Puerto Vallarta

A vibrant Pacific coastal resort town famous for its colonial charm, pristine beaches, and welcoming atmosphere. It's the region's most developed tourist destination with excellent restaurants, galleries, water sports, and a lively malecón waterfront promenade.

Things to do

• Malecón Waterfront Stroll — Walk the iconic wooden boardwalk along the beach lined with restaurants, shops, and street performers, particularly beautiful at sunset.
• Old Town (Casco Antiguo) Exploration — Wander the charming colonial streets with cobblestones, colorful buildings, galleries, and the iconic Puerto Vallarta sign for photos.
• Snorkeling at Los Arcos Marine Park — Take a boat tour to this underwater reserve to see tropical fish, rays, and coral formations in crystal-clear Pacific waters.
• Zip-lining Through Jungle Canopy — Experience canopy tours through the surrounding Sierra Madre forest with multiple platforms and thrilling descents over the landscape.
• Vallarta Botanical Gardens — Explore 22 acres of cultivated gardens showcasing native orchids, tropical plants, and local flora with scenic hillside views.
• Banderas Bay Sunset Cruise — Embark on an afternoon boat excursion with drinks and appetizers while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.

Food to try

• Ceviche Tostadas — Fresh locally-caught fish cured in lime juice mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, typically served on crispy tortilla bases.
• Camarones al Ajillo — Large shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and chiles, a signature coastal preparation found in most waterfront restaurants.
• Huachinango a la Sal — Whole red snapper baked in a salt crust that locks in moisture and flavor, often presented tableside and flaked at your table.
• Aguachile — Raw shrimp marinated in lime juice, serrano chiles, and local spices, served ice-cold as a refreshing appetizer unique to Pacific Mexico.
• Fish Tacos with Fresh Catch — Daily-caught white fish fried or grilled and served in warm tortillas with cabbage, crema, and fresh salsa verde.

Local customs & good to know

• Respectful Beach Etiquette — Avoid loud music and excessive alcohol on beaches, and be mindful that some areas are family-oriented; topless sunbathing is not culturally accepted.
• Haggling in Markets — In the mercado and street vendor areas, polite negotiation of prices is expected and part of local custom, but remain respectful and friendly during exchanges.
• Siesta Tradition Awareness — Many shops and services close between 2-4 PM for afternoon rest; plan restaurant visits accordingly and don't expect immediate service during these hours.
• Spanish Language Appreciation — While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate visitors who attempt basic Spanish phrases and greetings, which opens warmer interactions.