Top 8 Activities to Experience in Puerto Vallarta

Ah, Puerto Vallarta! Nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this destination perfectly captures the essence of sun, sand, and sea breeze. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, you might be asking yourself what to do in Puerto Vallarta. Rest assured, there’s no lack of exciting activities. Whether you’re lounging on the beach with a drink in hand or zipping through the jungle, our curated list of the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta has everything you need.

1. Relax on the Beach

Banderas Bay is famous for its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery. If you want to experience it all, the Sea Safari excursion is the way to go. Zip across the water to the secluded villages of Quimixto and Pizota—two hidden gems only reachable by boat. Explore on foot or horseback, take a refreshing dip in a waterfall, and then head to La Bola, a top-notch snorkeling spot. Finally, you’ll arrive in Pizota to enjoy a delicious lunch and partake in activities of your choice, whether it’s swimming, kayaking, exploring, or simply relaxing by the beach.

If you're in the mood to unwind, the Exclusive Resort Getaway might be just what you need. Enjoy a 25-minute journey in air-conditioned comfort to a luxurious resort featuring two expansive swimming pools, jacuzzis, waterslides, and miles of pristine sandy beaches, complete with ample chaise lounges and beach umbrellas to fully enjoy the sun. This all-inclusive experience also offers organized activities, but we won’t judge if you choose to simply relax. After all, you are on vacation!

2. Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Did you come to Puerto Vallarta just to bask in the sun all day? The Tequila Factories & Old Town Tour allows you to visit several tequila distilleries where you can sample various spirits while learning about both contemporary and traditional tequila-making techniques. You’ll also have a chance to explore the charming pueblitos in the Valle de Banderas, a region famously conquered by Francisco Cortés de Buenaventura in 1525, along with the historic Old Town area, known as Viejo Vallarta.

3. Discover the Past

To dive deeper into history, the Hidden Mexico & Traditions tour offers a journey back in time. This driving adventure through the southern part of Puerto Vallarta takes you to elevations over 2,000 feet, where you can explore ancient petroglyphs. Along the way, guides will educate you about the region's ecology while sharing intriguing pre-Hispanic Mexican legends. Later, you’ll visit the quaint village of El Tuito, where you can savor the unique Mexican dish known as mole (pronounced “moh-lay”), a flavorful sauce made with fruits, nuts, and spices like black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and sometimes even chocolate.

4. Taste the Local Cuisine

No cruise to Puerto Vallarta would be complete without indulging in the local food, and the Mexican Fiesta is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy authentic dishes. Savor a mouthwatering buffet while being entertained by a vibrant folklore show filled with colorful costumes, piñatas, and lively dances. You can even participate in a tortilla-making contest!

5. Encounter the Wildlife

Puerto Vallarta is an exceptional destination to discover some of Mexico's wildlife. Banderas Bay serves as a breeding ground for humpback whales and is also a favored spot for dolphin sightings. For a close-up experience, consider the Dolphin Swim, which includes unlimited food and drinks. If you prefer sea lions, the Sea Lion Encounter offers a fun opportunity to interact with a playful sea lion and learn more about these captivating marine creatures.

6. Embark on an Adventure

Adventurous souls will find plenty of excitement in Puerto Vallarta's Sierra Madre Mountains. Just 45 minutes into the foothills, the Mountain ATV Adventure allows you to race across stunning landscapes on an all-terrain vehicle. Alternatively, the Extreme Canopy tour begins with a speedboat ride to the start of an off-road journey deep into the lush tropical forest, where you can rappel down waterfalls, ride a toboggan, and soar along a zip line 200 feet in the air. Finish your adventure by sliding down a thrilling water slide!

7. Enjoy a Family Adventure

Traveling with family? Puerto Vallarta offers numerous excursions tailored for those with children. The All-Inclusive Pirate Cruise is a fantastic option for a day of fun for everyone. During this thrilling adventure, you’ll watch pirates swinging from the masts, engaging in sword fights, and performing acrobatics on the water. Parents can unwind at the stunning Majahuitas Beach, accessible by boat, while the kids enjoy games in the sand and search for a hidden treasure chest.

8. Experience a Spectacular Show

If you still have energy after all the daytime activities, don’t miss Rhythms of the Night, an unforgettable performance. Located in the secluded cove of Las Caletas, the outdoor amphitheater features a pyramid shrouded in vegetation, creating a magical atmosphere for the show. This theatrical presentation delves into ancient myths about the spirit world, blending music, dance, and acrobatics under the stars in a truly unique setting.

If you’re considering a cruise to Mexico, make sure Puerto Vallarta is at the top of your itinerary. With its stunning beaches and the lush pine-covered mountains surrounding Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta stands out as one of our favorite cruise destinations. Every cruise to Mexico should include a stop at this sun-soaked paradise.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may differ by ship and destination.