Are you planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta?
We are here to help. Our local-experts provide travel advice on sites, activities, events, restaurants, hotels, shopping, nightlife, and much more. Vacation planning has never been this easy. Create your itinerary now »
Browsing Puerto Vallarta
Alta Vista Archaeological Sacred Site
Alta Vista, or Chacalán, as it's known by locals, is an archaeological site that is still revered as a living holy place. Traveling there requires a certain level of respect and attention, since many locals would rather it not be visited by outsiders. The road is not well marked, so on your first time there it would be advisable to go with someone who knows the area. Petroglyphs are estimated to date back at least 2000 years. Guides there will emphatically tell you that no photos may be taken.
More »
Animas (Las)
The only way to reach this beautiful gem of a beach is by boat. The land stretches forever, and gives the visitor plenty of room to roam. Many activities are available to occupy your time. Both water activities and jungle jeep excursions are available. You can also find horseback rides here. La Cueva de Los Piratas is the local beach restaurant where you can satisfy your hunger after a busy day of playing. Be sure to make advance reservations before you arrive at this beach if you plan to participate in activities.
More »
Arcos (Los)
An eco-preserve is a place where the environment is Number One. All things natural are protected here at this popular destination. This is a federal underwater park that offers people the opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive in a rare environment. Go underwater and investigate the brightly colored fish and steep rock walls that protect this marine area. If you aren't comfortable being in the water, try a glass-bottom boat tour. You will see many of the same species from there as you would by swimming below the surface.
More »
Bahía de Banderas
Bahía de Banderas, or Banderas Bay, is one of the largest bays in the Americas, winter home to the humpback whale, year-round habitat of bottlenose dolphins and giant manta rays, and an egg-laying area for a number of marine turtle species. The Sierra Madre Mountains reach the water at some points creating coves and beaches along much of the coastline. From Cabo Corrientes in the south to Punta de Mita in the north, the bay area is home to some of the friendliest people in Mexico. Tourism continues to be the driving industry, with growing universities and a flourishing real estate market. The region is outstanding in the variety of natural habitats, including jungle, soft sandy beaches, mountain pine forests, estuaries, rivers, and fertile river valleys.
More »
Barra de Navidad
Barra de Navidad, about 2 1/2 hours south of Puerto Vallarta, is a smaller town with a variety of accommodations from top of the line resorts to beach dives. The waves here are great for surfers, and the nearby golf course and marina are sure to serve your entertainment desires.
More »
Boca de Tomates
Boca de Tomates is another popular beach located just north of Puerto Vallarta before crossing the Ameca River into the neighboring state of Nayarit. Because the river empties into Banderas Bay just north of the wide, sandy beach, a natural estuary is also home to crocodiles and many native bird species. On the beach itself there are a series of palapa restaurants with wonderful seafood at inexpensive prices. Although it's easiest to drive, there is a local bus that will take you all the way there.
More »
Boca de Tomatlan
This beach is surrounded by a tropical jungle paradise. Explore the jungle on a jeep safari or on horseback; both are available as means of transportation here. This place is ideal for water sports because of its clear, blue-green waters. Get your equipment from the local vendors that rent out all that you need. The beach is lined with them, so you will have your choice. Sunscreen lotion may be hard to find here, so don't leave home without it.
More »
Bucerias
Bucerias is a thriving beach community that is a fairly new development. It is a quiet place to spend the day away from the crowds. A day trip is the perfect way to see this unique little fishing village because it is located only 15 minutes north of downtown. Take a break from shopping and do some exploring in the local communities. This is a perfect retreat for some private time with a loved one. These buildings are romantic with their red tiled roofs and white siding.
More »
Cabo Corrientes
Cabo Corrientes is the name of the tip of the peninsula on the southern end of Banderas Bay. Accessible only by water, regular water taxi service connects the beaches and towns of Cabo Corrientes to Boca de Tomatlán and the Los Muertos Pier in Puerto Vallarta as well as points north in Nuevo Vallarta and Punta de Mita. The mountainous region is rocky, covered with semi-tropical jungle--a veritable feast for bird-watchers and hikers.
