Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, looks like an image from a postcard, with a historic city center tucked between the mountains of the rolling Sierra Madre and the golden beaches of Banderas Bay. And while this coastal city’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination among travelers, PV has maintained its culture and relaxed-yet-energetic atmosphere even as out-of-towners flock here.
The colorful plazas, red-tiled rooftops and winding alleys draped in bougainvillea have an undeniable charm that invites both exploration and leisure.
As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.
Friday: Spend the Day Beachside
Set an early alarm and grab breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your first day in the area. A stroll along the Malecón offers the best introduction to Puerto Vallarta. Following the curve of the beach, this wide, palm-lined promenade stretches out over some 20 blocks and will take you from downtown to Old Vallarta, known to locals as the Zona Romántica, or Romantic Zone.
There are a number of sights to enjoy along the way.
Bronze statues by local artists are installed at intervals, making for a whimsical, thought-provoking stroll. Banderas Bay stretches out into the distance on one side, and along the other, shops and boutiques entice you to pause and peruse. You’ll pass the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Puerto Vallarta landmark famous for its remarkable crown.
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the Malecón, then, continue on to Los Muertos Beach, where you can choose a spot at an outdoor table in the shade of an umbrella or rent a hammock and enjoy the beach for a few hours, perhaps while sipping on a fruity drink.
Take a refreshing swim in the water or just enjoy the scene. Watch parasailers dip and dive overhead and the occasional sailboat makes its progress across the bay while children play in the sand.
Once it’s time for dinner you won’t need to go far — La Palapa Restaurant is cozied up to the beach and offers sweeping ocean views as you dine. Feast on fresh seafood and Mexican fare like mole enchiladas or lobster tail, and finish the evening at the on-site bar, where live music plays seven nights a week.
Saturday: Get Acquainted With Vallarta’s Charm
Spend your Saturday morning strolling through the quaint yet lively streets of the Zona Romántica, also known as Viejo Vallarta. The cobblestone streets and colorful pueblo buildings have maintained Puerto Vallarta’s relatively relaxed port town atmosphere, while offering plenty of shopping, restaurants and sights to see along the way.
Stop into Café de Olla for a traditional breakfast of pan dulce and chilaquiles, or opt for a filling brunch spread of chiles rellenos, sopes and shrimp fajitas.
Then make your way to Playa Amapas, a quiet oasis tucked between dense jungle and rock formations. Unlike some of PV’s more popular beaches, this somewhat secluded stretch of sand is a quiet place to read, sunbathe or swim.
When it gets too hot on the beach, or you’re simply ready for a change of scene, make your way over the bridge to Isla Cuale.
Make your first stop Tintoque, where lunch is served in a historic building along the Cuale River. This spot is known for Chef Joel Ornelas’ creative menu, where daily specials feature fresh seafood and local ingredients (think: fried soft-shell crab and grilled octopus). Lunch is only available on the weekends, so get there early.
This small island in the Cuale River is dotted with little shopping stalls, as well as artists selling their work. After your meal, pick up some souvenirs or gifts for those unlucky souls who had to stay home, then make a stop at the Cuale Museum for a short history lesson on the Indigenous groups that first settled this region thousands of years ago.
Don’t be caught inside during one of Puerto Vallarta’s spectacular sunsets. One of the best spots to enjoy it is Cuates y Cuetes. Order a meal of ceviche and huachinango (a traditional fish dish made with cooking methods from Spain and pre-colonial Mexico), then take in the show in the sky with your toes in the sand.
When dusk turns to dark, head to one of the vibrant local nightclubs like Mandala to party the night away.
Sunday: Explore the City’s Coastline
Start your final day with a walk around Puerto Vallarta’s marina. Get breakfast to-go from La Estancia — a casual Mexican restaurant located inside of the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa — to enjoy on the water, then hop on a water taxi or hire a private boat to take you to some of the best spots for swimming, snorkeling, dining and sipping on your drink of choice.
Puerto Vallarta is even more beautiful when seen from the water, and you can explore the area outside of the city. Stop for some snorkeling at Los Arcos, a pair of tiny islands with reefs, tunnels, caves and arches teeming with marine life.
Continue your water taxi or boat ride and spend your afternoon sprawling out on one of the relaxing beaches south of Puerto Vallarta.
Looking for some recommendations? Las Ánimas is known for its clear shallow water and great sunset viewing spots. Keep in mind: It’s also the first stop on most water taxi routes and can get quite crowded. Boca de Tomatlán is a traditional fishing village for beachgoers who want to take in a slower pace of the island.
While beaches are the main draw of the village, you can also find zip lining, snorkeling and ATV adventures in the area, for those searching for an adrenaline rush.
Yelapa is another option popular for its emerald surf and retro vibes. This secluded beach is also home to a number of waterfalls within hiking distance. History buffs can learn about the area at the Museo de Historia, Arte & Cultura de Yelapa.
This southern region of Puerto Vallarta is full of rustic beachside huts serve delicious margaritas and micheladas — a spicy beer-based cocktail — and the catch of the day. Mountains covered in lush greenery create a dramatic backdrop against the glittering water.
Don’t linger too long. Head back to Puerto Vallarta for an unforgettable meal at Café des Artistes to end your visit on a high note. The French-inspired menu also blends Mexican influences, and the chef’s six-course tasting menu includes seasonal dishes like kampachi tostadas, seared foie gras and leg of lamb.
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