If you’re looking for more travel tips on Puerto Vallarta, this blog post goes into more significant detail. It’s excellent for those travelers who are first-timers to Mexico.
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How To Spend 4 Days In Puerto Vallarta Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the History of Puerto Vallarta
On day one of this 4-day itinerary, it’s all about exploring Puerto Vallarta. Visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a place of worship with unique architectural styles that hosts a December celebration to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe. Additionally, this is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and holds significant importance.
In the afternoon, turn to the Malecon, a famous boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta that offers a stunning view of Banderas Bay. You will find shops, restaurants, bars, and sculptures along the strip. If you’re up for walking, the Malecon is great for walks while watching the street performances and grabbing small bites of food.
Afterward, head over to Los Muertos Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta. This beach is located in the famous Zona Romantica and attracts tourists and locals. Undoubtedly, there are plenty of beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports activities for you to enjoy. Los Muertos Beach is known for its golden sand, clear waters, and beautiful sunsets.
Finally, prepare for an excellent evening nightlife experience after you’ve soaked up the sun. The vibrant nightlife of Puerto Vallarta is in the Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone), or what the locals like to call Old Town. This area has numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and unique boutique stores. Zona Romantica is a popular destination for tourists looking to mix culture, entertainment, and beach access all in one.
Day 2: Marietas Islands, Vallarta Botanical Gardens, and Sunset Cruise
Day two of this itinerary to Puerto Vallarta is about the hidden beaches. Take a boat tour to the Islas Marietas Islands, also known as Islas Marietas, which will take you to Playa del Amor’s secret beach. The secluded beach can only be accessed by swimming or kayaking through a narrow tunnel. Enjoy various colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
Afterward, peel your eyes through the Vallarta Botanical Garden. The Vallarta Botanical Garden is outside Puerto Vallarta and in the Sierra Madre Mountains. The garden offers peaceful nature and educational experiences for travelers. Enjoy the themed gardens, such as the rose garden, tropical fruit orchard, and butterfly gardens. There’s also a nice trail that will allow you to immerse yourself in the lush vegetation and enjoy the surroundings.
Nighttime in Puerto Vallarta is beautiful, and one way to end your night on day 2 is with a sunset cruise. Sunset cruises offer a memorable way to admire the beautiful coastline while enjoying the different sun shades. Based on your needs, your sunset cruise can be as luxurious or traditional as you would like.
Day 3: Sayulita, El Eden Canopy Tour, Mexican Dinner
Moving on to day 3 of this ultimate Puerto Vallarta Itinerary! Get ready to embark on a day trip to Sayulita. A charming surf town about an hour from Puerto Vallarta, Playa Sayulita is well known for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. In other words, it offers a nice mix of traditional Mexican charm and a bohemian vibe that attracts travelers from everywhere. Here, you’ll find that the streets have colorful buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. The main beach is an excellent spot for those travelers looking to swim, sunbathe, and surf. The waves suit both beginners and experienced surfers; if needed, several surf schools and board rentals are nearby.
Nevertheless, with just a 40-minute drive from Sayulita, enjoy the exciting adventures at El Eden Canopy. If you recall the movie Predator starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, this is the exact location where that movie was filmed. How cool is that! The canopy tour allows you to explore the forest from a different perspective by gliding through the treetops on ziplines. The experience is exhilarating and offers breathtaking views of the jungle and rivers.
Because of a fun-filled day, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner with authentic dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and ceviche. Prepare yourself to indulge in cuisines from around the world. You can’t go wrong with an ocean-view dinner at the Malecon or a relaxing cuisine in Zona Romantica; Puerto Vallarta has something to suit everyone’s tastes.
Day 4: Spa Day, Los Arcos Amphitheater
Day 4 of this itinerary in Puerto Vallarta calls for a renowned luxurious spa day. If you’re staying at one of the upscale resorts and hotels, you’ll find a serene and relaxing environment for guests. Additionally, these spas feature state-of-the-art facilities—for example, private treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges. Be sure to check with your concierge service as soon as you check-in.
Towards the afternoon, you can check out the amphitheater, which is a place where locals and tourists like to hang out. You’ll find cultural events, performances, and concerts throughout the year. If you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy the live music, dance performances, theater shows, and even traditional Mexican folk dance! One thing I love about the amphitheater is that it’s an open-air venue with a great ocean view.
Are you ready to explore more Mexico options? Here is how you can spend 5 days in Playa Del Carmen.
5-Day Itinerary in Puerto Vallarta
Day 5: Day Trip to Yelapa, Playa Las Animas, Puerto Vallarta Foods
The morning of your day 5 itinerary in Puerto Vallarta is about day trips. Yelapa is a small fishing village and beach great for day trips. That is to say, you can only get there by boat, but it offers several beachfront restaurants and palapa-style bars. Yelapa is beautiful and is excellent for those looking to escape the crowds of Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy the great waterfall of Cascada De Yelapa, which can be reached by hiking through the jungle.
In the afternoon, explore the hidden beach of Playa Las Animas. Located just south of Yelapa, Playa Las Animas can be accessible by boat from Yelapa or Puerto Vallarta. This popular destination is excellent for nature lovers, with golden sands, crystal waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. But, if you’re up to it, you can enjoy the lush tropical vegetation and water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
When you’re done exploring the hidden gems surrounding Puerto Vallarta, head back to the Zona Romantica and indulge in a nice restaurant looking out toward the ocean.
Over on Instagram, I share exactly how much money I spent on one of my visits to Puerto Vallarta. The cost will shock you! Be sure to check it out.
