image from August 29, 2025, The Villa Group
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a beautiful coastal city that offers a wide range of activities. To avoid being overwhelmed, I’ve listed ten of the top must-see attractions.
1. Enjoy a Swim With the Local Dolphins
This family-friendly activity is a must that should be included in your travel itinerary. Puerto Vallarta is rated one of the top locations in Mexico to experience swimming alongside this wildlife. Vallarta Adventures is a humane-certified organization that offers a safe and exciting way for all ages to engage and interact with dolphins. Although it’s on the pricey side, it is well worth the amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience.
image from December 29, 2023, Next Level Sailing
2. Spend a Morning Whale Watching
Puerto Vallarta is well known for its wonderful whale-watching experiences. Specifically, its prime whale season occurs from December to March as humpback whales migrate to Banderas Bay. Whale Watchers Vallarta is an excellent organization offering group and private tours throughout mornings and sunsets in Puerto Vallarta.
image from January 27, 2024, Tripadvisor
3. Explore the Malecón Boardwalk
Enjoy a mile-long walk along the Malecón boardwalk, located next to a strip of beautiful beaches. The Malecón’s culture can easily fill up your time with sculpture art, live street performances, and touristy souvenir shops along the way. Be sure to stop by and see the well-known sculpture “La Rotonda del Mar”, which tells stories of fantasy and surrealism by Mexican artist Alejandro Colunga.
image from June 2, 2025, puertovallarta.net
4. Sit Down for a Delicious Dinner at El Palomar de los González
El Palomar de los Ganzález is a 38-year-old family-owned restaurant that overlooks the city view of Puerto Vallarta and the Banderas Bay. Not only are the views exceptional, but the menu also offers a wide selection of Mexican and Spanish seaside cuisine options. In addition, with excellent service and care, this restaurant is well worth your time to visit.
image from El Palomar’s First Floor Seating, May 19, 2021, Tripadvisor
5. Walk the Zona Romantica Shopping Area
The Romantic Zone, also known as Old Town, is home to Puerto Vallarta’s most vibrant culture and nightlife. Here you can find a variety of vendors, restaurants, and shops. The Romantic Zone is also located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, so it is perfect walking distance of a nearby hotel if you choose to stay in the city.
image from August 8, 2025, Casago Vacation Rentals
6. Relax at the Conchas Chinas Beach
Conchas Chinas (Chinese Shells) Beach offers a quieter and more secluded source of relaxation compared to other major beaches in Puerto Vallarta. This cove has beautiful, clear water where many people swim, collect seashells and seaglass, and snorkel. To add, Conchas Chinas can be accessed by a short walk from the Romantic Zone. Be sure to wear proper footwear as the sand on the beach is soft but contains small rocks.
image from February 23, 2023, Visit Puerto Vallarta
7. Purchase Authentic Goods at the Olas Atlas Farmers’ Market
Located in Lazaro Cardenas Park, this Old Town farmers’ market features vendors selling clothing, food, and textiles made by over 100 Puerto Vallarta locals. Open from November through May, not only can you shop, but you can also listen to live music that is occasionally performed in the park.
image from June 22, 2025, puertovallarta.net
8. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Only a six-minute walk from the Malecón is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Holding mass since 1921, this beautiful church is a landmark you must visit to experience its architecture, history, and spirit. To attend, masses are held in both English and Spanish each Sunday at 10 a.m.
image from April 22, 2023, Puerto Vallarta Villas
9. Explore the Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos de Mismaloya
The Los Arcos National Marine Park offers a beautiful natural landscape to explore. Enjoy adventuring through granite islands, swimming in the clear water, and scuba diving in the colorful coral reefs on a guided tour or on your own. To attend a tour, Vallarta Adventures offers a planned 2.5-hour trip to explore the park through kayaking and snorkeling.
image from June 6, 2024, Vallarta Adventures
10. Visit the Vallarta Botanical Garden
To conclude your trip, take a visit to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens and view the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta. This nonprofit organization features diverse gardens with native plant species to see. Also, be sure to check out the park’s art installation, “Los Angelitos,” which is curated from photographs of the gardens. To learn more before your visit, go to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens Website.
image from June 8, 2022, Vallarta Lifestyles