57 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Puerto Vallarta sits on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco. It is about 5 hours by road from Guadalajara and about 12 hours from Mexico City. The Sierra Madre mountains rise right behind town, so you can swim in the morning and hike in the jungle by lunch. About 290,000 people live in the municipality, and locals call it “PV.” It grew from a small fishing village in the 1850s into one of Mexico’s best-known beach towns. Travelers come for the beaches, boat trips, food, and a walkable old town. That mix is why things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico run from a sunrise hike to a midnight kayak tour.

The best things to do in Puerto Vallarta start in town with the Malecón and Zona Romántica. From there, take a boat to Los Arcos or the Marietas Islands, book a zipline or ATV tour in the Sierra Madre, or head out to Sayulita, San Pancho, and San Sebastián del Oeste. Whale season runs from about December to March. Turtles nest in the warm months, and hatchling releases usually run from about July to December, depending on when the eggs hatch. You can do most of this without a rental car. This list shows which activities are worth booking and which ones you can skip.

If you want	Choose
A first afternoon to get oriented	Walk the Malecón, then Zona Romántica
The best snorkeling near town	Los Arcos, not the Marietas hidden beach
A splurge night out	Rhythms of the Night (ALMA) at Las Caletas
A day trip without a tour group	Sayulita and San Pancho by local bus
Something almost nobody else does	The Nuevo Ixtlán hot springs or a temazcal ceremony
Family time that isn’t the beach	Vallarta Botanical Garden or Ocean Mania Water Park

All 57 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta at a Glance: Cost and Best For

Use this as your reference table for Puerto Vallarta tourist activities. Prices change by season and by operator, so use these figures as a guide. Where the Cost column says “Ask the operator,” we couldn’t find a public price. Check with the tour company, guide, or venue before you book.

Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta	Cost	Best for	Our take
Malecón walk	Free	First afternoon orientation	Don’t skip, walk it twice
Guadalupe Church	Free	History and photos	Worth 15 minutes
Rio Cuale Market	Free entry	Local crafts and jewelry	Worth a slow browse
Mirador Cerro de la Cruz	Free	Budget travelers, morning views	Underrated, don’t skip it
Los Muertos Beach	Free	Convenience, restaurants nearby	Fine for day one, not a highlight
Playa Las Gemelas	Free	Quieter snorkeling	Hidden gem
Playa Los Camarones	Free	Avoiding tourist crowds	Locals’ pick
Colomitos	Round trip: $5 to $10 USD per person	Secluded cove	Worth the boat ride
Yelapa (day trip)	Water taxi fares vary, so ask at the pier. A private boat costs more.	Full day trip with a waterfall	Confirm the return boat before you wander off
Playa Careyeros	Free	Surfers over swimmers	Go for the surf, not a swim day
Beach clubs (Ritmos, Sapphire, Mantamar)	Cost of food and drink; table minimums possible	A resort-style beach day	Book ahead on weekends
Playa Paredón	Free	Surfers over swimmers	Watch the current if you’re not surfing
Punta de Mita	Free to visit, beach clubs cost extra	Beginner surfers, beach club days	A nice change of scenery from the main beaches
Los Arcos snorkeling	Adults: $68 to $80 USD per person Children: from about $34 USD	Best all-around snorkeling	Book this over Marietas
Marietas Islands Hidden Beach	$93 to $160	The bucket list photo	Worth it once, not twice
Bioluminescent kayaking	Ask the operator	A night activity most visitors overlook	The most memorable water activity here
Scuba diving	Certified $69 to $110; beginner dive $116 to $189	Certified and beginner divers	Ask for a certified dive specifically
Whale watching tour	Ask the operator	December through March visitors	Aim for January or February, the peak months
Dolphin wild swim tour	Ask the operator	Seeing dolphins in open water	Closer to seeing them wild
Dolphin marine center encounter	Ask the operator	Young kids, a predictable setting	Better for young kids
ATV plus zipline combo	$110.00 to $140.00 USD	A first adventure day	Solid starter adventure
Extreme Adventure (bridge and longest zipline)	$90 to $129	Adrenaline seekers	Go here for the adrenaline
Waterfall rappelling tour	Ask the operator	A step up from the standard zipline	Best for repeat zipline visitors
Horseback riding tour	Ask the operator	Scenery without the adrenaline	Good pick if anyone’s nervous about heights
Nuevo Ixtlán hot springs	About 70 to 100 pesos entry	Something almost nobody does	One of the best mornings you can book
Temazcal ceremony	Ask the operator	A physically different kind of spa day	Not for anyone claustrophobic
HAMAM Turkish bath	Ask the operator	A post-sun, post-cobblestone reset	A genuinely good reset
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary	From 250 pesos	Nature lovers and families	Worth the detour
Butterfly sanctuary	Ask the operator	A quiet, shaded morning	Calm, easy add-on
Craft beer bus tour	Ask the operator	A break from tequila tastings	A nice change of pace
Mezcal vs tequila tasting	Ask the operator	Learning the difference properly	More educational than the average shot bar
Pitillal food tour	Ask the operator	Eating where locals actually eat	One of the best mornings in the city
Chocolate making class	Ask the operator	A hands-on rainy day activity	Good backup plan for a rainy morning
Casa Kimberly vintage photo tour	Ask the operator	Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton history buffs	A fun photo op; skip it if that history doesn’t interest you
Jungle chakra activation hike	Ask the operator	A slower, meditative alternative to the adventure tours	For a completely different kind of morning
Agave spirits bar crawl	Ask the operator	The full tequila, mezcal, and raicilla education	Better than a single tasting if you’re genuinely curious
Tequila or mezcal distillery tour	Often free with a purchase	Curious first-timers	Skip the Malecón shot bars for this instead
Downtown food tour	$55 to $59	A first afternoon orientation to local food	Good first afternoon booking
Local taco stalls (Don Chava, Pancho’s Tacos, Balam Balam)	A few dollars a plate	Eating like a local, skipping the tour	Better value than most guided food tours
Birria food tour	Ask the operator	Jalisco’s signature dish, done properly	Go hungry
Sayulita and San Pancho, guided	$89 to $109	Convenience over a set schedule	Convenient, but you’ll want more time
Sayulita and San Pancho, by bus	Bus fare only	Independent, budget-minded travelers	The better way to do this trip
San Sebastián del Oeste	Ask the operator	Colonial history over another beach day	Worth the long day if you like history
Boca de Tomatlán	Bus or taxi fare	A quieter Yelapa alternative	Underrated stop
Quimixto waterfall	Boat fare from Boca de Tomatlán	Adventurous hikers	Wear real shoes; it’s worth it
Los Ánimas	Boat fare	Extending a southern coast day trip	A good add-on, not a destination alone
Sunset sailing	Ask the operator	Couples wanting quiet over a crowd	Better than a party boat for couples
Sport fishing charter	Ask the operator	Anglers and groups who want a boat day	Book a private charter if you’re serious about it
Pirate ship cruise	Ask the operator	Families and groups	Fun with kids; skip it for a quiet evening
Vallarta Botanical Garden	Entry fee; ask for current rate	Families and nature lovers	A genuinely different pace from the beach
Ocean Mania Water Park	$125 to $180	Families with older kids	Pricey but a full day of activity
Zoológico de Vallarta	Entry fee plus food	Families with younger kids	Budget extra for the feeding
Estero El Salado mangrove tour	Ask the operator	Birdwatchers and families	Quiet and easy to underestimate
Sea turtle release	Free	Everyone, especially families	Don’t miss this if you’re here in season
Rhythms of the Night	$125 to $179 plus a $20 access fee	A cultural night out	The better splurge for couples
Majahuitas Beach Party	$115.00 to $129.00 USD per person	An adults-only beach rave	The better splurge for a group
Vallarta Pride	Ask the operator	LGBTQ+ travelers visiting in May	A major event, book lodging early if your dates overlap