More »
Carlos O'Brien's
This club, located right downtown on the historical Malecon (ocean walk), was founded over 30 years ago and is as popular as ever. There are those who say that a trip to Puerto Vallarta is not complete without a visit to Carlos O'Brien's. Whether or not this is true, the family-style restaurant becomes a rollicking night club for visitors once the sun goes down.
More »
Casa Kimberley
Casa Kimberley, the original house of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, is now open to the public. It is an interesting place, which was purchased by the couple during the filming of the movie The Night of the Iguana. The movie also created the boom that transformed the city from a sleepy fishing village into a major international resort. The famous couple's former house has all the original furniture.
More »
Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe is the heart of Puerto Vallarta religious life, and is the focal point of an elaborate 12-day festival each December. The structure itself was built during a 12-year period beginning in 1929. The interior is filled with hand-carved columns, decorative moldings and other rich detailing. An earthquake damaged the ornate crown that originally adorned the church. It was replaced, but the repair still creates controversy. The original crown is said to have been modeled after a tiara worn by the mistress of the Emperor Maximilian.
More »
Centro (El)
El Centro is an actual designated colonia in downtown Puerto Vallarta, but generally centro is accepted as anything from perhaps the Buenaventura Hotel to the Cuale River. Some consider that it begins at the Hotel Rosita, which is actually more correct to the border, but many businesses north of that list themselves as centro. Some businesses south of the river also list themselves as centro, but that is actually "Viejo Vallarta" (Old Town), "Zona Romantica" (Romantic Zone or politically designated as Colonia Emiliano Zapata. As in the hero, as in the movie(s). Buses with the designation "Centro" will generally pass through downtown from the north side on the highway which becomes Avenida Mexico which becomes Paseo Diaz Ordaz which becomes I.L.Vallarta after crossing the river. Carry a map with you.
More »
Contaduría
Contaduría is a fortress built in 1760 on the hill above San Blas for protection from the pirates and bandits who regularly patrolled this area. As you stand on the ramparts looking down over the city and the sea, the walls, which are no longer in use, stand testimony to the importance of security. A small gift shop offers cards and souvenirs.
More »
Corral de Riscos
Nuevo Corral de Riscos isn't well-known except for the location of El Anclote Beach at the end of the Punta de Mita bus line. A number of seaside restaurants, palapa-style, line the jetty-protected beach.
More »
Cuale Cultural Center
The Cuale Cultural Center is located on the east end of the Cuale River Island (Isla Rio Cuale) where the culture office of the city is also located. Cultural events and happenings, such as art exhibitions, music evenings, poetry and literature, are sponsored regularly.
More »
El Edén
This jungle area not far from Puerto Vallarta was the site of the "Predator" movie starring Arnold Schwarzzeneger. Besides a family restaurant (Swiss Family Robinson-style) and bar, there is a water slide and play area for children. A canopy adventure will take you through the trees while you're suspended by a sturdy cable, if you're so inclined. Horses are available to ride into the mountains and along the streams.
More »
El Faro
El Faro (the lighthouse) is located right on the marina in Marina Vallarta. It's a great landmark or meeting point as well as a great spot for sunset cocktails. An elevator takes you smoothly to the top where you have a great view of the city, the marina, the mountains, and the sea.
More »
El Morro
El Morro is a dive site on the north end of Banderas Bay about 1 1/2 hours from Puerto Vallarta. It's known for an underwater wall with a tunnel access for viewing a variety of marine life including giant manta rays, marine turtles, and tropical fish. For experienced divers only.
More »
El Nogalito
El Nogalito is a small pueblo inland from the main highway to Mismaloya south of town. It's known for a spa with Temazcal, massages, cabins for overnights, and more. Several outdoor restaurants offer great country-side dining among the trees with the sound of the running river nearby. Horses take you into the hills to a waterfall about an hour away, and hiking trails take you into the beautiful jungle-forest of the area.
More »
El Pitillal
El Pitillal is not far from downtown Puerto Vallarta and has its own square, church, and shopping areas. It's colorful, perhaps not as outwardly romantic as Puerto Vallarta, but the flavor is genuine, and frequently prices can be lower for shoppers.
More »
El Tigre Golf Course
El Tigre Golf Course is part of the Paradise Village complex but open to the public. The 18-hole course designed by the Robert von Hagge Group features rolling greens and water is a recurring feature. El Tigre is also home to several tigers, housed right off the 18th hole. This course also features a full day spa, gymnasium, swimming pool, and sports club and hosts a number of national and international competitions.
