Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary in Puerto Vallarta - July 2023

1. Day 1: Playa Los Muertos
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Puerto Vallarta

   Start your family vacation by visiting Playa Los Muertos, one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Spend the morning building sandcastles, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying beach activities. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Malecon boardwalk, where you can find street performers, vendors, and delicious local food. Wrap up your day with a sunset boat ride, admiring the picturesque views of the coastline.

2. Day 2: El Malecon
   5 minutes (0.7 miles) from Playa Los Muertos

   Start your day with a visit to El Malecon, the iconic boardwalk of Puerto Vallarta. Explore the vibrant art installations, shop for souvenirs at the local markets, and indulge in delicious street food. In the afternoon, visit the Naval Museum (Museo Naval) to learn about the city's maritime history. Wrap up your day with a relaxing sunset cruise, where you can spot dolphins and enjoy stunning coastal views.

3. Day 3: Vallarta Botanical Gardens
   45 minutes (14 miles) from Downtown Puerto Vallarta

   Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Explore the diverse collection of plants, including orchids, palms, and carnivorous species. Take a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, cool off with a refreshing swim in the Los Horcones River. End your day with a delicious dinner at a nearby family-friendly restaurant.

4. Day 4: Dolphin Discovery Puerto Vallarta
   20 minutes (5.7 miles) from Downtown Puerto Vallarta

   Spend your final day in Puerto Vallarta at Dolphin Discovery, a fantastic attraction for families. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience by swimming with dolphins and learning about their behavior from expert trainers. Afterward, visit the Aquaventuras Park adjacent to Dolphin Discovery, where you can enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a children's play area. Indulge in a tasty lunch at one of the park's restaurants before bidding farewell to Puerto Vallarta.

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider visiting the Marietas Islands, located just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. These protected islands offer incredible snorkeling opportunities and a chance to spot diverse marine life. For a day trip, head to the charming town of Sayulita, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture. To maximize your fun, make sure to try local delicacies such as ceviche, tacos al pastor, and aguas frescas. Additionally, renting a car can give you the flexibility to explore nearby attractions and hidden gems.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Playa Los Muertos (4-6 hours, Free)
• El Malecon (3-5 hours, Free)
• Naval Museum (1-2 hours, $3 entrance fee)
• Vallarta Botanical Gardens (4-6 hours, $10 entrance fee)
• Dolphin Discovery Puerto Vallarta (3-5 hours, prices vary depending on activities chosen)
• Aquaventuras Park (3-5 hours, $30 entrance fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: $43 (excluding Dolphin Discovery and Aquaventuras Park)

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.