How Do You Get to Puerto Vallarta?

Most visitors land at Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). It is about 25 minutes from El Centro and Zona Romántica.If you are coming by road from Guadalajara or Mexico City, you can easily book your bus ticket online on BoletoXpress before you leave. Book your trip home there too, so you are not hunting for a ticket at the station on your last day.

What's the Best Way to Get Around Once You're Here?

You don’t need a car in the city. Zona Romántica and El Centro are walkable, but the roads and cobbled streets are quite steep, so take good shoes. Local buses cost about 10 pesos per person and cover most major routes. Look at the windshield sign, not the driver’s name. A bus marked “Pitillal” goes to Pitillal, not downtown. Uber is usually cheaper than a taxi. Whether you are catching a ride-share or taking the bus to the airport, you have to walk to your pickup point outside the main terminal.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips: What Should You Know Before You Go?

Use pesos whenever you can. If a card machine asks whether to charge you in dollars or pesos, choose pesos. Dollars usually give you a worse exchange rate. Nights between December and March are cool along the coast, so bring something warm. At restaurants in tourist areas like Puerto Vallarta, tip 15 percent, and check the bill first because some places already add a service charge. At bars, tip 15 to 20 pesos per drink. For hotel housekeeping, leave 20 to 50 pesos per day. Use pesos for all tips.

How Many Days Do You Need in Puerto Vallarta?

Use this plan for a 2- to 5-day trip. Do Day 1 and Day 2 if you have two days, then add one day for each extra day.

Day	Focus
Day 1	Malecón walk, Guadalupe Church, Mirador Cerro de la Cruz, dinner in Zona Romántica
Day 2	Los Arcos snorkeling in the morning, Los Muertos beach in the afternoon, Rhythms of the Night or a nightlife evening
Day 3	ATV plus zipline or the Extreme Adventure combo in the Sierra Madre foothills
Day 4	Sayulita and San Pancho by local bus, or Yelapa if you’d rather see a waterfall
Day 5	San Sebastián del Oeste for colonial history, or the Quimixto waterfall by boat if you’d rather stay closer to town. The Nuevo Ixtlán hot springs also work as a half-day trip.

What Should You Do Along the Malecón?

