While it’s hardly a hidden gem — Puerto Vallarta welcomes millions of tourists each year — its allure never grows old, dazzling all those who come to enjoy the beach and the sea, disconnect from the world and its pressures, and sunbathe with a cocktail in hand.
featured stories
Discover Puerto Vallarta, the City of Beaches
Puerto Vallarta is a city that evokes the feeling of…
The Best of Puerto Vallarta: What to Do and See in 48 Hours
With only 48 hours to spend in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll…
A Foodie’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s Unexpected Eater’s Paradise
Puerto Vallarta is a beach destination with an abundance of…
videos
All Stories
did you know?
The Mexican state of Jalisco (where Puerto Vallarta is located), is known as the capital of Mariachi music, and said to be where the genre first emerged.
QUICK GUIDE
WHEN TO GO
Puerto Vallarta’s tropical climate makes it pleasant to visit year-round, though summer sees more rain and humidity. Peak season runs from November through late March/early April; travelers can expect higher prices and more crowds.
NEED TO KNOW
Visas: U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexico. U.S. citizens do not require a visa unless they plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Visit the Mexican National Institute of Migration’s (Instituto Nacional de Migración, INM) website for the most current entry, exit and visa requirements.
Money: Currency is in Mexican pesos, and ATMs are widely available.
Travel Health: Check with the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico or the Mexican government for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.
GETTING AROUND
Getting Here: Puerto Vallarta is served by Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). Many visitors arrive via cruise ship, disembarking at Maritime Terminal.
Getting Around: Taxis are inexpensive and easy to find; rates are priced by zone. Local buses run frequently and are a convenient and inexpensive way to get around. Water taxis depart from Playa de los Muertos pier and serve the beaches on the bays’ southern side — including some stunners that are accessible only by boat.
LOCAL INTEL
Local Lingo: Spanish is the official spoken language, though most people working in the tourism industry will speak English. Learn a few essential phrases before your trip. Habla usted inglés?: Do you speak English? Qué tal?: What’s up? Cómo estás?: How are you? Perdón: Excuse me or sorry.
Must-Have Apps: Google Translate; Uber; WhatsApp
Insider Tip: Plan a visit to San Sebastián. Tucked into the Sierra Madre mountains, it’s one of Mexico’s so-called “Pueblos Mágicos” (magical towns). Places declared Pueblos Mágicos preserve some aspect of Mexican culture and tradition, and this 17th-century pueblo is no exception.