All About Puerto Vallarta Marina

Author: Pedro Robin

25 February, 2025

Marina Vallarta is a popular resort community in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It is in the northern reaches of the state of Jalisco and is well-known for its restaurants, bars, and shopping. It provides a safe place to park boats and yachts and is an excellent locale to book fishing charters and tours that set sail on the magnificent Bay of Banderas. The Marina is just fifteen minutes away from Puerto Vallarta’s El Centro and only approximately five minutes from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Lic. Gustavo Diaz Ordaz. The travel distance from Puerto Vallarta to Marina Vallarta is just five minutes when riding a bus. The distance between Puerto Vallarta and Marina Vallarta is 6 km. Marina Vallarta is a world-class neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta and a perfect tourist destination. Marina Vallarta has residential areas and golf courses overlooking the Pacific beaches. People who plan to buy a property in Marina Vallarta have plenty of choices regarding restaurants, coffee shops, resorts, hotels, handicraft stores, and a superstore. The Marina has a lighthouse that provides a panoramic view of the sea. Marina Vallarta is an upscale destination and a paradise that offers the best of everything. Marina Vallarta is an exclusive enclave that enjoys a 450-slip marina with slips ranging from 30-140 feet in length, to be precise. The Marina hosts several magnificent yachts, sailboats, and charter boats. Its magnificent promenade offers numerous restaurants, delis, cafés, shops, bread shops, wellness centers, and a tiny supermarket. Marina Vallarta provides state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services.  

Two Mexican brothers, Jorge and José Martínez Güitrón built the marina in the 1980s. The construction started in 1986. The two brothers had a promising vision of creating something one-of-a-kind and deluxe, and eventually, they completed building the marina. There were already five hundred boat slips. Marina’s population flourished along with the city, and from 1980 to 1990, it grew. The Mexican peso eventually fell in value against the US dollar  in a massive way. It made real estate very desirable to ex-pats from Canada and the USA. Ex-pats take advantage of the strong dollar and purchase properties much cheaper than back home. Marina Vallarta is one of the most renowned areas in Puerto Vallarta. Strategically, its location is just five minutes away from the airport. Marina Vallarta is a master plan resort location that includes residential areas. A lovely promenade runs along the marina, a romantic place especially for couples to walk while appreciating the scenic view. Marina Vallarta is the ideal place to find relaxing spa treatments that take vacation pampering to new heights. Couples have many alternatives to entertain themselves and do fun activities like playing golf on Marina’s 18-hole golf course. It even has tennis courts, a bowling alley, and supermarket stores.   

What is Puerto Vallarta Marina?

Marina Vallarta is a marina and a posh residential neighborhood in the lovely city of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is in the southeastern part of the town, near the international airport. The Marina was developed in the 1980s and is home to several high-end resorts, condominiums, and houses, as well as a range of amenities and services for boat owners and visitors, including slip rentals, fuel, repairs and maintenance, and dining and shopping options. Marina Vallarta is a famous tourist destination and a favorite among locals. It offers a range of recreational and cultural activities and a beautiful setting on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The Marina has a boardwalk that gives visitors plenty of options in terms of hotels, resorts, and souvenir shops. It even has a great selection of restaurants for almost any budget. There are coffee shops, spas, cafés, bakeries, ice-cream shops,wine stores, furniture stores and a convenient supermarket. There are many things to view and do in Marina Vallarta, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals. A few of the activities and experiences one is able to enjoy in Marina Vallarta include recreational boating, golfing, dining, shopping, numerous beach activities, water sports, and wildlife watching. The locals in Marina Vallarta are known for their friendly and hospitable nature, and they often make extra efforts to make visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Many businesses in Marina Vallarta, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are owned and operated by locals eager to provide excellent service to their guests. Visitors highly regard the hospitality of locals in Marina Vallarta. The people of Puerto Vallarta are proud of their city and its many attractions and are happy to share their culture and traditions with tourists. Whether staying in a hotel, eating at a local restaurant, or exploring the city, a person will likely find the locals in Marina Vallarta friendly, helpful, and welcoming. 

Which part of Puerto Vallarta is Marina Vallarta located in?

Marina Vallarta is a neighborhood located in the city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It is on the western side of the city, near the airport and along the coast of the Bay of Banderas. Marina Vallarta is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, marina, and luxury residential developments. It is home to several hotels, restaurants, and shops. 

