Discover 60 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: Ultimate Guide
Welcome to one of Jalisco’s finest wonders – welcome to Puerto Vallarta!
There are some great things to do in Puerto Vallarta which, for many, is one of the best resort towns in the entire nation. From the pier and water sports to the insane nightlife and magnificent church, there are more wonders of the world in this one region than on most places on earth!
So, what are you waiting for? Look no further, read on and start planning your Puerto Vallarta trip!
1 – Sit back and relax at the Botanical Gardens
A great botanical garden makes people feel as if they’ve been transported to the heart of a tropical wonderland – and that’s what Puerto Vallarta pulls off here.
It’s easy to head down to Mexico for the sun, sea and cocktails, but there’s environmental awakening to be had right around the corner.
2 – Try something different on Marietas Island day trip
The Marietas Islands are absolutely breathtaking and it’ll be hard to find anyone who’s been that will say differently.
From the hidden beach to the eco-tour and general sense of seclusion, Marietas Islands serve as an escape route from out on the open water – and that’s something we could all use from time to time.
3 – Dive deep for some snorkeling
Whether it be out on the Marietas or around the Puerto Vallarta area, snorkeling is something everyone should try when visiting this haven of joy.
See some exotic fish, explore the depths of the seabed or just float around and enjoy that oh so rare sensation of peace and quiet.
4 – Discover the beach of destiny at Playa de los Muertos
Deadman’s Beach, as it’s popularly known, is as eerie as it is cool with it being named after a pirate raid on the village.
It’s one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, there are great views of the far away mountains and islands, and it’s one hell of a place to watch a sunset.
Directions in Google Maps
5 – Marvel at magnificent beasts while whale watching
Instead of sailing the seven seas in search of buried treasure, why not sit on deck and keep your eyes peeled for some whales?
From a chilled out cruise to an experience day with an actual biologist, the people of Puerto Vallarta know how to embed some culture into this holiday location.
6 – Walk at Puerto Vallarta Malecón
This 12-block, mile long Malecon Boardwalk is a real statement piece for the town and everything it represents.
It doesn’t stretch far out into the ocean but it has beautiful views of the ocean on one side and plenty of restaurants and local businesses on the other, which feels like a winning combination.
Directions in Google Maps
7 – Valentine’s or not, there’s always the Romantic Zone
Zona Romántica is perhaps the most fabulous neighborhood in all of Puerto Vallarta and that’s no exaggeration.
It’s an area that prides itself on featuring heavily in the LGBT community, there are some lively bars, and there are also cobblestone streets that really add to the entire ambience.
It’s also the place where you find Galleria Dante, the largest art gallery in Puerto Vallarta.
Directions in Google Maps
8 – The spiritual haven of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
This breathtaking spiritual home is dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, also known as the Virgin Mary – the patron saint of Mexico.
It’s a remarkable building both in and out and regardless of your religious tendencies, this place proudly stands tall over PV and it’s difficult not to respect and appreciate that.
Directions in Google Maps
9 – Find a flexible schedule on the hop on hop off bus
Everyone explores a new destination in their own unique way, with one of the most common yet useful being the Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour.
This commodity can be found across many cities all over the planet and that’s exactly how it should be. You could jump off at a museum and have a quick exploration, only to venture back onto the bus just a few hours later!
10 – Go beyond the call of duty with scuba diving
The pros are pros for a reason because anyone who gives scuba diving a try will immediately grasp and understand just how outrageously difficult it can be – but there’s a lot of fun to go alongside that!
It may seem strange at first but after digging beneath the surface, you’ll soon find that it’s full of nuisance and history.
11 – Try the Old town & walk to Mirador de La Cruz
From the vibrancy of the old town to the insanely interesting stroll up to Mirador de la Cruz – this is one to remember.
It’s great to look out over any village, town or city with a sense of grandeur and mystique, which is precisely what this viewpoint provides you with.
12 – Get the best breakfast at Fredy’s Tucan
Head back over to the Romantic Zone for the utterly delightful Fredy’s Tucan restaurant.
This place is ranked as one of the very best spots to eat in across all of Puerto Vallarta with hearty breakfasts being at the forefront of the menu. There are waffles, pancakes and other delicacies to run alongside the fun interior.
13 – Fly through the water on a boat tour
With all of that open water, it’d be something of a waste not to hop on a boat and whisk around the islands, right?
These tours regularly match up with some other fun activities such as climbing or ziplining, but at the core of it all, being out on the boat is what everyone heading to Puerto Vallarta should strive to do.
14 – Buckle up for the quad tours
The Sierra Madre Mountains should be enjoyed by as many as possible who want to expand their horizons, with the best way to do so being a quad bike tour.
These ATVs run through small villages, across streams and up the dirt roads, all with the end goal of seeing as much of the mountains as is humanly possible.
