Things to do & places to visit in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

Strolling, shopping, and sipping tequila along the Malecon boardwalk of Puerto Vallarta is the best way to kick off your vacation. Then hit the cobblestone streets of Old Vallarta to browse the flea market for handmade crafts. The calm, warm waters of the Bay of Banderas make for excellent diving, or you can just watch artists sculpt spectacular creations in the sand. The cluster of fine art galleries in El Centro are perfect spots to hit on a self-guided art tour.

Puerto Vallarta municipality in Jalisco, Mexico. Timezone: America/Mexico_City, current date and time: Wednesday, May 08, 2024, 14:44.

Puerto Vallarta Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

88°F - 71°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Pleasantly warm, humid but cool

Feels like

Chance of rain

22.0 millimeters

Amount

8.4 mph

Wind speed

62%

Humidity

13.1

Daylight length

7:24 AM

Sunrise

8:30 PM

Sunset

57%

Cloud cover

Sleeveless shirt

What to wear

Top things to do (20)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Act2PV (2.285 reviews)
- The Red Room Cabaret at Act2PV has the most amazing lights, sound, and entertainment!!! It is also an intimate space. ❤️
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

Act2PV is the largest entertainment venue in the Banderas Bay, bringing you the BEST OF THE BEST entertainment for the 2022/2023 Season! With multiple shows every evening in three different theaters (including the beautiful Main Stage, the intimate Red Room Cabaret, and the brand-new OUTDOOR Starlight Cabaret), there is something for everyone! Act2PV features 5-star theatrical productions, musicals, stage plays, musical cabaret and concerts, as well as internationally-renowned musicians and top-quality drag shows! With its amazing sound and lighting systems, Act2PV is on par with any theater in North America! Come early and enjoy a drink in the fully-stocked Encore Lounge bar! See more..
5.0 Chicabal (429 reviews)
- Andrea and Uli were great servers!
Spent More than 3 hours Beach & Pool Clubs

Front of the Pacific Ocean and below the cosmopolitan buildings of "Peninsula" you will find one of the most instagrammable spots in Vallarta. In the club you will find yacht service, urban gastronomy, luxurious cabanas, irreverent party concepts n' the newest music that will explode your senses. See more..
5.0 Galleria Dante (367 reviews)
- A must see
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

Art gallery where the newest in classical and contemporary sculptures of many talented artists can be viewed. Great Place to SHOP for great art collection. See more..
5.0 4D Art Museum (149 reviews)
- Fascinating!
Wednesday: 2:00 PM - 8:45 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Temporarily closed See more..
5.0 Posters International (57 reviews)
- Incredible Find in PV
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

I love this place. The art is incredible, high-quality and well-curated, but what made it really special was the owner Martin Rosenberg. He has breadth and knowledge of the industry and spending time with him talking about his work and life was a highlight of our trip. Looking forward to another visit the next time we're in Puerto Vallarta. See more..
5.0 Mata Ortiz Art Gallery (29 reviews)
- Best gallery I saw in Puerto Vallarta
Art Galleries

The gallery had been mention by Traveler in 2011, but since 2000 this ceramic gallery at the airport of Puerto Vallarta exhibits and sale The exquisite Mata Ortiz Pottery, the finest in Mexico and in the world made by hand. Inspired by the ancient pre-hispanic culture of Paquimé, made by hand and in open fires, their designs are innovative and have developed their own distinctive styles. With this unique gallery ambitious owners Claudia Lovera and Alejandro Martinez are working hard to be one of the most important Galleries in Mexico specialized in Ceramics, they have been expanding to new incredible visions of Mexican expressions. Incredible Catrinas, Huichol art, and reproductions of ancient pieces of the Occident of Mexico. See more..
4.5 Malecón Boardwalk (17.4k reviews)
- Beautiful views and attractions but pretty touristy in parts
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Piers & Boardwalks

This pedestrian-only boardwalk spans 12 blocks and is peppered with oceanfront eateries, tequila bars, and vendors selling street food—sip on a margarita as you take in the stunning ocean views. Also, check out the vendors selling regional handicrafts and traditional sweets. Travelers come from all over for the art exhibitions and buzzing nightlife. During your stroll along the ocean, you'll come across impressive bronze sculptures and street performers like the acrobatic spectacle of Voladores de Papantla. Hit the boardwalk early for a spectacular sunrise and snap a photo with the vibrant block-lettered sign of Puerto Vallarta as a holiday keepsake. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures (10.0k reviews)
- One of the best parts of our trip!
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Theatre & Performances

Rhythms of the Night offers a 5-hour extravaganza, which starts with a sunset boat ride—complete with an open bar and canapés—across the bay. Sail to Caletas Beach, a secluded cove illuminated by candlelight and tiki torches, with bongo drums playing in the background. You’ll then be treated to a mesmerizing show of acrobatics, dance, storytelling, fire dancing, and more. Written and directed by the co-creator of Cirque Du Soleil, the show is inspired by Aztec legend, with a story that changes every year. If you’d like, you can even splash out on V.I.P. tickets for front-row seating at the show. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (5.326 reviews)
- Lovely church
Churches & Cathedrals

