The Top Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The malecón boardwalk is at the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s list of sights. Running along the coastline, this 12-block stretch is dotted with sculptures, open-air performers, shops, and cafes. Going for a long, romantic stroll is one of the best things to do on the malecón in Puerto Vallarta, especially at sunset, when the sky glows pink and orange. On your stroll, keep your eyes peeled for the iconic seahorse statue, one of the city’s top tourist attractions, and make sure you snap a photo at the vibrant, block-lettered sign of Puerto Vallarta. 

The charming Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone in English) is located in Puerto Vallarta’s downtown. Zona Romántica is the old part of town, and the hotspot for anyone looking to have a good time. Bursting with color and energy, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its street food, cobblestone streets, shops full of local handicrafts, and bustling nightlife. Zona Romántica is also a must-visit destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers, as its home to hopping gay-friendly bars, clubs, restaurants, and accommodations. 

Another great thing to do in Puerto Vallarta’s downtown is visit Playa De Los Muertos, one of the best places in town to relax by the sea. If you’re seeking a romantic experience with your partner, watching the sunset here is one of the most romantic things to do in Puerto Vallarta. And make sure you go for a stroll on the pier overlooking the beach for great views of Zona Romántica.

One of the best things to do with family in Puerto Vallarta is spend the day outdoors at the award-winning Jardín Botánico Vallarta, or Vallarta Botanical Garden. Tucked away in the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains, the garden is jam packed with the country’s largest collection of orchids. Wander its jungle trails, enjoy bird-watching, and get a bite to eat at its restaurant serving up local Mexican dishes.

To access the garden, you’ll either need a car, or you can purchase a ticket that includes a shuttle ride you can catch from the Zona Romántica of Puerto Vallarta. The garden also hosts private events and weddings, so if you’re looking to get hitched in Puerto Vallarta, this could be a great spot to do it!

Looking to go beyond the city? There are plenty of day trips from Puerto Vallarta to breathtaking beach towns that are well worth your time. A few favorites include:

This charming fishing village is easily reached by water taxi from the Playa Los Muertos pier. Yelapa’s soft sandy beach invites for a relaxing afternoon, and you can easily hike to one of the town’s many waterfalls from there. The nearest one is a smooth and short 15-minute walk uphill from the beach. If you’re seeing more adventure, there are other jungle trails to waterfalls to be explored. The laid-back vibe makes it a must-see day trip from Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, bohemian vibe, head to Sayulita. This surfer’s paradise is colorful as it is relaxed, and it’s definitely one of the coolest places to visit near Puerto Vallarta. Plus, if you’re there between August and December, you might be lucky enough to catch sea turtles nesting on the beach.

Just around the corner from Sayulita is San Pancho, another great beach town that has a bit more of an authentic vibe. This quiet and relaxed town is also known as the Cultural Capital of Riviera Nayarit because of its strong emphasis on the arts, community, and cultural projects. 

Just off the coast from Mismaloya Beach is Los Arcos National Marine Park, famous for its stunning arched rock formations and clear waters bustling with marine life. This national park is one of the most beautiful places in Puerto Vallarta to go snorkeling or scuba diving. Since the park’s borders are located entirely in Bay of Banderas waters, you’ll need to go by boat from Mismaloya Beach to reach the park.

Mismaloya Beach is located just south of Puerto Vallarta on the Bay of Banderas and is nestled in a jungle-fringed cove backed by the stunning Sierra Madre mountains. This tiny piece of paradise outside the hustle and bustle of the city gained its fame when the film The Night of the Iguana (1963) was filmed here. There are still ruins of the movie set in the area, so fans often flock to Mismaloya for some great photo opportunities. Mismayola Beach also offers great accommodations, such as the all-inclusive Barceló Puerto Vallarta, a great option for anyone seeking rest and relaxation in a natural paradise.

Marietas Islands National Park is a protected and breathtaking volcanic archipelago. These uninhabited islands are one of the top excursions in Puerto Vallarta, as they’re great for snorkeling, wildlife, and exploring its Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida in Spanish). Hidden Beach is a unique sight you absolutely cannot miss! It’s iconic and famous for being nestled inside a collapsed sinkhole.

Wildlife lovers will also enjoy Marietas Islands for its wildlife. Sea turtles, rays, and dolphins call these waters home, and can be spotted through the crystal-clear waters. If you look up, you’ll also observe stunning tropical birds flying the local skies.

From December to March, humpback whales migrate along Banderas Bay, making Puerto Vallarta one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. This unforgettable experience is among the must-do things in Puerto Vallarta, and one of the most breathtaking Puerto Vallarta activities for families. Some tours even include special headsets called hydrophones to listen to whales mating calls underwater.

Whether you’re a taco fan, exotic fruit enthusiast, tequila expert, beer lover, or just an overall foodie, Puerta Vallarta will impress you on all fronts. Puerta Vallarta’s street vendors sell amazing tacos, restaurants serve up unforgettable freshly-caught fish and local seafood, and bars whip up tasty cocktails. Tour companies offer an array of food walking tours, where you can explore the scene with a local. Don’t miss the chance to get a taste of local life and hit the streets for some real Mexican food.

Whether you’re searching for family-friendly things to do in Puerto Vallarta, planning adventurous excursions, or celebrating Christmas here, this city offers it all. From natural beauties to festive nightlife, you’ll find countless things to see and do in Puerto Vallarta—making it a destination you’ll want to return to again and again.