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Things to do in Puerto Vallarta

Far from being a sleepy coastal town, you'll find plenty of boat trips, diving, and horseback riding here.

Our most recommended things to do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta: Rhythms of the Night Cruise & Dinner Show

1. Puerto Vallarta: Rhythms of the Night Cruise & Dinner Show

Spend your evening in Puerto Vallarta with a scenic sunset cruise and an exciting acrobatic dinner show. Float through the Bay of Banderas and witness Puerto Vallarta's most acclaimed dinner show, Rhythms of the Night, written and directed by Gilles Ste-Croix, the co-creator of Cirque du Soleil. Your evening begins with a scenic cruise through the Bay of Banderas at sunset. Be welcomed by dancers, drummers, and jungle creatures who guide you onto the beach for a sumptuous dinner. Enjoy the feast as the palm trees sway overhead, with sounds of the ocean against the nearby shore. Watch the Rhythms of the Night, a performance inspired by the Aztec legend of prior civilizations and the human race’s evolution and decline. The show interprets this creation myth through pulsating rhythms, vibrant dances, intricate costumes, but perhaps above all, spectacular acrobatic skill. 

Puerto Vallarta: Hop-On-Hop-Off City Bus Tour

2. Puerto Vallarta: Hop-On-Hop-Off City Bus Tour

Explore Puerto Vallarta and its downtown, beautiful streets, beaches, and key landmarks from an open-top bus. Hop on the bus at any of the 20 official stops, and discover the highlights of the city such as the Malecon, Mismaloya Beach, and Marina Vallarta. Discover the city at your own pace and hop on and off the bus at the landmarks of most interest to you. Benefit from the commentary from an audio guide, and learn more about the history of the city and the sights you will see.

From Puerto Vallarta: San Pancho and Sayulita

3. From Puerto Vallarta: San Pancho and Sayulita

Get picked up at your hotel in Puerto Vallarta, and set off on the 1-hour drive to San Pancho, your first stop. When you arrive, have the opportunity to admire the Huichol crafts by the streets, see the beautiful beaches, and walk around the little beach town at your own pace. Next, head a few minutes along the coast to Sayulita,  a little picturesque surfer town loved by travelers and locals. Here, enjoy your favorite drink at the beach while you look at the surfers and soak up the sun. Use a buggy board to unlock your adventurous side and take on the waves. Also, have some free time to walk around the place and shop for handicraft souvenirs made by local artisans.  Before heading back to Puerto Vallarta, enjoy a delicious lunch in a local restaurant. At checkout, you will have the option to include lunch in your ticket price.

Vallarta: Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Snorkel Adventure

4. Vallarta: Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Snorkel Adventure

Depart from Puerto Vallarta and set off on a boat cruise towards the tropical paradise coves of Yelapa and Majahuitas. Admire the picturesque coastal scenery, where dolphin encounters and humpback whale sightings (in winter) are common occurrences.  Make your first stop at the breathtaking shores of Majahuitas Cove. With its untouched sandy beach and crystal clear water, it's the perfect hideaway for a day of snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking with an expert guide. Accessible only by boat, Majahuitas Cove features spectacular marine wildlife protected from the human hustle and bustle of nearby Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy the opportunity to snorkel here with all equipment included by the crew. Then, head over to Yelapa, which offers another incredible option for a scenic beach retreat. Nestled in a stunning natural cove, this tiny community is free of any roads and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. This tour gives you the opportunity to relax on Yelapa beach and explore the surrounding area, where stunning tropical wildlife and a hidden Yelapa waterfall lay just minutes from the shore. Stroll through the charming fishing village to the cascading, Cola de Caballo waterfalls and jump into the refreshing water, or simply sit and enjoy the natural beauty. Browse through the native artisan handicrafts along the way, then kick back in the sun at Yelapa's expansive beach where the river streams into the ocean, surrounded by an incomparable green mountains landscape. Whether you hike to the waterfalls, snorkel, or bury your toes in the sand, you’ll be struck by the idyllic beauty of these tropical retreats. As you cruise back to Puerto Vallarta with an open bar and onboard fiesta, wrap up a perfect day with some great music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment provided onboard.

Puerto Vallarta: Pirate Cruise with Dinner and Show

5. Puerto Vallarta: Pirate Cruise with Dinner and Show

Embark on a pirate cruise in Puerto Vallarta for an exciting night of eating, drinking, and being very merry at sea. Board a stunning replica galleon and be welcomed by your crew of pirates. They are your hosts for a Puerto Vallarta night cruise like no other and will ensure that a good time is had by all. After boarding your mighty and sea-worthy 700-ton galleon, your nautical and culinary experience begins. Enjoy dinner under the sea, tasting delicious meals with seven delicious options for dinner. This Vallarta night cruise is all-inclusive, the open bar welcomes you to enjoy delicious cocktails or wine to accompany your dinner. As you set sail through Puerto Vallarta's bay, the pirates, fireworks, and a pirate tavern with special effects will bring an unbelievable show to delight all on board. Your evening has some surprise activities and of course, all-round excellent service to help create what is sure to be the most dynamic night of your vacation.

