Puerto Vallarta Mexico Travel Guide

Introduction
General information
Things to Know
Accommodations
Tours
Cruises

Introduction

Experience Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Situated on Banderas Bay, this tropical paradise combines the old with the new in gracious style. Cobblestone streets wind through the town and art galleries and colorful boutiques are filled with Mexican folk art and handicrafts.

International cuisine can be found in any town, as well as in all resort hotels. Puerto Vallarta is divided into various tourist areas; Rivera Nayarit, features luxury resorts and eco-tourism boutique hotels, world-renowned surfing, four professional golf courses, rare native wildlife including sea turtles and tropical birds, mountain and island adventures, shopping for local artwork and traditional Huichol handicrafts, charming fishing towns and miles of serene beaches.

Puerto Vallarta is bordered by the jungle-covered Sierra Madre Mountains, which nature lovers enjoy hiking and biking. These mountains are home to the Huichol, descendants of the Aztecs and one of the world’s last indigenous cultures. Their art is quite desirable, and is sold in Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit Vacations

If you’re considering a vacation to the Vallarta-Nayarit region, then chances are you’re looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary but with a welcoming, easy-to-explore vibe. And you’ll certainly find all that and more in this long stretch of Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Encompassing long beaches, mountainous jungles, and cultural towns, Vallarta-Nayarit is like a well-stocked spice cabinet: full of different flavors for different types of vacationers. From the iconic boardwalk in downtown Puerto Vallarta to whale-watching in Banderas Bay to the secluded, dramatic landscapes of Punta Mita, Vallarta-Nayarit has a plethora of choices that can be tailored to you.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta

The region’s most iconic area is certainly Puerto Vallarta itself. The Malecón boardwalk along Banderas Bay is closed to motorized traffic, so you’ll only find pedestrians perusing the shops, art galleries and dining. If you have the kiddos in tow, make sure to stop by the small amphitheater near the main square to see the working artists, clowns and other entertainers. Then, just two blocks off of the boardwalk, step inside the beautiful Cathedral for a quieter moment of reflection.

puerto-vallarta

Riviera Nayarit

The name of the game in Riviera Nayarit is golf. Take on El Tigre Golf & Country Club if you’re up for a challenge. If you’re looking for great views and a big-name designer, then Jack Nicklaus’ renovation of El Nayar Vidanta is the place for you. When you’re done on the links, check out the small fishing town of Bucerias for fish tacos and a cold beer.

Punta Mita

Honeymooners and couples, take note: Punta Mita is perhaps one of the most romantic destinations you can dream up. The sunsets here are dreamy, to say the least. Put yourself on vacation time and explore Sayulita, a colorful surfing town that’s known for its seafood tacos, art scene and expats. Celebrities have been spotted in Punta Mita and resorts have expanded in this area in recent years, so you can be sure that this hideaway won’t stay hidden for long.

Mismaloya

The area just south of Puerto Vallarta was originally made famous by the 1964 film The Night of the Iguana. These days, it’s known for its lovely beaches and authentic Mexican vibe. Families will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and all-ages resorts. With a mix of adventure, culture and relaxation, Mismaloya is suited for travelers who want to balance their days hanging on the beach and exploring the nearby downtown area of Puerto Vallarta.

Also See

Things to Know

Travel Experiences:

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a vibrant coastal city on the Pacific Ocean known for its picturesque beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture. It offers a diverse range of travel experiences for visitors. Here are some types of travel experiences that Puerto Vallarta is particularly well-suited for:

Beach and Water Activities: Puerto Vallarta boasts beautiful sandy beaches and warm waters, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers. Visitors can relax on the beaches, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
Whale Watching: Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its whale watching opportunities. From December to April, humpback whales migrate to the region, and visitors can embark on boat tours to witness these majestic creatures up close. It's a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Outdoor Adventures: The surrounding natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers can engage in activities like hiking, zip-lining, ATV tours, horseback riding, and canopy tours in the lush jungles and mountains of the Sierra Madre.
Water Sports and Sailing: The warm waters of Puerto Vallarta are perfect for water sports. Visitors can go sailing, fishing, parasailing, or take boat tours to explore the scenic coastline and nearby islands such as Las Marietas and Yelapa.
Cultural Exploration: Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The city's historic center, known as the Zona Romantica or Old Town, is brimming with colorful streets, art galleries, and charming cobblestone alleyways. Visitors can explore local markets, admire traditional Mexican architecture, and experience the lively music and dance scene.
Gastronomic Delights: Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of culinary experiences. The city is known for its delicious seafood, regional Mexican cuisine, and international fare. Visitors can indulge in authentic street food, dine at gourmet restaurants, and even take cooking classes to learn the secrets of Mexican cooking.
Nightlife and Entertainment: Puerto Vallarta comes alive after the sun sets. The city offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, from traditional mariachi music to contemporary dance clubs.
Relaxation and Spa Retreats: Puerto Vallarta is home to luxury resorts and spas that offer world-class relaxation and wellness experiences. Travelers can enjoy pampering spa treatments, yoga classes, and rejuvenating wellness retreats in serene settings.

Important Things to Know:

Passport Requirement: Yes
Visa Requirement: None. However, travelers must fill out a Mexico Tourist Card to enter Mexico via air, land, or sea.
Best Time To Travel to This Destination: December to April (Year-Round Destination)
This Destination is Best For: See Above.
Is This a Family-Friendly Destination: Yes
Recommended Vaccinations: Travelers don’t need to present a vaccination record to visit Mexico. However, it is recommended that your vaccines are up-to-date to reduce the risks of infection against endemic diseases. The vaccines recommended by the WHO are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza.

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Armony Luxury Resort & Spa – a Marival Collection

Punta de Mita, Mexico

From $ 529.00

Experience a new definition of harmony at Armony Luxury Resort & Spa, A Marival Collection Adults-only All-Inclusive Resort. Nestled amidst the breathtaking northside beaches of the bay and embraced by the lush Sierra Madre, this resort seamlessly merges luxury with nature.