6-Day Itinerary in Puerto Vallarta
Day 6: Canopy River, Food Tour, Marina
The adventure begins on Day 6 with a tour of Canopy River. The main attraction at Canopy River is its zipline course; however, you can enjoy a few more activities, such as ATV tours, horseback riding, and river expeditions. The ATV tours take you on an off-road adventure through the jungle, and the horseback riding tour allows you to explore the areas at your own pace.
Check out this RZR tour crossing Jorullo Bridge!
Once you’re done with your adventure morning, book one of the well-known food tours in Puerto Vallarta; although there are plenty of food tours to choose from, Vallarta Food Tours is said to be travelers’ best pick. Their knowledgeable guides provide insights into the dishes and Puerto Vallarta’s culinary history. Tour guests can enjoy tacos, Mexican snacks, and the history of local tequila.
Not many travelers realize that the Puerto Vallarta Marina is a perfect addition to your itinerary. You can do a few things near the marina. This is a popular starting point for boat tours and excursions. There are plenty of water sports activities for those looking for more adventure on the water. You can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or try something new, like paddleboarding. For all my shoppers, you can find endless shops and boutiques along the marina to purchase souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and so much more. Stick around the area and try some local cuisines.
The Best NightLife Location In Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife is vibrant, energetic, diverse, and exciting. As you plan your itinerary to Puerto Vallarta, adding a nightlife option would give you a well-rounded experience. When the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, the city comes alive with various entertainment options that cater to every taste and preference.
As I stated, the Malecon is an iconic oceanfront promenade and a focal point of the Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife. It’s lined with a multitude of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It pulsates with music, laughter, and the sound of clinking glasses. Can you imagine being in Puerto Vallarta and experiencing a great nightlife? The amount of fun you can have is endless. Travelers can sip on handcrafted cocktails at trendy rooftop lounges, dance at lively nightclubs featuring diverse musical genres, or sample authentic Mexican cuisine at the numerous eateries that dot the bustling streets.
The Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) offers a bohemian atmosphere with intimate bars, art galleries, and open-air cafes for those seeking a laid-back evening. With the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta, the Romantic Zone, travelers can engage in lively conversations with locals and fellow travelers while savoring delicious street food and refreshing beverages.
From upscale venues to casual hangouts, Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife scene embraces inclusivity and fun, ensuring every traveler can find their perfect after-dark experience in this coastal paradise. Whether you’re seeking high-energy parties or relaxed evenings with friends, Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife promises unforgettable memories against the backdrop of the sparkling Pacific and Mexico’s warm, welcoming spirit.
Puerto Vallarta Best Places to Stay
When visiting Puerto Vallarta, there are several fantastic places to stay that offer its own unique atmosphere and attractions. The Romantic Zone has a wide range of restaurants and bars, making it a perfect location for those travelers seeking a lively atmosphere and proximity to the beach.
Hotel Zone in Puerto Vallarta features many hotels and resorts, offering convenient access to the city’s attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s an excellent option for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
Another location that is great for travelers who are looking for a more upscale and tranquil is Marina Vallarta, which boasts luxury resorts, a picturesque marina, and an 18-hole golf course—an excellent option for those travelers interested in yachting, golfing, and a quieter ambiance.
South Shore is a more secluded and tranquil experience. It includes areas like Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlan, which offer stunning natural beauty, lush jungle landscapes, and boutique hotels. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a serene environment.
Located north of Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta offers beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a many amenities for all travelers. This area is perfect for visitors seeking a luxurious and relaxing stay.
Ultimately, the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta depend on your preferences, whether you seek a lively urban experience, a tranquil beachfront retreat, or a luxurious resort setting. Each area offers its distinct charm, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
Best Places to Snorkel in Puerto Vallarta
Ever wondered what it’s like to snorkel in Puerto Vallarta? Various snorkeling spots surround Puerto Vallarta! Each location has its own abundant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. Here are a few options to add to your itinerary if you’re ready to snorkel in PV.
Los Arcos Marine Park is located just south of Puerto Vallarta and is protected by the marine reserve. It is home to diverse fish, colorful formations, and underwater caves. Along with all the beautiful colors, snorkelers can explore the clear waters and encounter an abundance of marine biodiversity.
The Marietas Islands is another snorkel option that travelers can add to their Puerto Vallarta itinerary. These islands, which include the hidden beach, offer an opportunity for snorkelers all around. Discover vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, tropical fish, and the alluring natural beauty of the islands. The only way to reach the hidden beach is by boat. I highly recommend using a bilingual tour guide.
Las Caletas is also accessible by boat and is a 60-90 minute boat ride. This secluded cove is an ideal snorkeling destination with clear waters and an underwater world teeming with marine creatures. It’s also a popular spot for guided snorkeling tours and adventures.
Take a short ride from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa! Yelapa offers snorkelers the chance to explore its wonderful waters and encounter a rich variety of marine species, including tropical fish, rays, and more.
In addition to all the other options, Mejahuitas Beach is the perfect location for those looking for a picturesque beach known for its tranquil, crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent location for snorkeling. Travelers coming to Puerto Vallarta can encounter an array of marine life, including colorful fish and other fascinating sea creatures.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Puerto Vallarta
If you’re wondering if Puerto Vallarta is worth visiting, the short answer is yes! Puerto Vallarta offers something for every type of traveler. Honestly, there is no right or wrong time to visit this great city because of all the endless things to do. Yes, summer visits can be brutal; however, diving into more water activities and beaches will help keep you cool.
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