Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide: Top Things to Do on Mexico’s Pacific Coast

🏖️ Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

Tucked along Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant beachside destination where tropical beauty, cobblestone streets, and cultural richness meet modern luxury. Once a sleepy fishing village, this coastal gem has evolved into a beloved hotspot for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
 

Whether you're strolling the Malecón, snorkeling in hidden coves, dining at gourmet restaurants, or dancing the night away under the stars, Puerto Vallarta offers a multifaceted experience that captures the essence of Mexico.

📌 Quick Facts About Puerto Vallarta

🌟 Why Visit Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta blends natural beauty, Mexican tradition, and cosmopolitan flair. Visitors fall in love with its coastal charm, romantic atmosphere, and warm hospitality.

Top Reasons to Visit:

🏝️ Gorgeous beaches and sunsets over Banderas Bay

🎨 Colonial architecture meets contemporary art

🌮 Exceptional food scene from street tacos to fine dining

🛶 Water sports and jungle adventures galore

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive

🌺 Relaxed vibes with boutique luxury

🗺️ Top Attractions and Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

1. 🏖️ Relax on Puerto Vallarta’s Beautiful Beaches

The city is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Whether you prefer vibrant beach clubs or secluded bays, Puerto Vallarta has it all.

Top Beaches:

Playa Los Muertos – Central and social, great for people-watching and fun.

Conchas Chinas – Quiet coves and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling.

Yelapa – A boat-access-only village and beach retreat.

Las Caletas – Private beach accessible via tour, excellent for families and couples.

📝 Tip: Don’t miss a sunset at Malecón Beach—a true Puerto Vallarta moment.

2. 🏛️ Explore the Historic Zona Romántica

Also known as the Old Town, this neighborhood is the cultural and culinary heart of the city.

Colorful streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries

Home to the famous Los Muertos Pier and Playa Los Muertos

Rich LGBTQ+ nightlife and drag shows

🌆 Perfect for evening strolls and fine dining with ocean views.

3. 🕍 Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

This iconic symbol of Puerto Vallarta towers above the city with its ornate crown-like spire.

Located near the city center

Site of religious processions, especially during Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival (Dec 1–12)

⛪ A must-visit landmark, blending history, architecture, and devotion.

4. 🌊 Walk the Malecón Boardwalk

The Malecón is a lively seaside promenade filled with:

Sculptures by Mexican artists

Live music, street performers, and vendors

Oceanfront bars and cafés

Stretching for over a kilometer, it's the best place to soak in the sunset, culture, and energy of the city.

5. 🚤 Take a Day Trip to the Marietas Islands

A national marine park known for its Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor).

Snorkeling and diving paradise

Home to dolphins, sea turtles, and exotic birds

Accessible by boat tours from the marina

🎟️ Advance booking is required to access the hidden beach.

6. 🌴 Go Ziplining and Jungle Touring in the Sierra Madre

Head into the lush mountains for adventure:

Canopy tours with zip lines over rivers and treetops

ATV rides through jungle trails

Waterfall hikes to places like El Eden (a set for the movie Predator)

Perfect for adrenaline lovers and nature enthusiasts.

7. 🍽️ Indulge in Puerto Vallarta’s Culinary Scene

Puerto Vallarta is a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find everything from traditional Jalisco fare to international gourmet cuisine.

Must-Try Local Dishes:

Birria tacos

Pescado Zarandeado (grilled fish)

Ceviche Vallarta

Tuba (fermented coconut drink)

🍴 Dine at award-winning restaurants like:

Café des Artistes

La Leche

Trio

Or enjoy tacos at Pancho’s Takos and Mariscos El Guero

8. 🛍️ Shop for Art, Fashion, and Handicrafts

Puerto Vallarta is a hotspot for Mexican artisans and creatives.

Galería Uno and Peyote People for contemporary and indigenous art

Isla Río Cuale Market for souvenirs, huaraches, and silver jewelry

Designer boutiques in the Romantic Zone

🎨 Don’t miss the Art Walk every Wednesday (Nov–May) in El Centro.

9. 🌈 Experience LGBTQ+ Friendly Culture

Puerto Vallarta is widely known as one of the most LGBTQ+ welcoming destinations in the Americas.

Hosts Vallarta Pride every May

Zona Romántica is filled with gay-friendly clubs, lounges, and resorts

Popular spots include The Palm Cabaret, CC Slaughters, and Mantamar Beach Club

🏳️‍🌈 Whether you're part of the community or an ally, you'll find inclusivity everywhere.

10. ⛵ Sunset Cruises and Whale Watching

Luxury catamaran cruises with gourmet dinners and open bars

Whale watching season from December to March

Pirate ship shows for families and kids

🐋 Seeing humpbacks breach in Banderas Bay is an unforgettable experience.

🏨 Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

🏰 Luxury

Grand Miramar All Luxury Suites & Residences

Hotel Mousai

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa

🏖️ Mid-Range

Playa Los Arcos Hotel

Casa Doña Susana (adults only)

Hotel Posada de Roger

💸 Budget

Hostel Vallarta

Chanclas Hostel

Jet’s Gay Hostel

🌟 Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, making planning easy for families and couples.

🧳 Travel Tips for Puerto Vallarta

Weather: Tropical climate; dry season is from November to April.

Language: Spanish is primary, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Money: ATMs available; carry pesos for taxis and markets.

Getting Around: Easy to walk in the city center; taxis, Ubers, and buses available.

Safety: Considered very safe for tourists; use basic precautions.

🗓️ Suggested 5-Day Itinerary for Puerto Vallarta

Day 1: Arrival & Malecón

Explore the boardwalk, enjoy dinner in the Romantic Zone

Day 2: Beach Day & Church of Guadalupe

Morning at Playa Conchas Chinas, afternoon sightseeing

Day 3: Marietas Islands Excursion

Full-day tour with snorkeling and beach time

Day 4: Jungle Adventure

Ziplining and ATV in the Sierra Madre

Day 5: Relax & Art Walk

Shopping, spa time, and an evening art walk