The Malecón is Puerto Vallarta’s oceanfront boardwalk in El Centro. Four stops along it fit into one afternoon: the boardwalk itself, Guadalupe Church, Rio Cuale Market, and Mirador Cerro de la Cruz. The table shows how long each takes and one local tip for each.

Stop	Time needed	Notes	Local tip
Malecón walk	45 to 60 minutes end to end	Different vibe at sunset versus after dark	Grab a bench near the sculptures around 6 p.m.; that’s when the street performers set up
Guadalupe Church	15 to 20 minutes	No shorts or bare shoulders. Check the parish for Mass times	Look up before you walk in; the crown replica is easy to miss from directly below
Rio Cuale Market	30 to 60 minutes	Open daily 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Separate Wednesday Art Walk at El Centro galleries, 6 to 10 p.m., late October through May	Prices soften if you’re buying more than one item from the same stall
Mirador Cerro de la Cruz	15 to 20 minute climb	Steep stairs; go early or near sunset	Bring water; there’s no vendor at the top

Walking the Malecón

The Malecón is a seaside boulevard about 12 blocks long. It runs along El Centro to the edge of the Cuale River. You will pass bronze statues, street performers, tequila bars, and fish stands.

By day, joggers and dog walkers use it. By 10 p.m., it becomes the center of the city’s nightlife. We recommend walking it twice, once in the afternoon and once after dark.

Watch for the Voladores de Papantla. Performers climb a tall pole and descend hanging from a rope. UNESCO added this Totonac ritual to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009.

If you prefer a route, this walk links the main sights in one afternoon. Start at the Malecón and visit the nearby Guadalupe Church. Walk south through El Centro. Cross onto Isla Cuale to browse the Rio Cuale Market. Finish at the Los Muertos Pier in Zona Romántica.

Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

The Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe is located one block away from the boardwalk. This church’s crown appears in almost every picture of the city’s skyline. The church is younger than it looks. Construction began in 1903, and the main tower was finished in 1952. The current crown replaced the original, which fell in the 1995 earthquake. It is still an active parish, so dress modestly; no shorts, bare shoulders, or flip-flops.

Rio Cuale Market

For souvenirs, skip the stands along the boardwalk and try the Rio Cuale market. This two-story indoor market has operated since the 1950s. More than 150 stalls sell local crafts and silver jewelry. A food court serves meals for a few dollars.

How Should You Spend One Afternoon in El Centro?

With one afternoon, follow the route above. If you only have time for two stops, pick the Malecón and the church.

Should You Hike Mirador Cerro de la Cruz?

The path to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz starts in El Centro and follows stone stairs. You do not need special gear, but the climb is steep, and you will sweat. From the top, you can see the rooftops of El Centro and Banderas Bay. The stairs have no shade at midday, so go early or late.

What Are the Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta?

The beach in town is fine for a first day, but the better sand and clearer water are a short ride away. The table shows how far each beach is and how to get there. Yelapa and Boca de Tomatlán are covered under day trips below.

Beach	Distance from Zona Romántica	Getting there	Water conditions
Los Muertos	In town	Walk	Calm, but busy with boat traffic near the pier
Playa Las Gemelas	About a 20-minute drive	Taxi or rental car	Calm and clear, good snorkeling visibility
Conchas Chinas	Walkable, but a long walk	Walk or short taxi	Rocky entry, calm pools at low tide
Playa Los Camarones	About a 15-minute drive	Taxi or local bus	Calm, minimal current
Mismaloya	About a 20-minute drive	Taxi or tour bus	Calm, protected cove
Colomitos	Water taxi from Zona Romántica or Boca de Tomatlán	Boat, or a 30-minute hiking trail from Boca de Tomatlán	Clear water, small and sheltered
Playa Careyeros	About 1.5-hour drive	Rental car or taxi	Real surf break, not ideal for casual swimming
Playa Paredón	About a 1-hour drive	Rental car or taxi	Popular surf beach, watch for currents
Punta de Mita	About a 45-minute drive	Taxi or rental car	Calm, good for beginner surfing and beach clubs

Los Muertos is the closest and busiest beach. It has a pier, many places to eat, and easy access from Zona Romántica. If you want fewer crowds, try Las Gemelas or Los Camarones (Shrimp Beach), which many tourists skip. Las Gemelas also has some of the best snorkeling close to town.

Beach Clubs Worth Knowing About

Beach clubs give you a lounger, drinks, and music for the day. Ritmos Beach Café sits on Los Muertos Beach, in the stretch known as Green Chairs, and has a laid-back feel. Sapphire Ocean Club is a quieter boutique club with a pool, and its day pass includes pool access and towels. Mantamar Beach Club is the party spot, with a pool, cabanas, and DJs. Ask about table minimums and weekend availability before you go.

Is Los Arcos or the Marietas Islands Better for Snorkeling?

Los Arcos National Marine Park and the Marietas Islands are the two main snorkeling trips from Puerto Vallarta. Travelers often ask which one to pick. The table compares boat time, access rules, and booking lead time.