15 – Embrace the esteemed beauty of Isla Río Cuale
Isla Río Cuale is so quaint and immersive that it has the sensation of being a real “once in a lifetime” sort of place.
The jungle terrain sits in the midst of this river island with parrots, iguanas and all sorts of other friends waiting to greet you along the way with a fantastic market to explore.
Directions in Google Maps
16 – A beach for the many at Playa Las Gemelas
The water here is so blue that it honestly feels like staring at a bottle of Powerade – but, you know, in a charming way.
Playa Las Gemalas is a remarkable beach and more importantly, it’s never actually that busy. It’s a place to reflect on the events of the day and look ahead to a brighter tomorrow – all the while relaxing with a cocktail.
Directions in Google Maps
17 – Explore Bay of Banderas and Los Arcos National Marine Park
The Bay of Banderas condenses entertainment, artistry and relaxation into 773.3 km² whereas the Los Arcos National Marine Park almost resembles something you’d see out on the water in Vietnam.
This protected area, featuring The Arches, is great for water sports and absolutely perfect for any geography nerds out there who want to see some mind-blowing rock formations.
18 – Feel like a superhero with zip lining
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the Mexican heat, and as such, it’s important for those who get too carried away to take a minute and really cool down.
One adrenaline-pumping way to do just that is by going on a good old fashioned zipline. It’s a bit scary to begin with, but in the blink of an eye, you’ll feel like you’re flying without wings.
19 – Sand and sea can be found at Conchas Chinas Beach
This beach, named after the mollusk shells that can be found there, is one of the most rugged and raw beaches in Puerto Vallarta – which is probably why people love it so much.
With so many bars and restaurants nearby you’d think it could get a bit crowded, but the blending of the ecosystems on display combined with the plethora of other beaches in the area makes for quite a nice pace.
Directions in Google Maps
20 – Go for a trial run at indoor skydiving
Everyone needs to take things one step at a time with respect to making big decisions and that’s what indoor skydiving is for.
This experience offers up real flight experience under similar conditions to the real thing, perhaps giving some the confidence to eventually make that next step in the future.
21 – Feeling brave? Venture off for a hike
Jorullo Bridge, Colomitos, Las Animas, you name it and there’s a distinctive hiking trail nearby.
Everyone can get their own individual sense of freedom in many different ways, but we think hiking is one of the purest. It’s a great workout, the weather always tests your durability and the end result is often a healthy mind and an even healthier body.
22 – The unparalleled drama of parasailing
Those who are afraid of heights and the ocean may be wise to look away from this one.
Parasailing is one of the wildest water sports out there, but we can’t pretend like we don’t find it intoxicating. The thrill of being lifted high up into the air truly is epic as you and a friend, partner or family member scream the house down.
23 – A gorgeous sunset awaits at Playa Mismaloya
Playa Mismaloya is recognised as the beach “where it all started” and not without good reason.
After scenes for The Night of the Iguana were filmed here, the fishing village of Puerto Vallarta was turned into an internationally recognised haven of entertainment and good times – and all because of this gorgeous beach.
Directions in Google Maps
24 – Get crazy at Aquaventuras Park
Anyone with a pulse knows that there is nothing quite like a good old fashioned water park, and Aquaventuras Park is up there with the best of them!
Swim with dolphins, chill out in the pool or bask in the glory of the endless slides and thrill rides that they have here.
25 – Ride around on an exhilarating bike tour
Bicycles, mountain bikes, it really doesn’t matter – because Puerto Vallarta is home to the kind of biking community that stretches beyond the standard conventions.
Everywhere you go on any of these tours will provide travellers with a whole new side of the town, whether it be through the trees or down the promenade.
26 – Indulge for hours on a food tour
Anyone up for tacos and tequila?
Just talking about this tour makes us want to dive into a bottle of mezcal and have an early Taco Tuesday, with Puerto Vallarta playing host to one of the best and most extensive food tours across Mexico.
It may seem stereotypical, but it really is wonderful.
27 – Feel like a movie star on a jet ski
Saddle up and feel like James Bond on a ride you won’t soon forget.
From starting her up to reaching those top speeds, jet skis are designed to be ridden in style – and Mexico is one of the best countries imaginable for riding the waves and having a good time.
28 – The thrills of a Magic Towns day trip
There are day trips, and then there are magical day trips.
Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by plenty of other towns that help to make this state the rich success that it is, which includes Tequila, Sayulita, San Sebastián del Oeste, Talpa de Allende and Mascota to name just a few.
29 – A whole new vibe with the jet boat
Take the jet ski and add a layer of relaxation into the mix that few even know exists.
With one person at the helm and the rest of the gang hanging out, it’s free and clear to crack open a beer and really embrace the holiday essence provided by this beautiful creation.
