Exploring Puerto Vallarta: A Paradise of Adventure, Food & Nature

Bioluminescent kayaking: A glow-in-the-dark adventure

One of the most magical experiences I had in Puerto Vallarta was kayaking through the bioluminescent waters of the Bay of Banderas. Prior to sunset, our group ventured out on a guided tour to explore the Arches and watch the sunset. Once the sun was down, we were able to see the water glow due to microscopic plankton. As we paddled through the serene waters, every stroke of the paddle illuminated the sea in a brilliant blue glow.

For those of us that wanted to, we were able to get into the ocean and swim amongst the sparkles! The entire experience felt otherworldly as we glided through the water under the moonlight, the glowing plankton trailing behind us. It’s a must-do for anyone who loves nature’s wonders and seeks something truly unique.

Sunset kayak tour

Hidden Beach: A secluded slice of paradise

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this was truly an amazing experience. It has to be booked in advance through a licensed guide. Less than 200 people per day are allowed to visit, and only certain tour operators are allowed to take people into this hidden space. There is no way to access this without swimming 200 meters through a cave. Boats are not allowed in this space.

When our time on the beach was up, we were able to snorkel in the national park. This national park is one of two places in the world that the Blue-Footed Boobie lives (the other is in the Galapagos Islands). We were lucky to see a couple this day. The tour we took had professional photographers that got some great shots of my sister, my kids, and me. Of course, the pictures cost extra.

Sayulita: A bohemian beach town adventure

Just a short drive from Puerto Vallarta is the charming town of Sayulita, a colorful bohemian paradise. Known for its surf culture, vibrant streets, and laid-back vibe, Sayulita feels like a whole different world compared to Puerto Vallarta’s bustling downtown.

The beach here is popular with surfers, but even if you don’t surf, you’ll love wandering the town’s cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and lively cafes. Jake and I spent the afternoon exploring Sayulita, enjoying local street food, and browsing through unique shops. If you’re looking for a picturesque town full of character, Sayulita is a must-see.

Food tour: A tasty journey through Puerto Vallarta

No visit to Puerto Vallarta is complete without a food tour. Some of our group signed up for a guided tour that took them through the town’s vibrant markets and eateries. From fresh seafood tacos to traditional Mexican sweets, they got to taste the true flavors of Puerto Vallarta.

Pro tip: Our group found that grabbing some reusable containers at a store was really helpful. At each stop, they shared three of the items served, and put the other three servings in the reusable containers for later. With six stops, they weren’t going to be able to eat all the food.

The city is filled with vibrant art displays

Cooking class: Learning the art of Mexican cuisine

The guys in our group decided to level up their culinary experience with a cooking class. They met their chef at a local market, where they learned about the different spices, fruits, and herbs used in Mexican cooking.

Under the guidance of a local chef, the experience was hands-on, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, a cooking class is a fun way to immerse yourself in the culinary culture of the region—and the rest of us were really happy that they wanted to come back to the house and show off their new skills.

Cooking with Chef Manu

Ziplining: Soaring above the jungle canopy

For those looking to inject some adrenaline into their Puerto Vallarta adventure, ziplining through the lush jungle canopy is an absolute must. We took a thrilling zipline tour through the Sierra Madre Mountains, soaring above waterfalls, rivers, and dense jungle. The views were absolutely spectacular, and the rush of flying through the trees was exhilarating.

The tour included a variety of ziplines, including some incredibly high and long ones, which added to the excitement. It was a fantastic way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty from a completely different perspective

It doesn't get better than this!

This city is a paradise for all! Each time we participated in an adventure, our guides shared their knowledge of the region and told us stories of the people. The pride they had in their culture and city was refreshing. It was a treat to be amongst people who appreciate the beauty and history their surroundings have to offer.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a food lover, or someone who just wants to unwind on a beautiful beach, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway. I left this vibrant coastal town with unforgettable memories, gorgeous photos, and a deep appreciation for its incredible landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Puerto Vallarta page.