Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta for Solo Travelers: Beaches, Outdoor Activities, and Delicious Food

You don't have to be lonely just because you're traveling alone. Sometimes it means discovery of self amidst the swaying waves, picturesque cobblestone streets, and spectacular sunsets that seem to last forever.

In Puerto Vallarta, every step unveils a new story to be experienced: a café where you're greeted by name, a trail that culminates in a breathtaking view, a beach where the sea seems to listen to you.

Those who travel with freedom and curiosity will find Puerto Vallarta to be the ideal destination. Solo travelers seeking a sense of community, safety, and hospitality will find it here.

Take note! According to the recommendations of solo travelers, here are some of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Beaches that Inspire Freedom

The soul of Puerto Vallarta lies in its beaches. Los Muertos Beach is a place that the locals call home. Solo travelers will find the epicenter of local energy here: a place where the atmosphere is as diverse as it is welcoming. Its iconic pier and nearby nightlife make it the perfect place to meet people or enjoy an afternoon with a good book.

Conchas Chinas, on the other hand, offers a quieter setting if you're looking for something more introspective. The rock formations create small natural pools that are perfect for swimming without the hustle and bustle of other, more crowded beaches. But if you're looking for something more secluded, check out Las Gemelas Beach. It's got soft golden sand and turquoise waters, and it's a hidden gem in the south zone of Puerto Vallarta.

Adventures in the Great Outdoors

When you travel alone, you don't have to be lonely. Puerto Vallarta's outdoor activities are perfect for travelers to connect with each other or with themselves.

The hiking trail to Colomitos, Mexico's smallest beach, is an experience you won't want to miss. The route from Boca de Tomatlán meanders between the sea and the mountains, offering breathtaking vistas of the bay from the South Zone. At sunrise, the trail is quiet and safe, making it ideal for those who enjoy silence and photography.

You should also consider the kayak or paddle board tour to Los Arcos de Mismaloya, where you can paddle among rock formations and observe birds and marine wildlife. Several local tour operators offer tours for small groups, which are an excellent opportunity to socialize naturally.

If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, canopy touring in the Sierra Madre is an unparalleled experience. Soaring above the verdant expanse while the Pacific shimmers in the distance is a sight that many globetrotters showcase on Instagram under the hashtag #SoloTravelVallarta.

Make a Reservation for a Solo Diner

Those traveling alone will find Puerto Vallarta's dining scene to be accommodating. Café des Artistes, the illustrious restaurant helmed by Chef Thierry Blouet, offers an exemplary dining experience for those who seek a refined and serene ambiance. The pleasure of dining alone is heightened by the personalized service and intimate atmosphere.

If you prefer a more casual and relaxed atmosphere while enjoying the spectacular sunsets of Puerto Vallarta from the front row, consider a visit to El Solar/El Barracuda. This well-liked beachfront bar, located in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood a short distance from downtown, serves fresh seafood, has a full cocktail and mixology bar, and features live music. The atmosphere is designed to encourage conversation with other travelers.

For breakfast, A Page in the Sun, a café-bookstore in the Romantic Zone, is a meeting place for digital nomads and backpackers. Having a coffee while leafing through a used book overlooking the colorful Lázaro Cárdenas Park is almost a Vallarta ritual.

Other One-of-a-kind Experiences for Solo Travelers

Puerto Vallarta is a great place for people traveling alone to have a memorable experience. The "Free Malecon Sculpture Tour" is one of them. This tour provides a comprehensive look at the history and art of Puerto Vallarta through its sculptures.

This activity is free of charge, although you can leave a voluntary donation, which goes to the Los Mangos Library. The activity is in English and is guided by Gary Thompson, the owner of the iconic Galería Pacífico del Arte. Look for him every Tuesday starting at 9:30am, departing from the sculpture "Los milenios" (Milennia) at the beginning of the Malecón in Puerto Vallarta.

Those seeking spiritual connection will find retreats in Yelapa that combine yoga, meditation, and healthy cooking in natural settings. These retreats are ideal for reconnecting body and mind, and they provide an opportunity to focus on your personal growth and well-being.

Puerto Vallarta's nightlife is another great attraction for those traveling alone. Colibrí Bar, a speakeasy in the heart of downtown, and Mr. Flamingo for LGBTQ+ travelers are places where encounters, encouraged by a friendly atmosphere, are made possible by signature cocktails, music, beautiful people, and, above all, the ambiance. Here, no one feels out of place, and the atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive.

Puerto Vallarta is a destination that celebrates the independence of the traveler, allowing them to explore and experience the world at their own pace. Solitude here becomes an opportunity for exploration, savoring, and feeling. Puerto Vallarta offers a unique opportunity to rediscover the freedom that can only be found when traveling alone, whether it's soaking up the sun at Los Muertos Beach or making new connections over drinks.

In Puerto Vallarta, every experience seems designed for travelers who enjoy their own pace: beaches, cuisine, walks, new friendships. If you could choose just one activity to do on your own in Vallarta, what would it be?