There’s no shortage of beautiful destinations in Mexico thanks to the country’s stunning beaches and mountains, delicious food scene, ancient ruins, and charming architecture. If you’re looking for the ultimate beach and adventure getaway, look no further than Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!
With an abundance of beaches and its proximity to the mountains, Puerto Vallarta can be as relaxing or as adrenaline-rushing as you like. Soak in the sun on the sandy beaches, hike for great views, and eat the freshest seafood. Here are the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
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Table of Contents
Before You Visit Puerto Vallarta
Best Time to Visit
April, May, October, and November are the best months to visit Puerto Vallarta. These months are quieter, not too hot, and the least rainy.
Winter through early spring in Puerto Vallarta is the busiest time of year. Summer is very hot and generally the rainiest.
The Best Neighborhoods
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, has several distinct neighborhoods. Zona Romantica is one of the best places to explore here; you’ll find great hotels, beaches, local coffee shops, restaurants, and a hipper vibe.
Another neighborhood that’s great for staying in is Zona Hotelera. The “hotel zone” is where most resort hotels are, and there are great beaches here as well.
Transportation
There is an international airport in Puerto Vallarta. You can fly directly here from many cities, including Dallas, or you can fly into Puerto Vallarta from a larger city in Mexico.
A car can be useful if you plan on going on day trips, otherwise driving and parking in Puerto Vallarta can be a hassle. I recommend taking Ubers as they’re relatively cheap, and it’s a fairly small city so nothing is too far apart.
Map of Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
The Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Prepare for your trip with the complete Puerto Vallarta packing list!
1. Go for an Ocean Swim
Puerto Vallarta is one of the best beach destinations in Mexico, along with Cabo San Lucas. There are a plethora of beaches along the coast; you can’t go far without finding a swimmable beach in Puerto Vallarta.
While in town, you need to plan a beach day to enjoy swimming in the ocean. The water is warm and relatively calm, but always take note of the tide and stay aware when swimming in the ocean.
2. Walk Down the Malecon
An iconic place to visit in Puerto Vallarta is the Malecón, the paved boardwalk that follows the coast of the Zona Romantica district.
There are many shops along the Malecon, along with bars and restaurants. But the best part is the views. You can see the gorgeous blue ocean and the other side of Puerto Vallarta across the bay.
3. Papantla Flyers
Along the Malecon, you can watch a traditional Mesoamerican ceremony that takes place at 6:00 pm every night at the northern end of the boardwalk.
There is a very tall permanent pole structure around five papantla flyers climb up and wind their ropes around the pole until they’re taught and then slowly descend as they spin around the pole and their ropes unwind. The flyer at the very top of the pole plays the flute throughout the ceremony.
4. Go On a Jungle & Beach Hike
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, get ready to explore the lush jungle and beaches. This six-hour guided activity is one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta!
Starting in Zona Romantica, you’ll get to enjoy six beaches along a jungle hike and even get a chance to snorkel. You will need a towel and sunscreen of your own.
5. Explore Zona Romantica
One of the best areas to explore in Puerto Vallarta is Zona Romantica. This hipper neighborhood is full of restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, etc. It’s partially on the beach and partially inland, making it a perfect place to spend all day.
This is where you’ll find many of the best beach clubs, or beach restaurants, where you can lounge on the beach and order food.
6. Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour
If you’re looking for a more adventurous outing in Puerto Vallarta, take a look at this guided boat tour to Los Arcos National Marine Park.
You’ll get to go on a boat tour around the five islands that make up the park, and you’ll even get to stop for a snorkeling excursion on the way. This is a great way to learn more about the natural parts of what makes Puerto Vallarta so special.
7. Relax at a Beach Bar
One thing you don’t want to miss when visiting Puerto Vallarta is relaxing all day at a beach bar. You can find many of these along the coast, especially in the Zona Romantica area.
My recommendation is Swell Beach Bar. You can grab a couple of lounge chairs and sit by the ocean all day, swim when you want to, and order food and drinks as you please.
This is the most relaxing activity, and a popular one at that. Plan to arrive before noon to get the chairs closest to the water.
8. Visit the Butterfly Sanctuary (Mariposario Jardin Magico)
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about butterflies, Puerto Vallarta is the place to do so at the butterfly sanctuary, or Mariposario Jardin Magico. For a calm day in Puerto Vallarta’s lush jungle, plan a visit here to enjoy a variety of butterflies in their natural habitat.
Please note that if you Uber here, it is recommended that you schedule your return Uber for about 2 hours later, as cell signal can be hard to come by.
9. Brunch at Emmana Café - Puerto Luna
The food scene in Puerto Vallarta is the perfect example of how insanely delicious Mexico’s cuisine is. Unsurprisingly, breakfast can be the best meal of the day here.