Trip	Boat time	Access notes	Booking lead time
Los Arcos	Under 1 hour each way	Protected marine park, book through a licensed operator	Often bookable the same day or one day ahead
Marietas Islands Hidden Beach	About 1 hour each way	Capped by the national park, small groups only	Book several days ahead; the park limits daily visitor numbers

Los Arcos is our pick for most travelers. It is a group of rock islands in Banderas Bay, a short boat ride from downtown or Mismaloya. It is a protected marine park, so the fish life is healthy. A half-day cruise costs about $68 to $80 per adult.

Marietas Islands and the Hidden Beach

The Marietas Islands are popular for Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor). It is a circular beach within a volcanic formation. You can reach the beach by swimming through a tiny tunnel. The national park restricts the number of visitors, according to this Vallarta Adventures guide to the Marietas Islands. Hidden Beach is a natural wonder, but the tour has its limitations. First, the boat ride takes over an hour each way. Second, the beach has a daily visitor limit. Third, you have limited time to enjoy the beach, usually ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.

General Hidden Beach (Marietas Islands) Prices

Adults: $93.00 to $160.00 USD
Children (Ages 5–11): $93.00 to $160.00 USD
Toddlers and kids under 5: Not allowed (some operators, including Vallarta Adventures, set a minimum age of 10)

General Los Arcos Prices

Adults: $68 to $80 USD
Children (Ages 4 to 11): from about $34 USD
Toddlers (Ages 0 to 3): ask the operator

Mandatory Extra Fees

Hidden Beach entrance fee: about 600 MXN per person, paid in cash on some tours, so confirm with your operator.
Marina Port Entrance Fee: $2.00 to $3.00 USD (40–60 MXN) per person

Bioluminescent Kayaking

Bioluminescent kayaking is a night tour. You paddle near Los Arcos or Mismaloya while tiny glowing microorganisms light up the water around your paddle. Whether the water glows depends on the season and the night, so ask the operator how often they see it. It is less well known than snorkeling, and it is our top pick for a water activity.

Scuba Diving, Whale Watching, and Dolphins

Banderas Bay offers scuba diving at Los Arcos, whale watching in winter, and dolphin encounters all year. The table compares season, duration, and experience needed.

Activity	Season	Duration	Certification or experience needed
Scuba diving	Best in the fall, once the rains ease	4 to 5 hours	None for the beginner dive; certification required for the deeper version
Whale watching	Set each year by SEMARNAT. The 2025 to 2026 season ran December 8 to March 23. Peak is January and February.	Half day	None
Dolphin wild swim tour	Year round	Half day	None, but you should be a confident swimmer
Dolphin marine center encounter	Year round	1 to 2 hours	None

Can You Go Scuba Diving in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes. Los Arcos is the main dive site near town. If you are not certified, you can take a guided beginner dive with an instructor. It is often included in half-day tours that also include snorkeling. Certified divers can go deeper and explore caves and rock formations that snorkelers cannot see. Dive trips take 4 to 5 hours and cost between $69 and $189, depending on whether you are certified. Visibility is often best in the fall, after the summer rains. Near shore, the water can turn cloudy after heavy rain. If you are certified, tell the operator so you get a certified dive.

General Scuba Diving Prices

Certified Divers: $69.00 to $110.00 USD per person
Beginners: $116.00 to $189.00 USD per person
Children: Not recommended under age 10; standard adult rates apply

Can You Swim With Dolphins or Watch Whales in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes to both, and they are different experiences. SEMARNAT sets the whale season each year. For 2025 to 2026, its official notice ran from December 8, 2025 to March 23, 2026. The 2026 to 2027 notice was not out when we checked, so confirm the dates before you book. Whales can appear as early as late November, and a few stay into April. January and February are the peak months. Numbers drop late in the season, so book earlier if whales matter to you. Authorized boats carry a copy of their SEMARNAT permit and fly the whale watching flag, so ask to see the permit before you pay.

You can see dolphins in two ways. The first is a program offered by a marine mammal facility, where you participate in activities in a supervised pool. The second method is a wild swim, where a marine biologist follows dolphin pods in the sea using a hydrophone.

What Are the Best Adventure Tours Inland?

The best adventure tours in Puerto Vallarta run through the Sierra Madre foothills, from ATV and zipline combos to waterfall rappelling and horseback riding. The table below compares duration, intensity, and minimum age.

Tour	Duration	Intensity	Minimum age
ATV plus zipline combo	5 hours	Moderate	Usually 8
Extreme Adventure (bridge and longest zipline)	6 hours	High	Usually 8, taller height requirement for the zipline itself
Waterfall rappelling tour	Varies by operator	High	Ask operator, generally not suited to young kids
Horseback riding tour	Full day	Low to moderate	Usually 6 or 7

The ziplines and ATV tracks sit in the Sierra Madre foothills, just outside town. Here is how the tours differ. The ATV and zipline combo includes a dip in the Canopy River and a tequila tasting at the end. The Extreme Adventure tour adds a suspension bridge and the city’s longest zipline, over 1,200 meters long. The waterfall tour pairs ziplining with a rappel down a real jungle waterfall, so it is a step up from a basic canopy tour.