More »
El Tuito
This sleepy port town, about 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, is perfect for strolling. Historically, the 16th century town has been a regular, if minor, stop on several trade routes, and the remains of a hacienda just before entering the town provide a little architectural history. With a little exploring, you will also find the remains of an old sugar mill. There are a few very economical restaurants, and the main plaza has a net for volleyball, with a few fooseball tables and a billiard hall just off the plaza. Its perfect for a taste of the sedate, rural Mexican life, but if you're in the mood for some adventure, ask around for "raicilla", a local mezcal-based moonshine.
More »
Flamingos Golf Course
The Flamingos Golf Course was designed by Percy Clifford in 1978 and completely refurbished to once again enter the professional circuit in 2005. This 18-hole course is designed to take advantage of the natural terrain of lush jungle growth, creeks, and estuaries. Trees are ancient, and the greens are impeccable once again. This is considered one of the most beautifully designed courses in Vallarta. This is an excellent course for all skill levels.
More »
Galeria Arte Latinoamericano
As you enter the gallery and your eyes catch the fresh watercolors, you will start cooling down from the heat outside. While enjoying the paintings in the open spaces of the gallery, you might be approached by a friendly art dealer, who will describe to you the details of each painting and the story of the artist behind it. This gallery represents a typical Mexican art center, founded by Mexican artists to showcase their work. Paintings start at MXN 500 and feature contemporary Mexican art.
More »
Galería Córsica
This downtown art gallery features some of the best Mexican artists specializing in fine art including both sculpture and painting. Well-known artists exhibiting work here are Jorge Marin, Agustín and Antonio Castro López, Beatriz Castañeda, Flor Minor, Juan Soriano, Rocío Caballero, Marco Vargas, Vladimir Cora, and Luciano Spanó, among others.
More »
Galeria Omar Alonso
Galería Omar Alonso is kitty-korner from Galerie des Artistes and Café des Artistes, also part of the weekly "art walk" downtown. Omar features some of the best photographers of Latin America and elsewhere.
More »
Galeria Pacifico
This sculpture-intense gallery presents some of the finest artists in the Puerto Vallarta area including Ramiz Barquet, whose statues adorn several public squares and buildings. Owner Garry Thompson is a great proponent of Puerto Vallarta art and also offers weekly artist studio tours. Artists on display in the gallery vary, but may include Thomas St. Thomas, Rogelio Diaz and Meridy Volz. In addition to big-ticket items, the gallery also offers prints and smaller works.
More »
Galerie des Artistes
The nicely displayed sculptures and paintings here will transport any art lover away from Puerto Vallarta and into new worlds of imagination. This well-respected art gallery features a diverse and international collection of art from both modern and traditional artists. Also on sale are a notable range of diverse Mexican antiques, which are displayed in the gallery's lovely setting. After your visit, you may wish to dine at the highly-acclaimed Galleria Dante
An unusual aspect of Puerto Vallarta's art galleries is that many focus on local artists, as well as artists just getting started in the art world. If neophytes can get their work displayed here in a show, they will likely accelerate from struggling artist to a respected member of the art community. Past artists have included Neil Clifford and Cesare Alidori. New artwork comes in on a weekly basis, so there's always something exciting to see. The artists themselves often frequent the establishments and you may be lucky enough to meet one during your visit.
More »
Gringo Gulch
This hillside location was named for the gringos who chose this picturesque neighborhood to build colorful homes upon, but the homes that receive all the attention are those owned by Richard Burton and Liz Taylor. A candy-pink bridge, built over the cobblestone street to connect the two houses, is now available for visits.
More »
Hacienda Doña Engracia
Hacienda Doña Engracia is located in the countryside outside of Vallarta next to a river below the mountains. While on the hacienda, you can explore the area by horseback. There is also a cantina-style restaurant with freshly-made tacos, beer, and a full bar. Tequila tasting is available and a store offers some typical products and souvenirs. The high point is on Saturday when the Huichol do the Papantla Flyers, a form of flying upside-down while suspended from a flagpole with a platform on top where a flautist plays music. This ceremony about communication with the gods is worth seeing.
