Plan your trip
The best things to do
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Walk the Malecón
The seafront boardwalk through Centro, lined with bronze sculptures — including the Boy on the Seahorse — street performers and sunset views.
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Los Muertos beach and pier
The city's busiest beach, in Zona Romántica, with the sail-shaped pier where water taxis leave for the south shore.
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Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The crown-topped church that defines the Centro skyline, a block from the Malecón.
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Hill of the Cross viewpoint
A steep climb from Centro to a lookout over the old town and the whole bay. Go early or at sunset.
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Isla Cuale and its market
A shaded island in the Cuale River between Centro and Zona Romántica, with craft stalls, cafés and footbridges.
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Snorkel Los Arcos marine park
Granite arches rising out of the bay south of town — a protected marine park for snorkeling, kayaking and diving.
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Whale watching (December–March)
Humpback whales come to Banderas Bay to breed and calve each winter.
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Marietas Islands
A protected island group at the mouth of the bay, famous for the Hidden Beach and blue-footed boobies.
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Yelapa by boat
A car-free village on the south shore, reached only by water — beach, waterfall and fresh fish.
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Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Orchids, jungle trails and a river swimming hole in the hills south of town.
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The south-shore beaches
Small coves along the coast road toward Mismaloya — Las Gemelas, Mismaloya and more — quieter than the city beaches.
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Eat your way through Centro
Tacos, birria, mariscos and agua fresca — a walking food tour, or do it yourself with our restaurant rankings.
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A night at Las Caletas
An evening boat to a candle-lit cove for dinner and a show.
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Naval Museum
A small museum on the Malecón about Mexico's navy and the port's history — good on a hot or rainy afternoon.
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Day trip to Sayulita
The surf town up the Riviera Nayarit coast, with an artisan market and a lively beach.
Free
Free things to do
Public beaches, the Malecón, the viewpoint and Isla Cuale cost nothing.
Tours
With kids
Family-friendly tours, low to moderate effort, fine for young kids.
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Tours
When it rains (or it's too hot)
Plans that are indoors or in the shade.
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Tours
At night
Evening and night departures.
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Tours
From the cruise port
Tours of 5 hours or less leaving from Marina Vallarta, where cruise ships dock.
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FAQ
Common questions
What are the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta?
The classics: Walk the Malecón, Los Muertos beach and pier, Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Hill of the Cross viewpoint, Isla Cuale and its market, Snorkel Los Arcos marine park.
What can you do for free in Puerto Vallarta?
Free to enjoy: Walk the Malecón, Los Muertos beach and pier, Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Hill of the Cross viewpoint, Isla Cuale and its market, The south-shore beaches.
What is there to do in Puerto Vallarta with kids?
Well-reviewed family picks: PV Street Food & Culture Tour, Marietas Islands & Hidden Beach, Las Caletas Beach Day, Yelapa & Majahuitas Boat Day, Swim with Dolphins, Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus.
What to do in Puerto Vallarta when it rains?
Indoor or shaded plans: Mexican Cooking Class, Sierra Hot Springs, Massage & Grill, Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop, Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ, Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Tour, Private Van & Guide — Custom Day.
What to do in Puerto Vallarta at night?
Evening plans: Food & Mixology Tour, Rhythms of the Night — Las Caletas, Night Street Tacos Tour, Sunset Sailing Cruise, Bioluminescence Night Kayak, Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ.