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July 23, 2024

What to Do in Puerto Vallarta: A Quick Guide for Cruise Passengers

Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant and charming beach town on Mexico's Pacific coast, is a popular destination for cruise ships.  With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and diverse attractions, there's something for every cruise passenger to enjoy during their time in this enchanting city.

Here’s a guide to some of the best activities to enjoy during your stop in this beautiful destination.

Experience Comfort and Relaxation

Spend the day in comfort at the Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta Hotel. The hotel offers a day pass that gives you access to all of its world-class facilities. Enjoy the pristine Playa de Oro Beach, where you can relax on comfortable sun loungers under swaying palm trees. The hotel's infinity pool offers stunning views of the ocean and is perfect for a refreshing dip or just to soak up the sun.

Krystal Grand's all-inclusive restaurants offer a culinary adventure. Enjoy mouthwatering Mexican food at the beachfront restaurant, international cuisine at the buffet, or a quick snack at the poolside bar. The Day Pass includes unlimited food and drink, so you'll be well-fed and hydrated throughout your stay.

For those in need of relaxation, Krystal Grand's spa offers a range of treatments that will rejuvenate your body and mind. Relax in the sauna and heated Jacuzzi, or enjoy a soothing massage and revitalizing facial. A perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the spa's serene setting is the perfect place to unwind.

Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta

136 De las Garzas Ave., North Hotel Zone 

Explore the Nautical Side of Puerto Vallarta 

Marina Vallarta is a lively and sophisticated district which offers a unique blend of nautical charm, high-end amenities and natural beauty.  Marina Vallarta promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all tastes and interests, whether you're a cruise passenger with a few hours to spare or a traveler looking for an extended stay.

At the heart of Marina Vallarta is its world-class marina, a haven for luxury yachts and sailboats.  Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk to admire the stunning vessels and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.  You can also book a boat tour or a fishing trip to explore the sparkling waters of the Bay of Banderas.

Marina Vallarta is home to a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.  Many of the restaurants in Marina Vallarta offer waterfront dining, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in breathtaking views of the marina and the Pacific Ocean.  For stunning sunset views, don't miss the iconic El Faro Lighthouse.

During the winter season, you can browse and purchase unique handicrafts, jewelry and artwork created by local artisans at the weekly Art & Market at Marina Vallarta.  Enjoy live music, cultural performances, and delicious food every Thursday afternoon.

A Shopper's Paradise

Are you looking for the perfect souvenir or a unique piece of Mexican arts and crafts?  Then look no further than the Mucho Fiesta market in Puerto Vallarta!  Located in the North Hotel Zone, near the Versalles restaurant district, this colorful market offers a variety of festive souvenirs and traditional Mexican handicrafts, perfect for gifts or memorabilia.  Mucho Fiesta has something for everyone, whether you're looking for colorful pottery, intricate jewelry or beautifully woven textiles.

Mucho Fiesta

129 Francisco M. Ascensio Ave., North Hotel Zone

Visit the Cuale Municipal Market to experience the vibrant local culture and find unique treasures.  This bustling market is located on Isla Cuale in Downtown Puerto Vallarta.  It offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican goods, including traditional pottery, colorful textiles, intricate jewelry, and much more.  The Cuale Municipal Market is a must for any shopper, whether you're looking for souvenirs, gifts or something special for yourself.

Discover the Heart of Puerto Vallarta

If this is your first visit to Puerto Vallarta or if you love exploring on foot, the Vallarta 101 Walking Tour is a must.  This tour has a casual and relaxed feel, like a chat with an old friend, while visiting various attractions and small restaurants in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.  Learn about the local heritage, visit key sites, and get insider tips on the best places to eat and shop.  The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and is available on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 am.  The cost of the tour is voluntary, so you get to decide how much to pay to experience this.

Vallarta 101

Reserve at: SMS (322) 100-2253 | [email protected]

A Taste of Rural Mexican Life

Immerse yourself in the rural charm of La Dulce Vista Ranch.  This ranch offers a glimpse into the traditional Mexican countryside lifestyle.  Located just west of Puerto Vallarta, La Dulce Vista Ranch is an incredible place to relax and enjoy a good meal by the river and mountains.  Its Day Pass is an ideal option for those who are visiting Puerto Vallarta for just a few hours and want to relax in a natural environment with all the comforts of home.  For 525 MXN per person (adults) it includes: pool and jacuzzi access, hot springs, bicycles, palapas, hammocks, barbecue and more from 11:00am to 6:00pm.  In addition, the La Dulce Vista Ranch is pet friendly.

La Dulce Vista

Río Balsas S/N, La Desembocada, Puerto Vallarta

El Salado Estuary State Park

Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of adventures in fascinating natural settings.  One of them is the El Salado Estuary State Park, located just 5 minutes from the Maritime Terminal.  This Protected Natural Area is the habitat of numerous species of birds, plants, mammals, amphibians and reptiles.  It is an ideal place to visit with the whole family, as you will travel by boat through the channels of the estuary.  The duration of the guided tour is one and a half hours.

El Salado Estuary State Park

3544 Francisco M. Ascensio Ave., Villa Las Flores

Puerto Vallarta offers cruise passengers a variety of activities, from exclusive hotel day passes and picturesque Marina Vallarta sightseeing to vibrant shopping and cultural tours.  Each activity promises to provide a unique and memorable experience that will make your visit to Puerto Vallarta truly one to remember.

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