It may be one of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta thanks to its stylish hotels, but its also one of the most relaxing. Located south of Puerto Vallarta, this small hidden beach is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains and is known as the most petite beach in Mexico. Although you wouldnt tell to see it, this landmark in the middle of the Zona Romntica is less than a century old. That is the equation to more traffic and success. This simple street-side cafe-restaurant on the southern edge of the Zona Romntica serves huge tacos and tostadas, made with the best ingredients and in bewildering variety. Browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta to start planning your trip. Snorkel, swim, kayak or paddleboard in the waters surrounding the Marieta Islands on this daylong cruise. Nearly all of the palm-edged Malecn is free of road traffic and is constantly being furnished with new public art, plants and benches. The price includes round-trip transportation from hotels and cruise ship ports; it doesn't include food. Took my work group to the Beast tonight. This is in no way the haunted houses fault, but we will get back to that in a moment. Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexicos most cosmopolitan and forward-looking cities. Although each time of year has its draws, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from December through March, when youll find nearly perfect weather conditions, very little chance of rain, and fun activities like whale watching. Check out the central Plaza de Armas and watch the concert (or the clowns) at the adjacent shoreline Los Arcos amphitheater. Quimixto's main attraction is its spectacular waterfall, which can be reached by renting a horse. !Come and enjoy our 180 Ocean-Views, pools and condos, designed to keep our traveling guests comfortable. People began crying and fighting each other as pandemonium broke out. Our price $4000 pesos for 1 year so register now . Grab some Mexican vanilla, organic coffee, or colored glassware for affordable and useful gifts. It's that good. If you dont mind foregoing nightlife on your doorstep, then you just might love it in Boca. The town features a small boardwalk, a few restaurants with palapas and fresh seafood, and stores to buy drinks or snacks before setting out on an adventure to a hidden paradise. Los Arcos are best visited by boat, kayak or paddleboard, and will appeal to snorkelers, divers and just regular boat-going sightseers who would rather stay dry. Playa Camarones is a Blue Flag-certified beach located in the center of town and is characterized by a more relaxed atmosphere than other areas along the coast. All sorts of water sports are pursued here, and some visitors venture a bit further south to the Botanical Garden. Regardless of the moniker, the colorful charm of this quarter makes it one of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta. In fact, the area is so upscale that the locals refer to it as The Hills, with a tip of the hat to Beverly Hills in California. We got trapped in a few of the rooms for a while and it was fun trying to figure it out. Tickets cost approximately $90 for participants 12 and older and $60 for children 4 to 11. You can soak up this rarefied scene wandering along the promenade, where theres a farmers market on Thursday evenings from November to April. Specializing in dishes that contain the freshest-available seafood and delectable meats, the city is a gourmands paradise. Not scary, but really fun. But. The water in the bay is exceptionally calm, so this is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. And if a beachfront city isnt on your agenda except as a pass-through, why not spend a night or two in Vallarta at the beginning or end of your travels and head north to Sayulita or south to Cabo Corrientes for the rest of your trip? Owing to its untamed waves, surfing is exceedingly popular here, as is snorkelling and whale-watching. The open floor plan was great. Expect to see buildings painted in Technicolor hues and splashes of bright bougainvillea dripping from doorways and railings while youre in this neighborhood. The rocks a perforated with little caves and shelter sea turtles, rays, puffer fish and a wealth of other marine life. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book. Who can resist the beach on your first full day? It offers natural and virgin pools formed by imposing rock formations, turquoise waters, and soft white sand. The price for the mile-long guided walk and the tastings is approximately $50 for adults, $45 for teens and about $40 for participants ages 5 to 12. Only reachable by boat, limited connectivity, open-air bathrooms and daily yoga sessions guarantee that you will get in touch with nature. As the citys Old Town, this is the neighborhood where youll find narrow cobblestone streets and a wealth of unique restaurants, shops and galleries. Spend an evening sampling Mexico's lauded street food on this 3 1/2-hour walking tour. Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta: 7 Best areas - The Nomadvisor The weather is generally hot and afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, but you avoid the beach resorts' high time (November and December). Oso Oseguera is an experienced journalist with more than 30 years of practice. