Puerto Vallarta is a coastal city in Mexico that offers a variety of attractions for travelers. Its stunning beaches, like Playa Los Muertos and Playa de Oro, are perfect for relaxing and water activities. The city also has a rich culture and history, visible in its charming Zona Romantica, colorful buildings, and unique sculptures on the Malecon. The cuisine is a must-try, with fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes like ceviche, pozole, and tacos al pastor. The surrounding lush jungle offers adventure opportunities like zip-lining and ATV tours. Puerto Vallarta is also an international LGBTQ safe space, with a welcoming and inclusive community. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, cultural immersion, or outdoor adventure, Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic vacation destination.
Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Beach Clubs
Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than at one of the city’s beach clubs. Here are some of the best beach clubs in Puerto Vallarta:
Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Sushi – Located on Playa Los Muertos, Mantamar Beach Club offers a luxurious beachside experience with comfortable lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a pool. The bar serves a variety of drinks, including cocktails, beer, and wine. The sushi is also a standout, with fresh and delicious options.
La Palapa – This iconic beach club on Los Muertos Beach has been a staple in Puerto Vallarta for over 60 years. The restaurant and bar offer a wide range of menu options, from fresh seafood to classic Mexican dishes. La Palapa also offers beach chairs, umbrellas, and a pool for guests to enjoy.
Ocean Grill – Accessible only by boat, Ocean Grill is a hidden gem located on a secluded beach in the jungle. The beach club offers a unique experience, with a stunning natural setting, delicious food, and an adventurous atmosphere. There’s also a refreshing waterfall and hiking trails for guests to explore.
Cuates y Cuetes – Located on Playa Camarones, Cuates y Cuetes offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean. The beach club has a variety of menu options, from tacos to seafood, and serves a range of drinks. The live music performances add to the relaxed vibe.
Sí Señor Beach – This beach club on Playa Las Glorias offers a fun and lively atmosphere. The restaurant serves fresh seafood, ceviche, and Mexican cuisine. There’s also a bar with a variety of drinks, including their famous margaritas. The beach chairs and umbrellas make for a comfortable day at the beach.
The city’s beach clubs offer a variety of experiences, from luxury to laid-back. Whether you’re looking for delicious food, refreshing drinks, or stunning ocean views, there’s a beach club for everyone in Puerto Vallarta.
LGBTQ International Safe Space
Puerto Vallarta is a renowned LGBTQ-friendly destination with a vibrant nightlife that caters to the LGBTQ community. With several festivals throughout the years such as Pride, Beefdip and Bearweek, there’s something for everyone in this amazing town. Here’s a guide to the best LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs in Puerto Vallarta:
La Noche – This lively club is located in the heart of the Zona Romantica and is a popular spot for LGBTQ locals and visitors. It offers a mix of music genres, including Latin, pop, and electronic, and has a lively dance floor.
Paco’s Ranch – This iconic club has been a fixture in Puerto Vallarta’s gay scene for over two decades. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and popular drag shows, and it offers a mix of Latin and pop music.
Industry Nightclub – This upscale club is located in the Hotel Zone and offers a modern and sophisticated atmosphere. It’s known for its international DJs, high-energy music, and stunning ocean views.
CC Slaughters – This lively club is located in the heart of the Zona Romantica and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and popular drag shows. It offers a mix of music genres, including Latin and pop, and has a spacious dance floor.
Anonimo – This trendy bar is located in the Zona Romantica and offers a chic and stylish atmosphere. It’s known for its craft cocktails and lively atmosphere, with a mix of locals and visitors.
Puerto Vallarta is a welcoming and inclusive destination that offers a vibrant LGBTQ nightlife scene. From iconic clubs like Paco’s Ranch to trendy bars like Anonimo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ nightlife.
Nightlife & Shopping
Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a wide range of activities, including shopping and nightlife. Here’s a guide to the best places to shop and experience nightlife in Puerto Vallarta:
Shopping:
Basilio Badillo Street – This street is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, jewelry, and local art.
Galerias Vallarta – This modern shopping mall offers a variety of stores, including international brands like Zara and Nike, as well as local shops and restaurants. There’s also a movie theater and a bowling alley.
Isla Cuale – This small island in the middle of the Cuale River has a craft market with local artisans selling handmade goods like jewelry, textiles, and pottery.
Marina Vallarta – This marina has a boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts, as well as enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the boats.
Nightlife:
Malecon Boardwalk – This iconic boardwalk is a popular spot for nightlife in Puerto Vallarta. There are a variety of bars and clubs with different vibes, from laid-back beach bars to high-energy dance clubs.
La Santa – This rooftop bar and club offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. It’s a popular spot for dancing and enjoying a cocktail.
Mandala – This club is known for its lively atmosphere and music. It’s a great spot for dancing and partying late into the night.
The Palm Cabaret and Bar – This cabaret-style bar offers live music and shows from local and international performers. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and some entertainment.
Restaurants
Cafe des Artistes – This award-winning restaurant located in the Zona Romantica offers contemporary French-Mexican cuisine in a romantic and elegant setting. The menu features dishes like foie gras, lobster, and filet mignon, as well as an extensive wine list.
El Arrayán – This restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine, with a focus on regional dishes from Jalisco and Nayarit. The menu includes dishes like chiles en nogada, mole, and pozole, as well as a variety of tequilas and mezcals to pair with your meal.
La Leche – This modern and innovative restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu that changes daily. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are creative and flavorful, like duck confit and octopus tacos.
Tacos Revolución – If you’re looking for authentic Mexican street food, Tacos Revolución is the place to go. This casual restaurant serves delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, with a variety of meats and toppings to choose from.
Barrio Bistro – This restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican and international cuisine, with dishes like shrimp ceviche and grilled octopus. The restaurant is located in a charming courtyard setting and has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
The Swedes – This cozy restaurant is run by a Swedish couple who serve delicious homemade Swedish and Mexican dishes. The menu includes Swedish meatballs, Mexican mole, and a variety of homemade desserts.
