Start your relaxing journey with a visit to the Los Arcos National Marine Park. Enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in crystal-clear water while admiring the incredible underwater rock formations. You can also enjoy a boat ride, bird watching, and observing the interesting marine life.
Take a long walk through the Botanical Gardens of Vallarta, where you can admire the beautiful flora and fauna. It's an ideal place for a picnic or to relax by the river. Also, you can explore the trails of the forest, view the bird collection, and learn about the local culture in a peaceful environment.
Head to Bucerías Beach to spend a relaxing day basking in the sun, swimming in the clear water, and enjoying various water sports. This beach is ideal for strolls and is famous for its abundant handicraft stores, small boutiques, and art galleries around the beach.
The Malecon Boardwalk is an excellent place to spend a relaxing evening overlooking the beautiful Bay of Banderas. Take a leisurely stroll and visit galleries, shops, and restaurants. The boardwalk is a vibrant center for art and creativity and often features street performers and local art exhibitions.
Finish your trip on a calming note, and visit the quiet and tranquil Yelapa Beach, located in Bahía de Banderas. It features stunning waterfalls, the cascading Pedrito River, and powdery sand beaches. This location is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, whale watching, and for enjoying a refreshing cocktail on the beach.
Public transportation in Puerto Vallarta is convenient and quite affordable. Taxis are readily available, and many travelers who prefer comfort and convenience prefer to use car-hire services. Rental cars cost an average of $30-40 per day with fuel costs of about $20 for the route. The total time driving between tour stops is approximately 5 hours.
We recommend packing sunscreen, bathing suits, and beach towels, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and a hat to shield the sun. If you have more time, considering visiting the Puerto Vallarta Zoological Gardens, the Church of our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Marietas Islands. If you have less time, Bucerias beach and Yelapa beach can be combined into one day trip.
The primary airport in Puerto Vallarta is the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), located approximately 7 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Many airlines offer direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and various cities in Mexico.