Beautiful cathedral featuring its trademark crown of angels. See more..
4.5 Zona Romántica (3.960 reviews)
- Excellent place. Excellent winter weather. Must see
Historic Walking Areas

Despite its name, Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone isn't just for couples. This vibrant area is lined with cool shops, street vendors, art galleries, restaurants, and queer-friendly bars, making it a popular spot for families, LGBTQIA travelers, and everyone in between. Stroll along the district’s cobblestone streets, shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs, or sit at an outdoor restaurant for drinks and to people-watch. Uncover all the best food stops in the Romantic Zone on a food tour of Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos Beach is also a great stop, especially at sunset. You can also visit Cuale Island in the middle of the Romantic Zone, where you’ll find a flea market and a cultural center. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Centro Histórico (2.310 reviews)
- The Street Art is Amazing!
Historic Walking Areas

While cobblestone streets along the Malecon add colonial charm, this area also features street vendors and craftsmen. See more..
4.5 Marina Vallarta (1.876 reviews)
- Active area filled with boats, restaurants, pharmacies, massages and tour agencies.
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Marina Vallarta operated by Bay View Grand, is considered a prime location marina located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta Jalisco. Marina Vallarta offers all our guests excellent customer service, 354 slips up to 160´, pump out services, power, water, oil disposal, dry dock, Internet Wi-Fi which is the best in the region, fuel station in the entrance channel, hotels, restaurants, bars, and much more, all these just 3 minutes away from the International airport and 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta downtown. See more..
4.5 Muelle de Playa Los Muertos (1.727 reviews)
- Another point of interest along the Malecón
Piers & Boardwalks

Thursday 3rd February and we visited this Pier which is located at Playa los Muertos along the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta The main feature of the Peir is the large metal structure, known as the Sail, which is towards the end of the Pier. It is constructed with metal and wire mesh, which curl around the main mast giving the appearance of a sail. A footbridge, pier, with embedded designs, leads out to the sail and the small jetty at the end. The walkway circles the sail so visitors can walk around it. From the jetty there were a number of fishermen fishing. Small boats bobbed on the sea as they wanted to transport tourists to Las Animas, Quimixto, Mismaloya and Yelapa. It was fascinating to stand here and watch the numerous pelicans diving for fish, others chose to sit and dry off in the sunshine. There were views along the two sides of Playa los Muertos which the pier cuts across out into the sea. See more..
4.5 Playa de los Muertos (1.198 reviews)
- Pleasent beach with easy access to the Romantic zone.
Beaches

"Deadmen's Beach," named for legendary pirate raids on the nearby village, is one of the most-frequented beaches in Puerto Vallarta. See more..
4.5 Los Arcos de Mismaloya (964 reviews)
- In the heart
Geologic Formations

Los Arcos hotel is not the most glamorous or up to date but once you’ve settled in, it becomes like home. There is a certain well worn charm in the decor and bathrooms It is in the heart of the romantic zone, an area filled with shops, restaurants and old colonial buildings mixed with new and modern condos. The hotel has a very special beach that while somewhat crowded, never feels cramped. The staff is attentive and anticipate your needs and wants. While the hotel offers inclusive packages, we’ve opted out and enjoy being to find and dine among the many great nearby restaurants. This is a great place for a family to stay inexpensively or for a couple to find a romantic get away. There is always a wonderful mix of straight and gay couples who vacation here, it’s just that friendly . We’ve stayed here for the past 10 years and it always draws us back for another visit. See more..
4.5 El Centro (842 reviews)
- Really prefer this area as great selection of restaurants and street food at reasonable prices
Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

The half-mile long boardwalk that borders the shoreline. See more..
4.5 The Palm Cabaret and Bar (607 reviews)
- CMarshall Faison brings Luther Vandross
Spent 1-2 hours Cabarets

Now in our 20th Season! Located on Olas Altas, Vallarta's most popular strip on the southside of town, The Palm Cabaret and Bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a great show and superb drinks and service. Vallarta's longest running and most eclectic cabaret! Everyone is welcome! Newly Remodeled with beautiful lighting and sound. See more..
4.5 Bay of Banderas (605 reviews)
- Beautiful Bay and beautiful views.
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Bodies of Water

The Pacific Ocean's largest and deepest inlet. See more..
4.5 Olas Altas (526 reviews)
- A WALK TO REMEMBER
Neighborhoods

Neighborhood near the pier offering many seafood dining experiences. See more..
4.5 Isla Cuale (508 reviews)
- Cuale River...A nice way to spend an afternoon...
Spent < 1 hour Islands

Island on the River Cuale overlooked by Gringo Gulch. See more..
4.5 Caballito (477 reviews)
- Puerto Vallarta tourist sign divided by the statue of boy on a seahorse.
Monuments & Statues

One of Puerto Vallarta's many statues, it depicts a boy riding a giant sea horse while waving to passers-by. See more..
4.5 Plaza de Armas (372 reviews)
- Beautiful
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Home of Iglesia de Guadalupe, Puerto Vallarta's most distinctive landmark. See more..
4.5 Punta De Mita (361 reviews)
- Great location in Punta de Mita
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Beaches

