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Discover Puerto Vallarta
Places to Visit in Puerto Vallarta
🌊 Puerto Vallarta Malecón
The heart of the destination: open-air sculptures, golden sunsets, artists, the Voladores de Papantla, music, and the ocean breeze.
Walk from Los Arcos to the lighthouse surrounded by galleries, bars, and restaurants facing the Pacific.
Plaza de Armas: on Thursdays and Sundays, the square in front of Los Arcos fills with music and dancing — a cheerful encounter for all ages. Don’t know how to dance? Someone will teach you!
View locationRecommended Restaurants near the Malecón
Café des Artistes
Signature Cuisine • Fine Dining
An iconic Vallarta experience offering creative dishes and an elegant ambiance.
La Traviata
Italian • Rooftop View
Pasta, pizzas, and a wide panoramic view of the bay from its rooftop terrace.
Oyster Grill (De la Docena)
Seafood • Raw Bar
Oysters, ceviches, and grilled seafood in a modern, relaxed environment.
El Barracuda
Seafood • Beachfront
A beach classic for ceviches, fish tacos, and creative cocktails right on the sand.
💕 Romantic Zone
Best time to visit: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM · Location: south of the Cuale River (Emiliano Zapata neighborhood).
Cobblestone streets, art galleries, cafés, murals, terraces, live shows, and the illuminated Los Muertos Pier. A lively and inclusive vibe.
View location
Recommended Restaurants
Tuna Azul
Seafood • Local Favorite
Fresh tuna and creative dishes. Small, flavorful, and great value for money.
Joe Jack’s Fish Shack
Seafood • Casual
Fish & chips, cocktails, and a lively rooftop terrace atmosphere.
Birriería Robles
Tacos • Local
Authentic Jalisco-style birria tacos. A must-try for true local flavor.
⛵ Marina Vallarta
Stroll among yachts, enjoy the iconic lighthouse, and witness stunning sunsets.
A great place for dinner by the water, photography, and relaxed evening walks.
View location
Recommended Restaurant
El Faro Marina Vallarta
International Cuisine • 360° View
Lobster risotto, salmon, steak, carpaccios, and tapas. Live saxophone Thursdays 8–10 PM and Sundays 10–12 AM.
🌿 Cuale River Island
A green oasis between Downtown and the Romantic Zone: hanging bridges, artisan stalls, and shade under tall trees beside the river.
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Recommended Restaurants
Le Bistro Restaurant
International • Riverside
Bohemian vibe, brunch, and romantic dinners with the sound of the Cuale River.
Vallarta Factory
Coffee • Chocolaterie • Breakfast
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Specialty coffee, artisanal chocolate, and sweet or savory options to start your day.
🌈 Los Muertos Pier
An architectural landmark in the Romantic Zone. At night it lights up in colors, offering stunning bay views.
It’s also the main departure point for water taxis heading to Colomitos, Las Ánimas, and Quimixto.
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Recommended Restaurant
La Palapa
Seafood • Beachfront
A Puerto Vallarta classic: romantic beach dinners and tropical cocktails under the stars.
⛪ Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Vallarta’s most recognizable religious icon, crowned with elegance.
Visit by day for its architecture and by night for the lively downtown atmosphere.
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Recommended Restaurants Nearby
El Campanario
Mexican • Local
Homestyle Mexican food at very fair prices just steps from the parish.
La Cappella
Italian • Premium Dining
Terraces with stunning views of the bay and cathedral. Live violin music in the evenings (5–11 PM, intervals).
Hacienda San Ángel Gourmet
Mexican/International • Cathedral View
Romantic atmosphere, select mariachis, and terraces with a panoramic downtown view.
🏝️ Los Arcos of Mismaloya
A protected natural area famous for its rock formations and marine life. Perfect for snorkeling and boat excursions.
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🌄 Cerro de la Cruz Lookout
The best panoramic view of Downtown and the bay.
A short but steep staircase climb — wear sneakers and bring water!
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🎨 Tile Park (Lázaro Cárdenas Plaza)
A community mosaic project led by artist Natasha Moraga, transforming benches, pillars, and the gazebo into vibrant works of art with sacred geometry and elemental symbolism. A true artistic landmark of the Romantic Zone.
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Recommended Restaurant
The Blue Shrimp
Seafood • Family Friendly
Specializing in shrimp and ocean favorites with a relaxed, beachside atmosphere.
🌺 Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden
Located in the Sierra Madre mountains: orchids, cacti, tropical fruits, oak trees, and wild palms.
Explore the Orchid Conservatory, Cactus Garden, and Tropical Orchard. Cross the hanging bridge and walk through lush forest trails. Don’t miss the gift shop, nursery, and scenic restaurant at the top.
View location
Recommended Restaurant Nearby
Hacienda de Oro Restaurant & Bar
Mexican • Mountain Views
Regional cuisine, cocktails, and a terrace overlooking the green valley — perfect after exploring the gardens.
Puerto Vallarta Events 2025
🌴 Overview: A month-by-month calendar to enjoy nature, culture, and celebration in Puerto Vallarta.