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination for a romantic break or a seaside holiday. Visit Mismaloya, and then head back into town to watch the sunset at one of many establishments along the famous Malecn. This website uses cookies. Whether travelers are hoping to zip line over trees and rivers, swim with dolphins or indulge in local cuisine, these experiences offer something for everyone craving an immersive adventure beyond their resort. Trips cost around $90 for adults and $75 for children 4 to 11. See More, A wonderfully romantic villa boasting stunning views of the Bay of Banderas. This is another small beach with crystal clear waters that you will find on hikes from Boca de Tomatln or aboard a boat, located between Colomitos and Playa Las Animas. Its also sea turtle hatching season, and thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches along Banderas Bay during the summer months. This neighborhood also is a residential area, so youll find familiar stores and services like Costco and plenty of gas stations. There are infinite places to discover but finding a favorite is a challenging task since each of Puerto Vallarta's beaches has its particular charm. There are also sensational palm, agave, cactus, oak and bromeliad collections, all accompanied with in-depth information. The Five-Day Best of Puerto Vallarta | Moon Travel Guides Ranking of the top 17 things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Inventive chefs may be discovered in dozens of eateries across the city. During the 4 1/2-hour boat tour, your guide will teach you all about the animals and share some of the research Wildlife Connection conducts. I go to haunted houses quite a bit, and this is by far the best I've been to. The cruise ship terminal sits about 3 miles north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Wednesday - Los Wendigos 6 -8:30, The Availables 9-12 One of the main things to do in Yelapa is hiking up the mountains through the jungle to its waterfall, at the foot of which you will find a natural pool of fresh water. When I say everyone, Im referring to the thirty plus people stepping on each other. Once here, its easy to get around on foot. He was governor of Jalisco in the 1870s and before that had been an ally of president Benito Jurez, and was forced into exile in the USA during the French intervention in the mid-1860s. Traverse through the haunted house in a true 4D experience that includes movie-quality special effects, holograms, props . This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit. El Rio BBQ Bar | Restaurant Bar | The best Barbecue in Puerto Vallarta Wanted to experience a good Haunted House in downtown Kansas City. the latest travel news, advice, updates, upcoming exclusive deals and more. Boca de Tomatlan, or simply "Boca" as it is known locally, is a small fishing village where the river and the sea converge. Today we are going to tell you about some wonderful seafood restaurants you should definitely visit during your stay in Puerto Vallarta.We have one of the BEST VIEWS in the entire city! Tours depart from Puerto Vallarta's Old Town at 6:30 and 7 p.m. each evening except Saturday. Soon the group behind us caught up to us and so on and so forth. Summertime in Puerto Vallarta is typically hot and humid with highs around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and lots of rain. This is one of those rare areas in Puerto Vallarta where you can enjoy unspoiled natural beauty. 15 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (Mexico) The B34ST mx | Puerto Vallarta - Facebook It's known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle surroundings, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture and history. Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Puerto Vallarta Attractions Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta Popular things to do 4WD Tours Half-day Tours Beaches Day Trips Nature and Wildlife Tours Points of Interest & Landmarks Fishing Charters Ziplining Art Galleries Hiking Tours Horseback Riding Flea & Street Markets City Tours Bus Tours Distilleries Home | The BEAST Foods Some are accessible only by sea. It is all about networking and tools. If that is not enough, ask to be featured in an article on our blog. You can also spend a day in the sun without leaving your hotel. Some people come here simply to spend lazy days on the sand, but others are excited to try the numerous water sports that are readily available. That was that. The weather in March is very pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings, but by April its warming up, with an average high of 82 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (28 to 29 degrees Celsius). The Beast has earned its reputation as a top 13 haunted house in the nation. At the entrance to the bay is a pair of protected islands only visitable by boat. The 9 Best Puerto Vallarta Tours - U.S. News Travel What a disappointment, unacceptable. He merely said that they dont give refunds and then he walked away. To the east, strollers are treated to an endless variety of shops, restaurants and bars. Over the last few years, we have bought VIP tickets a few of those years. Sights nearby - Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe just a short walk from the property. This is simply a great urban beachfront experience. El Morro is even more challenging and involves a descent into a cave, sighting manta rays and moray eels as you dive. Puerto Vallarta experiences afternoon showers and thunderstorms from July through October. Time and Date. Retrieved