TOP 12 BEST Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta
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If you are looking for the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta, you have come to the right place. This vibrant city will definitely take your breath away with its charming small-town feel and one of Mexico’s most beautiful and unique oceanfronts. Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful coastal city with a lot more to offer than just beautiful scenery, sun, and tasty margaritas.
Make sure to take advantage of all of its incredible sights and attractions, such as exploring the historic Zona Romantica, miles of golden-sand beaches, crossing the world’s longest suspension bridge, discovering the fun bars all along the iconic Malecon, and a variety of water sports in and around Banderas Bay.
If you are visiting from outside of Mexico, make sure to check out this
ultimate Mexico travel guide!
We have put together this ultimate list of the top 12 best things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico that are perfect for any kind of traveler and will make planning your trip so much easier!
1. WALK THE MALECON
The Malecón is a mile-long beach boardwalk and open-air art gallery in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, where you can find a lot of stores, vendors, local art and artists, bars, and many different restaurants. It is also one of the places in town where there are the most tourists and one of the most famous things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
As you walk along the Malecon, you’ll quickly get a sense of what Puerto Vallarta is all about. Along the broadwalk, you’ll see all the beautiful colors, architecture, local art, and interactive bronze sculptures. There are even big rocking horses that you can ride.
There are also many cultural and artistic shows, such as the famous Papantla Flying Men, which take place every day on the Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon. This colorful ritual show is both beautiful and dangerous, but it has a very clear meaning: it represents raindrops falling from the sky in search of the earth’s fertility. This performance is so important to Mexico’s cultural heritage that it was recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2009.
As you walk along, you can see another iconic Puerto Vallarta symbol, Los Arcos, an open-air amphitheater that hosts free performances and live musicians nearly every night of the year. From there, you can see the beautiful and well-known Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, also known as Nuestra Seora de Guadalupe by locals. It is a Catholic church, a place of worship, and one of the city’s most popular landmarks, dominating the skyline of Puerto Vallarta.
2. PLAYA DE LOS MUERTOS
This gorgeous, vibrant, and action-packed beach is one of the most popular in the entire Puerto Vallarta, so you can expect it to always be crowded with both tourists and locals. It is ideal for families, those looking for relaxation, and all water sports enthusiasts. The area is surrounded by many bars and restaurants with stunning views of the pier. You can also go parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing, or simply spend time fishing, participating in beach activities such as beach volleyball, or simply taking in the breathtaking views and, my favorite, people-watching.
While you are exploring all of the things to do in Puerto Vallarta, you can even see some people jump off the Los Muertos Beach Pier into the water, which we don’t necessarily recommend, but we’ll leave that up to you!
3. JORULLO BRIDGE
This hidden and not very well-known place should definitely be on your list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta that you cannot miss. Jorullo Bridge is the world’s longest suspension bridge for vehicles, measuring 470 meters (1542 feet) in length and 150 meters (492 feet) in height. You’re probably wondering, “Can I walk across Jorullo Bridge?” Absolutely! Crossing the bridge costs $15 and can be done on foot or by ATV.
There are two ways to get to Jorullo Bridge. The first method is my favorite because I enjoy do-it-yourself adventures. You can take an Uber straight to the Jorullo Bridge, where you can then pay the fee to cross. After crossing the bridge, there is a small bar where you can relax on hammocks, grab a drink or a snack, and take in the breathtaking scenery of the entire bridge. From there, you can also go on a hike to explore the jungle and find the hidden waterfalls!
💡 If you decide to take an Uber to the Jorullo Bridge, keep in mind that getting one back is nearly impossible, not only because there are none available but also because the service is almost nonexistent. But don't worry; they won't leave you stranded there. We were fortunate to be able to return to town on one of the tour buses because there were still some spots available.
To be extra safe, you can contact us via Instagram at @twosolesabroad, and we can share our amazing Puerto Vallarta driver's contact information. He will be more than happy to help you get back from Jorullo Bridge if needed!
The second way to get to the Jorullo Bridge is to book an ATV tour, which is a fun, adrenaline-filled day excursion. With this tour, you won’t have to worry about getting from and back to town, and you’ll get to see all the amazing things this place has to offer.
In my opinion, no pictures or videos can do this place justice because the feeling you get while you’re there is completely surreal. You’re surrounded by jungle, crossing the world’s longest suspension bridge, and at that moment you feel so small but also unstoppable at the same time.
