Puerto Vallarta

North America

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Mexico

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Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a resort town situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Nicknamed Vallarta, this city offers plenty of things to do for nature and culture enthusiasts alike.

Explore Puerto Vallarta’s stunning beaches, such as Los Muertos and Las Glorias, where you can enjoy thrilling activities like jet skiing, horseback riding, and parasailing. The rich marine life also provides opportunities for tourists to spot various species, including humpback whales, dolphins, and giant manta rays.

In addition to beach activities, visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to admire beautifully manicured gardens and see hundreds of plant species native to Mexico. Finally, dive into Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culture at the Centro Cultural Cuale, which hosts various art exhibitions and workshops, and don’t miss cultural celebrations like Mardi Gras and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)!

Travel Tips for Puerto Vallarta

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Puerto Vallarta

A guide to Puerto Vallarta's local transportation

Bus

Taxi

Car Rental

Buses are a convenient way to get around the city, covering various routes, including the airport. If you can’t locate a bus stop, you can simply flag down the bus to stop. Each ride costs M$10, which you pay in cash to the driver when you board the bus.

Practical Tips for Puerto Vallarta

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta?

One of the must-visit beaches in Puerto Vallarta is Los Muertos Beach. Relax on the golden sand, enjoy beach snacks from street food vendors, and take in the incredible sunset views from the Los Muertos Beach Pier. Another popular beach is Las Gemelas Beach, known for its calm waters ideal for swimming. For water sports and other recreational activities, head to Las Glorias Beach, where you can enjoy activities like jet skiing, horseback riding, and banana boat riding.

What outdoor activities can I do in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is one of the top diving destinations in Mexico. Popular dive sites like the Marietas Islands and Los Arcos offer the chance to see giant mantas. If you're not a licensed diver, these sites are also excellent for snorkeling. Whale watching is another exciting activity you can do in Puerto Vallarta. The best time to see humpback whales is between January and February. Additionally, you can spend some quiet time in nature by hiking through the forests and gardens at Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, you can make the most of your day thanks to the pleasant weather and low rainfall. However, this is also the high season in Puerto Vallarta, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

What are some must-try foods in Puerto Vallarta?

When in Puerto Vallarta, don't miss the seafood dishes, especially pescado zarandeado, which is grilled fish marinated in chili and spices. Other must-try dishes include birria (meat stew) and tacos al pastor (grilled pork). For a refreshing drink, try tuba, a traditional beverage made from the sap of the coconut palm.

How do I get to Puerto Vallarta from Mexico City?

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta is by plane. Direct flights from both Benito Juárez and Felipe Ángeles airports in Mexico City take around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus for approximately 12 hours. For a more comfortable journey, opt for a night bus. Keep in mind that bus ticket prices can sometimes be similar to those for flights, so double-check before purchasing your tickets.