General ATV & Zipline Combo Prices

Single Rider (Adults): $110.00 to $140.00 USD per person
Double Rider (Two Adults on One ATV): $170.00 to $220.00 USD total
Children: $70.00 to $95.00 USD per child (Must ride as a passenger with an adult; age minimums vary by operator)

Extreme Adventure Prices

Adults (Ages 12+): $129.00 USD per person (Online promotions often discount this to $90.30 USD)
Children (Ages 8–11): $89.00 USD per person (Online promotions often discount this to $62.30 USD)
Toddlers (Ages 0–7): Not allowed due to safety restrictions

Which Puerto Vallarta Adventure Tour Should You Choose?

Choose the Extreme Adventure tour if you want the biggest adrenaline hit in one day. Choose horseback riding if you are traveling with children under 10 or anyone nervous about heights.

What Are the Most Unique Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta That Aren't in Every Guide?

These off-the-beaten-path things to do in Puerto Vallarta, from hot springs and temazcal ceremonies to a Pitillal food tour, are the ones most visitors never book. The table shows how long each takes and how to reserve.

Experience	Duration	Group size	How to book
Nuevo Ixtlán hot springs	Half day with travel	Small group, rough access road	Reservation only, through a guided tour
Temazcal ceremony	1 to 2 hours	Small group	Reservation only, spots fill up
HAMAM Turkish bath	1 to 2 hours	Individual or couple	Reservation recommended, walk-ins sometimes accepted
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary	45 minutes to 1 hour or more, depending on the tour	Small group	Walk-in or reservation
Butterfly sanctuary	1 hour	Small group	Reservation recommended for small group slots
Craft beer bus tour	Half day	Small group	Reservation only
Mezcal vs tequila tasting	2 to 3 hours	Small group	Reservation recommended
Pitillal food tour	3.5 hours	Capped at 8 guests	Reservation only; the cap fills fast
Chocolate making class	1 to 2 hours	Small group	Reservation recommended

Most guides to this city repeat the same dozen tours. If you want something different, start with the hot springs and the Pitillal food tour. We think they are the two best mornings you can book beyond the usual list.

Nuevo Ixtlán hot springs: About 20 stone pools of hot spring water sit in the mountains, 1.5 to 2 hours from the city. Entry is 70 to 100 pesos per person, toddlers are free, and camping costs 100 pesos. The road is worst from July to October.
Temazcal ceremony: An ancient Mexican sweat lodge ritual that uses heated volcanic stones. Terra Noble offers it.
Turkish bath at HAMAM Puerto Vallarta: A full steam and scrub treatment in Zona Romántica. A good reset after a few days of sun and cobblestones.
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary: A rehabilitation center run by veterinarians and marine biologists. General access costs 250 pesos for adults and 150 pesos for children under 12. The full guided tour costs 350 pesos for adults and 250 pesos for children under 12. Children under 2 are free.
Butterfly sanctuary: You can watch newly hatched butterflies being released.
Craft beer bus tour: The tour visits four local breweries and a beer bar, with tastings and food included.
Mezcal vs tequila tasting: A bartender leads a side-by-side tasting in a Zona Romántica cantina. Salsa lessons and karaoke follow some tastings.
Pitillal food tour: Pitillal is a neighborhood most tourists never see, and locals eat here.
Chocolate-making class: Mexico is where the chocolate drink was born. A hands-on class at a place like the Choco Museo covers Mayan-style drinking chocolate and modern bars.
Casa Kimberly and a vintage photo shoot: This is Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s old hillside home, now a boutique hotel. A pink footbridge, the Puente del Amor, connects it to the house across the street. A few operators run a vintage Polaroid photo tour around the house, the bridge, and a Los Arcos backdrop. It is a fun way to see the house without booking a room.
Jungle chakra activation hike: A guided hike through the Sierra Madre foothills built around meditation and sound healing with singing bowls. It moves at a much slower pace than the adventure tours above.
Agave spirits bar crawl: A roughly four-hour tour of several bars that adds raicilla to tequila and mezcal. It gives you a fuller spirits education than one tasting can.

Where Should You Eat and Drink?

Tequila, Mezcal, and Raicilla Tasting

Jalisco is the main state for tequila, so tastings are easy to find. If you want to learn how it is made, not just drink it, book a distillery tour.

Food Tours

Food tours are among the best things you can do during your first few hours in town. Downtown walking food tours and taco tours take 3-3.5 hours and include 8-10 stops. There is also a tour that specializes in birria, the famous dish from Jalisco state.

Downtown Food Tour Prices

Adults (18+): $55 USD (No Drinks) or $59 USD (With 2 Beers included)
Adolescents (13–17): $49 USD
Children (5–12): $44 USD
Young Children (0–4): Free

Street Food and Local Favorites

If you would rather skip the tour and eat on your own, start with Don Chava and Pancho’s Tacos for street tacos. Balam Balam is a riverside seafood restaurant. For a sit-down meal, Bravos and La Fina Cocina are better choices than the crowded Malecón restaurants. Wherever you land, order tacos de pescado (fish tacos) and ceviche, the two coastal dishes worth ordering first.