This property was literally right on the beach. The view from the ground floor patio was the best for sunrises and whale watching and there were plenty of them. The surf school set up their tent right out front and was neat to watch all the novice and skilled surfers. Not only was it close to the beach but was also well situated to walking to town and the Saturday markets. Norma’s tacos and Theresa’s tacos were close by and were delicious. The lobster in paradise and Minas restaurants were both very good. Casa de Pintar was just down the street and had great food. Taking the bus to La Cruz was easy and only 20 pesos. Our condo was very spacious with 2 large bedrooms and each had there own washroom and shower. Having laundry was a bonus . Walking to buy groceries was easy once you became familiar with the surroundings. Looking forward to going back See more..
4.5 Mirador de La Cruz (260 reviews)
- Amazing vistas of Vallarta and the Bay
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

This lookout offers great panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta and the whole Bay of Banderas, including parts of the city east of the mountains. It's not as difficult a hike up the lookout as you might think. Most people who are comfortable walking uphill can do this. Bring your camera or smart phone for pics! Great times to go are for sunrise and sunset. At sunrise, in particular, you may find yourself with the whole lookout all to yourself. Interesting tip: The "Down Vallarta" international mountain bike race which takes place each spring starts from the mirador de la cruz. See more..
4.5 Playa Las Gemelas (251 reviews)
- Wonderful local beach
Beaches

I found this beach on trip advisor and wanted to go here on our cruise stop. The taxis are very pushy to go to playa mismaloya and originally that is where they took us until I insisted to go here. This beach was absolutely gorgeous, way more beach area than Mismaloya and definitely less crowded. I read in reviews there are no places here for food or drink but there was a vendor set up for both and the the food was delicious and cheap. Only downside I could see was no restrooms. Again, beautiful beach and would definitely recommend over Mismaloya. See more..
4.5 Vallarta ArtWalk (247 reviews)
- Enjoyable walk through art district
Wednesday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

We decided to give the art walk a try, as the evening was cool and we are both interested in local art. Our visits to the galleries felt very intimate, as we often met artists and gallery owners that loved the work they were showing. Not only was the art interesting (and sometimes provocative), but we also received an education on many of the artists and artistic movements. Proprietors served free glasses of wine. We opted to visit a coffee shop, which itself was beautifully landscaped with art. The evening turned out much better than we anticipated. I would recommend this if you are interested in local art/artists. See more..
4.5 Rancho Verano Distileria de Tequila (214 reviews)
- Great visit, super nice people.
Distilleries

We had a great time at this place. It was “off the beaten path” as they say, so much so that we probably would have been hesitant to go if our driver wasn’t a trusted resource. We went off the highway through a tiny village with chickens roaming the streets, then even past that to the distillery. So, it was pretty cool and authentic. There was a truck with harvested agave being unloaded when we got there. The tour was entertaining and informative, and we sampled eight different tequilas, so we were feeling pretty good after. Julio was a great guide, and it’s a family business. Other people come through on tour buses, apparently, but our visit was more impromptu. There was no charge, but we bought a bunch of tequila, so…anyway, it was both better and way cheaper than anything you can buy in town. See more..
4.5 Olas Altas Farmers Market (132 reviews)
- Good food as well as clothes, art and entertainment
Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Farmers Markets

Olas Altas Farmers Market celebrates the talents and skills of local vendors from the Puerto Vallarta community. Every Saturday from 9:30-2, we offer a great selection of locally produced artisan products, including produce, baked goods, coffee, cheese, salsas, chocolates, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts. Our food court area serves up a fresh variety of tasty foods and beverages that are prepared on site. Choose from Mexican, Argentine, and East Indian dishes, as well as agua frescas and frozen treats. Live entertainment and a children's craft area round out the upbeat, fun-filled experience of Mercado Los Mangos. Join us for Opening Day on Saturday, January 28. The market season runs through the last Saturday in May 2017. See more..
4.5 Baston del Rey (118 reviews)
- Good Tequila and Informational Tour
Distilleries

Baston Del Ray is a fancy small place where they make good tequila - their anejo was one of my favorite I tried across 3 different places on our trip but it does come at $120USD (that bottle is super cool) so that may not be for everyone's budget, it was not for mine at least ($88 for anejo at Rancho Verano, while Mama Lucia had theirs at $81 USD just to give you a comparison). The tour (free of charge, so tip generously) is informative and their product good, easy drive to the town of Aguacate (about 10 minutes south of Boca de Tomatlan), while in the area you can explore Cafe Hacienda Maria Bonita literally next door (selling good coffee and beans) or other tequila businesses in this small nice and very safe town. Don't just stop here check Rancho Verano across the street - they are all great places, after all this is Jalisco home of Tequila :) See more..
4.5 Las Animas Adventure Park (96 reviews)
- Do not miss this excursion!!
Amusement & Theme Parks

Discover an exceptional adventure on a round trip boat, to the beautiful beach of "Las Animas" and discover "Adventure Park" where you will enjoy a real adventure in the jungle respecting the environment, and moving tree to tree fun for the whole Family!!! See more..