Travel Weekly’s Readers Choice Awards: Puerto Vallarta Nominated for Best Destination in Mexico

Puerto Vallarta continues to capture the spotlight across North America's travel sector. Jalisco’s premier beach destination has secured a prestigious nomination for "Best Destination in Mexico" in Travel Weekly’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards—a distinguished recognition celebrating top Mexican travel spots favored by industry professionals and advisors.

But what makes Puerto Vallarta so unique? It features an extraordinary blend of landscapes rarely found in Mexico. A historic center defined by cobblestone streets leads straight to the lively Malecon boardwalk alongside the Pacific coastline. Adjacent to the vibrant Romantic Zone—a district for art, world-class dining, and exciting nightlife—rises the dramatic Sierra Madre mountain range.

Just minutes from El Centro, visitors can experience lush tropical jungles, secluded waterfalls, and seasonal humpback whale watching. Very few coastal destinations in Mexico can match Puerto Vallarta’s seamless combination of sunlit beaches and mountain excursions within a single afternoon.

About the Readers’ Choice Awards

Established more than twenty years ago, the Readers’ Choice Awards by Travel Weekly represent one of North American tourism's premier honors. Encompassing over 90 international categories, the program celebrates extraordinary achievements by destinations, products, suppliers, and travel brands.

The distinct prestige of these awards stems directly from its voter base: the specialized travel advisors who read Travel Weekly and guide, design, and execute travel itineraries for clients globally.

The process begins with open nominations before advancing to a decisive voting stage, culminating at a sophisticated gala held annually in New York City. Consequently, these awards offer an insider's endorsement that demonstrates profound trust from top travel trade experts across North America.

Why Travel Advisors Choose Puerto Vallarta

Being named a finalist for "Best Destination in Mexico" underscores why travel professionals consistently recommend Puerto Vallarta year after year.

This nomination is an open invitation to discover a destination defined by captivating contrasts. Here, breathtaking ocean views meet dramatic mountain landscapes, timeless Mexican heritage blends with modern luxury, and every journey creates lasting memories.

For first-time guests, the classic Puerto Vallarta experience includes walks along the iconic Malecón, relaxing on sun-soaked beaches, tasting regional dishes, and venturing into surrounding jungle eco-tours.

Frequent visitors will find a dynamic culinary landscape, stylish boutique accommodations, lively cultural festivals, and new hidden corners to explore. Together, this harmony of rich traditions, scenic landscapes, and world-class hospitality keeps Puerto Vallarta at the top of global travel destinations.

A Stellar Winning Streak in 2026

The Travel Weekly nomination caps off an extraordinary year of accolades for Puerto Vallarta in 2026:

• Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2026: Secured 26 impressive nominations, including Best City, Best Airport, and top restaurant honors for local landmarks like La Palapa, El Dorado, and Le Bistró (winners announced in October).

• México Desconocido’s "Lo Mejor de México" Awards: Named Best Destination for Meetings and Events (Turismo de Reuniones) during a prestigious ceremony at Tianguis Turístico in Acapulco.

• TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards: Ranked among the Top 5 Destinations in Mexico, with the Malecón boardwalk featured among the world's top-rated attractions.

• MICHELIN Guide: As the MICHELIN Guide expanded to Jalisco in 2026, Puerto Vallarta made history on the culinary map with restaurant icú earning a Bib Gourmand distinction and Pancho’s Takos receiving a recommended selection.

• GayCities: Voted Best LGBTQ+ Destination for 2026 in the 18th annual The 10 Best LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations survey, surpassing international hotspots like New York and Berlin.

• Economic & Urban Competitiveness: Ranked No. 1 nationally in its population category by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO) Urban Competitiveness Index 2026, driven by an industry-leading hotel occupancy rate of 73.38%.

Cast Your Vote for Puerto Vallarta

This nomination for the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards highlights Puerto Vallarta to key figures across the travel industry.

Show your support by selecting Puerto Vallarta for Best Destination in Mexico directly on the Travel Weekly Readers' Choice Awards voting page. Be sure to submit your entry before second-round voting ends on Monday, November 30, 2026.