Discover Mexico's Premier Pacific Coast: Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Travelers planning a beach getaway to Mexico enjoy abundant choices, yet our seasoned experts repeatedly return to one standout coastal gem. This region delivers pristine beaches, authentic culture, world-class resorts, and endless Instagram-worthy vistas.
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit sit side-by-side along Mexico's Pacific Coast, reachable via direct flights under 4 hours from 15 U.S. airports. First-timers should prioritize this destination for your next trip, while repeat visitors can refine their plans with these insider tips.
Explore Puerto Vallarta
Though luxury resorts tempt seclusion, venturing into Puerto Vallarta reveals its unique charm. This vibrant town nestles between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Bahía de Banderas—prime territory for immersive exploration.
Orient yourself with the iconic crown atop the neoclassical Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, dominating the downtown skyline near the central Kiosk (the bustling town square). From here, hike steeply uphill to Mirador Cerro de La Cruz for panoramic views and epic photos.
Descending to the bay leads to the Malecón, a vibrant beachfront promenade lined with sculptures, art installations, street vendors, and shops—perfect for jogging or evening strolls.
Savor evenings in the Zona Romántica south of downtown, where cobblestone streets weave through boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and cafés. Indulge in tacos al pastor at Pancho's Takos (the wait is worthwhile) and catch sunset at Playa los Muertos.
World-Class Resorts Await in Riviera Nayarit
North of Puerto Vallarta stretches Riviera Nayarit, a 200-mile expanse of upscale resorts and beach towns hugging Mexico's Pacific Coast.
The northern Bahía de Banderas shoreline lures guests to the manicured luxury havens of Nuevo Vallarta and Punta Mita, home to four AAA Five Diamond resorts—among just 119 worldwide.
Punta Mita, featuring icons like Four Seasons and St. Regis, forms the bay's northern peninsula. About an hour from the airport, these intimate retreats boast infinity pools, private beaches, butler service, outdoor rainforest showers (St. Regis), celebrity chef dining, and sea turtle releases (Four Seasons).
Nuevo Vallarta, nearer the airport and a quick ride to Puerto Vallarta, offers beachfront luxury like the all-inclusive Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, a Forbes Travel Guide top-rated standout. Golf enthusiasts rave about the Jack Nicklaus-designed course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta Resort.
South of Puerto Vallarta, high-end resorts on quiet beaches and hillsides suit active explorers.
Adventures Beyond the Shore
Swimmable beaches satisfy watersports fans, but dedicate time to ocean excursions.
Nuevo Vallarta's marina launches trips to Islas Marietas and the iconic Playa Escondida (hidden beach). Advance booking is essential (limited to ~100 daily visitors); swim through the cave to this surreal paradise.
Bahía de Banderas' warm waters attract migrating humpback whales from December to March. Opt for eco-friendly small-boat tours from Nuevo Vallarta or Puerto Vallarta marinas for closer encounters.
Dive deeper with surfing at El Anclote (near Punta Mita), scuba at El Morro (by Marietas), snorkeling in Los Arcos Marine Park (near Mismaloya), or whale shark swims near San Blas.
Inland Escapes and Cultural Gems
Beyond sunsets and seafood, Nayarit and Jalisco states offer diverse adventures.
Canopy River Tours, 20 minutes from Puerto Vallarta, features rainforest zip-lines and ATV rides crossing the world's longest suspension bridge, Puente Jorullo (1,550 feet), ending with tequila tasting.
Jalisco produces authentic tequila; skip the 4-hour drive to Tequila town and visit Puerto Vallarta's tasting rooms or Tequila Museum for blanco, reposado, and añejo insights.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures
Balance planned spots with coastal discoveries: secluded beaches, villages with gourmet fish tacos, and authentic towns.
North of Punta Mita, bohemian Sayulita draws surfers and expats. Try the daily catch at Don Pedro's and browse crafts at Revolución del Sueño.
Two hours north, San Blas' colonial fortress overlooks history; explore La Tovara National Park's mangroves for wildlife.
Southward, panga taxis from Boca de Tomátlán reach car-free Yelapa: pristine beach, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets.
