Puerto Vallarta
Golden beaches, jungle-backed mountains and vibrant Mexican culture
Overview
Things To Do
Deals
Travel Guide
Puerto Vallarta, located on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco, sits along the vast Banderas Bay. Around a 10–11 hour journey from the UK with connections, it offers a mix of traditional Mexican culture, modern resorts and natural beauty. The tropical climate brings warm temperatures year-round, with lush greenery backed by the Sierra Madre mountains. Key areas include the Hotel Zone, Zona Romántica and Marina Vallarta. UK travellers choose Puerto Vallarta holidays for authentic charm, diverse activities and a more cultural alternative to Caribbean resorts.
✨ Why Visit Puerto Vallarta
- Authentic Mexican atmosphere — traditional culture combined with modern resort facilities.
- Beautiful natural setting — beaches framed by jungle-covered mountains.
- Diverse experiences — from beach relaxation to jungle adventures.
- Vibrant art and food scene — galleries, markets and world-class dining.
- Year-round warm climate — ideal for winter sun holidays.
- Less commercial than Caribbean resorts — more local character than Cancun.
🌴 What Makes It Special
Unlike high-rise resort destinations such as Cancun or Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta blends traditional Mexican charm with natural scenery. Its combination of cobbled streets, colonial architecture and surrounding jungle creates a more immersive cultural experience. The dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains meeting the Pacific coastline makes it one of Mexico’s most visually unique destinations.
📍 Key Areas to Explore
- Zona Romántica — historic district with restaurants, nightlife and charm.
- Hotel Zone — beachfront resorts and modern facilities.
- Marina Vallarta — upscale area with yachts, golf course and dining.
- Conchas Chinas — quieter coastal area with scenic beaches.
- Nuevo Vallarta (Riviera Nayarit) — luxury resorts and wide sandy beaches.
Experience Puerto Vallarta through beaches, culture and adventure.
🏞️ Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Explore Sierra Madre jungle — ziplining, hiking and ATV tours.
- Visit Vallarta Botanical Gardens — tropical plants and river swimming.
- Discover El Eden jungle — filming location for Predator.
- Take whale watching tours (Dec–March) — humpback whale sightings.
🏖️ Beaches
- Relax at Playa Los Muertos — lively beach in Zona Romántica.
- Visit Playa Conchas Chinas — quieter coves with clear water.
- Explore Yelapa Beach — remote village accessible by boat.
- Swim at Nuevo Vallarta beaches — wide and less crowded.
🍽️ Food & Drink
- Try tacos al pastor — classic Mexican street food.
- Sample ceviche — fresh seafood marinated in citrus.
- Visit Café des Artistes (Puerto Vallarta) — fine dining experience.
- Enjoy tequila and mezcal tastings.
🎉 Nightlife & Entertainment
- Experience bars and clubs in Zona Romántica.
- Enjoy beachfront nightlife along the Malecón.
- Attend live music and cultural shows.
- Visit rooftop lounges with ocean views.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Malecón sculptures — artistic oceanfront views.
- Los Arcos rock formations — dramatic coastal scenery.
- Zona Romántica streets — colourful architecture.
- Banderas Bay sunsets — golden Pacific views.
Best Value Deals
🌴 All-Inclusive Holidays
Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of all-inclusive resorts, particularly in the Hotel Zone and Nuevo Vallarta, with deals starting from around £799pp including flights from the UK. These packages include beachfront accommodation, dining, drinks and entertainment, making them ideal for travellers seeking a stress-free tropical holiday with excellent facilities.
👨👩👧👦 Family Holidays
Puerto Vallarta is very family-friendly, with safe beaches, large resorts and a wide range of activities. Resorts often include kids’ clubs, water parks and organised excursions, while nature and wildlife experiences provide additional entertainment for children.
💎 Luxury Holidays
Luxury holidays in Puerto Vallarta focus on high-end resorts in Nuevo Vallarta and boutique hotels in Zona Romántica. These offer private beaches, spa facilities and premium dining, creating a refined yet relaxed experience.
⚡ Last-Minute Deals
Last-minute deals to Puerto Vallarta are less common due to long-haul demand, but value can still be found outside peak winter months. Travellers booking close to departure may secure competitive pricing, particularly during shoulder seasons.
Why book with us:
💷 Low deposits from £49pp
🔄 Flexible booking & payment options
🛡️ ATOL Protected holidays
📞 UK-based support team (8am–11pm daily)
✅ Competitive Puerto Vallarta package deals
📅 Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between November and April, when temperatures range from 24–29°C with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. May to October is hotter and more humid, with occasional tropical rain and hurricane season peaking between August and October.
🏨 Where to Stay
- Families: Hotel Zone, Nuevo Vallarta
- Couples: Zona Romántica, Conchas Chinas
- Luxury seekers: Nuevo Vallarta, Marina Vallarta
- First-timers: Hotel Zone
- Adventure seekers: South Coast, jungle areas
🚗 Getting Around
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available and affordable. Car hire costs around $40–$70 per day, though many areas are easily accessible by taxi or organised tours. Water taxis are used for remote beaches.
💡 Travel Tips
- Book whale watching tours early (Dec–March).
- Use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Carry pesos for local markets.
- Drink bottled water only.
- Avoid swimming on some beaches during strong currents.
Map Of Puerto Vallarta
Top Experiences
Malecón Boardwalk Stroll & Street Performers
Walk the lively oceanfront promenade filled with sculptures, street performers, local art and sunset views over the Pacific.
Boat Trip to Hidden Beach (Marietas Islands)
Guided excursion including snorkelling, wildlife spotting and access to the famous Hidden Beach cave (permits required).
Old Town (Zona Romántica) Exploration
Discover cobbled streets, boutique shops, art galleries and traditional restaurants in the city’s most charming district.
Los Arcos Marine Park Snorkelling
Half-day trip to granite rock formations with clear waters, caves and colourful marine life.
Sierra Madre Jungle Adventure
Ziplining, ATV tours or hiking through tropical rainforest with river crossings and scenic viewpoints.
Sunset Cruise in Banderas Bay
Evening sailing experience with dinner, drinks and live entertainment as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.
Travel Information
Everything You Need To Know Before You Jet Off To Puerto Vallarta.