Puerto Vallarta is a world class destination in Mexico that is renowned for incredible vacations packed with unique experiences in unforgettable surroundings. There is an endless number of things to do in Puerto Vallarta, below are just some ideas that you could fit into a week in Puerto Vallarta.
1. Malecon and Flea Market
No matter where you are staying – in the hotel zone, the Marina, the South beach area or in Nuevo Vallarta – you must schedule some time for downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Malecon. The center still retains its colonial charm mixed with the tropics with the boardwalk, known as the Malecon, keeping tourists delighted with bars, restaurants, stores and tequila tastings. The perfect time to visit the Malecon is in the afternoon until sunset, where you are guaranteed the most blissful sunsets over the ocean anytime of the year. Partygoers may save the Malecon until after 11pm, when it really takes on another colorful vibe.
At the end of the Malecon, you will come to some arches where there are daily performances and street artists. Opposite, across from the main plaza, you will see the Church of Guadalupe, which is a common feature on postcards and tour guides. A little further south, you will come to more shops and eventually end at the beginning of the flea market and the River Cuale stalls. There is no end to your traditional Mexican souvenir opportunities.
2. Hidden Beaches
Besides the beautiful beach that is sure to greet you at your hotel, on the southern shore from Puerto Vallarta, there are lots of hidden beaches that you have to rent a boat or yacht to get to. The more popular beaches can be reached by water taxi, while others are serviced by special tours or private charters. There is nothing quite like exploring a beach that has no road access. In some, like Yelapa and Quimixto, you can walk to waterfalls once you are there.
3. Pleasure Cruises and Pirates
There is a wide selection of pleasure boats and party cruises to enjoy, depending on the kind of music you like and your budget. One of the most highly recommended is the pirate show on the Marigalante pirate ship. This show, known as Pirates of the Bay, leaves every night of the year from the cruise port, delivering a colorful show of betrayal and acrobatics. Your ticket also includes all you can drink as well as dinner. You can take a daytime cruise on the Marigalante too, which is perfect for kids, although children are welcome in the evening family show too.
4. Whale Watching and Diving
During the summer, Puerto Vallarta is perfect for diving thanks to the warm temperatures where wearing a wetsuit becomes optional. You can see any number of marine life, although turtles come into their high season from around July. Whale watching is possible from November through March, when the water temperature drops a little. It is incredible to see these mammals jumping in the water at close proximity to your boats as well as from the shoreline. It is not unheard of to see whales jumping from the Malecon.
5. Canopy Zip Lining
The lush tropical jungle that covers the mountains which cradle Puerto Vallarta provide the ideal setting for magical zip line tours. You can cross river-worn ravines, waterfalls, treetops and streams on a thrilling adventure zipping across the rainforest canopy. There are many different options to try, so make sure to check out the routes and prices for each one before committing. Most zip line tours also offer ATVs for off road fun for an additional cost.