30 – Watch the rain fall at Palo Maria Waterfall
There are private boat tours, hikes and plenty of other ways to get there, but whatever you do, don’t miss out on the Palo Maria Waterfall.
Anyone there for a visit will feel like they are the only humans on earth, who have been gifted the chance to see something utterly marvelous.
Directions in Google Maps
31 – Admire their beauty at dolphin watching
There are some marvellous creatures that either walk or swim among us, and dolphins are somewhere towards the top of that list.
They move through the water with some ease and splendour and for this entry, you can go and watch them do their thing in person.
32 – Cook up a storm at cooking classes
The Mexicans know how to cook up a storm, and if you’re interested in doing something similar, try out one of these cooking classes.
The Jaliscan style is so classic and pure with your taste buds being sent on a journey through the spices – and being able to actually create that sensation is quite the feeling.
33 – Find new taste sensations at Pancho’s Takos
As one of the most popular food joints in town, it should come as no surprise to see Pancho’s Takos make an appearance on this list.
As old as it is engrained in this town’s culture, Pancho’s has a down to earth vibe with a cavalcade of traditional Mexican dishes for everyone to try, from locals to tourists and beyond.
34 – Ride those waves in some high intensity surfing
With the amount of beaches in Puerto Vallarta, it only makes sense for some world class surfing conditions to be present, and once you scout them out, there’s nothing quite like riding the big blue waves.
Whether it be for beginners or pros this is a great place to get wavy, pun very much intended.
35 – Hold onto your hat at a tequila tasting
One of our favourite pastimes within the context of a trip to Mexican is trying a taste of the modern day favourite: tequila.
This food and mixology tour takes you through a real process that ends with Mexican cocktails and, of course, as much tequila as one human could ever hope to consume.
36 – Delicious treats galore at Chocomuseo
In our view, there aren’t many delicacies out there that can legitimately compare to the feeling of that first bite of chocolate.
The Chocomuseo aims to pay tribute to this white, brown and dark delight with the total chocolate experience – whether it be through workshops, a tour or as many samples as you could hope for.
37 – The ultimate thrill of kayaking
Through the fun of Isla Majahuitas comes the unadulterated chaos of kayaking. The waters may often seem calm but staying focused with your eyes on the prize is the route forward here, or else a one way trip into the water could be on the cards.
It’s classic water sport entertainment, and it’s hard not to love.
38 – Enjoy some sun and cocktails at Majahuitas beach
It’d be incredibly easy to walk past Majahuitas Beach and not even realise you’ve done so which, in our view, is the kind of seclusion everyone should be looking for.
The standard white sand and blue waters apply here, but there’s an exclusive feeling that comes along with it too.
39 – Everyone is welcome at Mango’s Beach Club
As long as the sun is shining there are no lights required at Mango’s Beach Club where, as the title suggests, just about everyone is welcome.
This little gem opens up at 10 am and runs all the way through to 8 pm with a nice mixture of music, great food, great drinks and the kind of top class service we all strive for.
40 – The creative majesty of Marigalante
Have you ever wanted to really get a feel for what life as a pirate was like? If so, the Marigalante is the perfect stopping point.
This majestic pirate ship has sailing adventures, tours and tonnes of other activities both for those who are fanatic about this period in history and those who want to learn more.
41 – Feel the real deal of skydiving
The heat may feel quite exhausting at times but if there’s ever a way to get the ultimate breeze, jumping out of a plane from thousands of feet high is the way to do it.
Skydiving is unconditionally fantastic and taking that next step is as brave as it is exhilarating – so why not give it a try?
42 – A fun-filled Las Caletas beach day tour
Las Caletas has tall palm trees, a unique history and a hideaway experience that’s about as close to paradise as anything we’ve ever seen.
A day trip here isn’t so much a tour as it is a blessing, because Las Caletas is the jungle heaven nobody even knows they want until they arrive.
43 – Be the next Tiger Woods with a round of golf
There are many high intensity sports out there with trying but if you’re after something a bit more laid back, golf could well do the trick.
Mexican courses are vast and impressive with Pacifico, Weiskopf, Litibu and Marina Vallarta being just a few that come to mind.
44 – Learn more about the Mexican Navy
This picturesque Museo Historico Naval de Puerto Vallarta is a colonial destination with ships and a variety of exhibits on display.
The Mexican navy has a rich history and by comparison, Puerto Vallarta doesn’t have all too many museums to offer – but this one really does drive home the importance of those out in the ocean.
45 – The noble steeds await at horse riding
It may not seem like it, but horseback riding is actually quite a popular thing to do down in Mexico.
Punta de Mita is home to arguably the best route to do this one which, in the view of many, is across the beach with the water from the shallow end spraying in every direction.
46 – This is the Rhythms of the Night show
Everyone loves the rhythm of the night – it just depends on what pace you want to take it at.