More »
Isla Río Cuale
The Isla Rio Cuale is a natural island near downtown and accessed not only by bridges for vehicles but also a pedestrian bridge, located at the confluence of the Cuale River (where it reaches the ocean) and two suspension bridges between the two vehicle ones. The island has restaurants (both fine dining and casual), a nightclub, a museum, numerous shops and stands (for those who prefer to pass the day shopping), an art gallery, and finally, the cultural center, CCC, Centro Cultural Cuale, with a theater for evening entertainment and classrooms for cultural classes.
More »
La Corbeteña
Many consider La Corbeteña, located about 2 hours northeast of Puerto Vallarta, one of the best diving sites in the region. It's well known for giant manta rays as well as several species of sharks. For advanced divers only.
More »
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is the kind of town usually described as "quaint", but this small and peaceful town has quite a lot to offer. Located about 20 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, just beyond the town of Bucerías, La Cruz offers a marina famous with boaters world-wide, a native Huichol art gallery, restaurants representing a variety of national cuisines, bars, street stands, and of course, the ubiquitous beautiful beaches. Come here for some rest and recuperation from the sight-seeing.
More »
La Tovara
La Tovara is a site located outside San Blas about 2 1/2 or 3 hours north (then west) of Puerto Vallarta. Motor boats take you through the mangroves where you have the opportunity to see many of the native birds of the region, as well as crocodiles, swamp turtles, and other creatures.
More »
Laguna de Juanacatlán
This clear, cold mountain lake is about a 45-minute drive into the mountains outside of Mascota, one of the mountain towns in the Sierra Madre, located on the road that passes the access to San Sebastián del Oeste. In one direction, the new road connects Mascota to Guadalajara, (about an hour away), and to the west, it goes to Puerto Vallarta, (about 2 1/2 hours away). Conditions of the road, albeit new, vary, still requiring a four-wheel drive for safety on these curvy roads. On the shores of Laguna Juanacatlán is the resort Sierra Lago, where a local Mascota bus takes you for lunch if you don't plan to overnight at the rustic lodge.
More »
Las Caletas
Las Caletas is the name of the private cove where the late director John Huston lived the last 20 years of his life. It has since been managed by Vallarta Adventures on behalf of the tribe who owns the land. During the day, an adventure takes you to the site where snorkeling and diving, swimming and dining, enjoying a spa, hiking into the hills, and more are possible. At night this is the location of the romantic Rhythms of the Night dinner cruise.
More »
Le Fort Ecole de Cuisine
During Chef Gilles Le Fort's cooking classes, he brings you secrets of his profession without holding anything back. Le Fort Ecole de Cuisine offers at a set price the experience of observing the preparation of a three-course gourmet meal while you sip on champagne and taste his own brand of paté on toast corners. Once the meal is complete with all tips included and explained, everyone retires from the cooking kitchen to the deluxe surroundings of the dining room of the covered patio decorated with art and personal touches. It's truly an experience you won't forget.
More »
Los Arcos Amphitheater
The Los Arcos (the arches) Amphitheater are a landmark downtown, right off the main plaza. The open-air amphitheater is regularly used for cultural performances on weekends and special festivals and holidays. Sometimes risers are added to accommodate more people during special performances. These cultural events are free to the public and tourist alike.
More »
Los Muertos Pier
The Los Muertos Pier is located right off the Los Muertos Beach (Playa los Muertos) and features the water taxi departure point to beaches south toward Cabo Corrientes such as Quimixto, Majahuitas, Las Animas and Yelapa. Many of the water taxis also make a stop at Boca de Tomatlán to pick up passengers. The fare is slightly cheaper from there for those who have more time than money.
More »
Main Plaza
The Main Plaza is often the center for regular cultural activities, either in the kiosk or bandstand or on the steps of the City Hall located on the north side. The Church of the Virgin of Guadalupe faces the plaza from a half-block away to the east, while Los Arcos Amphitheater is west just in front of the sea. It's also a good meeting place before going on to other activities.
More »
Majahuitas Resort
The entire Majahuitas adventure is a thing of wonder for those who love the outdoors. First, you must take a boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán to get to the impressive, ecologically friendly resort. Once there, you get to experience the feeling of being in a truly secluded spot. All meals are included in the price of the three day adventure, which also offers hikes through the jungle, swimming in the pristine waters of the rivers and ocean and snorkeling.