Includes ideas and seasonal tips. The images for each month slide automatically every 5 seconds (you can navigate using the dots).
🎉 January | Kings Day, Chocolate & Vanilla, Aguachile Festival
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GastronomyFamilyCool Season
- Jan 6 · Kings Day – traditional “rosca” bread & hot chocolate.
- Chocolate & Vanilla Festival at the Botanical Garden.
- Aguachile & Ceviche Festival (usually late January).
- Whale watching season at its peak.
❤️ February | Valentine’s Day & Charro Tradition
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RomanceCulture
- Feb 14 · Valentine’s Day – beachfront dinners, live music & sunsets.
- International Charro Championship (late Jan / early Feb).
- Pleasant weather for Old Town and Romantic Zone strolls.
🌸 March | Carnival, Regattas & Tourist Route
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CarnivalSailingMild Weather
- P.V. Carnival – first week of March.
- Regattas and nautical events across Banderas Bay.
- Tourist Route Run – around late March.
🌞 April | Marathon, Holy Week & Children’s Day
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SportsHigh Season
- P.V. Marathon – early April.
- Holy Week & Easter – beaches and tours reach high occupancy.
- Apr 30 · Children’s Day – family activities citywide.
🌼 May | Cultural Festival & Puerto Vallarta Anniversary
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CultureFamily
- May Cultural Festival and El Pitillal Festivities.
- International Classic Tournament (sports).
- May 31 · Anniversary of Puerto Vallarta’s founding.
⚓ June | Navy Day Celebrations
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NauticalCeremonies
June 1 · Floral tributes, maritime parades, and naval honors across the bay.
🌤️ July | Summer in the Bay
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SummerBeaches
- Snorkeling at Los Arcos and the southern coves.
- Family-friendly water sports and fun under the sun.
- Vivid sunsets ideal for photography.
☀️ August | “Hands & Magic” Gourmet Pairing Dinners
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GastronomyExperiences
Exclusive pairing dinners featuring guest chefs and regional ingredients. Check venues and limited seating details each year.
🇲🇽 September | Independence Festivities & Charro Day
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TraditionCelebration
- Sept 14 · Charro Day — honoring Mexican horsemanship and rodeo traditions.
- Sept 15 – 16 · Independence Day celebrations with music, food stalls and fireworks downtown.
🎨 October | Art Walk, Gastronomy & Halloween
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ArtGastronomy
- Start of the Art Walk season (October to May) in Downtown galleries.
- Vallarta · Nayarit Gastronómica mid-month — top chefs and tastings.
- Oct 31 · Halloween parades and themed parties along the Malecón.
🍂 November | Day of the Dead, Gourmet Festival & UTMB Trail Run
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TraditionGourmetTrail Run
- Nov 1–2 · Altars and parades for the Day of the Dead.
- International Gourmet Festival (mid-month) with renowned chefs and menus.
- UTMB Puerto Vallarta (2nd weekend) — world-class mountain trail race.
🎄 December | Guadalupe Festivities, Posadas & New Year’s Eve
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FestivitiesWhale Season
- Dec 1–12 · Processions for Our Lady of Guadalupe downtown.
- Dec 16–24 · Traditional Posadas and Christmas celebrations throughout the city.
- Dec 31 · Fireworks and New Year’s Eve parties all along the bay.
- Active whale-watching season (Dec – Mar).
Complete Guide to Enjoy Puerto Vallarta 2025
Where to StayBeaches & CovesFood & Dining
TransportationItinerariesSafety
This guide brings together everything essential to plan your trip: which area to choose, a curated list of restaurants, how to get around, what to pack, the best time to visit, itinerary ideas, and quick contact if you want help organizing experiences.
This guide brings together everything essential to plan your trip: which area to choose, a curated list of restaurants, how to get around, what to pack, the best time to visit, itinerary ideas, and quick contact if you want help organizing experiences.
🏨 Areas & Accommodation: Which zone is best for me?
Downtown & Malecón
Urban life, galleries, bars, events.
- Perfect if you want to walk everywhere.
- Boutique hotels and apartments with bay views.
- Can be noisy during high season.
Romantic Zone
Bohemian and inclusive vibe, Los Muertos Pier and beach.
- Tons of restaurants and bars.
- Lively nightlife; consider interior rooms.
Marina Vallarta
Yachts, lighthouse, sunset strolls.
- Excellent for families and golf.
- Close to the airport; quiet at night.
North Hotel Zone
Resorts, malls, and quick access to everything.
- Convenient and comfortable.
- Wide beaches; less “town feel.”
South Shores (Conchas Chinas → Mismaloya)
Coves, jungle, and clearer water.
- Perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
- You’ll need taxis/car to get around.
Nayarit (Nuevo Vallarta / Bucerías)
Long beaches and family-friendly resorts.
- All-inclusive and spacious.
- Longer transfers to the Romantic Zone.
Tip: request a room away from elevators and with windows facing away from the street for quieter nights.
🏝️ Must-Visit Beaches
SnorkelingWater TaxiFamily-Friendly
- Los Arcos · iconic rock formations & marine life (best in the morning).
- Colomitos · tiny cove, clear water; access by boat or hike from Boca.