Marina Vallarta is a relatively new development, and it is known for its modern infrastructure and high-end amenities. The neighborhood is well-maintained and features wide streets, well-manicured gardens, and numerous public spaces. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is known for its upscale atmosphere and sophisticated dining and shopping options. The shortest distance between Puerto Vallarta to Marina is only six kilometers when traveling by road. It only takes roughly five minutes via bus ride to reach Marina Vallarta from Puerto Vallarta.  A direct bus departs from Versalles and goes to Cocodrilario El Salado. Bus services depart every five minutes and run every day.  

What is the Popularity of Marina Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is a popular vacation destination in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, just north of the city of Puerto Vallarta. Marina Vallarta is known for its opulent hotels, marina, and golf course, as well as its beachfront location and access to a range of recreational activities. The area is famous for both tourists and locals, and it is known for its upscale restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. There are several cultural and historical attractions in the surrounding area, including the Malecon, a famous boardwalk that runs along the beach and is home to a number of art galleries, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Marina Vallarta is considered a premier vacation destination in Mexico, offering a mix of luxury amenities and natural beauty. Marina Vallarta is an exclusive zone or town within a town. The marina itself is a hub of activity. There are a number of recreational activities in the area, including water sports, fishing, and whale watching. People who love to explore different dishes indeed enjoy visiting the Marina. It is home to a wide selection of restaurants that offers a range of cuisines to suit all tastes. The many traditional Mexican dishes offered in Marina Vallarta include tacos, ceviche, tortas, fajitas, and mole. Furthermore, in addition to the local dishes, there is a range of international cuisine in Marina Vallarta, including Chinese, Japanese, American, Italian, and more. Aise from its mouth-watering dishes, Marina Vallarta has some interesting landmarks. A well known landmark  people visit departing from the Marina Vallarta is Los Arcos. Los Arcos is a group of three natural arches that are located just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. They are a popular spot for snorkeling and diving and are a famous backdrop for photos.  

How was the economy of Marina Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is a popular tourist destination in the Puerto Vallarta area, and as such, its economy is largely driven by tourism. The area is home to a variety of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other businesses that cater to tourists, and many local residents work in these industries. Aside from tourism, Marina Vallarta is home to a number of residential communities and developments, which contribute to Puerto Vallarta economics. Marina Vallarta has a thriving real estate market, with many homes and condos available for purchase or rent. The area is home to several golf courses, which attract golfers from around the world and contribute to the local economy. Overall, Marina Vallarta’s economy is robust and likely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as the tourism industry has been one of the industries hardest hit by the pandemic. However, the economy has recovered as the pandemic recedes and tourism resumes. The cost of living in Marina Vallarta varies depending on various factors, such as lifestyle, the type of housing a person chooses, and the amenities they require. Marina Vallarta is generally considered a more expensive place to live compared to other parts of Mexico. The area is popular with tourists and is known for its upscale resorts, restaurants, and shopping options, which are likely to drive up the cost of living. Housing in Marina Vallarta tends to be expensive, with the average cost of a home or condo ranging from $250,000 to $900,000 or more. Rentals are expensive, too, with the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment ranging from $700 to $1,500 per month. Other living expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are more expensive in Marina Vallarta compared to other parts of Mexico. Overall, the cost of living in Marina Vallarta is high, but it is important to note that it varies depending on one’s individual circumstances and needs. 

How to go to Marina Vallarta From Puerto Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is an ideal neighborhood for vacationers. The Marina is host to numerous splendid yachts, sailboats, and charter boats.  Its promenade offers several restaurants, delis, cafés, shops, bakeries, spas, and a little supermarket. Marina Vallarta provides state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services. Going to Marina Vallarta is very much accessible and convenient. Marina’s location is just minutes away from Puerto Vallarta. Below are five ways to go to Marina Vallarta from Puerto Vallarta.  

  1. Taxi: Travelers have the alternative to hail a taxi from anywhere in Puerto Vallarta and ask the driver to take them to Marina Vallarta. The trip usually takes about fifteen to twenty minutes and costs approximately 200-300 Mexican pesos (about $10-$15). 
  1. Bus: Ride a local bus from Puerto Vallarta’s El Centro to Marina Vallarta. The bus terminal is near Carranza and Juarez streets. The trip typically takes around twenty to thirty minutes and costs around 8-10 Mexican pesos (about $0.50). 
  1. Car rental: Travelers have options to rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Puerto Vallarta and drive to Marina Vallarta. Renting a vehicle option gives one the flexibility to explore the area at their own pace and make stops along the way. It only takes around fifteen to twenty minutes to arrive at Marina Vallarta from Puerto Vallarta, depending on the traffic situation. 
  1. Shuttle: Several hotels and resorts in Puerto Vallarta offer shuttle service to Marina. Travelers must check with their hotel or resort to ensure that they offer a Shuttle service. Usually, the travel time from Puerto Vallarta to Marina Vallarta is roughly fifteen to 20 minutes.  