One of the most amazing cafes to get breakfast at in Puerto Vallarta is Emmana Cafe. Located in a resort/condo complex, this breakfast cafe is so pretty, and the food and coffee are unbeatable.
10. See the Letras Puerto Vallarta
A super fun photo op in Puerto Vallarta is the “letras” or the letters, which you can find near the end of the Malecon boardwalk. Not only is this an iconic attraction you can find in many Mexican cities, like in Merida, but the background of the Puerto Vallarta sign is stunning!
This sign does get busy, so you may have to wait. Or you can try to head here early in the morning, or possibly in the evening, to try and catch it without a wait.
11. Take a Kayaking Tour of Los Arcos
Another way you can explore the Los Arcos Islands is by kayak. Join this guided kayaking tour and learn about the history of the area and the nature, while you explore the islands and caves.
You have a choice of a sunrise or a sunset paddle. There will also be an opportunity to swim or snorkel if you choose!
12. Day Trip to Sayulita
While there is so much to see and do in Puerto Vallarta itself, if you have a day or two to spend outside of the city, this region of Mexico is very beautiful and worth exploring more of.
A great place to day trip from Puerto Vallarta is Sayulita. This small coastal town is about an hour drive from Puerto Vallarta and is a popular surf destination.
13. Go on a Puerto Vallarta Food Tour
It’s no secret that Mexico is a top foodie destination. Puerto Vallarta itself boasts an amazing selection of dishes, especially seafood and birria. A great way to taste a variety of local foods is to join a Puerto Vallarta food tour.
This walking food tour includes tastings of sweets, tacos, and more. Taste your way around the city while you learn about its history!
14. Visit Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Not only does Puerto Vallarta have picturesque beaches, scenic mountain backdrops, and delicious food, but its plant life is also lush and beautiful. A great place to truly appreciate the flora is at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
The botanical garden is most easily accessible by car, or you can Uber here and schedule a return ride. Tickets cost about $16 USD at the entrance, or you can buy them in advance.
15. Jorullo Puente Colgante
One of the most popular places to visit in Puerto Vallarta is the Jorullo Bridge. This suspension bridge is known for its views and is a frequented ATV route.
Another way you can admire Puerto Vallarta’s gigantic suspension bridge is by going on a ziplining tour and walking across the bridge. Book a canopy tour with ziplining here!
16. Enjoy a Beachfront Dinner
Splurge on a nice dinner while in Puerto Vallarta and enjoy a meal on the beach at golden hour. There are many restaurants along the beachfront here, especially in the Zona Romantica area.
My top recommendations are La Palapa Restaurant, try their ceviche and coconut shrimp, and Cuates y Cuetes, enjoy their more laid back atmosphere.
17. Go on an Electric Bike Mountain Tour
This guided electric bike tour of Puerto Vallarta is about 4 hours long. Not only will you get to see a side of Puerto Vallarta that other visitors rarely do and enjoy scenic sights along the way, but you will also get a tequila tasting and an opportunity to eat at a great local restaurant.
Cruise past the boardwalk, the Municipal Square, Elizabeth Taylor’s house, and more with a knowledgeable local guide at the helm. This bike tour is limited to 10 participants, so you can truly enjoy and learn more about Puerto Vallarta while participating.
18. Day Trip to Bucerias
Another little town worth visiting on the Riviera Nayarit is Bucerias, a quainter beach town between Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita. About a 30 to 40 minute drive from Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias, meaning “divers’ town,” is great for those wanting to enjoy more beaches, local art, and delicious food.
There is a flea market here that is great for souvenir shopping if that is your style. But make sure you take some time to look around at the various options and haggle for a better price.
19. Catch a Sunset over the Ocean
One thing Puerto Vallarta does not lack is incredible sunsets. While the rainy weather can sometimes cover the sunsets, if you’re lucky enough to be here during a drier time, you’ll likely get to experience a Puerto Vallarta sunset.
This is a great time to enjoy a drink on a hotel rooftop or at a beachfront restaurant. Or you can go all out and book a sunset sail complete with drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
20. DIY a Coffee Shop Hop
Mexican coffee is among the best in the world, and Puerto Vallarta knows how to serve it exceptionally well. There are a plethora of coffee shops in this beach resort city. If you’re a coffee lover, diy a coffee shop hop and try some of the best local coffees!
My recommendation is to start at Emmana Cafe, hop over to Michi Cat Cafe, and then make your way to Zona Romantica to try Crema Barra de Espresso and finish with lunch at Trovasi Cafe. I recommend eating at Trovasi Cafe, as their toasts and sandwiches are incredibly fresh.
Top Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
With a plethora of nice beaches and its proximity to the mountains, Puerto Vallarta can be a relaxing or adrenaline-rush vacation destination. Relax in the sun on the sandy beaches, hike and admire the views, and eat the best local dishes.
Now you know what the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta are! Take a peek at this complete Puerto Vallarta packing guide and get ready for a beachy getaway.
