Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide

In Mexico's Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is a multicultural resort town bursting with postcard-worthy beaches and sights.

Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Stroll down El Malecón, a promenade stretching 870 meters, packed with galleries, restaurants, bars and stunning views across the bay. A great mixture of locals and tourists spend their time here, enjoying the food and shopping by day, and lights and music by night.

Afterward, wander around the main square of Plaza de Armas, with a pretty bandstand and archway sculpture, then head to the Pueblo Viejo market for tasty Mexican food.

One of the most popular attractions in Puerto Vallarta, the Church of our Lady Guadalupe is a striking building hosting an array of original artwork. The church is especially busy in December when the anniversary of the Virgen of Guadalupe takes place.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

Travelers like to visit Puerto Vallarta between November and April, when temperatures stay in the low 80s.

A Local's Guide to Puerto Vallarta

For a vacation that is a little different from the norm, Puerto Vallarta, located in Mexico’s Jalisco state, is the perfect getaway. Backed by palm-covered mountains and stretching round the stunning Bay of Banderas, it's hardly surprising that the town is one of Mexico’s most popular beach front locations. Every year, thousands of people flock to the area in search of the perfect Puerto Vallarta vacation rental, be that in the city center or with views of the water and beyond.

With plenty of vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, there is sure to be one to suit any budget or preference. A great way to cool-off from the scotching rays of the Mexican sun is to look for accommodation with swimming pools -- of which there are plenty. There is nothing better than sunbathing with a cocktail in-hand around the sparkling waters of either a private pool or shared pool, both which can be a great way to entertain children.

Visitors to the area will never be bored. Puerto Vallarta has a myriad of activities to keep vacationers entertained. One of the most popular pastimes for locals and tourists alike is to stroll down the El Malecon, a promenade which stretches 0.5 miles along the coastline. The promenade is packed with restaurant after bar after shop, and a quick stroll can easily become a very long one. Shopping and plenty of food can be enjoyed during the day, while the lights and musical entertainment is the draw at night. The more adventurous vacationers can attempt the Sierra Madre hiking tour, perfect for exploring the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. Nature lovers will enjoy the opportunity to go on one of the many whale watching trips on offer, while others can choose to get a vacation home in the area for the world-renown sandy beaches. There are activities aplenty, from horseback rides to exploring some of the local art galleries, there is never a dull moment.

The Old Town, also known as Zona Romantic, is just south of downtown PV, and is the busiest part of the city. There are a huge range of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants, all just a minute’s walk away from each other. Wandering the signature cobblestone streets is a great way to spend the afternoon, with many smaller hotels and inns in this part of town.

Playa Los Muertos is the most popular beach in the area, particularly among families. The lively spot is a great place to grab a drink and watch the sun set over the water. Another popular beach is in Conchas Chinas, south of town. It is home to many gated communities in the mountainside, and also ‘Chinese Shells’, a type of shell only found in the area.

There are a huge range of vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, the majority of which are within walking distance to the town center and the beach. If you are looking for a family vacation rental, then a private villa rental is a great option. Picture dining al fresco on a private terrace and plush interiors. Other rentals in Puerto Vallarta include hotels and some more budget options, all of which will ensure a fantastic vacation.

A vacation in Puerto Vallarta is bound to be full of sun and warm weather, especially in the summer months. Many travelers prefer to visit between November and April, as it is around this time that the temperatures stay in the more comfortable low 80s.

Condos in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is everything you need from a Mexican beachside vacation destination. Spend your days lazing around the white sand beaches and your nights sipping cocktails in one of the many bars close to most condo rentals. The town has so much to do, from water sports to tours of the local chocolate museum, there's never a dull moment!

Puerto Vallarta condo rentals are the ideal home away from home, and are a great way to create a base for exploring the area while on vacation in Puerto Vallarta. Vacation rentals come in all shapes and sizes, most complete with a full kitchen in a Mexican style and within walking distance to the town center and the Bay of Banderas. Places to stay include the beautiful Gringo Gulch area and the exclusive Concha's Chinas. Getting a beautiful condo means guests can explore the area with ease, while the huge range of villa rentals are an option for a more luxurious, remote place to stay.