December 22, 2020. The city also is filled with international restaurants that beg to be sampled and sizzling nightclubs that fill the air with a pulsating beat. If you're looking for a fun and relaxing place to spend your vacation with your family, the Grand Park Royal is a great choice. He promptly appeared, with two very large security guards, and listened to my long list of complaints, including my eye swelling up due to brick particles falling in it. Or just relax listening to the soothing sounds of waves breaking on Mexico's Pacific coast. Our collection of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta range from chic boutiques to utterly luxurious hotels. This open air tiki bar is the perfect place to have a cocktail and make new friends. In order to see Antelope Canyon, you'll need to book a guided tour. After all of the previous activity, it may be best simply to rest for a day. Other important sites in Downtown include the Naval History Museum and the Main Plaza. The centerpiece of the development is the marina itself, which can accommodate nearly 500 vessels. Not good at all!! The way to get there is by boat, a one-hour ride, and once there, get ready to jump into the water and practice scuba diving, snorkeling, or paddle boarding. Costera a Barra de Navidad 520, Zona Romntica,Winston's Bar & Grill :C. Per 1231, CentroWednesdays Circus, Thursday The Availables, Friday The Beast, Saturday Los Wendigos, Sundays Paranoia Rock ExperienceList of Bands in Puerto VallartaThe AvailablesBobbi & the OthersEyes on EarthGecko BandGina and the LoversHammer TimeLas MambasThe AnimalsThe Beasts (The B34ST)formally La Trez CuartozThe WendigosThe Zippers (with Sylvie)I know there are more bars with live music and will include them as they contact me and/or I can confirm the information. You could combine these trips with a bit of culture, taking a jeep up to remote Sierra Madre villages, touring farms and visiting a distillery making raicilla, a typical Jaliscan spirit produced from the agave plant. The Romantic Zone is easy to explore on foot. All Rights Reserved. Nonetheless, this is a very desirable area. Trip Ideas Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast. This also is the perfect place to find indulgent spa treatments that take vacation pampering to new heights. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. "Climate & Weather Averages in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico." Some are better suited for water sports and adventure activities. Youre more likely to score a deal further away from the ocean, though there are a few waterfront properties that provide an affordable nightly rate. Trips cost around $90 for adults and $75 for children 4 to 11. You can take trips into the Sierra Madre mountains or out onto the bay, which has protected islands with caves, reefs and tunnels. A holiday in Puerto Vallarta will be a joyous blur of beaches, tasty cuisine and bars. Exceedingly well done, very creative. [email protected]. This leads me back to the body odor comment. Yelapa is also famous for its homemade pies, a delight to enjoy while sunbathing on the beach. Weather permitting, you'll also have the chance to swim or kayak in Los Horcones River. Head down to the Isla Cuale and check out the wares for sale in the many shops and stalls. While youre enjoying Playa de Los Muertos, be certain to take a stroll along the pier that was opened here in 2013. These granite islands are called Los Arcos for their natural arches, and are visible from the centre of Puerto Vallarta. Many visitors spend the majority of their time relaxing on the sand or playing on the water. At one point, we entered a trap room where you have to push a secret button to allow a hidden door to open and youre only clue is a character with a horribly obnoxious English accent yelling at you to hurry all the while having a strobe light in your face, discombobulating you. A large claw is found and the hunt is on for the beast. The food is health conscious and they cater for vegan and gluten-free guests. Puerto Vallarta is best explored with a local as your guide.Getty Images. Guides are considered exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. The building has almost 160 stands over two floors, and many of its stands are oriented towards tourists. Note: Some tour providers on this list may have ceased operations due to COVID-19. Join and invite some friends; that is how WE grow. Mar 25, 2022 7 min read Visitors come from far and wide for Vallarta Pride in late May Inti St Clair / Getty Images Timing can make all the difference when visiting Puerto Vallarta, a wildly popular resort known for its sublime jungle-backed beaches and emerald waters, tucked onto Mexico's Pacific coast. This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information. You can reach Downtown on foot from here as well. Puerto Vallarta is starting to become a tourist city where you not only have to decide what you want to eat, but which band you want to listen to. More creepy than scary but some of the animatronics definitely startled me and the actors were great. It is known by many names such as the South Side, Old Town or Viejo Vallarta, which translates to Old Vallarta. The tour operator Vallarta Adventures is in charge of managing and preserving this beach, with tours that start at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Overall we had a blast. You can also enjoy the service of its trendy restaurants and bars by the beach or the surrounding area. