Author: 
Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico, and tourists flock from far and wide to spend a few days enjoying the city’s many beautiful beaches. However, the magic of this coastal city spreads far beyond its shimmering shoreline, and there are endless attractions to make every day here a memorable one.
If you’re planning a trip to this Mexican gem, read on to discover the 14 must-see attractions in Puerto Vallarta.
1. El Malecon
The Malecon is downtown Puerto Vallarta’s mile-long boardwalk that runs along the Bay of Banderas from Centro to Zona Romantica. In many ways, this is the heart of the city, and locals and tourists flock here for its fantastic selection of restaurants, cafes, street food, and entertainment.
Head to the Malecon boardwalk for an early morning sightseeing stroll, join an informative walking tour or grab a seat at one of the bars for a refreshing drink and stunning sunset views.
2. Zona Romantica
Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) in Puerto Vallarta’s old town, and this charming district is a must-visit attraction. Start from the Rio Cuale Bridge, where you can find some of the city’s best restaurants and art galleries, then wander down cobblestone streets to explore historic buildings.
Be sure to stick around after dark to enjoy some of the best nightlife that the city has to offer — Zona Romantica has everything from live music and mezcal and tequila tasting to the ever-popular drag shows and Vallarta food tours.
3. Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a striking structure sitting above downtown Puerto Vallarta and even if you don’t see it, you’ll most certainly hear the bells as they ring out before each service. Visit the church to see its intricate architecture up close, and be sure to head inside to see the breathtaking frescoes and altar.
4. Puerto Vallarta Beaches
The state of Jalisco is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, and many of them can be found within easy from Puerto Vallarta. You can even spot humpback whales from many of the sandy stretches of shoreline if you don’t have time for a whale-watching trip. Here are some of the best Pacific Coast gems.
Playa Las Gemelas
Playa las Gemelas is five miles south of Puerto Vallarta and is a pristine duo of beautifully sandy beaches. The north section is the easiest to access, and the calm waves are ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
Playa de los Muertos
Playa de los Muertos is located near Zona Romantica and is picturesque to enjoy some Mexican sun. This busy spot is one of the best beaches for watersports — parasailing, kitesurfing, and jet ski rentals are all available here.
Playa Las Animas
Hop on a water taxi or join a boat tour to reach Playa las Animas — one of the more rugged beaches around Puerto Vallarta. Here, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding jungle and mountains and the opportunity to enjoy hiking.
Las Caletas
This hidden gem is only accessible by boat ride, but its unspoiled sandy beaches and tranquil blue waters are worth the effort. Book a tour and enjoy a day exploring the four interconnected beaches, or try a spot of scuba diving or paddleboarding.
Las Caletas is also home to the Rhythm of the Night show, which takes place in an outdoor amphitheater and is one of the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
Mismaloya Beach
It’s said that Puerto Vallarta was put on the tourist map by the 1964 film Night of the Iguana, which starred Richard Burton and was inspired by Mismaloya.
This natural paradise is one of the area’s most popular beaches and makes a great day trip from Puerto Vallarta — spend the morning exploring the Sierra Madre Mountains, then enjoy a lazy afternoon on the beach before venturing into the fishing town for a fresh seafood dinner.
Majahuitas
This is another incredible cove that is accessible only by boat. Catch a water taxi from Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán to Majahuitas, and you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear waters and black reefs that are perfect for snorkeling. Don’t miss a visit to the sleepy village of Quimixto while you’re in the area.
Conchas Chinas
This neighborhood and hidden beach are tricky to get to, but that means that you’ll enjoy a peaceful beach day with fewer crowds than some of the other beaches in and around Puerto Vallarta. There aren’t many amenities at Conchas Chinas, so bring water and snacks — plus your camera for the incredible views.
5. Mirador Cerro de La Cruz
One of Puerto Vallarta’s most-loved features is that it benefits from beaches, jungle, and mountains, giving it a rugged beauty that sets it apart from other coastal Mexican cities. To enjoy the best panoramic view of this incredible natural landscape, Mirador Cerro de la Cruz cannot be beaten.