Also, a note for anyone who is afraid of heights: Personally, I am terrified of heights, but for some reason I didn’t feel as scared or anxious while crossing the bridge, so even if you are afraid, give Jorullo Bridge a try! Don’t miss out on this amazing spot from our list of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta!
4. MARIETA ISLANDS HIDDEN BEACH
The Marieta Islands, also known as Islas Marietas, are a group of uninhabited islands located about 30 minutes by boat from Puerto Vallarta. The islands were formed thousands of years ago by underwater volcano eruptions. Playa del Amor is part of the Marieta Islands. It is also called the Hidden Beach or the Love Beach, and it is surely a sight that you would not want to miss from our list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
To get to Playa del Amor in Puerto Vallarta, you must book a special tour because the Marieta Islands are inaccessible otherwise. It is also limited to a certain number of people per day, so you should book your adventure a few days in advance to avoid missing out.
In order to prevent any destructive human activity, the islands were designated a national park in 2005, making fishing and hunting around the islands illegal. Kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming are still allowed in the Marieta Islands, but they must be accompanied by a licensed tour company.
Just getting to the Hidden Beach is an adventure in and of itself. The beach is not visible from the boat, so you will have to take the water tunnel to get there (don’t worry, you will be wearing a life vest and will be supervised by your tour guide). Sometimes the tide is so high that getting through is impossible, and the adventure must be postponed until a later time. Not only will you be able to see the gorgeous islands in the midst of Banderas Bay, but you will also be able to see wildlife species that are only found in this National Park.
5. CUALE RIVER ISLAND
Isla Cuale (the Cuale River Island) is a hidden island located in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta. So, how can it be hidden? Well, Cuale Island runs along the river and is right next to the iconic Malecon, but it is hidden beneath the bridge and may be difficult to find if you are not already looking for it. Cuale Island is essentially a large, shade-rich oasis and a marketplace with numerous vendors selling plenty of different souvenirs. There, you will definitely find much better deals than in any of the shops on Malecon. Also, don’t forget to haggle!
Cuale Island is worth visiting for more than just the shopping. It’s one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta because you can see rubber trees, which you’ve probably never seen before and which aren’t really found anywhere else in the area. We were amazed by how unique and massive those trees are, and the vendors there encouraged us to climb them and take some pictures. So, of course, we did!
This is definitely a one-of-a-kind place and a great spot to enjoy beautiful nature and the shade, which is a great relief from the hot weather in Puerto Vallarta. There are also suspension bridges that can take you to and from the island, as well as many houses located along the river where locals live. Enjoy your shopping!
6. ZONA ROMANTICA
Zona Romantica is an ideal location for experiencing the true magic of Puerto Vallarta. It is also known as Old Town Puerto Vallarta. It is a more romantic part of the city with smaller streets and a lot of trendy and colorful bars, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. We consider Zona Romantica one of the most fun parts of the city and one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta, especially on Friday night. This part of town is also extremely popular among the LGBTQ community, so we can all expect an extra dose of fun!
There is always something to do in Zona Romantica. From a relaxing day at the beach to a day full of water sports to fun and lively nights, you can never be truly bored there.
Make sure to stop by the Margarita Grill bar, where they serve margaritas and other drinks in huge goblets! They also offer live music and always have a fun crowd hanging around. We found that bar by accident, but we definitely had a great time there.
7. RELEASE THE BABY SEA TURTLE
Releasing a baby sea turtle is definitely at the top of our list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Now, this is not something you can do just any time of the year, so make sure to check the time of the year you are planning on visiting. You can only release baby turtles between August and December in Puerto Vallarta.
This is an incredible experience in which you not only get to release and name your own baby turtle, but you are also helping to save sea turtles. You will be a part of the conservation efforts to help the baby turtles make it safely to the water.
Only 2–3% of turtles reach adulthood, making them an endangered species; therefore, the more turtles that make it to the water, the more turtles that can reach adulthood. Conservation efforts have been extremely successful, with approximately 2,500 nests laid and approximately 150 thousand hatchlings born and released each year. It was also interesting to learn that after approximately 15 years, adult female turtles return to the beach where they were released to lay their eggs.
