A 14-day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Puerto Vallarta

• Day 1: Beach Day at Playa Los Muertos
  Start your trip by relaxing on one of Vallarta's most popular beaches. Soak up the sun while enjoying the beautiful turquoise waters.
• Day 2: Explore the Malecon Boardwalk
  Take a stroll on the Malecon boardwalk, which stretches along the water and features sculptures, food vendors, street performers, and shops.
• Day 3: Day Trip to Islas Marietas National Park
  Take a boat to the stunning natural park which features unique rock formations, beach caves, and an abundance of marine life. Snorkel, hike and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
• Day 4: Visit the Sea Life Park
  Spend the day at the sea life park, where you can watch dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals perform in shows. There is also a water park section for the kids.
• Day 5: Visit the Botanical Gardens
  Take a tour of the beautiful botanical gardens of Vallarta, which feature a range of flora and fauna, a river, waterfalls, and a bird sanctuary.
• Day 6: Explore Old Vallarta
  Walk through the winding streets of old Vallarta, lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops. Stop at the delightful cafes and restaurants along the way.
• Day 7: Adventure Day at Canopy River
  Enjoy a fun-filled day at Canopy River, an adventure park featuring ziplines, ATV tours, and jungle hikes.
• Day 8: Beach Day at Playa de Oro
  Spend the day at Playa de Oro, a family-friendly beach known for its calm waters and golden sand.
• Day 9: Visit the San Sebastian del Oeste Village
  Take a day trip to the charming San Sebastian del Oeste Village nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. Explore the town's colonial architecture and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
• Day 10: Go on a Whale Watching Tour
  Take a tour to watch the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. The tour also includes snorkeling opportunities and beach stops.
• Day 11: Visit the Vallarta Zoo
  Spend the day at the Vallarta Zoo, which features a range of exotic animals from around the world, including jaguars, zebras, and tropical birds.
• Day 12: Explore the Hidden Beaches of Yelapa
  Take a boat to the secluded town of Yelapa, which is only accessible by water. Discover its hidden beaches and waterfalls, and try the delicious fresh seafood.
• Day 13: Relax at the Spa
  Treat yourself to a spa day in one of Vallarta's luxurious spas, no trip is complete without relaxation and self-care.
• Day 14: Departure Day
  Pack up your bags and prepare for your departure from beautiful Puerto Vallarta.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Playa Los Muertos (all day, free)
• Malecon Boardwalk (1-2 hours, free)
• Islas Marietas National Park (6-8 hours, $50-100)
• Sea Life Park (all day, $30-50)
• Botanical Gardens (3-5 hours, $10-15)
• Old Vallarta (2-3 hours, free)
• Canopy River (4-6 hours, $40-70)
• Playa de Oro (all day, free)
• San Sebastian del Oeste Village (6-8 hours, $20-30)
• Whale Watching Tour (4-6 hours, $50-80)
• Vallarta Zoo (all day, $20-30)
• Hidden Beaches of Yelapa (6-8 hours, $50-80)
• Spa (2-3 hours, $50-200)
Total Estimated Costs: $400-800 per person

Transportation

To get around Puerto Vallarta, travelers can take a taxi, bus, or Uber, which are all affordable options. Taxis charge a set fare and are best when traveling short distances, whereas buses and Ubers offer more flexibility for longer distances. Budget accordingly for transportation, which typically costs around $5-10 per trip.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Sayulita, a laid-back surf town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip some of the activities and spend more time relaxing on the beach or exploring Old Vallarta's city streets.