10 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s main beach, Playa Los Muertos (Beach of the Dead) is hugely popular, with lots of places to eat and drink and a variety of water sports on offer. The 1-km-long shoreline has a modern pier that’s shaped like a sail, where you get to enjoy views of boats dotted across Banderas Bay. The waters are calm throughout the year, and attract those who enjoy jet-skiing and windsurfing. 

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe is dedicated to the patron saint of Mexico and of Puerto Vallarta. The centre of the cathedral's marble altarpiece holds the image of the lady. The brick bell tower is adorned with a crown that pays homage to the one worn by Carlota, who was briefly empress of Mexico in the 1860s. 

From December 1st until 12th, people come together to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This is a good time to visit the cathedral thanks to street processions, festive food and mariachi music.

The Los Arcos Marine Park is a protected area in Banderas Bay, on the west coast of Mexico. Boat trips take you to the park’s granite islands, many of which look like arches protruding from the ocean surface. Snorkelers and divers often make their way to the Los Arcos Marine Park as they get to see colourful reefs and marine animals, such as octopus, clown fish, rays, octopus, and lobsters. 

Playa Olas Altas (High Waves Beach) is a quiet stretch of beach about 1 km north of Playa Los Muertos Pier. The waves are strong enough to surf, sometimes reaching heights of 2 metres and above. The best time to enjoy surfing in Playa Olas Altas is from April to October. You can also enjoy relaxing activities such as sunbathing, but head up north to the Carpa Olivera pool if you want to swim.

Mirador La Cruz del Cerro is a lookout point topped by a giant cross that offers a fantastic view over Puerto Vallarta and beyond. The mountain is of a modest height, but the hike up is sure to get you huffing and puffing. A cable car that used to take visitors up the last section is no longer in operation, so visitors will need to use their leg power to make it to the top. 

Several trails lead up to Mirador La Cruz del Cerro, with most hikers going up via Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Street. Clear days allow for fine views of Los Arcos and even out as far as Punta de Mita. Try to time your visit to arrive late in the day to be able to catch fabulous sunset views.

Museo del Cuale (Cuale Archaeological Museum) is small but packed with interesting finds. Pre-Columbian figures, Indian artefacts, shaft tombs, together with exhibits of Aztatlán and Purépecha cultures and the Spanish conquest are some of the treasures in store. 

Fascinating creations of the Huichol tribe, one of the few remaining indigenous groups that still maintain ancient customs and beliefs, can also be found here. They are known locally for creating traditional motifs, such as symbolic animals and birds, in intricately detailed beadwork and yarn-paintings.

Cuale Island Flea Market is a 2-storey building with dozens of stalls, where you can shop for everything Mexican. From sarapes (shawls), sandals, souvenirs and tee-shirts to jewellery, leather goods and handicraft items, there are plenty of things to include in your shopping bag when you’re in the area. 

Keep your energy up for all that shopping at one of the food stalls selling Jalisco food. These include tacos, tamales, and pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, serrano chili, and lime juice). 

Vallarta Botanical Gardens attracts nature lovers and those who want to relax with views of exotic flowers, plants and trees. There are numerous hiking trails for visitors to explore the carefully presented collections. The orchid collection in particular is one to look out for – they aim to keep the title of ‘Mexico’s biggest orchid collection’. Besides walking through the gardens, you can take a dip in the neighbouring Rio Horcones emerald pools.

Malecón, a promenade that stretches almost 1 km, connecting the city's historic centre to the waterfront. Grab some refreshment at one of the many cafes before crossing the swinging bridges to Cuale Island, where you can browse the numerous market stalls. For a great view of the bay, make sure you climb the Matamoros lighthouse. Those in search of marine life should prepare their cameras for humpback whale sightings.

The Los Arcos Amphitheatre, which also goes by the name Aquiles Serdán Theatre, is a Vallarta landmark. The 4 distinctive stone arches that back the theatre have become symbol of the city. It's used regularly as an open-air theatre for cultural performances and festivals on weekends and during holidays. Choirs, bands and dancers put on performances most nights and they are usually free to watch. The sunsets are also pretty special from here – the arches and Banderas Bay making the perfect backdrop.