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta - TripSavvy Tickets cost approximately $85 for participants 12 and older and $55 for children 4 to 11; there's no charge for accompanied infants. Get lost in her charming old cobbled streets. Thank all this was very helpful so many places to choose from now. People began pushing and tripping over each other. Most of these are quite affordable and very close to Marina Vallarta. Travelers typically find the trips both educational and highly enjoyable. Reviewers report seeing lots of wildlife while snorkeling. Las Caletas is a private beach enveloped in magic and total relaxation. Humpback whales, several varieties of dolphins and other marine life can be seen in Puerto Vallarta's waters from early December to late March, which is when Wildlife Connection conducts its biologist-led tours. Los Arcos and Las Marietas have caves, tunnels and reefs to venture through. Live Music In Puerto Vallarta - Puerto Vallarta Top Ten With new players forming new bands, the selection of live entertainment is growing fast. This can be seen for miles for its tall sail-shaped frame, and is photo-worthy at night when bathed in blue light. Order a tropical drink and some fresh guacamole, then people-watch and decompress until you catch your first brilliant Vallarta sunset. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: Best areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta, Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway, FIND DOWNTOWN PUERTO VALLARTA HOTEL DEALS, Secrets Vallarta Bay Resort & SPA Adults Only, San Trpico Petit Hotel & Peaceful Escape. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. These seasonal outings occur twice daily beginning at 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Dolphin lovers might want to opt for the morning tour, when sightings are more likely.) Or, if you prefer, continue south a few miles past Mismaloya to the unmissable Le Kliff Restaurant, overlooking the ocean, on the right. Spend as long as you want in every room. Traverse through the haunted house in a true 4D experience that includes movie-quality special effects, holograms, props, animatronics, a real alligator and a professional scare cast with a passion for scaring. All day the promenade buzzes with life, and it can take some time to wander from one end to the other as youll linger to watch street performers and papantla flyers. We got there about 20 minutes before it opened and I had bought the VIP tickets online. Golfers love this area as do people who favor tennis. I understand that Halloween brings out all kind of characters from all walks of life and I can appreciate diversity. ((photo via American Queen Voyages)), Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Tue December 6, 2022, Tobago Tourism - Discover an unspoilt, untouched and undiscovered island in the Caribbean. Also, be certain to make a stop on the Mercado Isla Rio Cuale, a well-known flea market that is a fantastic place to pick up a souvenir made by a local artisan. Author Ray SmithDec 24, 2021Puerto Vallarta is starting to become a tourist city where you not only have to decide what you want to eat, but which band you want to listen to. It lies around 10 minutes from the downtown, and on arrival youll be met by a monumental sculpture of a mother whale and its calf. Downtown features a sizzling nightlife. I. Madero 418, Zona RomnticaMondays Las Imposibles, Tuesday Las Mambas, Wednesday Red Suitcase, Thursday Karma, Fridays Las Wendigos, Saturdays Hoochie CoochieWhiskey Kitchen :Carr. As Kansas City residents, my wife and I are familiar with the city and all of the Halloween attractions she has to offer and after hearing an enticing ad on the radio for the BEAST, EDGE OF HELL, AND MACABRE CINEMA, we chose to spend what little money we had and bought tickets for Friday the 13th. Creative, well-done and big! Tuesday - Tequila Rush 8-11 Located along the beautiful Rio Cuale, El Rio BBQ Bar specializes in slow, wood-smoke barbecue, as well as a full menu of other delights. Whale Watching Boat Tour Source: Escajadillo / shutterstock Whale Watching This is a fantastic tour for animal lovers to experience the wildlife just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Hungry for more? Located in the Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta is a short, 20-minute drive from the citys airport. Drinks and meals are included in the tour, and it is an excellent option for families or couples in its private section for adults with hammocks by the sea and a spa at the top of the cliff. Of course, people come to Puerto Vallarta for its beaches. Tonight, head north for some killer salsa dancing at J&B. ". Within, check out the images of saints painted on wood panels, the carved confessionals, marble altar and image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows. Just mind your manners, because things can get pretty rowdy. Many art galleries are found here too, as is the Plaza Malecn, a bustling flea market. However, when you know more about the distinct neighborhoods and what they offer, it becomes much easier to pick the atmosphere that suits your vacation style. Tours are offered twice daily at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and last about three hours. Since the early 2000s the Zona Romntica, south of the Ro Cuale, has become one of Latin Americas biggest LGBT escapes. J. et