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January 18, 2024
Puerto Vallarta is one of the most important beach destinations in Mexico and the world. The Friendliest City in the World is reaffirming its position as a leader in travel experiences by once again being ranked as one of the top 5 most popular destinations in Mexico in 2024, according to the millions of users of the prestigious online travel platform TripAdvisor.
Visitors to Puerto Vallarta can be assured of an incredible vacation in a destination that has received numerous awards from specialized media, with more than 50 outdoor activities. This is confirmed by the Travelers' Choice Best of the Best 2024, awarded to destinations whose hotels, restaurants, tours and activities received a high number of positive reviews from TripAdvisor users over a 12-month period.
Here are some of Puerto Vallarta's favorite travel experiences and activities as rated by thousands of visitors just like you.
Start your vacation in Puerto Vallarta off on the right foot by taking a stroll down the Malecon boardwalk. This oceanfront pedestrian promenade stretches along the coast and offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. It also boasts an outstanding collection of outdoor public art.
Be sure to admire, interact with, and photograph the many sculptures that you will find along the way, including the icon of Puerto Vallarta: "The Boy on the Sea Horse". Allow yourself to be captivated by the joy and good vibes of the restaurants, cafes and eateries that surround you.
There is always something to see and do on the Malecon of Puerto Vallarta. For example, you can find music, live performances and other artistic expressions at landmark attractions like the Los Arcos Amphitheater, and the always-crowded Lighthouse Esplanade hosts cultural festivals and the World's Tallest Calavera Catrina.
Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets over the bay as seen from the Malecon. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the sky is transformed into shades of orange, pink and purple, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for romance or relaxing.
The beautiful beaches of Puerto Vallarta are waiting for you to enjoy them all year round with 360 days of sunshine. Colomitos Beach, located just south of Puerto Vallarta, is known around the world as the smallest beach in Mexico.
Although tiny, Colomitos features crystalline emerald waters and gentle waves. It is ideal for swimming, water activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, or simply for relaxation and sunbathing. You can get to it by sea if you board a panga boat from the dock at the Los Muertos Beach. Or, if you wish, there is a medium-difficulty hiking trail which starts from the small fishers town of Boca de Tomatlán.
Other beaches in Puerto Vallarta that are highly recommended for families to visit are those recently awarded the prestigious Blue Flag. With soft golden sands, incredible locations and spectacular scenery, the Blue Flag beaches of Puerto Vallarta include those at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta, the Westin Resort & Spa and the Sheraton Buganvilias.
The Blue Flag certification is an international recognition that is only awarded to those beaches that meet the strictest standards for the environment and the safety of its visitors.
Always bustling, Downtown Puerto Vallarta is a captivating blend of the traditional charm and cultural richness of Old Town Vallarta combined with the comforts of a modern city. With its cobblestone streets, white facades and safe, family-friendly atmosphere, Downtown is a must for travelers seeking the authentic charm of the Friendliest City in the World.
Take time to stroll the cobblestone streets of Downtown Puerto Vallarta and explore the small walkways leading to Gringo Gulch. Immerse yourself in the colorful charm of the murals in the Downtown area, enjoy the delicious Mexican antojitos on the Malecon, and discover the small wonders that make this area one of the authentic jewels of the Mexican Pacific Coast.
Puerto Vallarta is one of the world's most renowned destinations for water sports and other adventure activities for both the experienced enthusiast and the first time visitor.
You can discover a vibrant world beneath the surface by exploring underwater caves, shipwrecks and reefs. Snorkel, parasail, jet ski and paddleboard are some of the best water sports to try during your next visit to Puerto Vallarta. With its warm waters, abundance of marine life and stunning panoramas, it's no wonder that Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's top water sports locations.
Scuba diving in the warm, crystal clear waters of Banderas Bay is a memorable adventure. The bay is home to a wide variety of marine life including colorful fish, sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and during the winter season, humpback whale watching in Puerto Vallarta is highly recommended.
A self-guided tour of Downtown and Old TownPuerto Vallarta and its art galleries is also recommended by TripAdvisor users. During the season from October to June, the Art Walk in Historic Downtown and the South Side Shuffle in the Zona Romantica art district are two highly recommended ways to immerse yourself in Puerto Vallarta's art scene.
The Art Walk includes 16 of the most important galleries in the Historic Downtown. They open their doors to collectors, connoisseurs and the artistic community every Wednesday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm until June 26, 2024.
Every other Friday, 22 art galleries, jewelry stores and boutiques in Old Town Vallarta and the Zona Romantica host the South Side Shuffle, an authentic party of live music, art and performances. Don't miss this biweekly art extravaganza from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm through Friday, March 22, 2024.
Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations for shopaholics. You will find an abundance of boutiques, art galleries and markets with a variety of textiles, jewelry, handmade crafts and other products to take home with you in its narrow cobblestone streets.
The Cuale River Municipal Market is one of the main attractions in the Downtown area of Puerto Vallarta. You can buy all kinds of handicrafts, jewelry, clothing and more from the stalls and shops located throughout the island. This traditional mercado is a great place to pick up a local souvenir that is a reflection of the creative spirit of our artisans.
A variety of boutiques to satisfy the needs of the most fashionable visitor are also located in Downtown and the Romantic Zone in Puerto Vallarta. From bohemian-inspired clothing to chic beach wear, from the most prestigious brands to the unique creations of local designers.
Join us on our social networks (Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok) and share the best pictures of your Puerto Vallarta vacation using the hashtag #PuertoVallarta.
The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board confirms its commitment to positioning the destination among the best in the world Read more
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