With all of the quaint charms of a traditional fishing village, and the modern facilities of a world-class resort, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most diverse beach locations in the world. Laying on the second largest bay in North America every type of beach activity is catered for in Puerto Vallarta, while the wide-ranging shopping facilities and energetic nightlife will keep any tourist happy. Yet despite the modern buzz, there is an ambience of a bygone age throughout Puerto Vallarta with crafts made by locals and donkeys used for deliveries. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is consistently hot with a risk of rain in the afternoons during the summer. Flights from the UK take about 18hrs, but there are no direct options. Most flights connect from US airports including Atlanta and Chicago.
One of the cleanest resorts in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers hideaways for couples and activities for families…
Just about every type of holidaymaker can find something to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta. The area offers trips to the jungle, cultural sights and events and an array of popular nightclubs, restaurants and bars. There's plenty for family travellers to enjoy and lots of romantic hideaways for couples to relax. As one of the cleanest beach resorts in Mexico, and with a choice of activities, Puerto Vallerta has plenty to savour.
There are about 25 miles of beach to discover at Puerto Vallarta and it's worth exploring several before deciding on a favourite. Many can only be reached by a cruise or boat, but this is ideal for romantics looking to find a secluded hideaway.
In the north, Playa de Oro and the Marina district is the most popular area for both guests and locals thanks to the range of watersports that can be enjoyed. For a quieter spot head to the beaches of Banderas Bay, which are as quiet as they are attractive. Within Banderas Bay the waters are protected and calm, while diving and snorkelling are at their best towards the Los Arcos area. There is bungee jumping for the most active out over the Pacific Ocean and there are natural diving areas to enjoy at Punta de Mita.
One of the biggest draws for Banderas Bay is whale watching. The resort is home to a colony of humpback whales that can often be viewed from a distance while you enjoy a drink at one of the surrounding restaurants and bars. Alternatively, there are whale-watching tours available and a number of fishing boats.
The most heavily populated beach in all of Puerto Vallarta however, is Playa de los Muertos, which is in one of the most lively sections of the area, Olas Atlas, which means "Old Town". Here you will find a wide variety of restaurants and shops, and it is here that the nightlife scene comes alive. Many of Puerto Vallarta's restaurants feature live music while there are public concerts in the main square just before sunset. Andale in Olas Atlas plays loud music well into the night and the Fajita Republic serves fajitas with salsa and toppings, in a garden of mango and palm trees for a fun and casual dining experience.
Puerto Vallarta boasts two 18-hole golf courses and there are both clay and covered tennis courts at the Puerto Vallarta tennis and beach resort. The Museo del Cuale features pre-Hispanic artefacts. The city is divided by the river Rio Cuale, which features a tiny island with great shopping, particularly clothes and local handicrafts.