More »
Malecón (El)
The best sunsets and the best walks can be taken in this beautiful boardwalk, which is the Malecón. It is one of the things that enhances the beauty of Vallarta's Downtown as it runs along the beach. It is especially valuable as many large beach resorts obstruct the views of the ocean to all other tourists. The boardwalk features permanent art exhibits and some of the best places to dine and drink in town, like Mar de Jade Spa
Mar de Jade is about 2 1/2 hours north (then west) from Puerto Vallarta on the coast toward San Blas. This private spa offers classes and retreats for the health-conscious community from all over the world. Proceeds go toward continuing to work on the infrastructure of the pueblo for the native people there.
More »
Marietas Islands (Las)
Protected by the Mexican government, these islands offer sanctuary to many species of birds, turtles, fish and dolphins. Come to see the exotic animals that call these islands home. The rocky terrain also makes for great cave exploration. Water sports are also popular here because of the clear, calm waters. Snorkeling and scuba diving is a must for anyone who is able. These beaches are only accessible by boat, so there are many places that are still secluded and private. Local tour companies can arrange transportation. Come here to get away from it all.
More »
Marina Marítima
The Marina Marítima or cruise ship terminal may not be a destination in itself, but it may be the departure point for many of your tours by water, such as whale watching, the pirate ship, and Las Caletas. When reserving your tour, verify from which marina you'll be departing. Normally the check-in time you'll be given will include a waiting period inside the terminal, since each passenger pays $15 pesos to enter the departure area. Along with the receipt, which will be collected as you enter, you will receive a token that you will use to pass the turnstile once you check in at the desk of your specific tour. Inside this departure area there is a cafe with coffee, water, juice, and other services.
More »
Marina Vallarta
The marina in Marina Vallarta offers safety for boats and yachts at 15 piers and 352 slips. It's the departure point for fishing adventures and many marine and bay tours. On the malecón that makes the nearly 360 degree circle, you will discover taverns, shops, hotels, and restaurants, as well as the beacon lighthouse El Faro.
More »
Marina Vallarta Club de Golf
Designed by famed architect Joe Finger, this course opened to the public in 1989 and offers world-class golf in the beautiful Marina area. The 18-hole golf course is beautifully situated with lagoons and plenty of wildlife to make for a memorable outing. The course is managed by the various member hotels, which allow their guests to utilize the course. Member hotels include: Mascota Museum
The Mascota Museum is located just a block west of the main plaza in Mascota, an agricultural town on the high plains of the Sierra Madre Range about 2 1/2 hours from Puerto Vallarta. The museum houses the very personal collection of Mascota memorabilia. Spanish may be required to understand the tour.
More »
Matanchén Bay
Matanchén Bay is en route to San Blas on the Pacific Coast north of Puerto Vallarta some two-and-a-half hours away, partly on curvy two-lane roads. This beach is long and broad with great views of the mountains south of it. Palapa protections near the waterline offer shade, even though there are few services aside from some decent seafood restaurants right off the highway.
More »
Mexcaltitán
Mexcaltitan is an island located in one of the lakes in the estuaries north of San Blas. It is considered possibly the origin of the Aztec peoples, who migrated to create Tenochtitlan centuries ago in what is now Mexico City. Even though the island offers little in the way of tourist services, it's interesting for those who have a focus on history rather than culture. A museum offers some insight into the history of the place previously known as Aztlán.
More »
Municipal Crafts Market
The Municipal Crafts Market, International Market, or Flea Market, as it's variously known, is on of the tourist destinations for shoppers who prefer to find everything under one roof. Not a bland mall, this colorful market opens up possibilities otherwise only imagined. Beads, leather, silver, pottery, and copperware can be found here.
More »
Museum Rio Cuale
This tiny yet visitor-friendly museum is located in the botanical garden of La Isla de Rio Cuale. It hosts a weekly lecture in English every Tuesday afternoon at 1p, presented by the Museum Director, Ana Mendizabal. Archaeological finds from the area are displayed, along with general information on Mesoamerican history and art. There is no admission charge. Visitors should note the museum is closed between 3p and 4p each day, and hours may vary during the rainy season.
