Best Travel Guide Puerto Vallarta

Puerto VallartaGuide was updated: 2025-02-04

Puerto Vallarta pairs the architecture of colonial Mexico with the flair of its modern, beach resort city persona. Located in the gorgeous Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is both a tropical and cultural epicenter. Luxury cruises make it a frequent stop along their vacation routes, given its sandy beaches, which seem quite endless. Art lovers will find a paradise in Puerto Vallarta as well, as the city holds its own neighborhoods and districts dedicated to creative expression.

Do & See

Puerto Vallarta is just as great for a relaxing holiday as an adventurous one. The Bay of Banderas has a 60-kilometer long coastline filled with secluded beaches, great for water sports, swimming with dolphins and lazy days on the beach. If you turn your head towards land, you are facing the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains, a fantastic area for zip line tours and other extreme sports. Wandering the cobbled streets of Puerto Vallarta you will be absorbed by art, food, drinks and friendly people. The diversity of things to do and see in Puerto Vallarta will keep you busy for a long, long time.

Puerto Vallarta Boardwalk — El Malecón

Twenty blocks long, this one-mile boardwalk along the oceanfront is called Malecón. It is truly picturesque and a 'must-walk,' so make sure to bring your camera. Stroll along the water among cafés, shops, and the beautiful signature Puerto Vallarta sculptures.

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Bay of Banderas

Bay of Banderas has approximately a 60-kilometer long coastline filled with beautiful beaches and activities. The bay starts off in the north with Punta de Mita and ends on the south side at Cabo Corrientes. You will definitely not have a problem finding your favorite spot here since there are so many great places to choose from.

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Aquaventuras Park

Claimed to be one of Puerto Vallarta’s main tourist attractions, the Aquaventuras Park offers a day full of action. Here you can find animals, water slides, dolphins, playgrounds and much more. They even allow you to interact with the dolphins, pet, swim and dance with them. For the kids, The Little Water World - Children's Area and the Lazy River are two of the best attractions.

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Zona Romantica

When in Puerto Vallarta you will certainly come across the so-called Zona Romantica, which is the old part of town. In this popular neighborhood, you will be able to experience what Mexico is all about; charm, food, and lovely people. Make sure you do not miss the gorgeous sunset.

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Las Caletas Beach

This secluded beach area is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular hideaways. Las Caletas, on the southern shores of Bay of Banderas, can only be reached by boat. Once there, you can enjoy different activities like snorkeling and kayaking.

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Teatro Vallarta

If you feel like exploring your cultural side, you can visit Teatro Vallarta which is housed in a modern building and has a seat capacity of 900. Here you can sit down in a comfortable seat and just relax while watching one of the quality shows like ballet, theater, or opera. The theater draws performers from all over Mexico and abroad..

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Population:	567,694 (2024)
Currency:	Mexican peso (MXN) 1 = 100 Centavos
Emergency Numbers:	911
Newspapers:	Vallarta Today: www.vallartatoday.com La Jornada: www.jornada.com.mx/tag/puerto%20vallarta
Website:	www.visitpuertovallarta.com »
Opening Hours:	Shops are generally open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and Saturdays. In tourist areas shops and larger malls usually stay open until 8pm. On Sundays shops are open at their own discretion. Banks are open from 9am to 3/4pm. In the city some banks stay open a few hours on Saturdays as well.
Tourist Information:	Turismo Puerto Vallarta Juárez Street 361, Proyecto escola, Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jal. +52 322 222 1401