Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta, MX

Do you just love the magic and mystique of olde Mexico!  This is tailor-made for you! Not one- but 2 cities to enchant you.  Visit the cities back-to-back, or take them separately.  You have 2 whole years to enjoy these magical getaways!

       Puerto Vallarta has all the amenities of a classic beach resort: surf, sand and sun. But it also offers so much more. Perfect for honeymooners, families and seniors alike, Puerto Vallarta offers sport fishing, golfing, horseback riding, hiking and whale watching. Boasting mountains, jungles, beaches, rivers and waterfalls, this port is completely different from any other destination in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is a modern destination that remains loyal to its traditional Mexican roots. And that's just scratching the surface.

     When you think of the Mexican Riviera, with its palm-fringed beaches, luxuriant jungle vegetation and posh resorts, many places come to mind. But no resort typifies better the classic Mexican beach vacation than Puerto Vallarta does. It has come to be the sixth most popular travel destination in the world. Therefore, your Puerto Vallarta vacations guarantee you the utmost entertainment and relaxation. 

       Maybe it was the lush tropical climate, or the white sandy beaches that first caught the eye of tourists who began to flock to this Mexican paradise in the late 19th century. Or maybe it was something more that made John Huston choose Puerto Vallarta as the setting for “The Night of the Iguana” (and the headline-grabbing, off-screen romance of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton). With so much that Puerto Vallarta has to offer, every moment in this beautiful vacation spot can be shaped to meet your individual desires. Find yourself strolling back in time as you meander down the streets of the historic area of town, or the village of San Sebastian (15 minutes by plane) or follow your own steps to the rhythms of the Mariachi.

       Your eyes can feast on beautiful textiles, original works of art from local artists and all over the globe, or the breathtaking beadwork of the Huichol Indians. Your mouth will water with anticipation for the authentic Mexican cuisine, while chefs from around the world serve up delicacies in renowned international restaurants. You may seek out the pristine white sand of the beach, or do your best to avoid it on one of seven exceptional golf courses. With ample opportunities for activity at every turn, your adventurous side will never go unfulfilled, unless, or course, you want to give it a rest. In that case, Puerto Vallarta is the ideal location for glorious, sun-soaked inactivity

      Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  This is the center of religious life in Puerto Vallarta. This Cathedral is the focal point of a 12-day festival each December. The construction started in 1929 and lasted approximately 12 years. The interior is filled with hand-carved columns, decorative moldings and other detailed artistry.

      Los Arcos.  This is a federal underwater eco preserve that offers the opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive in a rare environment. Go underwater and investigate the brightly colored fish and steep rock walls that protect this marine area. Glass-bottom boat rides are also available.

      Boca de Tomatlan.  This beach is surrounded by a tropical jungle paradise. Choose to explore the jungles by either safari jeep or horseback. This place is ideal for water sports because of its clear, blue waters. You can rent equipment from local vendors.

      Whale Watching.   Each year between January and March, massive humpback whales return to their treasured breeding grounds in the waters off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. At times, the whales even appear in Banderas Bay itself. The great marine mammals are often visible from higher coastal vantage points and seaside restaurant balconies. Organized tours are available.

       Pirate Cruises:  There are companies in Puerto Vallarta that specialize in taking you on a day or night cruise that features pirate lore, food, snorkeling, and fun of all kinds.  For kids and adults alike, a pirate cruise in Puerto Vallarta is one of the truly fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.

      Chico’s Paradise Restaurant Bar & Grill: This is more than a restaurant, it is a decades-old tradition: many return visitors to Puerto Vallarta spend a full day of their trip at Chico’s.  A thirty minute scenic drive from Puerto Vallarta into the jungle, Chico’s location is unparalleled: complete with pools and waterfalls for swimming, authentic guacamole, shrimp dishes, and excellent margaritas, Chico’s really is a paradise that many swear by 

       Bullfights.  Traditional bullfights are presented regularly each Wednesday at La Paloma in the Marina area. Matadors appear with the "suit of lights": the sparkling costumes they wear to confront the bulls. Bullfighting season is from November to April.

      Galeria Olinala.  This gallery features Mexican tribal art. The artwork you see here is created by local artists who are preserving a tradition and culture. Huichol beadwork catches the eye of many visitors, as do the detailed tribal masks. All artwork displayed is available for purchase.

      Boca de Tomatlan:   This locale is just twenty minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, but you’ll find it worth the trip to get off the tourist beaten path and enjoy the amazing views, beaches, and local Mexican living found here.