- Las Ánimas & Quimixto · wide beach + waterfall (short trail in Quimixto).
- Majahuitas · turquoise tones & chill vibe.
- Yelapa · coastal town with a waterfall and authentic local feel.
Recommendation: bring water shoes and biodegradable sunscreen.
🍽️ Food & Dining: what to try and how to choose
Must-Try Dishes
- Fish tacos and shrimp tacos.
- Oysters and fresh raw bars.
- Birria Jalisco-style (breakfast hangover cure 😊).
- Ceviches and aguachiles.
Practical Tips
- Ask for the catch of the day.
- Typical tip: 10–15% (cash helps; optional).
- For sunset views, book a terrace.
For special occasions, consider a beachfront dinner or a terrace overlooking the bay.
🚕 Local Transportation & Airport Tips
Taxi/AppBusPrivate
- Taxis: agree on the fare beforehand; bring small bills.
- Buses: cheap; check last return (8–9 PM to nearby towns).
- Private transfer: ideal for groups or heavy luggage.
- Car rentals: cobblestone streets & speed bumps — drive slow.
If staying in the south, allow extra time due to sunset traffic returning to town.
🗺️ Suggested Itineraries (48 h and 4–5 days)
48-Hour Escape
- Day 1: Downtown + Malecón + Romantic Zone (sunset dinner).
- Day 2: Cove (Colomitos/Ánimas) or Los Arcos snorkeling + Marina in the evening.
4–5 Day Plan
- Day 1: Downtown & art (Art Walk in season).
- Day 2: South beaches (Quimixto/Yelapa).
- Day 3: Marietas or Majahuitas (full day).
- Day 4: Botanical Garden + river area.
- Day 5: Sayulita/San Pancho or free day for shopping & spa.
Book tours with early departures for calmer seas and fewer crowds.
🌤️ Weather & Best Time to Visit
- Dec–Mar: cool/mild · whale season.
- Apr–Jun: sunny days & warm water.
- Jul–Sep: hotter & humid; afternoon rains (lush and photogenic).
- Oct–Nov: stable weather; start of high season.
Bring a light windbreaker for boat tours and breezy nights.
🎒 What to Pack (Smart Checklist)
Basics
- Light clothing + a warm evening layer.
- Extra swimsuit & waterproof bag.
- Sneakers/sandals with grip; water shoes.
- Cap, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen.
Useful Extras
- Biodegradable repellent, hand sanitizer.
- Microfiber towel & waterproof phone case.
- Reusable bottle; trail snacks.
- Digital copies of IDs.
For waterfall hikes: bring cash and leave valuables in the hotel (always use the safe).
🛟 Safety & Health: Key Tips
- Swim only in designated areas and follow beach flags.
- Avoid swimming after heavy rains (currents & low visibility).
- Stay hydrated; avoid strong sun from 12–3 PM.
- Choose licensed operators with proper equipment.
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t board. Message us — we’ll guide you for free.
💳 Budget & Money Tips
Payments
- Carry cash; some places don’t accept cards.
- Typical tip: 10–15% (more on tours if deserved, always optional).
- Have small bills and coins.
Smart Savings
- Book early during high season.
- Early departures = calmer seas & better value.
- Mix free beach days + 2 key tours.
Ask about cancellation policies and extra fees (if any) before paying.
🎉 Nightlife & Events
- Malecón: bars, live music, and open-air shows.
- Romantic Zone: cocktails, terraces, and performances.
- Marina: relaxed dinners by the docks.
- Check our 2025 events calendar month by month on the website.
Looking for something special (anniversary, proposal)? We can arrange a romantic dinner on the beach or a private sailboat.
👨👩👧👦 Accessibility, Families & Groups
- Ask about ramps and access points if traveling with a stroller or wheelchair. Official Puerto Vallarta Airport number: 322 221 1298.
- Choose morning schedules with small children.
- For groups, consider private transportation and booking restaurants, tours, transport, hotels, etc. in advance.
Birthday or bachelorette trip? We can arrange a plan with photos/videos and special touches.
Dreamy Beaches: Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its stunning beaches that boast crystal-clear waters and soft sand, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun and sea. Beaches like Los Muertos, Las Caletas, Bucerías, and Mismaloya are among the most popular with tourists.
Exquisite Cuisine: The food scene in Puerto Vallarta is truly an experience of its own. The city features a vast array of restaurants serving up typical regional dishes like birria, pozole, and delicious fish tacos. For those who prefer international flavors, you'll also find excellent Italian and Japanese options."
Outdoor Activities: If you're an adventure enthusiast, Puerto Vallarta has plenty to offer. From kayaking and paddleboarding to ATV tours and zip-lining, there are options for every taste. Additionally, the city features several natural parks, such as Los Arcos Marine National Park, where you can enjoy activities like snorkeling and diving.
Culture and Tradition: Puerto Vallarta is a city rich in culture and tradition. The city's historic center boasts beautiful cobblestone streets and colonial buildings dating back to the 19th century. Furthermore, the city is famous for its renowned Malecón, a waterfront promenade filled with artwork and sculptures.