More »
Nuevo Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta is actually in the neighboring state of Nayarit, just across the Ameca River, about 15 minutes north of the international airport that serves the entire region. Known for long, untrammeled sandy beaches, new deluxe resorts, two 18-hole golf courses, and its own marina, Nuevo Vallarta is coming into its own. Nevertheless, the cultural center remains in Puerto Vallarta, but if it's just sun and sand you want, you can't go wrong here.
More »
Paradise Plaza
Paradise Plaza was created by the Paradise Village Group to serve residents of Nuevo Vallarta. It houses shops, boutiques, a grocery store, restaurants, bars, cyber cafes, and more. The plaza has underground parking, is climate-controlled, and has full wheel-chair access.
More »
Parque Hidalgo
The new Hidalgo Park includes underground parking, while above, at street level, the gracious park has a fountain, shaded ramadas, and benches from which to enjoy the performances that surely this park will attract. It's just a block from the beginning of the Malecón, catty-corner from Hotel Rosita, and across the street from the Refugio Church.
More »
Paso Ancho
Paso Ancho is a small pueblo located across the Cuale River. It's accessed from the road between the two tunnels but also the local bus passes through. Artist Ada Colorina has her studio in town and usually has a studio day during the season. A number of horseback rides are offered into the hills from Paso Ancho.
More »
Pedestrian Bridge over Cuale River
This pedestrian bridge connects the Malecón to the Romantic Zone south of the Cuale River. A walkway also leads you down to the island located in the middle of the river, where you'll find fine dining in several restaurants as well as the local museum.
More »
Pérula
Pérula is a lesser-known town located on a bay several miles off the coastal road and a couple of hours south of Puerto Vallarta. It is secluded and thus the perfect destination to truly "get away from it all". Five miles of white sand beach, protected from stronger currents and winds by the bay, provide excellent swimming and beachcombing. At the northwest end of the bay is a mangrove estuary for exploration. he town has several restaurants and palapa stands, as well as markets and tiendas for staples. A pineapple truck stops by on Saturdays. There is also the Red Fish RV park, which offers 12 spaces with full hookups, restrooms with showers, and even Satellite TV (one channel, manager's choice, though)--a homey place for a stay.
More »
Playa Anclote
This is one of the remaining public-access beaches in Punta de Mita, and much of it is off-limits to those not staying within the 1,500 acres of coastline and mountains of the Punta Mita development, which includes the Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort and more. Traditionally a family escape for the entire area, a number of beachside palapa restaurants have evolved into a bit more upscale offerings, including attempts at fine dining. But mostly it's a pleasant place to spend a casual day at the beach within view of the Marieta Islands, especially during the whale season when the huge marine mammals can be seen breeching just off the coast. Man-made jetties have made it safer for children, but sections of the beach have lost some of their sand.
More »
Playa Bucerias
The Bucerías beach is considered one of the longest walking beaches on the coast of Banderas Bay. You can walk for miles in either direction, since Mexican beaches are public. Some beachside restaurants serve great seafood and drinks.
More »
Playa Conchas Chinas
If you are staying in the southern part of the city, this is the perfect place for you. This is a great beach for looking at small marine life. The beach is rocky and that has created wading pools. Bring the kids and show them some fantastic creatures or come for a little romance. The beach is usually overlooked and therefore it will be a quiet, secluded place for you and your loved one to spend some time together.
More »
Playa Destiladeras
Playa Destiladeras is one of the large remaining public access beaches in Punta de Mita with a restaurant at the entrance off the highway. You can walk toward the point for several miles before arriving at rock bluffs that prevent you from continuing. Other than the restaurant at the entrance, there are few if any additionak services, but there is the occasional vendor along the way.
More »
Playa Garza Blanca
Garza Blanca Beach is south of Puerto Vallarta at the scene of what was one of the earliest tourist developments on the south shore. The beach isn't extensive, and it is still accessible by an overgrown road, primarily used by locals and residents of the casitas above the highway. The beachfront hotel building remains abandoned.
More »
Playa la Manzanilla
Manzanilla Beach is a popular beach for local families located just beyond the town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle as you head toward the tip of Punta de Mita. A local Punta de Mita bus drops passengers right off the highway where you see the large, recently-built parking lot. Vendors and normal beach services are available here as well as emergency bathrooms.
