Puerto Vallarta is unusual among Mexican resort areas because it has a real town attached. Hotels spread along Banderas Bay, but the old centre, the seafront walk and the mountain-backed coastline give visitors plenty to do away from the pool. The bay is large, so it helps to treat the area as a few distinct zones rather than one place.
The Malecon and the old town
The Malecon is a seafront promenade in the centre of town, lined with sculptures, cafes and street performers. It is free, easy to walk and best in the late afternoon, when the heat eases and the light improves. A stroll that runs into the evening gives you a sense of local life in a way that a resort beach cannot.
Just south of the Cuale River, the Zona Romantica packs in small restaurants, galleries and bars in a compact grid of cobbled streets. It is the part of town people often mean when they say they wandered Vallarta for an evening. It can be busy on weekend nights, so reserve ahead if there is a particular restaurant you want. Cobbles and steep side streets are hard on flimsy sandals, so wear shoes with grip, especially after rain.
Los Arcos and the southern coast
South of the town, a group of rock formations known as Los Arcos sits in a marine protected area, and boat trips for snorkelling and wildlife viewing run from several points along the bay. Conditions vary by day, and visibility is not guaranteed, so ask the operator what to expect and whether snorkel gear and life jackets are provided.
Boat-only beaches
A distinctive feature of the area is a series of small beaches and villages that are mainly reached by water. Boats leave from Boca de Tomatlan, south of the town, to places such as Yelapa and other quiet coves. Water taxis run on set routes, and private charters and organised tours offer other options.
- Check the return time before you land, since late boats can be scarce.
- Wear shoes you can get wet, because landings are sometimes on a beach rather than a dock.
- Carry cash for lunch and small purchases, as card machines are not always reliable in small villages. Our guide to cash, cards and currency on a resort trip covers what to take.
Marietas Islands
The Marietas Islands, north of the bay, are a protected area and a well-known snorkelling and wildlife spot. Rules for visiting have been tightened in recent years to protect the site, including restrictions on access to certain areas. Policies can change, so confirm with the tour operator what the current rules allow and whether the trip includes landing or only viewing from the water.
Nature and gardens
For a day away from the coast, the hills behind the bay have botanical gardens, river walks and zip-line operators. The Vallarta Botanical Garden is a popular choice for a half-day with a cooler climate than the shore. Opening days and hours vary, so check before you go, and bring insect repellent if you plan to walk near water.
Whale watching
Humpback whales visit Banderas Bay in the cooler months, and organised trips run during that season. Operators publish their own season windows, which depend on the year, so check dates with them directly instead of relying on a general calendar. Choose an operator that explains how close its boats approach the animals and follows local wildlife rules, and be prepared for a rolling sea if you are prone to motion sickness.
Practical planning
- Getting around. Taxis are common, and fares vary by zone. Agree the price before you set off, or confirm that the meter is running.
- Booking tours. A resort desk adds convenience and a point of contact, while an independent operator can cost less. Our guide to booking excursions through the resort desk or an independent operator sets out the trade-off.
- Sun. Midday sun on the bay is strong. Plan boat trips for the morning where you can.
Comparing Vallarta with the other Pacific resort coast
If you are still choosing between Mexico’s Pacific areas, our comparison of Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos sets out how the two differ, and the things to do in Los Cabos post shows the contrast in excursions.
A balanced stay might combine one evening in the old town, one boat day and the rest at your resort. That gives you the character of the town without giving up the point of a resort holiday.