Vegetarian and Vegan Dining

Vegetarians and vegans have good options in and near Zona Romántica and El Centro. Planeta Vegetariano serves a vegetarian buffet with vegan options, near Guadalupe Church. Tell the staff you are vegan and they will point out which dishes to skip. Salud Super Food, on Olas Altas Street, is a short walk from Los Muertos Beach and serves bowls and juices. Playa Detox serves raw vegan food. 100% Vegana Taqueria serves vegan tacos.

Toes in the Sand Dining

For a sunset dinner right on the sand, try El Dorado, on Púlpito Street, which sits on Los Muertos Beach. It is a good alternative to the restaurants on the Malecón.

What Day Trips Are Worth Taking From Puerto Vallarta?

Some of the best places to visit in Puerto Vallarta are outside the city itself, and most are within an hour or two by road or boat.

Day trip	Travel time	Best mode	Can you DIY it
Sayulita and San Pancho	About 1 hour each way	Guided tour or local minibus	Yes, direct minibusses run all day
San Sebastián del Oeste	Full day, about 8 hours with a tour	Guided tour	Difficult without a car; a tour is easier
Yelapa	About 1 hour each way by water taxi	Water taxi	Yes, buy a water taxi ticket at the pier
Boca de Tomatlán	20 to 25 minutes	Local bus, taxi, or water taxi	Yes, easiest DIY trip on this list
Quimixto	Boat from Boca de Tomatlán plus a 30-minute hike	Boat plus hike	Yes, boats run from Boca de Tomatlán dock
Los Ánimas	Short boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán, before Quimixto	Boat only	Yes, combine it with the Quimixto boat

Sayulita and San Pancho

Sayulita and San Pancho are about an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta. They are the most visited beach towns on this stretch of coast. A guided tour is easy, but you must follow the tour’s schedule. Direct minibusses also run to both towns, which makes them an easy addition to an intercity bus travel itinerary. Going on your own costs less, and you can stay after sunset.

Sayulita & San Pancho Guided Tour Prices

Adults (Ages 12+): $89.00 to $109.00 USD per person (Online promotions can drop this to $53.00 to $76.00 USD)
Children (Ages 8–11): $62.00 to $76.00 USD per person
Young Children (Under 8): Free to $45.00 USD

San Sebastián del Oeste

In the Sierra Madre mountain area, this town, formerly known for its silver mining industry, has intact nineteenth-century stone and adobe buildings. It takes less than two hours to drive here, making it an easy day trip for those who want history more than beaches.

Yelapa

Yelapa is a small fishing town reached by water taxi. The boat ride takes about an hour from the Los Muertos Pier. A waterfall is about a 10-minute walk from the beach. Boats run on a set schedule, and the last boat back leaves in the afternoon. Confirm the return time before you wander off. If you miss it, a private boat can cost more than $150.

Boca de Tomatlán

Boca de Tomatlán is about a 25-minute drive south of the city. It is a quieter, smaller alternative to Yelapa. It has a swimmable bay, a small waterfront walkway, and fresh fish. You do not need a full day here.

Quimixto

Quimixto is reached only by boat from Boca de Tomatlán. From the dock, a 30-minute walk leads to a waterfall with a natural pool. About half the route is a mule path. Wear real shoes, because sandals do not work here.

Los Ánimas

Los Ánimas is a beach on the same stretch of coast, a short boat ride from Boca de Tomatlán and before Quimixto. It is a good lunch stop. Combine it with the Quimixto hike if you want a full day.

Should You Book a Sunset Sailing Trip?

A sunset sail on Banderas Bay is the quiet alternative to a party boat or a snorkel tour. Vallarta Adventures runs a luxury sunset sail on a sailboat or catamaran, with a premium open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Most sunset sails last 2 to 3 hours. You return to shore as the sun sets. Choose this if you want calm water and good views, especially as a couple. If you want music and a crowd, pick the Majahuitas Beach Party or a snorkel tour instead.

Sport Fishing and Pirate Ship Cruises

Banderas Bay is well known for sport fishing. Half-day and full-day charters go after sailfish, marlin, and dorado (mahi mahi). If you are serious about fishing, book a private charter. One pirate ship cruise is the Marigalante, a replica of Columbus’s Santa María that holds 240 passengers. Day trips go to Majahuitas Island, and night trips include a pirate show, dinner, and fireworks. It suits families and groups better than couples, and it is not the right pick for a quiet evening.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta With Kids or as a Family?

Family-friendly things to do in Puerto Vallarta include the Vallarta Botanical Garden and the zoo, making the city a fantastic option for budget family travel. The table lists age range, duration, and stroller access for each.

