· MX

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta: Where the Jungle Meets the Sea Nestled between the lush Sierra Madre mountains and the sparkling waters of the Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, is more than just a beach destination - i…

#beach destination#tropical#resort town#Mexican culture#Pacific coast

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Puerto Vallarta.

Top Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Top Flights to Puerto Vallarta

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Puerto Vallarta.

Tours

Beachfront Relaxation in Puerto Vallarta

Explore the stunning beaches of Puerto Vallarta, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and relaxation under the sun.

Historic Downtown Exploration

Discover the colonial charm of Puerto Vallarta's historic downtown with its beautiful architecture and local shops.

Shopping

Malecon Boardwalk Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Malecon, Puerto Vallarta's famous oceanfront walkway, lined with art sculptures, shops, and restaurants.

Outdoor

Sierra Madre Adventure

Outdoor adventure in the Sierra Madre mountains, including zip-lining and hiking.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Puerto Vallarta.

Currency

$ | MXN | Mexican Peso

Population

224166.0

Average weather

Puerto Vallarta

Jan

29°16°

Feb

29°16°

Mar

29°17°

Apr

30°18°

May

31°21°

Jun

32°24°

Jul

33°24°

Aug

33°24°

Sep

33°24°

Oct

32°23°

Nov

31°20°

Dec

30°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Puerto Vallarta.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Puerto Vallarta in Mexico:

Beautiful Beaches: Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Visitors can relax on the beaches, go swimming, snorkeling, or enjoy water sports activities.
Vibrant Culture: Puerto Vallarta has a rich cultural heritage with a mix of traditional Mexican charm and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, visit art galleries, and enjoy local festivals and events.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area of Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, horseback riding, and ATV tours. The lush jungles and mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for adventure seekers.
Delicious Cuisine: Puerto Vallarta is a food lover's paradise with a diverse range of dining options. Visitors can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes at the many restaurants and food stalls throughout the city.
Warm Weather: Puerto Vallarta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers. The pleasant weather allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and relax on the beach.
Friendly Locals: The people of Puerto Vallarta are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards tourists. Visitors can expect to receive a warm welcome and helpful tips from the locals during their stay.

Overall, Puerto Vallarta offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, delicious food, and warm hospitality, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a memorable vacation.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Puerto Vallarta in Mexico may include:

Weather concerns: Puerto Vallarta can experience hurricanes and tropical storms during certain times of the year, which may disrupt travel plans and activities.
Safety issues: Like many tourist destinations, Puerto Vallarta may have instances of petty crime such as theft or scams targeting tourists. It's important to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
Crowds: Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons, which can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions. This may affect the overall experience for some travelers looking for a more relaxed environment.
Language barrier: While many locals in Puerto Vallarta may speak some English, communication can still be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Spanish fluently. This may lead to misunderstandings or difficulties in navigating the area.
Environmental concerns: Like many coastal destinations, Puerto Vallarta faces environmental challenges such as pollution, waste management issues, and impact on marine life. Travelers should be mindful of their ecological footprint and support sustainable practices during their stay.

It's important to note that these potential cons should be considered alongside the many positives of visiting Puerto Vallarta, such as its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. As with any travel destination, being informed and prepared can help mitigate any challenges that may arise.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort town located on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco. The town's history dates back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Aztatlan culture. The area was later conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century.

Significant events in Puerto Vallarta's history include its establishment as a shipping port in the 19th century, which contributed to its growth and development. However, it was not until the 20th century that Puerto Vallarta began to gain international attention as a tourist destination. One of the key turning points was the filming of the movie "The Night of the Iguana" in 1963, starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner. The movie showcased the town's natural beauty and put it on the map as a desirable vacation spot.

Historical figures associated with Puerto Vallarta include Ignacio L. Vallarta, a prominent Mexican lawyer and politician who served as the Chief Justice of the Mexican Supreme Court. The town was named after him in 1918 to honor his contributions to the country.

Important landmarks in Puerto Vallarta include the Malecon boardwalk, a bustling promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an iconic symbol of the town with its distinctive crown-topped tower, is another significant landmark. Other notable attractions include Los Arcos National Marine Park, a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants.

Puerto Vallarta has grown into a vibrant destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for tourists from around the world.