Uber or Cabify: Use the Uber or Cabify app to request a ride from anywhere in Puerto Vallarta to Marina Vallarta. Ridesharing is practical and allows one to pay for their ride using their phone. Simply inform the Uber driver about one’s preferred location. Same with a taxi ride, the travel duration is approximately fifteen to twenty minutes.

Where can I stay in Marina Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is known to be a posh holiday vacation destination for most tourists. However, there are affordable accommodations in the area too. Guests are able to enjoy the beauty of marina Vallarta depending on their budget. Accommodations in Marina Vallarta range from all-inclusive luxury hotels to the most budget-friendly. No matter what kind of accommodation a person decides to stay in, their stay will surely be memorable. 

Listed below are three Hotels in Marina Vallarta according to budget. 

  • Velas Vallarta Suite Resort (Luxury Hotel): Velas Vallarta Suite Resort is an all-inclusive luxury resort hotel overlooking Banderas Bay. Its location is directly on the beach and offers the most gorgeous views to its guests. Velas Vallarta is a family-friendly resort that provides endless recreational activities for all. The resort is famous for its first-class amenities and spacious rooms. It provides every guest with several of the comforts of home, like in-room kitchens, and it even has an on-site mini supermarket. Some of the amenities offered include three swimming pools, a spa and wellness center, a bar, a fitness center, and free WIFI.  An overnight stay in Velas Vallarta Suite Resort costs around $804. 
  • San Tropico Petit Hotel (Mid-Range): San Tropico Petit Hotel is perfect for travelers looking for a mid-range hotel but a quality one. It has a private kitchen, ensuite bathroom, and a balcony with a lovely garden view. San Tropico Petit Hotel offers Free Wifi, a dishwasher, air conditioning, and private pools. Some rooms even have their own balcony and patio.  An overnight stay in San Tropico Petit Hotel costs around $166. San Tropico Petit Hotel is among the several mid-range Puerto Vallarta hotels and resorts. 
  • Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina (Budget-Friendly): The Flamingo Vallarta Hotel and Marina are in an ideal area of the Marina Vallarta of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It is the ideal hotel for business travelers or people tired from a long travel schedule. It is only minutes away from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport. Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina features excellent amenities, such as a vast outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant that offers food and drinks all day. It provides free WIFI, a flatscreen TV, and air conditioning. An overnight stay in Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina costs around $72. 

What are the things to do in Marina Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is a popular tourist destination in the Puerto Vallarta area and offers a variety of things to do and see. Visitors will likely never run out of things to do in Marina Vallarta. From day trips to partying and experiencing the nightlife in Marina, fun is always present in Marina Vallarta. Listed below are some of the things to do in Marina Vallarta. 

  1. Golfing: Marina Vallarta is home to several world-class golf courses, including Marina Vallarta Golf Club and Vista Vallarta Club de Golf. 
  1. Shopping: Marina Vallarta has a variety of shopping and dining options, including the Marina Vallarta Shopping Plaza and the Malecon, a popular boardwalk with restaurants and souvenir shops. 
  1. Dining: Marina Vallarta is home to numerous restaurants serving both local Mexican and international cuisine. 
  1. Strolling: Marina Vallarta is a beautiful and welcoming destination, with plenty of options for strolling and enjoying the natural beauty and amenities of the area. There are several options for strolling in Marina Vallarta, including the Malecon, the marina, and the beach. 
  1. Beach activities: Marina Vallarta has several sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Beach activities are always fun and a must-try on Puerto Vallarta things-to-do list. 
  1. Boat tours: Boat tours are popular activities in Marina Vallarta. Take a boat tour from Marina Vallarta to explore the surrounding coastline and visit nearby destinations such as Yelapa, Los Arcos, and Banderas Bay. 
  1. Water sports: Marina Vallarta is an excellent place for water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. 
  1. Cultural attractions: Marina Vallarta is home to several cultural attractions, including the Galeria Olinala, a gallery featuring the work of local artists, and the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens, a beautiful garden with over 3,000 species of plants and flowers. 
  1. Nightlife: Marina Vallarta has a wide variety of restaurants and bars, many of which have outdoor seating and live music. Marina Vallarta is an excellent option for those who want to sample a variety of different establishments and enjoy the nightlife of Marina Vallarta. 

Live Music: Marina Vallarta has a thriving live music scene, with local and international musicians performing at various venues. There are even several music festivals and events that take place in the area throughout the year. 

What are the attractions in Marina Vallarta?

