Top things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Attractions, tours, and activities in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta: the city's best neighborhoods
Find a great area to stay in Puerto Vallarta
About Puerto Vallarta
Including tips for the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta
Located on the Pacific Ocean's Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is a dreamy Mexican beachside city.
Beaches are the biggest attraction in Puerto Vallarta, and for good reason. The main beach, Playa de los Muertos, is a picturesque stretch of sand lined by glitzy hotels and tall palm trees, and even features a pier. If you’re looking for something more secluded, check out Playa Gemelas just outside the city. This quiet beach is known for its turquoise waters, calm atmosphere and stunning surroundings.
There are plenty of exciting things to do and see in Puerto Vallarta. Check out Vallarta Botanical Gardens, a popular showcase of orchids, agaves, cactus, palms, and other native plants. The gardens feature hiking trails both through the native forest and the manicured garden grounds and you can swim in the Rio Horcones, the tropical river nearby. At certain times of the day, you’ll even be able to spot native birds. The Marina Vallarta is another highlight and is great for winding down after a day of toursiting. Dotted with a range of great dining options and bars, it’s the perfect place to gaze out at the night sky and the twinkly lights of the boats on the dock.
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| Most popular time to visit | October-December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
| Local currency | USD |
| Language | Spanish |
| Average weekend price | $158 per night |
| Average weekday price | $157 per night |
| Average stay | 3 nights |
Puerto Vallarta reviews
What other travelers say about Puerto Vallarta
We went with family so we had a good experience
August 12, 2025
We went with family so we had a good experience But don’t go in August it’s too hot and humid and lots of storms . The power went out twice. The mosquitos ate us alive . The food was ok . Lots to do . The fish and other seafood was great . Uber is cheaper than taxi . We are at casita maraikas .
Excellent restaurants, such as Happy Lobster, and Barracuda,...
May 28, 2025
Excellent restaurants, such as Happy Lobster, and Barracuda, which was a great beachside restaurant with the most amazing staff. Convenient markets, friendly people, great tattoo parlour (Endless Ink). I used Uber to get around, which was economical and reliable. Wandering along the beachfront was a treat.
A lovely boardwalk with lots of interesting art, shops and...
May 15, 2025
A lovely boardwalk with lots of interesting art, shops and restaurants. Very safe. Good to do day trips to the beaches only accessible by boat. Sea is quite rough and not many people were swimming. Nice vibe in the whole town and not as commercialised and modernised as some resorts, so still has some authenticity.
Staying in Zona Romantica is a lovely area if you like night...
April 30, 2025
Staying in Zona Romantica is a lovely area if you like night life. Make sure you walk to the Malecon as the historic town area is beautiful. If you're vegan/vegetarian, PV has so many lovely restaurants and you will have a great time eating at them all! I loved 100% Vegana Taqueria and Planeta Vegetariano and Elixir spot the most.
The gay population is too much for us.
April 25, 2025
The gay population is too much for us. It’s one thing for there to be one, but when they parade around in almost no clothes at all and revealing speedos, it’s too much. I have a teenage daughter and I don’t want her exposed to it. We won’t be returning.
You should definitely use an UBER when getting around.
April 22, 2025
You should definitely use an UBER when getting around. Look for the churro street vender on Peru street. They have been on that corner for four generations. ElDorado is a great restaurant. You should get a table on the beach and watch the sunset while eating great dinner. Or you can book a Vallarta Adventures sunset cruise on a sailboat.
Popular places to stay in Puerto Vallarta
Stay in some of the best accommodations Puerto Vallarta has to offer
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Beachfront family friendly 1 bdr NT505 Hotel Zone, Puerto Vallarta
From $97.92 per night
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Villa Lala Boutique Hotel Adults Only Boca de Tomatlan, Puerto Vallarta
From $236.13 per night
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Casa Cereza Apartments Boca de Tomatlan, Puerto Vallarta
From $45 per night
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San Trópico Boutique Hotel & Peaceful Escape Marina Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta
From $94 per night
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Tres Marias Luxury Suites - Adults Only Downtown Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta
From $132 per night
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Other accommodations in Puerto Vallarta
Pick from a wide variety of places to stay in Puerto Vallarta
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Apartments
From $25 per night
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Resorts
From $68 per night
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Villas
From $81 per night
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Cottages
From $59 per night
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Serviced Apartments
From $35 per night
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Vacation Homes
From $59 per night
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Guest houses
From $25 per night
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Hostels
From $10 per night
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B&Bs
From $41 per night
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Homestays
From per night
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Campgrounds
From $299 per night
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Self-catering Accommodations
From $25 per night
