Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta blends colonial charm, jungle-backed beaches, and a buzzing foodie scene on Mexico's Pacific Coast-and outside of peak winter weeks, your dollar stretches remarkably far with cheap tacos, free beaches, and affordable boutique stays.
Why go to Puerto Vallarta
El Malecón Boardwalk
A mile-long seaside promenade lined with bronze sculptures, street performers, and killer sunset views-completely free.
Los Arcos National Marine Park
Snorkel or dive dramatic granite arches teeming with tropical fish, rays, and the occasional sea turtle just offshore.
Zona Romántica (Old Town)
Cobblestone streets, rainbow-painted buildings, and the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe straight out of a postcard.
Marietas Islands
Hidden beach inside a collapsed volcanic crater-a UNESCO-protected paradise accessible only by guided snorkel tour.
Canopy River Zip-Line & ATV Tour
Fly through the Sierra Madre jungle canopy at treetop speed on one of Mexico's most thrilling adventure circuits.
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Good to know in Puerto Vallarta
- City buses (camiones) run all major routes for about $0.60 per ride-wave one down anywhere on the main avenue and avoid tourist shuttles.
- Tipping is customary: 10-15% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $1-2 per bag for hotel porters.
- Do NOT drink tap water-stick to bottled water or use your hotel's purified water dispenser; budget about $1/day for water.
- The Instituto Cultural Cabañas equivalent here is the small Museo del Cuale on Isla Río Cuale, which is free or donation-based any day of the week.
Trip essentials
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