More »
Playa Las Glorias
This long beach, with golden sand, always enjoys beautiful ocean sunsets. The beach provides a festive environment with many volleyball tournaments, sunbathing and other beach activities. You'll always be able to find various unique souvenirs or snacks from from one of the beach vendors, who are always around. Not surprisingly, this beach is home to many of Puerto Vallarta's top hotels. The Playa Las Tortugas
Playa las Tortugas is a long stretch of beach located on the ocean some two or more hours north of Puerto Vallarta. This development is dedicated to the preservation of the marine turtle species, many of which lay their eggs annually along the coast of Banderas Bay. Staying here doesn't require you to help, more than likely you will pitch in. It's a program supported in part by a group called Selva Negra, sponsored by Maná, a group of musicians, several of whom live in Puerto Vallarta.
More »
Playa Los Muertos
Playa Los Muertos (Playa de los Muertos, Playa del Sol) is a very popular family beach within easy walking from most places in the Romantic Zone (Old Town) as well as downtown. Vendors populate this beach quite heavily, so even if you claim the shade of a palapa, you will be offered goods and merchandise every few minutes. The advantage is that you can be waited on hand and foot for food and drink as well as jewelry, beads, blankets and much more. There is a section of this beach called the Blue Chairs (with blue chairs) that is known as the gay beach.
More »
Playa Mismaloya
Playa Mismaloya offers a public beach next to the hotel that is now called Barcelo (a member of a European chain). There are services there as well as bathrooms but you will be expected to pay. A parking lot is available for those who arrive early. Since it's near the mouth of the river, the size of the beach can vary by season.
More »
Playa Nuevo Vallarta
The popular beach is a long, sandy beach north of Puerto Vallarta in the hotel zone of Nuevo Vallarta. The beach lost its public access for some time due to the hotels along the beach, but as of December 15, 2005, the beach is once again accessible to the public.
More »
Plaza Caracol
Plaza Caracol might be just any other plaza or shopping mall, but this one has major banks, money exchanges, grocery store (Gigante), stores and boutiques, and maybe most importantly, an eight-screen movie theater operated by Cinemark. Just across the street is the Cornerstone Hospital, a full-service medical facility that accepts all types of insurance.
More »
Punta Mita
A quaint fishing village holds this treasured rocky beach. Tourists come for the views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the ocean, as well as for great water activities. Snorkeling is popular on the south side of the peninsula where the waters are clear and calm. Come to relax and watch the amazing sunset on the waters of the Pacific as the waves roll in. This beach is a calm place to come and collect yourself during a hectic vacation.
More »
Quimixto
Quimixto is a beach on the south shore of Banderas Bay only accessible by water, served by a regular water taxi service that departs from both Los Muertos Pier and Boca de Tomatlán. There is a small town that you can wander around with cobblestone streets and fields with dozens of horses, which can be rented for riding into the hills where there is a waterfall. Restaurants and bars are numerous along the waterfront. It's a pleasant place to spend time and perhaps not as crazy as Las Animas, since the town keeps things calmer.
More »
Rancho El Verano
Rancho El Verano is owned by Don Rosendo, who has created a tequila distillery with the assistance of the inimitable Partida family members of Amatitlán who have been "tequileros" for many generations. This distillery will impress you with the modern equipment guaranteed to produce a good product every time on a small scale. It is bottled under the label of Don David and available for purchase there. He also rents horses for a three-hour trip into the hills along the river to an interior waterfall where you can go swimming before returning for lunch.
More »
San Blas
San Blas was a major Pacific coast port before Puerto Vallarta was even founded. A fort (Contaduria) is located on the hill above the city as well as the church (Templo de la Virgen del Rosario); while the town itself is built on the flatlands of what were originally swamps. Despite its historic importance, it never grew into the tourist destination originally imagined. Many still consider it much more flavorful than the Banderas Bay area.
More »
San Francisco
About 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, San Francisco (San Pancho) is a growing coastal town with a great wide beach just off downtown. Beachside restaurants will serve you both food and drinks. The polo grounds are active Saturdays in the afternoon, so stick around for a match. Polo season is from November through May.
More »
San Sebastián Plaza
The Main Plaza of the colonial mining town of San Sebastián del Oeste is built on a sloping hillside and has a central kiosk. Fronted by stores, pensiones (inns), and restaurants, this is the usual drop-off or meeting point for groups arriving in San Sebastian. The church is just a block away.
