• Los Arcos National Marine Park is an incredible marine park located between Las Gemelas Beach and Mismaloya Beach where you will find amazing adventure and awe-inspiring views. This area is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, with abundant marine life, clear waters, and dramatic landscapes.
• Playa de Oro - a local and visitor favorite, Playa de Oro is located north of the city and is as safe and clean as it is beautiful and relaxing. It is bordered by gorgeous rocky configurations that help give the location a charming and interesting touch.
• Vista Vallarta – this Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskof signature design is comprised of two, 18-hole championship courses that sit at the highest elevation of all three courses in Puerto Vallarta. The 2 courses are known for their breathtaking ocean views, grassy hillsides, dense forests of palm trees and natural creeks, as well as their world-class golf course reputation.
• The main downtown shopping area is located on Libertad and Malecon streets and along Juárez and Morelos streets. One block behind the Malecon you will find antique stores and art gallery district along Morelos Street, if you are looking for upscale shops, head to Plaza Marina, Plaza Neptuno, Plaza Caracol, and Paradise Village – all of which are packed with specialty stores selling clothing, jewelry, original art, and home decor.
• Prefer dancing the night away? You’ll enjoy staying up until the early morning with friends in one of the many nightclubs along the Malecon.
• Explore Banderas Bay, one of the largest and most beautiful natural bays in the world. You can take a boat tour, go whale watching (seasonal), or enjoy water activities like kayaking, jet-skiing, and snorkeling.
• Wander through Puerto Vallarta’s historic Zona Romántica (Old Town), known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Explore charming cafes, art galleries, and lively markets. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a must-see landmark here.
• A short drive from Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a charming surf town known for its bohemian vibe, beautiful beaches, and vibrant street art. It's a great spot to relax, shop for unique souvenirs, or try surfing for the ultimate day trip.
• Escape to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, located just outside the city. This lush paradise offers a peaceful environment with diverse plant species, walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
• Experience Puerto Vallarta's vibrant art scene by taking part in the Art Walk, which happens every Wednesday evening from October through May. Visit local galleries, meet artists, and explore the thriving art culture.
• Just south of Puerto Vallarta, Mismaloya Beach is famous for its beautiful setting and clear waters. It's a quiet and scenic spot for swimming and sunbathing, and it's also the location of the filming for the movie ""The Night of the Iguana.""
• Visit El Eden, a former film set location for the movie "Predator." It’s now a secluded jungle area with natural swimming pools and a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a peaceful day of hiking, swimming, and exploring nature.
• For a more exclusive and luxurious experience, head to Punta Mita, a high-end resort area offering pristine beaches, upscale dining, and world-class golf courses. It's an excellent place to relax or enjoy water sports.
• Take a boat trip to Isla Marietas and visit the famous Hidden Beach, a secluded paradise accessible only by boat or kayak. It's a unique spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying untouched natural beauty.
• Located on the Rio Cuale River, is a bustling flea market offering a wide variety of local crafts, souvenirs, jewelry, and clothing. It's a great place to shop for unique items and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• No visit to Mexico is complete without sampling the nation’s famous drink. Take a tequila tasting tour and learn about the distillation process, as well as try different varieties of tequila, from blanco to añejo.

  Puerto Vallarta offers a little bit of everything—whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax in paradise. There's always something new to explore, making it a perfect destination for every kind of traveler.
   

“Puerta Vallarta is really well known for its great food. In November, there’s a gourmet festival and there are a couple of other big events throughout the year. There are a lot of street food stands too. People get really excited about this little funky hole-in-the-wall place called El Tacon de Marlin. They do these shrimp burritos with amazing green salsa.

Yelapa is a little village to the south of town that you can only get to by boat – and there are a few that go there every day. People who come from an urban setting really love it there. There are no real roads, nobody has a vehicle, and you just walk from place to place. There are a bunch of trails and plenty of daytime restaurants.
There are many small beaches south of Puerta Vallarta, besides Yelapa, which you can also only reach by boat. So, it’s really great to rent a boat, do a day cruise, stay close to the coast, do some snorkeling, and stop at one of the beaches. A lot of them have day-time restaurants, so you can grab lunch and, of course, a cocktail.”  ―Sue, Puerto Vallarta & Punta Mita Villa Rental Specialist

Bring Cash, But Use ATMs Wisely
While most businesses in Puerto Vallarta accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or tips. Pesos are preferred, though US dollars are widely accepted. Be cautious when using ATMs—use machines located in busy, well-lit areas (like banks or malls) to avoid potential scams.