skis, kayaks, fishing vessels and more can be rented at countless spots. Located 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, it can be reached by land or sea. Want travel inspiration sent straight to your inbox? As a result, the feeling throughout the neighborhood is laid-back and relaxed with plenty of color and style. Head over to the Cava Antigua, where you can learn about the production of tequila (and do some quality tastings while you're at it!). Tickets cost around $95 for a single rider (who must have a valid driver's license) and about $140 for a rider with a passenger (who must be at least 6 years old). The best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the months of December through March. Go anytime between November and May, when there is no rain and the temperature ranges between 17 and 30 degrees. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. The name Conchas Chinas refers to the Chinese Shells that are found in abundance only on the local beach. The Top Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Culture Trip 10 Best Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusive Resorts For The - TheTravel Great walks - Wander along the sculpture-filled seafront Malecon. You can browse silver jewellery, leather items, wooden toys and all sorts of souvenirs on the ground floor. Puerto Vallarta's beaches have something for everyone, whether you are looking to relax, spend a fun family day building sand castles, or experience a new outdoor adventure under the sea! Its known for its many art galleries and numerous public art installations. Find your way through this thrilling open format design where visitors pass by dramatic scenes on multiple floors with a twisted path out. By taking a closer look at the diverse areas in Puerto Vallarta, it is possible to decide which of the citys charming neighborhoods will make the ideal home base. The majority of the riding takes place off-road, but portions of the trip will be on cobblestone paths. Others are located in remote places, surrounded by magical landscapes or even those that offer abundant wildlife around them. May tends to be hot and humid, with rain becoming more frequent toward the end of the month. I will NEVER go there or encourage anyone to go again. Time 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm Take a dozen pictures to impress your friends. The municipal market on Isla Cuale opened in 1979 and is a shopping destination to be reckoned with. Delivery & Pickup Options - 515 reviews of The Beast by Todd English "At Long last, Chef Todd English has made a triumphant return to Las Vegas. In addition, the company provides a bird-watching guide onboard to help passengers identify the bay's various sea bird species. Dont get your tickets online get the combo tickets there! You can enjoy different water activities such as skiing, kayaking, banana boat rides, and even parasailing. Youve done the beaches, and now its time to hit the water. Thursday - Bobbi and the others 8-11 15 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Source: Francisco J Ramos Gallego / shutterstock, Christian Frausto Bernal from Tepic, Nayarit, MEXICO / Wikimedia, 15 Best Things to Do in Montijo (Portugal), 15 Best Things to Do in Oldenburg (Germany), 25 Best Ecotourism Experiences in Malaysia. Whatever time of year you decide to visit, this guide will give you the essential information you need to plan your trip. I would definitely recommend. Foreign visitors first arrived with the advent of commercial air travel in the 1940s, and these artists and writers settled at the "Gringo Gulch" quarter. Out of options, I followed his directions. It is free to use and continues to grow with both local residents and foreigners who live or visit Puerto Vallarta. Rock Hudson documentary offers an intimate look into the Hollywood icon Powerful energy, passion and entertainment characterize us. Luxury, five-star properties are common, and they have nightly rates to match. Decor is Modern and artistic and sexy. If you can handle the heat, head into the Mercado Municipal just downhill from the bridge. Upscale resorts dominate the scene at Marina Vallarta. For the most intimate view of Puerto Vallarta, stay in a comfortable hotel within close walking distance of the colorful Old Town sights, cafs, restaurants, and shops. Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta - Tripadvisor Referred to by the locals as simply Boca, this village is reachable by car, taxi, bus or boat. Being in the Zona Romntica, Playa los Muertos is one of Mexicos top LGBT beaches, but is also where Puerto Vallartas residents and people from neighbouring states come for sea and sand. Here you will find the emblematic pier that was recently renovated and exceptional views of the Pacific Ocean. 9 Barcel Puerto Vallarta. That being said, the lingering body odor from other patrons was SICKENING and WE WERE OUTSIDE! On its latticework of cobblestone streets are quaint bakeries, cafes, scores of restaurants, a helping of art galleries and an easy-going atmosphere in high season. Tickets cost around $100 with discounts for children and anyone opting out of the zip line portion of the tour. However, this is also when the whales leave the bay for cooler water. If youre looking to really chill out, however, you might consider staying up at the north end of the Hotel Zone, or even in Nuevo Vallarta, and cabbing or busing in to the big city for day trips or nights on the town.