Activity	Age range	Duration	Stroller or accessibility friendly
Vallarta Botanical Garden	All ages	Half day	Partly paved paths near the entrance; uneven further into the trails
Ocean Mania Water Park	Best for ages 9 and up	Full day	Not really; most activities require getting in the water
Zoológico de Vallarta	All ages	2 to 3 hours	Yes, mostly flat paved paths
Estero El Salado mangrove tour	All ages	2 hours	Yes, you stay in the boat
Sea turtle release	All ages	Varies; confirm before you go	Yes, but sand can be difficult for wheels

Vallarta Botanical Garden: The garden covers 79 acres, and 73 of them are forest preserve. It has one of Mexico’s most popular orchid gardens and a section of the Río Horcones where you can swim. The pace is very different from the beaches. There’s an on-site restaurant so that you can spend a full half day.
Ocean Mania Water Park: Parasailing, a jet boat, water slides, and a FlowRider wave simulator, set where the jungle meets the Pacific. Full-day tickets run about $125 to $180 for adults, and less for children ages 9 to 11. Children under 9 are not allowed. Online prices are often lower, so check the operator’s site.
Zoológico de Vallarta: A city zoo with hands-on animal feeding experiences (budget extra for the food).
Estero El Salado mangrove tours: Boat tours through mangrove wetlands where you’ll spot birds and, if you’re lucky, crocodiles in the wild rather than a sanctuary setting.
Sea turtle release: Sea turtles nest on beaches around Banderas Bay in the warm months, and camps such as the Boca de Tomates Sea Turtle Camp protect the eggs until they hatch. Releases usually run from about July to December, but dates and times change with hatching. Check with the Boca de Tomates Sea Turtle Camp before you go. Entrance is usually free.

What's Puerto Vallarta's Nightlife Like?

Puerto Vallarta nightlife ranges from bars in Zona Romántica and along the Malecón to boat-based shows and beach parties.

Zona Romántica and the Malecón After Dark

Some of the most fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta happen after dark. Most nightlife is in Zona Romántica. Its established LGBTQ+ community gathers in clubs such as Mantamar and Paco’s Ranch. At night, the Malecón turns into a row of bars and clubs. For live music, try La Palapa on Los Muertos Beach or the River Café on Isla Cuale.

Rhythms of the Night Dinner Show

For a unique excursion away from the city bars, you can book a specialized evening cruise. A top-rated option is Rhythms of the Night (ALMA), an open-air dinner theater performance based on Mexican mythology set against a sunset sail to Las Caletas. It runs most nights.

Rhythms of the Night Prices

Adults and children (ages 6 and up): $125 to $179 USD depending on package and season, with a regular ticket around $149 USD.
VIP ticket: about $199 USD.
Vallarta Adventures also collects a $20 USD per adult and $10 USD per child access fee at check-in.
Children (Under 6): Not allowed due to safety restrictions

Majahuitas Beach Party

The other option is the Majahuitas Beach Party. It runs on Saturdays only, at a beach you reach by boat, with DJ music. Guests must be 18 or older. The Majahuitas Beach Party costs $115 to $129 per person. Booking directly requires two guests at 2,300 MXN each, which includes the boat, entry, and a 2,000 MXN food and drink credit.

What Festivals Should You Plan Your Trip Around?

Puerto Vallarta festivals run year-round, from Día de los Muertos and the Festival Gourmet Internacional in autumn to Carnaval, Vallarta Pride, and Semana Santa. Check the dates below before you book lodging, since these weeks fill up quickly.

Festival	When	What happens	Dates
Día de los Muertos	Late October to early November	Catrina sculpture on the Malecón, citywide events	Main dates: November 1 and 2
Festival Gourmet Internacional	10 days in November	Chef takeovers, special menus	Confirmed for November 12 to 22, 2026; the 31st edition
Fiestas Guadalupanas	December	Nightly processions to the church downtown	December 1 to 12
Carnaval	February	Parades, floats, live music	Confirm the exact dates before booking
Vallarta Pride	Late May	Parade from Sheraton Buganvilias to Zona Romántica, block party, ticketed club events	Check the official Vallarta Pride schedule for exact dates
Semana Santa (Holy Week)	The week before Easter, late March or April	Mexican families on vacation, busy beaches, higher hotel rates	It was March 29 to April 4 in 2026; next is March 21 to 27, 2027

Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta by Traveler Type

First-time visitors: Start with the Malecón and Zona Romántica.

Couples: Try a sunset sail or Rhythms of the Night.

Families: Visit the Botanical Garden and, in season, a sea turtle release.

Adventure travelers: Build a day around ziplining, ATVs, and the Quimixto hike.

Budget travelers: Walk the Malecón and climb Cerro de la Cruz, which costs nothing beyond bus fare.

Foodies: Book a food tour, try birria, and explore the Pitillal neighborhood.

Nature lovers: Combine Los Arcos, whale season, and the Botanical Garden.

Repeat visitors: Try Nuevo Ixtlán, El Cora, and bioluminescent kayaking.

LGBTQ+ travelers: Most nightlife is in Zona Romántica.

Where Should You Stay?

Where you stay decides how much of this list you can do on foot. These are the four areas most visitors choose from. Price levels come from nightly rates on booking sites and change by season and date.