More »
Sayulita
Sayulita may feel like a return to the '60s, with tie-dyes hanging from the shops as well as other items popular back then. In reality, this popular art community, just 45 minutes north of Vallarta, has some of the most gorgeous villas available for rent for weeks at a time. Several spas offer retreats and a number of relaxation techniques for groups or individuals. Dining varies from neighborhood taco stands to gourmet-style. Sayulita is one of the most popular surfer hang-outs, with surfing lessons available for those who haven't caught on yet.
More »
Sea Life Park
Sea Life Park (formerly Splash) houses a swimming pool where you can swim with the dolphins as well as enjoy the regular show. Water slides and other water-focused activities make it very popular with families.
More »
Sports Stadium
This modern sports stadium is used for many community events. Even if there is no event going on, take your kids to the stadium to enjoy sporting activities such as basketball, football (soccer), baseball, rollerblading, skateboarding, aerobics, running on the new running track, and much more. Register at the office for a minimal fee of 20 pesos to get your ID, if you plan to visit daily.
More »
Tehualmixtle
Tehualmixtle is an inaccessible beach unless you have a guide. It's located south of the point of Cabo Corrientes, and even the guide says it's not for the faint of heart. Nearby is a trailer-site for overnighting.
More »
Terra Noble Art and Healing Center
This healing retreat promotes itself as a facility where stressed out visitors can learn to heal themselves. Come here to be educated on ways to better yourself during your stay; commit to those principles and be healthier even after you have returned home. Its ecological and artistic proposal: A creative and healthy alternative lifestyle, where you can freely grow in harmony with the universe. This may just be a lifestyle alteration that you and your body will appreciate in the years to come. Don't stress over vacation details; come to this center and be restored.
More »
Túnel (El)
This bus destination (TUNEL) is actually not a destination in itself as much as a bypass to avoid downtown during times of parades, holidays, or heavy traffic. The route (Libramiento) is a highway that has signals, goes through a long tunnel, and then a bit later, a short tunnel. There's a great view of the ocean in between the tunnels, and once you pass the short tunnel, you're in Viejo Vallarta, Old Town. The bus will usually (it sometimes turns back sooner on holidays) take you to Plaza Lazaro Cardenas, so you're only a block from the street called Olas Altas (cafes, etc.) and the ocean.
More »
Viejo Vallarta
Although this area is known as "Old Town," this isn't actually the oldest part of the city. But you would never know it. With its quaint cobblestone streets lined with family-owned establishments, this area has managed to preserve the charm of an old Mexican village, without compromising quality dining, shopping, hotels, and activities. This is where you come to experience REAL Mexico. Prepare to embark from traditional tourism and get ready to acquaint yourself with authentic Mexican culture.
More »
Virgin of Talpa Basilica
The Virgin of Talpa de Allende is one of the important virgins of Mexico, particularly in the Sierra Madre Occidental Range and on both sides of it. The Day of the Virgin is October 7, a day on which thousands of faithful come from around the country to pay their respects. It's said that the population of Talpa more than triples on that day.
More »
Virgin of the Rosary Church
The Virgin of the Rosary Church (Templo de la Virgen del Rosario) is the stone shell of the original church built at the same time as the fort, between 1769 and 1788. The virgin was called La Marinera because she was the patron saint of sailors. It's the site of the famous Henry W. Longfellow poem, "The Bells of San Blas," though the bells are no longer on the site.
More »
Vista Vallarta Golf Course
Vista Vallarta is one of the newer courses in Puerto Vallarta, and is located at the foothills of the Sierra Madres with a fantastic view of the sea. One of the courses is designed by Jack Nicklaus and the other by the less-known naturalist golfer Tom Weiskopf. Vista Vallarta was host to the EMC2 World Cup in 2002 and will host the PGA tournament beginning in 2006. In addition, this course is popular with other national and international tournaments.
More »
Yelapa
Yelapa is accessible only by water, with regular service during the day and evening by local water taxis. The town is also called the Tahiti of Mexico; if you climb the hill above town and look onto the bay, you'll see why. It's friendly, but no longer as inexpensive as it used to be. A boutique spa called Verana is an option if you can get in.
More »