THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Adventure awaits in Puerto Vallarta. Explore iconic beaches along the Malecón Boardwalk, zipline across forest canopies, or try mezcals and local eats in the Romantic Zone. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Private and Luxuryfromper adultC$199
On the Waterfromper adultC$68- fromper adultC$117
- fromper adultC$33
- fromper adultC$90
Dining Experiencesfromper adultC$141- from
C$116per adultC$105 
Culinary Toursfromper adultC$144
Zipliningfromper adultC$82- fromper adultC$246
Piers & Boardwalks
Enchanting seaside boardwalk lined with sculptures, eateries, and shops, providing a lively atmosphere for scenic strolls, sunset vistas, and local culture.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Historic Walking Areas
Historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, vibrant marketplaces, and an array of dining options. Showcases local culture and history alongside a bustling beachfront atmosphere.
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Churches & Cathedrals
Historic church with a peaceful ambiance and ornate interiors, featuring a unique clock tower and crown. Offers art-filled spaces and scenic views in a downtown setting.
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Beaches
Lively beachfront lined with bars and restaurants, celebrated for its inclusive atmosphere and sunset views. Offers water sports and vibrant nightlife, with opportunities for people-watching.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks
Marina neighborhood blends upscale ambience with traditional charm. Stroll along the malecon, visit shops, dine by the water, or partake in local Thursday markets and vibrant beach life.
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Geologic Formations
Marine Park with designated snorkeling zones and vibrant marine life including unique species. Features clear waters, roped-off areas, and caves, with options for personalized boat tours.
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Distilleries
Discover the art of agave spirit distillation on a scenic ranch, complete with a hands-on approach to creating personalized tequila and learning the rich history behind the craft.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks
Challenging hike through steep inclines and steps leads to an observation tower with panoramic city and bay views. Multiple paths available; early morning climbs recommended for cooler conditions.
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Other Top Attractions around Puerto Vallarta
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- SuzanneSt. Albert, Canada2 contributionsEven though it may just be a boardwalk, it is such an amazing, beautiful, and cultural experience of some of what Mexico has to offer. The art, the people, and the view is spectacular! Love it.Written February 7, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jorge A2 contributionsGreat place for gay travelers. From drag shows to good restaurants.
La iguana restaurant and La Capella are an incredible experiance.Written December 27, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Tierney W62 contributionsBeautiful Parish. Centrally located in Zona Romantica near the Malecon. Open to the public and still has regular service.Written November 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- PhilOklahoma City, OK251 contributionsI love this beach. It's a beautiful part of the city and the water quality is nice. The waves, however, can sometimes be too powerful for my enjoyment. But sitting on the beach having a drink is always pleasant.Written June 30, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Usia2014Calgary, Canada1,970 contributionsWe sailed into the Bay of Banderas on the Discovery Princess cruise ship. It was lovely to see the whole bay from the water and from a different perspective instead of looking at it from a hotel resort (where we’ve seen it many times in the past). The whole area entering into Puerto Vallarta cruise port is very nice.Written January 28, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- TravelingFoodieMiami, FL3,246 contributionsMarina Vallarta is not just a hub for hundreds of boats; it’s a vibrant and lively destination with something for everyone. The area is filled with companies offering a wide range of activities, including tours, fishing trips, and boat rentals. Along the marina, you’ll find an array of restaurants catering to all tastes—from sports bars and steakhouses to Italian eateries, seafood spots, local Mexican cuisine, delis, and health-focused options.
The atmosphere is a mix of winter snowbirds from North America and visitors from around the globe, creating a welcoming and diverse vibe. It’s a safe and enjoyable place to stroll, shop, or simply relax at a coffee shop, restaurant, or bar.
The only time it gets particularly busy is on Thursday evenings during the popular night market, but even that adds its own unique charm and fun to the experience.Written January 28, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Cris HPittsburgh, PA998 contributionsWe visited these as part of a boat tour and they are lovely to see, great bird life as well and the arches are quite unique but other than that there wasn't much else to do.Written December 20, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Vacation643319526901 contributionMy god what a gem!
First, the town life is simple - gentle in the morning, dinner oriented in the evening. Things close for a bit in the early PM, but I considered that part of the local charm.
The locals love it if you try to speak Spanish, and somehow almost all of them speak English, when things get rough in the translating, which is a nice crutch.