Use Sunscreen & Stay Hydrated
Puerto Vallarta has year-round sunshine, so it’s essential to pack high-SPF sunscreen and reapply it often. The sun can be intense, especially in the summer months. Stay hydrated, too, by drinking plenty of water—tap water is not safe to drink, so always buy bottled water or use filtered water.

Safety Tips
Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but like any popular vacation spot, exercise common sense. Stick to well-traveled areas at night, avoid flashing valuables, and always lock your villa or hotel room when you leave. If you're planning to hike, ensure you're with a group or guide.

Taxis & Transportation Tips
Taxi fares in Puerto Vallarta are typically fixed, but it’s always good to confirm the price before getting in. For more convenience, consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber (which is available in Puerto Vallarta), or arrange private transportation in advance if you’re traveling with a group.

Pack Light, But Be Prepared
Puerto Vallarta is very laid-back, so you don’t need to over-pack. Bring casual, comfortable clothing for daytime activities. However, it’s a good idea to pack water shoes for beach activities, a light jacket for cooler evenings (especially in the mountains), and a hat for sun protection. If you plan on visiting upscale restaurants or venues, bring a dressier outfit.

Avoid Peak Hours for Attractions
If you’re visiting popular attractions like Los Arcos or the Malecon, try to go early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Many tours and excursions also offer early-bird specials, which allow you to enjoy the sights without the midday heat and crowds.

Be Cautious of Street Vendors
While street vendors in Puerto Vallarta offer unique handmade goods, bargaining is common. However, it's important to be cautious about overpriced items or overly persistent vendors. If you’re not interested, a polite “No, thank you” is usually sufficient.

Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is customary in Puerto Vallarta. In restaurants, it's typically 10-15% of the bill, but more for exceptional service. Housekeepers in hotels or villas typically expect around 20-50 pesos per night. Tipping tour guides, drivers, and concierge staff is also appreciated. Carry small bills for easy tipping.

Know the Weather
Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, with a wet season (June to October) and a dry season (November to May). The rainy season can bring afternoon showers, but mornings are usually sunny. If you’re visiting during the wet season, pack waterproof gear and plan indoor activities for the afternoon.

Respect Local Customs and Culture
Puerto Vallarta is a very welcoming destination, but it’s important to be mindful of local customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and show respect for the culture. Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, so you'll find an inclusive atmosphere, especially around the Romantic Zone.

Plan for the Day of the Dead or Other Festivals
If you’re visiting during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) or other festivals (like Carnival), be prepared for special events, parades, and cultural celebrations. These festivals offer unique experiences but may also mean more crowds and higher accommodation prices. Check the event calendar before your trip to make the most of your visit.

Explore Beyond the Tourist Areas
While the Malecon and Zona Romántica are must-visit, don’t miss the chance to explore quieter, less touristy areas like Mismaloya Beach, Yelapa, or the nearby mountainside villages. Renting a car or booking a local guide can help you uncover hidden gems.

Try Local Cuisine
Puerto Vallarta is a haven for foodies. Be sure to try fresh seafood, tacos al pastor, ceviche, and the local specialty birria. Many street food stalls and markets offer tasty and authentic dishes, but make sure to choose vendors with a lot of local customers to ensure freshness.

Respect the Wildlife
Puerto Vallarta is home to diverse wildlife, from whale watching in the winter months to the abundant marine life at places like Los Arcos. If you’re going whale watching or snorkeling, respect wildlife rules—never approach animals too closely or disturb them.

When you book with Villas of Distinction, it's all about you. We customize your escape from start to finish ensuring it exceeds your expectations and you experience more than ever before. Your personal Villa Concierge is your partner in exclusive getaways. No request is too big or too small. Let our expert concierge team enhance your Puerto Vallarta experience by arranging our most sought-after services for your stay. Explore a selection of our frequently requested offerings below: