay, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a pleasant place to go to.
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A Record 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, twelve months a yr. Click on right here for instructions.
Additionally, if you would like contemporary 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. It is a excellent place to take meals away, or to create a scrumptious lunch! Visiting a neighborhood market is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta. Click on right here for instructions.
20. Do Some Mountaineering
You received’t actually discover mountaineering within the metropolis itself. However, when you 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 gorgeous 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 way in which. Should you’re fortunate, you’ll see some whales or dolphins taking part in 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’ll be able to take a ship from Las Animas, or hike again the way in which you got here. This is among the finest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta for outside lovers. For extra data 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 awesome choice is to hitch this reasonably priced expertise with a neighborhood 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 a celebration 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 bound to be memorable. Whereas many 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 group on the massive display at locations like El Torito Sports activities Bar & BBQ Home, Gamers and El Soñador.
For reside music, you’ll be able to’t go unsuitable with Incanto, Roxy Rock Home, and La Casa de Hugo. If it’s craft beer you search, you’ve 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 publish: Puerto Vallarta Nightlife – The Finest Locations to Drink and Dance.
Bonus Actions!
22. Volunteer With Canines
Should you’re an animal lover, why not spend a number of hours of your trip in PV volunteering with animals?
Associates of Puerto Vallarta Animals want volunteers to spend time with the canines (and cats!) on the shelter. You possibly can assist out by strolling canines, feeding them and naturally, giving them a lot 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 Associates 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 folks per day are allowed to go to this attractive web site — be sure to e book on-line forward of time.
Positioned a couple of 1-hour boat journey 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 journey on the market you’ll most certainly spot dolphins, manta rays, and whales. Discover out extra right 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 kind of touristy, it’s standard for good cause and we actually take pleasure in our visits right here.
Be certain that to pattern the tasty road meals at any time when you’ll be able to, discover the native markets, and luxuriate in strolling across the metropolis. Tell us what you’ll add to this record within the feedback under. Pleased travels 
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