Listed below are the Five attractions in Marina Vallarta
Marina Vallarta lighthouse: Marina Vallarta has its small personal lighthouse that is not really used for warning boats but more for the show. The lighthouse actually serves as a restaurant. Diners indulge in drinks and food at the El Faro bar at the top of the lighthouse. The Lighthouse provides stunning views of the Marina area and the magnificent Sierra Madre Mountains. It is one of the ideal spots on the marina for watching sunsets. During the night, people can  enjoy live music and take the night to an even higher level. 

  • Marina Vallarta Boardwalk: Locals and tourists get to savor prominent restaurants, specialty stores, cafes, and shops offering local quality products around the Marina Boardwalk. The view is spectacular, the ambiance is relaxed, and it is perfect for a day out with friends and loved ones. Strolling at the Marina Boardwalk is ideal for people who love exploring the area while enjoying a stunning view of the Marina. 
  • Marina Vallarta Whale Statue: Another exciting attraction is the bronze whale sculpture at Marina Vallarta’s entrance which is widely called the “Vallarta Whale“. Installed in 2001 as a recognition of the many whales that do their yearly migration through the Bay of Banderas. It is an enormous bronze statue in the entire world. 
  • Joe Finger Golf Course Marina Vallarta: The Marina Vallarta Golf Course is a world-class golf course that was elegantly designed by well-known American architect, Joe Finger. The course is 18 holes in a lovely outdoor setting and provides a hacienda-style clubhouse directly beside some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in Puerto Vallarta. The Joe Finger Golf Course plays host to the annual International Pro-AM tour. 

Art and Market Marina Vallarta: The marina is home to the Art and Market Marina Vallarta, happening from October to the end of May. The event happens every Thursday from 6 PM to 10 PM. Visitors get to enjoy live music and check out all kinds of stands where locals sell trinkets and artworks Marina boardwalk. Aside from art, there are fresh produce, honey, delicacies, and clothes for sale. 

What are the beaches of Marina Vallarta?

Marina Vallarta is a luxe beach destination in the city of Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. It is known for its gorgeous beaches and a large selection of things to do and attractions. Among the most renowned beaches in Marina Vallarta is Playa de Oro, or “Gold Beach.” It is just a few walks from the marina and is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Playa de Oro is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and it is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars. Other popular beaches in Marina Vallarta include Playa Mismaloya, Playa Camarones, and Playa Los Muertos. These beaches offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and water sports rentals, and they are all within easy reach of the marina. Marina Vallarta is a well-loved destination for travelers looking to enjoy the beauty and amenities of the beach, and there are numerous choices to suit all tastes and interests. Aside from Puerto Vallarta beaches, Marina Vallarta has gorgeous beaches to offer its visitors. 

Are there city tour packages in Marina Vallarta?

Yes, there are city tour packages in Marina Vallarta. These tours typically allow travelers to explore the city and its surroundings, visiting famous attractions and landmarks. 

There are a variety of city tour packages available in Marina Vallarta, ranging from half-day tours to multi-day packages. One of the famous city tours that anyone gets to enjoy includes food. It is a must-try for foreign visitors to try the Food tour with a local foodie.The tour consists of learning about taco culture, salsas, and fun cultural and historical facts. It is a complete, affordable, and unique experience in town created, keeping in mind what curious travelers are looking for. City tour packages in Marina Vallarta include transportation, guided tours, and meals. Researching the different options and comparing prices before booking a city tour package is a good idea.  

Is Marina Vallarta safe for travelers?

Yes, Marina Vallarta is safe for travelers. The level of crime index in Puerto Vallarta is 34.43, which is considered to be low. Marina Vallarta is located in Puerto Vallarta, one of the safest destinations for foreign travelers. However, tourists must still exercise caution, just as they are likely to do in their own countries. Puerto Vallarta’s crime rate index has remained around 30% to 35% in the past few years, based on the crowdsourced database Numbeo.  Puerto Vallarta offers its visitors high-security measures.  Marina Vallarta is a relatively small city that relies primarily on tourism. There are no recorded violent crimes most of the time. There are regular patrols and tourist patrols are present in the area. Safety and security don’t only rely on the place or the people a person is around. Being sensible, alert, and intelligent helps in ensuring safety anywhere. Marina Vallarta is generally considered a safe place for travelers. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and take steps to protect oneself. Some of the smart steps include staying in a well-known, reputable hotel or vacation rental, avoiding walking alone at night, not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables when going outside, staying aware of one’s surroundings, and being mindful of local customs and laws. It is a good idea to avoid drinking too much alcohol and to have a plan for getting home safely. Following some safety precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable trip to Marina Vallarta. 

Pedro Robin

Based in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, México.

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