Curator’s statement
I grew up going to Puerto Vallarta every spring break with my family, enjoying amazing tacos, going on day trips to Yelapa and Sayulita, and spending oh-so-much time at the pool and beach.
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Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
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Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Visit Yelapa: This is a fishing village you can only reach by boat. Hire a boat for the day and explore the village, hiking to a waterfall and enjoying a fresh seafood lunch on the water.
Visit Sayulita: This surfing town is a destination in its own right, and is close enough to visit for the day from PV. Get there early, go to ChocoBanana for breakfast and take a surf lesson, then explore the fantastic artisans throughout the town
Tequila tasting: Most tequila shops will provide you with a tasting if you ask. Tequila is so much better and more diverse in Mexico, so make sure to try a few!
Go zip-lining: One of the longest and highest zip lines in North America is just an hour outside of the city. It's sure to please older children and all adventure seekers.
Hang out at a beach club: We typically spend our beach afternoons at Mangos Beach Club. Most beach clubs downtown are free if you buy a drink or two and food.
Explore La Zona Romantica: Known to be the gay neighborhood in PV, there's much to do here, from drag shows to shopping to bars.
Go golfing: Vidanta and other resorts nearby have fantastic new golf courses that are sure to leave any golfer satisfied.
Go jet-skiing or parasailing: Adventure awaits at the main beach in PV, with many sellers offering these excursions. Just make sure to bargain!
Go clubbing along the Malecón: There's a whole strip of clubs along the Malecón—we liked Mandala the most, but it depends on what night you're there to see which is most fun. Great deals on bottle service compared to the US.
Places to eat & drink in Puerto Vallarta
Pancho's Tacos: the BEST al pastor in the world!
Pancho's Tacos: I've been going here for over 20 years, before it became a big tourist attraction, and what I can tell you is that, yes, the tacos are as good as everyone says, and they're somehow even better every time I go back. Just make sure to get the tacos al pastor!
Casa Tradicional Cocina Mexicana: Fantastic for delicious, classic Mexican food that feels less touristy but is still welcoming to English speakers.
Le Cliff: Take a half-hour taxi ride south of the city for beautiful views and great seafood.
Mar y Vino: Great cocktails and great views.
Sonora Grill: An awesome steakhouse with hard-to-beat prices for things like steak and surf & turf. Also, a great place to try ant larvae (escamoles), a local delicacy.
Need to know
There is so much to do outside of resorts and so many fun restaurants that I recommend NOT staying at an all-inclusive so you're more inclined to get out and explore a few days!
Travel Advisor
Kelsey Angus
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Puerto Vallarta page.