Day 1: Spend the morning at Playa Los Muertos beach for some family fun time. Enjoy lunch at El Barracuda, a beachside restaurant with fresh seafood. In the afternoon, take a hike to the El Salado Estuary to see the local wildlife.
Day 2: Start the day at Vallarta Botanical Gardens and explore the beautiful plants and flowers. For lunch, stop at Mis Amores for classic Mexican dishes. Spend the afternoon relaxing and soaking in the sun at Las Animas Beach.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Islas Marietas Natural Reserve Park for snorkeling and swimming. Book a tour with Vallarta Adventures for an all-inclusive experience. Return to Puerto Vallarta in the evening for dinner at La Leche, a trendy restaurant specializing in Mexican fusion cuisine.
Day 4: Visit the Cuale Island Flea Market for some souvenir shopping. For lunch, try El Arrayán, a restaurant offering traditional Mexican dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a landmark church in Puerto Vallarta. End your trip with a sunset sail on Banderas Bay with Marigalante Pirate Ship.
Time and Costs Estimates
Playa Los Muertos - 3 hours - Free
El Barracuda - 1 hour - $15 per person
El Salado Estuary - 2 hours - $10 per person
Vallarta Botanical Gardens - 4 hours - $20 per person
Mis Amores - 1 hour - $20 per person
Las Animas Beach - 3 hours - Free
Islas Marietas - 6 hours - $90 per person
La Leche - 2 hours - $50 per person
Cuale Island Flea Market - 2 hours - Free
El Arrayán - 1 hour - $30 per person
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe - 1 hour - Free
Marigalante Pirate Ship - 3 hours - $70 per person
Total Costs: $325 per person
Transportation
Public transportation is available by bus or taxi. Taxis are more expensive but offer more convenience. Renting a car is also an option for those who prefer to have their own transportation. Expect travel costs to range from $5 - $30 depending on distance and mode of transportation.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Yelapa Beach or San Sebastian del Oeste. If you have less time, consider skipping the trip to Islas Marietas and spending more time at the local beaches instead.