Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta: The Naturally Priviledged Area In Mexico
If you’re here, it’s because you’ve heard about Puerto Vallarta and want to know more, and why not? It’s a naturally privileged area located on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
It’s a hot topic among travelers, having experienced significant growth in popularity as a tourist destination in recent decades.
This boom is largely due to its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse activities that satisfy tourists of all ages and tastes. However, if you are looking for things to do in Puerto Vallarta, the list is going to be long.
The Growing Popularity of Puerto Vallarta
One of the major attractions of Puerto Vallarta is its surroundings. The glide sandy beaches, green mountains, and crystal-clear waters contribute to the spectacular landscape and outdoor adventure activities.
Moreover, the city has still managed to preserve the fishing village essence, cobblestone streets, charming Broadwalk, and traditional architecture, which invites visitors to indulge themselves in the authentic Mexican culture.
Puerto Vallarta’s tourist infrastructure has also improved significantly. It attracts a variety of visitors, from couples to families and, of course, luxury tourists and backpackers. They also have a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to 5-star restaurants, providing them with a complete experience.
The local cuisine is another highlight, with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes that delight the most demanding palates. Cultural events, festivals, and vibrant nightlife complement the experience, making Puerto Vallarta a destination that continues to gain followers year after year.
What to the things to do in Puerto Vallarta?
As I mentioned earlier, there are a lot of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. It offers endless activities and adventures and does that for travelers of all ages. You will find incredible restaurants, serving some amazing food, and if you are a seafood lover, then you are going to have a lot of options.
There are various shops and boutiques on every corner, beautiful beaches, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community, and you cannot miss out on their nightlife.
Enjoy the beaches
There are many beaches to visit, such as Playa Los Muertos, Playa Conchas Chinas, and Playa Yelapa, some of the most popular. The best part is that you don’t have to choose between one or the other; it’s better to visit as many as you can and engage in as many water activities as possible.
Walk along the Malecón
This iconic place is perfect for a stroll, filled with sculptures, street performers, magical shops, and restaurants. This popular boardwalk is a mile long along the coast and offers a stunning view of the ocean. The coast is filled with charming sculptures and numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
Whether you want to spend a romantic evening or just want to enjoy a casual lunch, there are numerous options to pick from.
Visit the Romantic Zone
Known for its bohemian charm, this area is full of bars, cafes, art galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. This charming neighborhood is secluded from the main city, and it is like an unpretentious beach village that serves best for the less resort-conscious tourists.
This beach village is also the center of gay scenes, and it has various gay beaches, restaurants, and bars lining Olas Atlas. This place is also known as the Old Town or Old Vallarta. With its colonial architecture, the old town offers a glimpse of traditional Puerto Vallarta, with craft markets and delicious Mexican snacks.
Tour the Bay of Banderas
Boat tours offer a great opportunity to see dolphins and whales and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. It is a 62-mile stretch along the west coast of Mexico. This region includes beaches, villages, and quaint cities, and wildlife protection areas.
Excursion to the Yelapa Waterfalls
This small village is only accessible by boat and is known for its impressive waterfalls and relaxed atmosphere. However, you can take a hike as well to reach this place.
Apart from the beach, this hike is the only activity that you can try here. However, the beauty of the place makes it one of the things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
Visit the Vallarta Botanical Garden
An ideal place for nature lovers, with a wide variety of tropical plants and trails to explore. The gardens feature a collection of assorted flowers, which include orchids and various other insects. Ultimately, it provides a romantic and relaxing gateway from the busy hustle of Vallarta’s downtown.
Adventure excursions
Canopy tours, ATV rides, and jungle hikes are perfect for those who want to connect with nature while getting a good dose of adrenaline.
Tips for Enjoying Puerto Vallarta
All-inclusive hotel:
Think for a moment that after a day of exploration, you’ll want to rest fully. So, don’t skimp on the hotel. An excellent option at a good price can be found at www.barcelo.com/en-ca/occidental-nuevo-vallarta/, which includes everything you can imagine.
Hydration and sun protection:
The weather in Puerto Vallarta can be quite hot and sunny, so always bring water and sunscreen.
Appropriate clothing:
Given the hot weather, wear light and breathable clothing during the day. And if you’ll be out at night, bring a sweater to cover up.
How will you get around:
On the one hand, there’s public transportation, which is great for not paying too much to get to certain places. On the other hand, consider renting a car or bicycle to go beyond typical spots.
Currency exchange:
Although many places accept US dollars, it’s more convenient and sometimes cheaper to use Mexican pesos to avoid losing out.
Safety and precautions:
Puerto Vallarta is generally safe. However, it’s always good to follow usual precautions like not displaying valuables and avoiding poorly lit or notorious areas at night.
Advance reservations:
For popular activities like whale-watching tours or reservations at well-known restaurants, it’s advisable to book in advance.
Try the local food:
Don’t miss fish tacos, ceviche, and other traditional dishes at markets and street stalls.
Free activities:
Many of the best experiences, like walking along the Malecón or swimming at the beaches, are free. Take advantage of these options to enjoy the destination without spending too much, saving money for other things.
Wrapping up!
There are a lot of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. However, if you do not have much time, only a day or two, then you can take an Uber or a cab to the amazing Broadwalk of Banderas Bay and visit Malecon downtown.
If you have plenty of time, then there are a lot of things waiting for you to explore. Also, try to visit the Los Arcos Marine Park if you wish to enjoy the scenery outside. Or simply sign up for a bus tour and explore PV with the help of a local.
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