Puerto Vallarta Crime Rate: Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico. Many tourists frequent it every year, and its crime rate is relatively low. 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 is in the Pacific Ocean’s Banderas Bay, in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Puerto Vallarta’s Latitude is 20.6170, and its Longitude is -105.2302. Mexico is known to have a history of crimes involving drugs. These criminal activities are most prominent in larger areas. These cities’ large populations and easy accessibility make them a hub of illegal activities.  The population of Puerto Vallarta, as of 2022, is 502,904. Puerto Vallarta is a relatively small city that relies primarily on tourism. There are no recorded violent crimes most of the time. However, safety precautions are still being practiced. Whether a traveler is doing solo travels or with groups, Puerto Vallarta is definitely safe for everyone. Solo travelers, especially females, are safe within the streets of Puerto Vallarta. One of the safest places to stay in PV is the Romantic Zone. Romantic Zone is very welcoming to tourists and the LGBTQ+ community. Traveling is no hassle since it is very safe to take public transportation. The city is well-connected with public buses, and travels between Puerto Vallarta’s districts. Puerto Vallarta is renowned for expats. It has a large retirement population. People who fell in love with Puerto Vallarta make it their retirement home. 

Families are safe in Puerto Vallarta, and it has several hotels, restaurants, and almost all amenities within walking distance. Puerto Vallarta is known to have some of the most gorgeous beaches in Mexico. Ten of the beaches around Puerto Vallarta have Blue Flag status. A blue flag is awarded to beaches that have excellent environmental standards. Their ocean water has insignificant amounts of harmful bacteria and is conducive for swimming. Some beaches of Puerto Vallarta are remote and accessible only by boat. These remote beaches are still considered safe since there are fewer crowds. Practicing safety precautions is always best, especially on the beach. Beaches in the urban area are frequented mainly by visitors staying in hotels near the beach. Most of these hotels offer almost everything to make a person comfortable during their stay.  Communication is never a problem, even though Mexico is a Spanish-speaking country. Most staff members who work in the hospitality service speak good English. Even the city’s emergency services have staff who understand and speak the English language, too. Puerto Vallarta offers its visitors high-security measures. There are regular and tourist patrols present in the area. Safety and security don’t only rely on the place or the people around. Being sensible, alert, and smart helps ensure safety anywhere. 

Below is the map of Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta comprises population centers outside the city, extending from Boca de Tomatlan to the Nayarit Border. The municipality has an area of 1300 square kilometers. It borders the southwest part of the state of Nayarit, to the north. It borders the southwest part of the municipalities of Mascota, and San Sebastián del Oeste, to the east. Puerto Vallarta borders the municipalities of Talpa de Allende, and Cabo Corrientes, to the south.

The level of crime index in Puerto Vallarta is 34.43, which is considered low.  Puerto Vallarta is in Banderas Bay, in Jalisco state of Mexico. It is a prime holiday destination that has captured the hearts of people from all over the world.  Puerto Vallarta is a relatively small city that relies primarily on tourism. There are no recorded violent crimes most of the time. However, Puerto Vallarta is in Mexico. Many people are aware of the so-called “drug war” that has been taking place in Mexico for years. While the majority of the violence happened along the US-Mexico border, affecting only a tiny portion of the country. Mexico gained the impression that “Mexico is dangerous.” Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination for foreign travelers, although tourists must exercise caution, just as they do in their own countries.

Emergencies are inevitable no matter how careful a person is, even in the peaceful and lovely place of Puerto Vallarta. No one wants to think about an emergency, but it is better to be alert and prepared. Recently, 911 was put into service in Puerto Vallarta. 911 has replaced all previous emergency numbers for fire, paramedics, lifeguards, and police.  

Listed below are Puerto Vallarta’s Emergency Phone Numbers.

Emergency Phone Numbers: 911

Fire Department: 060

Ambulance: Red Cross Ambulance 222-1533 

           Global Ambulance 226-1014

Tourist Police: 329.291.6666

Federal Police/Investigations: 329.290.0667

Emergency Number (Cellphone): 080

Hospitals: Ameri-Med Hospitals 226-2080

                  Cornerstone Hospital 224-9400

                  San Javier Hospital 226-1010

                  Medasist Hospital 223-0444

                  C.M.Q. Hospital 223-1919

                  I.M.S.S. Hospital 224-3838

                  Regional Hospital 224-4000

The Green Angels (Free Roadside Assistance): 078

CFE Electric Company: 071

SEAPAL Water Company: 223.1516

Us Consular Agency: 322.222.0069 & 322.223.3301

Canadian Consulate: 322.293.0098

American Embassy: 01-55-5080-2000British Embassy: 01-55-5242-8500

Canadian Embassy: 01-55-5724-7900

Puerto Vallarta is relatively safe compared to neighboring Mexican cities like Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Statistics show the crime rate in Puerto Vallarta is 37.01, much lower than Miami’s 58.45 crime index. Home robberies and petty theft are common, but travelers hardly have anything to worry about as long as they keep their valuables out of sight. The most common concerns of Puerto Vallarta’s residents are public drunkenness, residential burglary, and theft. However, PV continues to be one of the safest cities in Mexico. The government is making extra efforts to ensure the safety of the people in Puerto Vallarta through the heavy presence of the police and the military. 

