So, you have just booked a place to stay in Puerto Vallarta and are now wondering how to spend your time there? Don’t worry – this guide is just what you are looking for. The area is known for its art, fishing, food, and friendly community. Being a proper destination with a lively atmosphere, Puerto Vallarta is a place one should visit.
What to See
If you are looking to experience authentic Mexican culture, you are going to the right place. True, just taking a random walk in the city will leave anyone satisfied enough. You can’t go wrong with all the outdoor activities or just visiting the historic downtown with cobbled streets, trendy restaurants, and art shops… Here are some of the most important things you should definitely see.
#1.Malecon Promenade
Being a home to a number of restaurants and bars, the promenade is alive both day and night. You can enjoy spot sculptures like the famous Boy on the Seahorse, you can also chat with the friendly vendors in the streets or just admire the locals dancing in the main square.
#2. Playa de Los Muertos
Also known as the “beach of the dead”, Playa de Los Muertos is lined with sand and stone art. This is the place perfect for a beer and a glimpse at the sunset. Also, the beach is not a far walk from the Malecon downtown area of Puerto Vallarta.
#3. Churches of Puerto Vallarta
Being just a short walk from Playa de Los Muertos, you should definitely take that walk if you like church architecture. In the heart of Puerto Vallarta, you can see the iconic Church of the Virgin Guadalupe. You will hear the bells ring before each service, but visiting this place in December is really special. On December 1st and 12th, you can see the Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival, complete with both Christian and Aztec motifs, dance, and traditions. There are many other churches in the area that are worth seeing.
#4. Street Art & Paintings
You can’t spell Puerto Vallarta without art. The luxury rentals on our website are all over the area, and if you are staying in one of them, you are just a walking distance away from the many art galleries located in the downtown core of the city. You should definitely keep your eyes peeled as you are walking down the streets. You can also take the cruise ships where locals will lead you to markets, restaurants, street food stands, art places, and everything else worth seeing.
#5. Cerro de la Cruz
This is one of the greatest views in the area. From the top, you will get a 360-degree viewpoint. In order to do that, you will need to take the 30-minute hike, which might be a bit too frustrating during hot days, but the view sure makes up for everything.
The place is perfectly suited for eco-tourists as well. If you love whale and bird watching, as well as kayaking, scuba diving, and other water sports or even ATVing and ziplining, visiting the area is a must!
What to Do
To experience more of your Mexico vacation and luxury retreat investment, consider the following things to do in Puerto Vallarta:
#1. Riviera Nayarit
The Riviera Nayarit offers an even more peaceful atmosphere, luxury retreats, and even professional golf courses. The place is also known for its laid-back vibes with hippy shops and yoga resorts.
#2. Whale and bird watching
This is definitely the place to visit if you are into whale and bird watching. What’s worth knowing is that you should book a tour of whale watching and the prime season for spotting them is December through March. As for bird watching, this activity is popular all year long in the Riviera Nayarit area.
#3. Explore the canopy
If you are the adventurous type looking for outdoor adventures and off-roading, keep reading. There are many zip line tours that can take you over the Orquideas River. Note that these trips usually end up in tequila bars, so watch your drinks, your pockets, and definitely – appreciate the beautiful views of Puerto Vallarta and the lush Mexican jungle and wildlife. Speaking of wildlife, make sure you don’t forget your bug spray.
These tours are also great cruises and shore excursions, and they offer a great view of the city during a shorter stay.