The food:
The local street food is stupid good. Like you will simply not eat Mexican like that outside of Mexico. The tacos are super fresh, ridiculously cheap, and so delicious. I may have gains a few pounds. No regrets
Some of the restaurants try their hands at international food, and surprise, they have a proper Neapolitan pizza (didn't bother to check if it was VPN, as I've made VPN pizzas for 7 years and don't need the appellation to recognize the quality). The oven is in a trailer, parked next to the restaurant - just awesome!
The rest of the Mexican food is just insane, though we did avoid the more expensive restaurants.
The beach:
Just the best beach ever. The sand (which changes depending on the time of the year, so the locals told me) was perfect, in that no swimming was needed, if one wanted to play with the waves - which I seriously did. The waves are human height, perfect for body surfing, or actual surfing, and anything in between. The whole beach is sanding and thanks to the town being a little too small, it's never too busy (compared to a beach in the mediterranean).
My icing on the cake: chocolate. There is this place called Mexicolate. Now I eat Purdy's chocolate (my lowest bar) and will occasionally splurge on better. Imagine my surprise when I tasted the chocolate. Now I don't know if it's the heat or what, but the dark chocolate was barely bitter, which is new to me, as most Canadian dark chocolate is so bitter it's hard to eat. Much splurging happened.
Just now I realize I should have left a horrible review, so as to keep people away. Oh well.
Try to get pesos before you get there, it helps the locals if you pay for the exchange rate, instead of them.Written February 13, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Bridget M3 contributionsJavier and Beau led out small group on a fabulous experience, starting with the genuinely friendly welcome from both humans and awesome ranch dogs. We loved our exploration of the finca’s grounds, especially the agave nursery and agave field. The distillation process is all done right there, extremely small batch, and handmade - super cool to see and taste the fermenting agave and to see how all the traditional equipment is used. When you get to the (tremendous) tasting, you are rewarding with a range of unique and delicious spirits that exceeded my expectations. Truly one of our most enjoyable afternoons in P. V. - you should go!Written December 28, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- The Travel TrioNew York City, NY27 contributionsWe had a wonderful experience at Playa Las Gemelas today. We wanted to go to a beach outside of PV proper and Yelapa seemed too far for two women traveling here for our first time. It was a Tuesday in November so it was quiet, which was welcomed. It seemed more locals, either from nearby towns or the condos on the beach. But the water was clean and clear with mild waves, the shells were gorgeous and the water temperature couldn't be beat. We Uber'd there instead of the bus. You're dropped on the side of the highway to take very steep and unkempt stairs down to the water (not handicap friendly), which opens up onto the beach. There, vendors make food, rent tables and chairs and have other fun things to look at / buy. You won't be disappointed.Written November 8, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- TravelingFoodieMiami, FL3,246 contributionsRight now, this is likely the best vantage point in Vallarta, offering stunning panoramic views from the airport to Los Arcos. Reaching the top means tackling a steep staircase, but the effort is well worth it. Take it at your own pace if needed, but don’t miss the climb—the breathtaking view of the entire city is your reward.Written February 27, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AnLil936 contributionsWe walked (a scenic trek) from Olas Altas Beach to Corona Cathedral: Crown of our Lady parish of New Lady of Guadalupe and San Jose (b. 1851). A statue of the cleric (1942-66) stands outside: Rafael Parra Castillo. It’s worth a stop for a tour or snacks at the Naval Museum along the way, since the Army/marines (Ejercito) and Naval Hospital make up a big part of Puerto Vallarta’s culture, aside from Corona beer and Coca Cola plants. In the beachfront plaza below the cathedral spire, there’s a Starbucks, besides another on the street & Pancho’s Takos above Playa Los Arcos at Olas Atlas. If you choose a bus rather than Uber or taxi, the circling Hop-on/off Bus stop is nearby the cathedral @Havana Palmeras on Calles Juarez-Murble (Parisina storefront). There are only two main roads to/from the beachside Malacon, and this fairly busy stretch is a stopping point to exit el Centro.Written February 27, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
When to Visit
- January22 ºCColdest month2 days of rainVery busy
- February22 ºC1 day of rainModerately busy
- March23 ºC1 day of rainVery busyBusiest month
- April24 ºC1 day of rainModerately busy
- May26 ºC2 days of rainVery busy
- June28 ºCHottest month13 days of rainModerately busy
- July28 ºC23 days of rainVery busy
- August28 ºC25 days of rainWettest monthModerately busy
- September28 ºC21 days of rainLess busyLeast busy month
- October28 ºC9 days of rainLess busy
- November25 ºC2 days of rainLess busy
- December23 ºC2 days of rainLess busy
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.