The climb up only takes between 15 and 40 minutes but is challenging and should only be tackled by physically fit folks. A funicular runs during high season from 6 am until 10 pm, making this lookout accessible to all. This is one of the best free things to do in the city (if you hike up) — head there early in the morning or at sunset to make the most of the cooler weather.
6. Sierra Madre Mountains
For a true taste of Mexico’s rugged charm, head out of the Hotel Zone and leave the all-inclusive resorts behind in favor of the Sierra Madre Mountains. There’s plenty for outdoor adventurers to do here, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
For more of a thrill, try the zipline, race around on an ATV tour, or give white water rafting a go. There are plenty of tours on offer with English-speaking guides that transport guests to and from Puerto Vallarta and include your chosen activities.
7. Vallarta Botanical Garden
Downtown Puerto Vallarta is a busy, vibrant place so spending an afternoon at Vallarta Botanical Garden is a handy way to enjoy some peace and tranquility without traveling outside the city.
There are miles of well-kempt pathways to explore among colorful flowerbeds and lush gardens, and the river is a lovely place to hang out in the shade with a good book. Don’t skip the restaurant and artisan store for freshly prepared dishes and homemade produce.
8. Sayulita
Sayulita is a bohemian paradise in the neighboring state of Nayarit. It’s a popular day trip from Puerto Vallarta, where visitors can explore the surfer town and indulge in some of the best tacos around.
If you have time, including San Pancho in your day tour is a great idea. It’s a quieter version of Sayulita, and the wide beaches give you plenty of space to spread out.
9. Marieta Islands National Park
This protected area is made up of two uninhabited islands just two hours from Puerto Vallarta. The islands are of volcanic origin and are extremely Instagram-worthy. The number of visitors per day is limited, so planning in advance is important.
Tip: take a dry bag for your valuables to Islas Marietas because the iconic ‘beach of love’ can only be reached by swimming.
10. Los Arcos
Los Arcos translates to ‘the arches’ and that’s exactly what this natural phenomenon is. Many Bay of Banderas tours include Los Arcos, a spectacular place to swim and snorkel while looking back on the glittering coastline.
11. Marina Vallarta
For a taste of how wealthy Mexicans live, spend some time getting to know the upmarket Marina Vallarta neighborhood. The marina itself is home to many opulent yachts and makes a scenic spot for a stroll at golden hour. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of the classy bars and restaurants for craft cocktails and elegant dining.
12. Yelapa
Yelapa is a low-key hidden gem that locals frequent when they want a break from the hectic nature of Puerto Vallarta. Although it’s just 20 minutes south of the city, it’s only possible to reach it by boat which is why it remains relatively uncrowded. Head here for charming guesthouses, authentic home-cooked cuisine, and a refreshingly slow pace of life.
13. Pueblos Magicos
Pueblos Magicos translates to ‘magic towns’, and there are 177 of them throughout Mexico. These towns are said to have preserved their culture and heritage, and visiting one really is a magical experience. There are several Pueblos Magicos near Puerto Vallarta, and no trip to Mexico is complete without seeing one:
- San Sebastian del Oeste is a popular choice where visitors can see well-preserved remnants of the town’s mining past.
- Talpa de Allende is a photogenic village that’s home to rows of brightly colored houses and an atmospheric church.
- Mascota is nestled among the oak and pine trees of the Sierra Madre Mountains and provides a refreshing escape from the coastal heat.
14. Casa Kimberly
While Richard Burton was in Mexico to star in Night of the Iguana he fell in love with Puerto Vallarta and bought himself a home there. At the time, Burton was in a relationship with Elizabeth Taylor and arranged a casita (a small house) directly across the street for her. Burton then arranged for a bridge to be built between the two properties so they could avoid the paparazzi.
This property is now a luxury boutique hotel called Casa Kimberly. Staying here is a unique experience, but if your budget won’t stretch, it’s still a must-see attraction for fans of the Hollywood stars.
Discover the Magic of Puerto Vallarta
With sandy white beaches, rugged mountains, and vibrant towns within easy reach, you’ll never be stuck for attractions to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta. Which attraction will you head to first on your next Mexico adventure?
