Top reasons to visit Puerto Vallarta
- Stunning Beaches: Puerto Vallarta boasts beautiful beaches like Playa Mismaloya, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Vibrant Culture: The town is rich in culture, featuring art galleries, lively markets, and traditional Mexican experiences.
- Outdoor Adventures: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including golf and scenic excursions in the surrounding natural beauty.
- Charming Marina Vallarta: This area offers vibrant shops and eateries, ideal for leisurely strolls and dining.
- Diverse Accommodation: Puerto Vallarta provides a variety of lodging options, from luxurious resorts to cosy hotels catering to all preferences.
Find great hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to cosy hotels, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you seek a beachfront retreat or a vibrant city stay, you'll discover top-rated hotels that cater to various tastes and preferences. With numerous reviews available, finding the ideal Puerto Vallarta hotel to enhance your holiday experience is just a click away.
- Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa - All Inclusive: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Puerto Vallarta, the Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa is a luxurious 4.5-star all-inclusive resort that offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this property is particularly suited for families and beach enthusiasts. Guests can indulge in unlimited food and drink, partake in activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, or unwind with a wellness class like yoga or Pilates. The resort boasts direct beach access, ensuring a seamless transition from relaxation to recreation. Children are well catered for with amenities including a dedicated kids' club and babysitting services, making it an ideal choice for a family vacation.
- Rosita Hotel: The Rosita Hotel is a charming 3.5-star accommodation that exudes a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a laid-back beach holiday. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to easily soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean. Its location in the heart of Puerto Vallarta provides easy access to local attractions, shops, and dining options. Known for its friendly service and comfortable surroundings, the Rosita Hotel is a great base for travellers looking to explore the vibrant culture of the area while enjoying the tranquility of the beach.
- Grand Park Royal Puerto Vallarta - All Inclusive: The Grand Park Royal Puerto Vallarta is a delightful 4-star all-inclusive resort that offers guests a true beachside getaway. Perfectly positioned for those who wish to bask in the sun, this resort features direct access to the sandy shores of Puerto Vallarta. The property is designed to cater to beach lovers, providing a range of activities and amenities aimed at enhancing the holiday experience. With its inviting atmosphere and comprehensive all-inclusive offerings, guests can enjoy a variety of dining options and recreational activities, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a carefree holiday by the sea.
Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers a delightful blend of family-friendly adventures and serene beach relaxation. Explore the charming Marina Vallarta area, where vibrant shops and eateries await. Just a short trip away, Playa Mismaloya boasts stunning coastlines perfect for sunbathing and water sports. For a taste of the Pacific Riviera, indulge in scenic excursions that reveal the region's natural beauty and romantic atmosphere, making Puerto Vallarta an ideal destination for every type of traveller.
- Conchas Chinas: Nestled conveniently near Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant family-friendly atmosphere. This picturesque neighbourhood offers a laid-back beach vibe, perfect for families and those seeking a city-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy local markets and indulge in golf at nearby courses. Notable attractions include the beautiful family beach and various historic sites, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to soak up both sun and culture.
- Las Glorias: Located in proximity to Puerto Vallarta, Las Glorias is a lively neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of January and June to July. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, this area boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant tourist precinct. Guests can partake in a variety of activities, including visits to local markets and golf outings. The beach is a central highlight, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and family fun.
- Ixtapa: A charming village situated near Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa is a hidden gem for those looking for an outdoor and sporty experience. The village sees a steady flow of visitors, particularly in January, April, and July. With its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, Ixtapa offers numerous opportunities for golfing and exploring local markets. The nearby tourist precinct adds to the appeal, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation.
Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Shopping
For a vibrant local experience, explore the Mercado Municipal, where you can find handmade crafts and artisanal goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Plaza Galerias for a mix of international brands and local boutiques, about 16.1km away from the beach.
Recreation
In Puerto Vallarta, the Spa at Four Seasons offers rejuvenating treatments with ocean views, blending relaxation with luxury. Nearby, the Wellness Sanctuary provides yoga classes and holistic therapies, surrounded by lush gardens, creating a serene environment for self-discovery and rejuvenation.
Adventure
At Las Animas Adventure Park, soar through the treetops on thrilling ziplines and navigate an exhilarating ropes course, all while immersed in the lush beauty of Puerto Vallarta's outdoors. Meanwhile, Canopy Bay offers another adrenaline-pumping ziplining experience, perfect for those seeking adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy live music at La Bodeguita del Medio, or dance the night away at Mandala. For a laid-back vibe, visit El Dorado, where you can sip cocktails by the beach while soaking up the atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like the Malecon, Los Arcos, and Los Muertos Pier. For transport, opt for buses for a cost-effective way to navigate the area. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between September and November, when prices are lower. Booking your stay about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays typically offer the best rates, while Fridays are the most expensive. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and hotels for further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Puerto Vallarta are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Puerto Vallarta is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Puerto Vallarta is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Puerto Vallarta is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable options and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Puerto Vallarta with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is an ideal destination for family and outdoor beach vacations, offering a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, the vibrant esplanade, and the marine park, making it perfect for those seeking adventure or relaxation. Top attractions highlight the allure of Puerto Vallarta, ensuring travellers have plenty of options for unforgettable experiences in this picturesque coastal town.
- Malecon: Stroll along this picturesque esplanade, where the ocean meets vibrant art installations and charming shops. The Malecon exudes a romantic atmosphere, making it ideal for couples and families alike, offering stunning views of the Pacific and a lively ambiance.
- Los Arcos: Discover adventure at this marine park, known for its striking rock formations and rich marine life. Ideal for families, Los Arcos invites you to snorkel, dive, or explore its scenic waters, creating lasting memories in a breathtaking natural setting.
- Los Muertos Pier: Relax at this welcoming jetty, a hub for excursions and leisure activities. The pier offers a friendly atmosphere, with stunning sunset views and a variety of local dining options, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Best time to go to Puerto Vallarta
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. June and July are its hottest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Puerto Vallarta
Flying into Puerto Vallarta is convenient with two major airports. Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is situated approximately 3.2km from the city centre, with excellent hotels nearby, including Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa and Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta, both around 4.8km away, offering airport transportation services. Alternatively, Tepic's Amado Nervo National Airport (TPQ) is located 93.3km from Puerto Vallarta, with good hotel options such as Fray Junipero Serra and Hotel Villa las Rosas about 11.3km away, providing transfers to the airport. Whether you choose PVR or TPQ, access to Puerto Vallarta is straightforward and hassle-free.