Discover the Checklist of Activities for Puerto Vallarta Travel

Looking for things to do in Puerto Vallarta? Check out this list of must-do activities and create a personalized itinerary! From exploring local neighborhoods, nightlife, beaches and more - Puerta Vallarta has something for everyone.

Discover Tantalizing Local Eateries and Markets

Puerto Vallarta's bustling eateries offer a vast array of local and international cuisine. From traditional Mexican dishes to delicious seafood dishes, savour fragrant flavours in every bite! Spend some time exploring the local markets for fresh vegetables, herbs, fruits and authentic Latin American crafts - perfect for an exotic souvenir or two.

Looking for tacos? Check out our Local’s Taco Guide To Puerto Vallarta. We also have guides for the local markets and must-visit restaurants.

Visit the Malecon for Spectacular Views and Attractions

Stroll along Puerto Vallarta’s famous Malecon boardwalk and take in breathtaking views of the ocean. While you’re there, enjoy some of the many attractions, such as the El Faro Lighthouse, a variety of sculptures, palapa restaurants and jetties for sunbathing. The Malecon also has nightly entertainment from street performers - be sure to check it out at least once during your visit!

Be sure to check out our guide to the Malecon!

Explore Local Historic Sites, Museums and Monuments

Take a journey back in time and explore some of Puerto Vallarta’s culture, history and traditions. The University of Guadalajara Museum is one such place where you can learn about the region’s past through galleries, exhibits and temporary shows. Tour the historic buildings of Puerto Vallarta or explore Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Church, located north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Other monuments that are must-sees are Rio Cuale Island Interpretive Center, Los Arcos National Marine Park, Mascota Cemetery and Hacienda San Cristobal.

Enjoy Beach Activities Such As Surfing or Watching Gringos Get Blasted by the Sun

With year round tropical temperatures, Puerto Vallarta offers plenty of beach activities. The city’s best known beaches–Playa de Los Muertos and Playa de Oro–are ideal for swimming and surfing, while Yelapa Beach is also well-known for surfing and a great place to relax as it serves up picturesque palm trees and golden sands. Watching tourists get blasted by the sun is a popular attraction between December and March the high season where northerners migrate to the area to drink and do other things.

Take a Day Trip to the Surrounding Central Pacific Jungles

An absolute must when visiting Puerto Vallarta is to book a day trip to explore the Central Pacific jungles of Nayarit and the Sierra Madres. The experienced guides who lead these hikes will take you past ancient cave paintings and spectacular waterfalls, providing plenty of stories about local wildlife and information about the region’s history. Wildlife that you may spot during the hike includes monkeys, exotic birds, tapir, and even anteaters.