The whole experience is free, and it’s all thanks to the volunteers at the Boca de Tomates release camp and sanctuary. They live at the beach camp they’ve built themselves and work hard to protect turtles from predators and bad people who steal turtle eggs to make some extra money. Baby turtles are released at sunset to reduce the risk of becoming prey to birds, fish, and other natural predators, and having a large group of people around while releasing the turtles helps greatly in scaring predators away.
Tip: You can do this experience for free if you contact Boca de Tomates release camp via Instagram (@tortuguerobocadetomates) or you can book a local guide who will help you understand the entire process and show you how to get to their hidden beach camp to avoid any complications. We decided to do it on our own (as we always do whenever it is possible), and while getting there may be a little difficult, it is extremely simple once you know exactly what to do.
❗️One important thing to note is that the volunteers depend on all the donations, which are not required for the experience but are greatly appreciated and very helpful so they can keep saving sea turtles.❗️
IMPORTANT:
Before you decide to join the turtle release in Puerto Vallarta, there are a few things you need to know:
1. DO NOT use a flash when taking pictures of the baby turtles. You can blind them.
2.DO NOT touch the turtles. Our bacteria can harm them.
3.Bring a flashlight and bug spray.
4.If you want to help save baby turtles, you can leave donations by contacting volunteers via Instagram (@tortuguerobocadetomates) or on site after finishing the experience.
8. SAYULITA
It would really be a shame to miss Sayulita while visiting Puerto Vallarta. It’s a little hidden gem and a picturesque town with a boho-surf vibe that you don’t want to leave out of your list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. It’s about an hour’s drive from the center of the city, but don’t let that put you off! It is truly so worth it!
This town is one of the most adorable spots in the Puerto Vallarta area, and it has a completely different vibe compared to Puerto Vallarta. All of the streets are tiny and mostly pedestrian, and there aren’t many cars on the road. You can even get around by renting a golf cart, which is an excellent option if you only have one day in Sayulita. You can rent them for a full day for $1000 pesos (about $50 USD).
Depending on the time you have in Puerto Vallarta, you could see Sayulita in a full day; however, if you have enough time, we would definitely recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the city to fully immerse yourself in the amazing atmosphere of this magical town.
Summer in Sayulita is unquestionably a surfer’s paradise, thanks to perfect waves and ideal weather. It is also worth noting that this “hidden gem” is no longer so “hidden,” and Sayulita has quickly become a very touristy location, which means that prices will be slightly higher than in Puerto Vallarta.
GETTING THERE: Now, getting to Sayulita may be a bit challenging, but don't worry. We've got you covered!
• You can get to Sayulita in a few different ways. One important thing to note is that there is no Uber in Sayulita, so while you can get one there, you will probably have a difficult time getting back to Puerto Vallarta.
If you would like us to share the contact information for our amazing driver from Puerto Vallarta, please contact us via Instagram at @twosolesabroad. Louis, our driver, will make sure you get to and from your destination safely. This way, you won't have to worry about anything while you enjoy your time in this magical town.
• A day tour is another option for getting to Sayulita. It is perfect for anyone who does not enjoy planning their excursions, as it guarantees that you see all of the most important sights and return to the city without complications.
• You can also take the bus, which is a great and very affordable option, or a taxi, which may be one of the most expensive ways to get to and from Sayulita.
A few things you may want to check out while in Sayulita:
1. You cannot leave Sayulita without trying the best taco in town, if not in all of Mexico: Tacos el Talivan! Marcel still can’t get over how delicious those tacos were.
2. If you love swings and bars, we have a perfect spot for you. This bar has combined those two things together and is definitely worth checking out while visiting Sayulita.
3. And most importantly, don’t miss out on this hidden beach in Sayulita called Playa de los Muertos. This beach was a pleasant surprise, and if you climb the rocks, you’ll notice another hidden beach on the other side where many locals hang out and jump off the cliffs into the water.
9. PALO MARIA WATERFALL
This hidden gem in Puerto Vallarta is about an hour hike through the jungle. If you enjoy nature and waterfalls, this is the hike for you. However, if you have mobility issues, you may want to skip this one because it isn’t exactly the easiest. The hike is very rocky, and while the rocks are mostly dry during the dry season, during the wet season you can expect the hike to be wet and slippery, but it is so rewarding at the end.
The Palo Maria waterfall is without a doubt one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Not only do you get to see a beautiful waterfall, but you can also swim in it, jump off the cliffs into the water, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can keep on climbing along the rope paths to get to even more waterfalls.