This unbelievable acrobatic show is accompanied by a fantastic dinner with open bar access. It’s very out there, but the end result is an impressive display of artistry unlike anything seen before.
47 – Hold on tight for stand up paddling
It’s going to seem a little bit daunting but in reality, stand up paddling isn’t all too different from a lot of water sports out there.
Yes, it takes an enhanced level of effort and focus, but in the calm Mexican waters, it can actually be quite a relaxing and grand experience.
48 – Find inner peace at the Faro de Matamoros view
This landmark may not seem like all too much when standing beneath it, but trust us when we say it’s actually a pretty diverse monument.
At 110-feet high, Faro de Matamoros possesses real elegance to go along with its intimidating natural stature. The lighthouse down by the marina has a circular top with live music available all year round!
Directions in Google Maps
49 – A night you won’t forget at La Palapa
Do you want to feel like a regal member of society whilst enjoying a delightful meal? If the answer is yes, then head on down to La Palapa!
This spot has lobster tacos, ceviche, traditional Mexican live music and many envious folks just wishing they were doing the exact same thing.
50 – Dark, milk and white are all available at the chocolate tasting
There are fresh cacao pods to be found in spots all across Mexico and that’s especially true around Puerto Vallarta.
They’ve got traditional ancestral drinks, sharp tasting chocolate that will blow your mind, or classic efforts that will showcase just how much potential this sweet treat still has in the modern day.
51 – A not-so-hidden gem at Yelapa beach
With green-tinted water and an almighty bushy ridge overlooking the beach, Yelapa knows how to make quite the statement.
There are many restaurants down by the front, it’s a great spot for a sunrise walk, and everyone here seems to be a little bit more laid back than most of its local rivals.
52 – Watch the magic happen on the sunset cruise
Out on the waters of Banderas Bay, a quite tremendous evening awaits on the sunset cruise of a lifetime.
This is as tranquil as it comes with many past visitors noting that it was almost as if they had an epiphany right then and there on the boat.
It sounds dramatic, but it’s true.
53 – Fancy a beverage at Los Muertos Brewing?
Welcome to Puerto Vallarta’s very first craft brewery and pub!
It’s a taste of Europe that many will strive for with some Mexican traits thrown in there for good measure. In addition to some of the best beer in the land, at Los Muertos Brewing you’ll also discover wood-fire pizzas and a really cool overall atmosphere.
54 – Art comes to life at Galerías Vallarta
Heading out on holiday is seen as a relaxing time in our lives, but it can also be used as a perfect excuse to shop until you drop.
Galerías Vallarta is one of the most popular shopping centres in the land and while it feels generic to some, there’s a “just like home” quality that money can’t buy.
Directions in Google Maps
55 – Enjoy freedom at Malecon Clubs
Dance, drink and make memories to last a lifetime.
All across the Malecon Boardwalk there are clubs open until the early hours, providing the kind of “let loose” service that Mexico is renowned for. It may not quite be Cancun, but this actually feels like the right way to party down here.
56 – Get loose at the Marina Vallarta
This prime Marina location is fantastic – even if the objective is just to stare at all the pretty boats.
It’s a modern development that just screams luxury from the beaches to the hotels to the overall resorts.
This is high-end living, and it’s hard not to feel envious.
Directions in Google Maps
57 – Feel the new glory of Playa Palmares
Rocks, fishing, swimming, family fun and plenty of dogs running around off the lead – this is a dream come true.
Playa Palmares is a beach that never quits with high energy, banana boat rides and drinks to be topped up at the leisure of those visiting. It can be a bit much for some, but for most, it hits just the right note.
Directions in Google Maps
58 – The hilarious cabaret entertainment of Act2PV
It’s the largest open-air theatre in Puerto Vallarta, and boy oh boy do they let you know it.
There are dramatic shows, poetic readings, and even some cabaret to sing along to. Act2PV wanted to introduce a different player into the PV market, and they’ve done that and then some.
59 – Learn about Mexico’s fauna and flora at Estero El Salado
This unbelievable nature sanctuary seems to come out of nowhere, but in doing so, it reminds us all of what needs protecting and preserving in this life.
The wildlife, the sounds, the sights – there’s so much to love here and if climate change means anything to you, this is quite the education.
Directions in Google Maps
60 – Eat, drink and be merry at Olas Altas Farmers Market
This busy weekend market is a top tier way to say goodbye to the working week and hello to a symphony of bliss.
There’s something to pick up and buy in just about every shopping department imaginable with pretty much every stall featuring a local vendor from glorious Puerto Vallarta.
Directions in Google Maps
So if you’re convinced enough to take the plunge and head on over to Puerto Vallarta, check out some of the best available hotels and airport transfers now!
As always, happy travels!
