Puerto Vallarta is a destination with perfect weather. It is usually in the 80s year round and a nice breeze from the ocean makes it feel fresh. There is some rain in July-August, but it’s still very pleasant. Located right on the south tip of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation spot for romantic couples, singles, kids and just anyone that needs a break and some friendly sun. People are extremely friendly too. I have traveled all over the world and never met people as friendly as in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta has a number of bays that serve as clusters of activity and unique sights. Banderas Bay is one that has many resorts and hotels. In fact, the city lies in the middle of Bahia Banderas, one of the largest bays in the world. Marina Vallarta is another popular hotel zone but also has a line of condos and villas. Finally, Nuevo Vallarta spots new European-style villas and hotels.
Romantic spots
Puerto Vallarta is a popular sight for weddings and honeymoons.
It’s a combination of the beautiful land and the ocean, local hospitality and great weather. There are many romantic activities in town and a few are very simple:
- Start with a candlelit dinner on the beach. Many hotels will arrange for this, or try one of the local restaurants in town, such as La Palapa where you can sit right on the beach, surrounded by sand, candles and the waves rushing to your feet. Food is amazing and much fresher and better than many Mexican places we are used to in the US. Just beware of the water and ice – some people catch a dangerous stomach bug.
- Find a remote beach. It may be something hard to get to but you will enjoy the serenity. There are plenty of cabs that will agree to take you there and back, especially if you pay dollars. It is likely there will be a hotel in the vicinity, which is handy if you need to grab a bite. Punta Mita is one of such destinations. Try couples massage on the beach.
- Puerto Vallarta is well known for its spas, but many hotels and spas will take it outside for the more relaxing experience. Just try not to fall asleep!
Outdoor fun
Horseback riding is a nice way to explore the land. Book an excursion with one of the local farms, such as Rancho Capomo. They will take you on a horseback ride through the forest and the mountains, by the water, maybe an occasional waterfall. They will also provide a nice local lunch. Since it is one of the big sources of income for them, help them out by purchasing some of the souvenirs they make right there – pottery, scarves, jewelry and more.
If you always wanted to see the whales, try a whale watching tour. It’s quite an art to spot the whale. You will certainly see plenty of dolphins who will follow your boat. Whales are harder to find and sometimes you have to go far into the ocean. Once you see them, there is nothing like it – such large yet graceful creatures. There are less than 5000 humpback whales left in the world, so they are a rare sight. If you are traveling with kids, book the 90-minute swimming with the dolphins tour – the kids will be talking about it on and on! They will be able to play with and touch the animals after the water experience. You can also try one of the many water parks – you might just spot a dolphin there too!
Golf is an excellent activity in Puerto Vallarta. With hills, rocks and plenty of smooth sunny land, it’s hard to pass up on it. Punta Mita Four Seasons’ exclusive resort on the tip of Banderas Bay has a beautiful course designed by Jack Nicklaus, open to resident owners and guests of the hotel. The second 18-hole Jack Nicklaus course is open to the public, as well as residents of Punta Mita. Another good golf destination is the Flamingos Golf Club next to Nuevo Vallarta. It’s a reasonable price alternative and offers 18 holes. Finally, the Marina Vallarta Club de Golf in the middle of Marina Vallarta has beautiful landscapes and a nice view on the town. Adventure is all around in Puerto Vallarta. You can rent a jeep and explore some of the rocky areas and the jungle by yourself. Having a guide, however, will add to your experience.
Around town
Malecon is the downtown Vallarta promenade by the water. There are numerous cafes and bars and merchants right on the water. Music is all around – Cuban, Mariachi, Jazz and more. Los Archos has free concerts and in November there is a big music festival. Malecon is definitely a place to see and be seen. You will notice unique sculptures all around – from seahorse to nature and my favorite In Search of Reason looking like aliens moving
up the 30-foot ladder.
Cathedral of our Lady Guadalupe of is a religious center of Puerto Vallarta and the center of the December festival. Hand-carved columns and unique moldings make this cathedral seem older than it actually is – it was built in early 1920s. Even if you are not Catholic, stop by and take in the local architecture.
Shopping can be done at plenty of local stores a few streets parallel to the water. Or try the local market (Mercado) where you can bargain for a good deal. One good one is right near Isla Rio Cuale.
The nightlife is as good as at its more boisterous cousin, Acapulco. Just go to Malecon after midnight and you will know the wild side of Puerto Vallarta. Some of the popular hangouts include Krystal hotel’s Christine disco, popular chain Senor Frog’s, Carlos O’Brien and Paco Paco.
There are many good restaurants in Puerto Vallarta. Some of the more romantic spots are up in the mountains so they offer a breathtaking view on the town and the ocean. Make your reservation early and arrive in time to sip a drink before you start to enjoy the view before it gets dark. Some great restaurants include:
- Felipe’s – spectacular views of the town and excellent steak
- La Palapa – you can sit right on the beach (at Los Muertos Beach) and enjoy succulent seafood
- Le Kliff with unbelievable views and fresh fish
- The River Caf̩ Рjust steps from the market, right on Isla Rio Cuale
- Azul 96 – modern design is in everything – from food to architecture to the vibe in here.
Definitely do not miss the spot of the famous “Night of the Iguana” filming – La Jolla de Mismaloya – where Richard Burton romanced Elizabeth Taylor, and that’s what made the town famous in the first place. Stop in The Sets of the Night of the Iguana bar and restaurant and enjoy a hearty meal under white umbrellas, with a beautiful view of the Mismaloya beach and the music of mariachis.