Tip: Bring mosquito repellent as well as water shoes that dry quickly and have a good grip. There is no way you can complete this hike in flip-flops or without shoes.
If you don’t want to figure out the whole hike on your own, you can check out this guided tour below that will take you straight to the Palo Maria Waterfall. 👇
10. MIRADOR DE LA CRUZ
Mirador de la Cruz, the city’s highest point, offers panoramic views of the entire city and is definitely a hike to add to your list of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. It is not the easiest hike, not because it is difficult or dangerous, but because of the number of stairs that lead to the top. The heat and humidity certainly don’t make it any easier, but the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. It shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes to get there, so you don’t need to set aside a lot of time in your day.
When you get to the top, you’ll see something that looks like a parking lot. This is where tourists and locals hang out to watch the beautiful views and stunning sunsets. It is a well-known spot among locals seeking peace, relaxation, or meditation.
Do yourself a favor and make sure to do this hike; it may not be the easiest, but it is absolutely worth it.
Tip: Bring plenty of water, and keep in mind that this is not the best hike for anyone with mobility issues because of the many steps that lead to the top.
11. MISMALOYA BEACH
One of our favorite beaches in Puerto Vallarta, with absolutely breathtaking sunsets. Playa Mismaloya, also known as Mismaloya Beach, is a beautiful, picturesque cove beach with a breathtaking jungle backdrop. It is about a 30-minute drive from the city center and was made famous by the film “The Night of the Iguana,” which was filmed there.
When you arrive, you will cross a small bridge that will take you directly to the beautiful beach with stunning rock formations, countless boats, restaurants, and the famous instagrammable arch. Oh, and the foot-shaped rock. It is an ideal beach for a day of relaxation as well as for those who enjoy adventure and water sports. You can explore the sea cave by kayaking or paddle boarding and even observe the bioluminescent plankton, all of which take place during a stunning sunset.
Mismaloya Beach is the perfect place if you want to slow down, get away from the bigger city, and enjoy the smaller, laidback atmosphere. It will definitely not disappoint you, and it is recommended for anyone seeking relaxation but also a unique adventure while visiting Puerto Vallarta.
Tip: There are four restaurants right on the beach, but they close at 6 p.m., so plan ahead of time if you don't want to go hungry.
12. RHYTHMS OF THE NIGHT
The “Rhythms of the Night” show is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. I mean, it is the most popular activity in town for a reason! It is a combination of a sunset cruise, an amazing cultural and contemporary dance show, and a candlelit buffet-style dinner. Oh, and did I mention there’s an open bar? Yup, and not just on the boat but throughout the entire island. Who needs more convincing?
Rhythms of the Night is located on the isolated Las Caletas Island and is only accessible with a tour. To get there, you must take an hour-long boat ride, which is definitely not your typical, boring boat ride. It has music, performances, a photographer on board, and, let me remind you, an open bar to make it even better!
Once you arrive on the island, you are greeted by mermaids, tree men, tigers (thankfully not real ones), nature sounds coming from every direction, and a variety of other wonderful things that engage you in the amazing feeling of the entire experience. This island has an amazing vibe of a secluded, hidden jungle with many secret pathways, and the entire staff goes above and beyond to make you feel like you are a part of a whole new world.
During the show, you get to experience amazing, top-class performers who juggle with fire, fly, spin in the air, and perform many other incredible acrobatics. The show is very creative and dynamic, but our favorite part is that they have live musicians who are a part of the entire experience, so the music is not pre-recorded. This is a huge plus, in our opinion.
After the show is over, you can enjoy a candlelit dinner right on the water, an open bar, and the opportunity to explore the island and all of its hidden pathways.
If you’re still undecided about booking this show or wondering if Rhythms of the Night is worth it, just trust us—it is! We really feel like we got so much more out of the whole experience than we paid for. The boat ride back was also a lot of fun, with the crew performing and dancing for everyone on board. At some point, we weren’t even sure if anyone was still steering the boat, but oh well. Rhythms of the Night is truly an unforgettable experience and one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta that you should not miss!
MORE IDEAS?
If you know of any more amazing experiences and things to do in Puerto Vallarta, make sure to let us know in the comments, and we may include those in our future posts! We love sharing all of the amazing ideas and experiences with our readers, so make sure to let us know about all of the wonderful things to do in Puerto Vallarta that didn’t make it to our list.
Hey! Maja & Marcel here!
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