Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, where the sun, sand, and sea are calling your name! This beautiful oceanside town is known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, rich history, and friendly locals. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting vacation destination, look no further than Puerto Vallarta. I have been coming to this area with my family since I was just a baby, and now live here part time with my husband. We love exploring and playing tourist, since there is so much to discover in this magical town. Here are some of the best things to do during your stay:
The 10 Best Things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Explore Puerto Vallarta on foot
Puerto Vallarta is a charming town with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to discover its hidden gems, like the quaint streets of Old Vallarta and the beautiful Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. You will find murals all over the city, and colorful hanging umbrellas by the church. I always say the best way to see a city is to be up when locals are going to work, and see the sights while the weather is cooler in the morning. I feel this way I get a different perspective on the city, and you will also find the best breakfast taco stands the locals love. Of course if it is your first time, I suggest walking the famous seawall Malecon. You will get some great views of the bay, and have many photo opportunities with the sculptures and famous “Puerto Vallarta” sign.
Go on a Taco Tour
I have said it many times, and I will say it again, tacos are the only food group you need. Luckily, Puerto Vallarta has so many delicious taco stands that are easy and accessible throughout the day. One of our favorite ways to spend a day with our friends who come into town is taking them on “Taylor’s Taco Tour” in the Romantic Zone. You can of course book a tour on tour websites for $$$, but I have written a blog with all my favorite taco stands in Puerto Vallarta. Save yourself $60 and read my blog HERE I can say at this point, I might be considered an expert in Puerto Vallarta taco stands – which is just a fancy way of saying I eat way too many tacos. But someone has to put the hard work in…
Go Snorkeling at Los Arcos
Los Arcos is known to be the best snorkeling spot in Puerto Vallarta. You can explore the underwater world and discover colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Many tours also include a visit to secluded beaches and hidden coves. If you are feeling adventurous and have your own snorkel gear, you can hire a boat at Los Muertos Pier and have them take you. If you would rather relax and get to snorkel, paddle board, and visit some other nice spots – just book a tour and make it an easy day trip.
Go Deep Sea Fishing
One of my favorite activities we have ever done in Puerto Vallarta was our fishing trip in the Banderas Bay. Since we went fishing in March, we saw so many whales and sea life on our trip, it was like two tours in one. We booked our fishing trip with Calypso Fishing Tours, and they also do many other tours that do not include fishing. They were amazing to work with, easy with communication, and they made our fishing trip really special. Our guides were very knowledgeable and taught us so much about the fish and wildlife that live in the area. We caught four Skipjack Tunas thanks to their fishing expertise. When we got back to the dock, they even filleted our fish for us so it was easy to bring home. We went straight to a restaurant in the marina, and they cooked up a few pieces of our fresh fish to enjoy for lunch after a long morning fishing.
https://www.pvfishingtours.com
Taste the Agave Spirits – Tequila, Mezcal, and Raicilla
I am sure most of you have heard of Tequila and Mezcal, but did you know that Jalisco (the state Puerto Vallarta is located in) has their own agave spirit called Raicilla? You won’t find big brand names at these tastings, you will discover the gem of small production agave spirits here in Mexico. Each of these spirits are made in different states, have different rules and regulations, and different tastes. You can find tastings just walking around the Malecon or Old Town, or book a tasting tour. There is also a big Raicilla festival twice a year in Nuevo Vallarta, in February and November that is fun to attend if you are here during those times.
Visit the Puerto Vallarta Zoo
The Puerto Vallarta Zoo is located 25 minutes south in the quaint town of Mismaloya. What I loved most about this Zoo is that you can feed the animals. At the entrance, for 50 pesos, you get a bag of vegetables and nuts. Interacting with the animals and being able to feed them was such a different experience than other zoos I have been to. They have a great range of animals, including the first Giraffe I had ever seen in real life. If you are lucky and visit when there are baby lions, for an upcharge you and your group can play with the babies.
Just to note: this zoo requires a bit of walking, and it is not flat ground. The first half inclines into the hills, then zig zags back down. At some points you are walking on cobblestone paths, so just be aware of that if there are disabilities, strollers, or anyone in the group that has a hard time walking long distances.
General Admission Cost: $12 USD
Open Year Round Everyday 9:00-5:00
Visit the Puerto Vallarta Botanical G0ardens
Not far from the Puerto Vallarta Zoo is the famous botanical gardens. These gardens are known for being home to a vast collection of exotic plants and wildlife. With 120 hectares nature preserve, there is alot to see here, including 230 species of birds. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, taking in the natural beauty of the area. If you are adventurous and love to hike, I suggest you wear a bathing suit and bring a change of clothes and a towel, so you can dip in the Los Horcones River on a hot day. You could easily spend an entire day here wandering around. Again, some of the trails are not intended for anyone who has difficulty walking.
Cost; $300 Pesos per person from 4 years old! Kids (3 and under) are free
Visit the Crocodile Sanctuary
The El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary is located in the heart of the mangroves of the El Quelele Estuary, about 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. During this tour, you’ll get an exclusive opportunity to expand your knowledge on environmental education, the protection of wild flora and fauna, and crocodiles. The tour is led by expert biologists and veterinarians who specialize in these fields. We love going back each year to check on the crocodiles that call El Cora their forever home. They do everything they can to rehab the crocodiles and release them back to the wild, but a few have disabilities that make it so they would not survive in the wild. You will get to interact with the crocodiles and if the circumstances allow it, you may even have the chance to feed them. The first time we went, we were able to hold a baby crocodile. Get ready for an educational and unforgettable experience!
Since you are up this way, before or after check out the town of Bucerias. Here you will find pristine sand, beach bars,and many of our favorite dinner spots up this way.
Cost: $250 pesos
https://www.instagram.com/elcora.cocodrilario/
Go Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
If you are in town during the months of December, January, February, or March – do not skip this activity. During these months, the Bay of Banderas is an annual destination for mating and birthing whales. The bay’s natural shape provides an ideal environment with protection from predators and warm waters to raise the babies. The most frequently spotted whale is the humpback whale. However, you may also catch a glimpse of blue and grey whales. In addition to these magnificent creatures, the bay is also known for frequent sightings of dolphins, turtles, and even orcas during this season. Personally I would opt for a smaller boat for this tour, so you can get a better perspective lower to the water.
Visit San Pancho (San Francisco)
One of the underrated gems for a day trip from Puerto Vallarta is San Pancho. Located just 15 minutes north of the famous Sayulita, it is often overlooked by most. Personally, I do not understand the hype of Sayulita, but fell in love with the quieter town of San Pancho. Amazing surf, a few beach restaurants, and a boho vibe, this town is what I imagine Sayulita must have been like 15-20 years ago.. My advice is to enjoy it now before it gets as touristy as Sayulita.
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