From Vallarta: Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise

6. From Vallarta: Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise

Board your catamaran and ride out to the magnificent Islas Marietas National Park on a top-of-the-line catamaran. Explore the rocky caverns and archways by kayak or paddleboard. Get up close and personal with the many natural wonders of the Marieta Islands. Snorkel or scuba dive and see the rich marine life below the surface. Look for giant manta rays, sea turtles, and abundant multi-colored fish. Make use of complimentary snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and kayaks. Sail to Majahuitas Beach. Swim and sunbathe at this white sand beach. Experience one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches along Mexico's Pacific coast.  Soak up the sun and relax on board a comfortable catamaran. Sip a drink from the open bar. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast. In the afternoon, you can sit down for a deli-style lunch. Your knowledgable onboard tour guides will see to it that you have a comfortable and safe journey. This Islas Marietas National Park eco discovery tour is a sea excursion designed to explore the ocean and wildlife around the Marieta Islands with various water activities. The Hidden Beach is not visited on this tour.

Puerto Vallarta: Humpback Whale Research Adventure Tour

7. Puerto Vallarta: Humpback Whale Research Adventure Tour

Enjoy an exciting and informative nature tour in Puerto Vallarta, and see humpback whales in their natural habitats. Get an educational session at the office before setting out to watch the whales swim, play, and breach. Collect information for the office's research and explore Banderas Bay. Begin the tour by meeting at the office and starting with an educational session to learn more about humpback whales. Board the boat after the information session and set out on the ocean to discuss the whales' behaviour while trying to spot them. Spend three hours exploring Banderas Bay and watching for different whales to collect information for the office's research projects. Watch the whales' behaviours, and listen to their songs through the boat's hydrophone and enjoy a close encounter with one of the earth's mightiest creatures.

Puerto Vallarta: Las Caletas Beach Hideaway Experience

8. Puerto Vallarta: Las Caletas Beach Hideaway Experience

Upgrade your vacation by visiting this exclusive, private beach hideaway. Accessible only by sea, Las Caletas is surrounded by a steep, jungle-clad mountain backdrop, making it a truly secluded tropical sanctuary. On the Las Caletas Beach Hideaway Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Las Caletas and all of the incredible natural wonders it has to offer.  Spend time out at sea on a kayak or marvel at the area’s many underwater wonders while snorkeling or paddle boarding. Take a guided nature walk and meet some of the permanent residents of Las Caletas, including playful monkeys and beautiful parrots. You can also learn more about the culture and traditions of the region by participating in hands-on activities like clay modeling, mezcal tasting, and cooking. No matter what your interests, Las Caletas Beach Hideaway has something for you.

Puerto Vallarta: City Tour, Tequila and Coffee Factory Tour

9. Puerto Vallarta: City Tour, Tequila and Coffee Factory Tour

Enjoy the convenience of being picked up from your hotel in either Puerto Vallarta, Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta, Conchas Chinas. Ride in a comfortable air-conditioned van through the city. Take a short walk on the Malecon. Learn about the area from your knowledgable guide. See the iconic locales within the city. Visit the Church of the Lady Guadalupe leaving plenty of time to take pictures. Travel to the mountain and tour a Tequila Distillery. Learn the process of making tequila. At the end of the tour, enjoy a tequila. Continue on and visit a local organic coffee factory. Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a coffee tasting. Choose the option with lunch and enjoy a local meal.

Puerto Vallarta: Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop

10. Puerto Vallarta: Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop

Partake in a unique cultural experience with this chocolate workshop. Learn the process cacao beans go through as they are turned into delicious chocolate sweets. During this hands-on, 2-hour experience, you'll go on a guided tour of a chocolate museum, learn the history of chocolate, and roast and grind cocoa beans. You'll also learn how to prepare three traditional chocolate drinks and take your own chocolate creations with you.

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Frequently asked questions about Puerto Vallarta

What top attractions are a must-see in Puerto Vallarta?

The must-see attractions in Puerto Vallarta are:

What are the best day trips and excursions from Puerto Vallarta?

The best day trips and excursions from Puerto Vallarta are:

Sayulita

What are the best indoor activities in Puerto Vallarta for rainy days?

What are the best inexpensive tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Other Sightseeing Options in Puerto Vallarta

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What people are saying about Puerto Vallarta

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 617 reviews

My wife and I enjoyed this tour as our guide Luis was full of knowledge on Agave and told us some really good stories. We started our 7-stop tour at Joe’s Fish Shack rather than the old town gazebo since the communications app an email each referred to one or the other. The 12 in our group enjoyed eating and drinking together that we actually ran short on time by the last top at Mezcal Sal. We bought a bottle Tequila at the airport duty-free and look forward to making Palomas as it will bring back some fond memories of PV! Just need some clay mugs for our drinks.

Very interesting !! Occasions to go in restaurants very locals and typicals… All the stops was delicious !! Miel is very generous, joyfully, sympatic and know how transmitting mexican food culture … we liked her very much !!

We had such a great evening. The boat ride was fun and safe. The island is also very beautiful and the diner we had was delicious. Finally, the show was totally incredile! We had so much fun! I recommend 100%

It was a wonderful experience. However, there is a LOT of walking involved, some of it quite steep which causes a problem for the elderly like myself.

Awesome guides, best Mexican tacos, spicy salsa best salsa I ever had. Israel and Bryan thank you for everything!