Zona Romántica (the Romantic Zone)

The most walkable base, with many restaurants, a strong LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, and easy access to Los Muertos Beach. Hotel Posada de Roger (budget) is close to Los Muertos Beach. Emperador Vallarta Beachfront Hotel and Suites (budget) is on Amapas Street and has a beachfront restaurant. Casa Doña Susana (mid-range) has a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa (mid-range) is on Olas Altas and has a full-service spa and three outdoor pools. Almar Resort (upscale) is a beachfront LGBTQ+ resort on Amapas Street with a spa, two restaurants, and a pool.

El Centro

Historic, hilly, and close to the Malecón and Guadalupe Church. Hotel Rosita (mid-range) sits at the north end of the Malecón and was the city’s first hotel. Hotel Rio Malecón (mid-range) is on Calle Morelos, one block from the beach, and was the second hotel built here. Hacienda San Ángel (upscale) is a boutique hotel with 20 suites in the hills, five blocks above the Malecón. Casa Kimberly Boutique Hotel, the former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, is also in El Centro.

Marina Vallarta

Near the airport, the golf courses, and the cruise terminal, and farther from everything else on this list. The Westin Resort & Spa is on Paseo de la Marina Sur, about 2 miles from the airport. Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa (upscale) and Velas Vallarta both sit close to the Marina Vallarta Golf Club. Casa Velas Hotel Boutique & Ocean Club (upscale) is adults-only.

Conchas Chinas

Quieter and more residential, a short drive south of Zona Romántica. Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is in Conchas Chinas. It has a private cove, about 5 minutes from downtown and 20 minutes from the airport.

What's the Weather Like, Month by Month?

Puerto Vallarta has a dry season and a wet season, and they change what’s realistic to plan.

Month	Avg. high	Avg. low	Avg. rainfall	Rain days	Crowds
January	81°F (27°C)	62°F (17°C)	37 mm (1.5 in)	2	Very busy
February	82°F (28°C)	62°F (17°C)	12 mm (0.5 in)	1	Very busy (busiest)
March	83°F (28°C)	63°F (17°C)	4 mm (0.2 in)	1	Very busy
April	84°F (29°C)	64°F (18°C)	4 mm (0.2 in)	1	Moderately busy
May	86°F (30°C)	68°F (20°C)	18 mm (0.7 in)	2	Less busy
June	89°F (32°C)	74°F (23°C)	227 mm (8.9 in)	15	Moderately busy
July	90°F (32°C)	75°F (24°C)	362 mm (14.3 in)	20	Moderately busy
August	91°F (33°C)	75°F (24°C)	380 mm (14.9 in)	21	Less busy
September	91°F (33°C)	75°F (24°C)	429 mm (16.9 in), wettest	20	Least busy
October	90°F (32°C)	74°F (23°C)	125 mm (4.9 in)	9	Less busy
November	88°F (31°C)	69°F (21°C)	24 mm (0.9 in)	2	Less busy
December	83°F (28°C)	64°F (18°C)	21 mm (0.8 in)	2	Very busy

Sources: Servicio Meteorológico Nacional and WeatherSpark climate normals, checked September 2026.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places to travel in December, though this marks the beginning of the dry, busy, and expensive season that runs through April. It overlaps with whale season, so the higher prices are worth it if you want to see whales. Nights are cooler than most visitors expect, so pack a light layer from December through March.

From July through September, expect the heaviest rain. September is the wettest month. Storms usually arrive in the late afternoon, so plan outdoor tours for the morning. On rainy afternoons, try a chocolate-making class, a Turkish bath at HAMAM, or the Rio Cuale Market. For lower hotel rates and smaller crowds, Puerto Vallarta consistently ranks among the best places to travel in November. October is also quieter, but it still rains on about 9 days.

The Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 to November 30. If you travel between June and October, check the National Hurricane Center forecast before you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a must-do in Puerto Vallarta?
The must-see in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico comes down to two things: walking the Malecón and snorkeling at Los Arcos. Beyond those, it depends on your budget and how much time you have; the comparisons above should help you pick.

Is it safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta right now?
Most visitors travel to Puerto Vallarta without problems, and Zona Romántica and El Centro have well-established tourism infrastructure. Because Jalisco has its own rating, check the U.S. State Department Mexico travel advisory for the current level before you book. As with any city, use normal precautions: stay alert at night, don’t flash valuables, and stick to licensed taxis or Uber after dark.

What is the best month to visit Puerto Vallarta?
November and early December offer the best balance of dry weather, cooler temperatures, and smaller crowds before the December holiday surge. If whale watching is the priority, plan for January through March instead.

What should first-time visitors do?
Start with a full day around the Malecón, Zona Romántica, and Guadalupe Church. Then add one water day (Los Arcos or bioluminescent kayaking), one adventure day (zipline or ATV), and at least one day trip.

How many days do you need in Puerto Vallarta?
Two days cover the basics. Three to four days add a beach day and a day trip. With five or more days, you can visit slower, less crowded places like San Sebastián del Oeste.

Can you visit Puerto Vallarta without a car?
Yes. Zona Romántica and El Centro are walkable, city buses cover the rest of town for about 10 pesos a ride, and Uber handles anything further out.

What are the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta?
Walking the Malecón, hiking up to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz, and watching a sea turtle release when hatchlings are ready (usually July to December) are all free.