Listed below are the security and safety concerns of Puerto Vallarta’s residents.

• Home robberies: Home robberies are common, like in most countries. Puerto Vallarta is becoming a well-known tourist spot, and most tourists have the image of being wealthy. These kinds of impressions give criminals the idea that tourists are wealthy. 
• Petty Theft: Petty theft includes bag-snatching or pick-pocketing. These petty crimes are still low compared with other famous tourist destinations. Anywhere in the world, petty theft is typical, especially when a person displays signs of being well-off, like wearing jewelry, using high-tech gadgets, and dressing up nicely. Having lots of impressive things attracts criminals anywhere in the world.
• Car theft: Puerto Vallarta’s crime index is relatively low compared to other top tourist cities. The most common offense is car theft. However, carjacking is rare. Police maps indicate most serious crimes happen outside the tourist zones. Avoid isolated roads when driving outside the city. Always use toll road highways when possible.
• Corruption: Puerto Vallarta’s corruption index is 63.96%, according to Numbeo. Some police officers in Puerto Vallarta practice corruption, according to some reviews. 

Bribery: Bribery is among Puerto Vallarta’s main problems. It is against the law to pay a police officer directly. Do not attempt to bribe an officer. Simply accept the ticket and follow the rules.

Yes, it is safe to live in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta is not just popular among foreign visitors, it is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Mexico, with cities like the Romantic Zone having exclusive gay bars. There are drag shows, pride parades, and LGBT-inclusive signs in many Puerto Vallarta restaurants. Puerto Vallarta is known for its rich Mexican culture, beautiful coast, and tasty delicacies. Located along Mexico’s Pacific Coast in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation destinations worldwide. However, being part of Mexico creates the perception that the city isn’t safe for travel, and many tourists wonder, “is Puerto Vallarta safe?” Another factor that compromises a tourist’s safety is the weather. Mexico is a hurricane-prone territory, and cities within this country are deemed such. However, Puerto Vallarta has the most conducive weather year-round. There are not many violent crimes recorded in Puerto Vallarta. Among the indicators of the safeness of Puerto Vallarta is the number of ex-pats in the cities. Puerto Vallarta is a popular place for retirees. They chose Puerto Vallarta as their retirement home because of its beauty and peaceful community. Another enticing factor among retirees is the pleasantly warm weather of Puerto Vallarta. 

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is safe. Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest places for international travelers visiting Mexico. Local law enforcement is always visible to guarantee safety in the city. Another factor to consider for safety is the weather. Puerto Vallarta has a pleasant climate all year. Its strategic location and the Sierra Madre Mountains surround it and shield it from the full impact of storms. Most storms heading up to Puerto Vallarta’s coast are diverted and pushed toward the sea and away from the city. Puerto Vallarta’s crime rate is relatively low compared to its neighboring Mexican cities. Public transportation is safe in Puerto Vallarta and is the best way to explore the city. Tourists mostly frequent Puerto Vallarta attractions and top sights.  Puerto Vallarta and its surrounding areas are female-friendly and safe for solo travelers. Members of the LGBT community need not worry when roaming around the city because Puerto Vallarta is a gay-friendly city in Mexico. However, taking extra precautions when traveling to a foreign land is always a sensible thing to do. Puerto Vallarta is ideal for everyone, regardless of gender. Puerto Vallarta is a conducive place for people who plan to retire or want to enjoy a vacation. Taking basic precautions and practicing common sense is always ideal, no matter which part of the globe a person is in. These safety precautions are the same ones a person needs to take in their home country. Never leave personal belongings unattended, even if it’s a couple of minutes to go to the restroom. Avoid bringing a large amount of money when roaming around the streets. Store most of the cash and other valuables in the hotel safe, and go out only with the money needed for the day. Be careful when going around at night, especially when traveling alone. Always be aware of the surroundings. Do not wander alone in unfamiliar places. Stay in touristy areas, and avoid secluded streets.

Roaming around the city is convenient for solo travelers, thanks to the abundance of local buses and taxis. Tourist-friendly areas like the Zona Romantica, Zona Hotelera, and Malecon are well-lit, not to mention the abundant police security. Female travelers must be extra cautious when on solo trips. Besides keeping up tabs with State travel warnings, they must be wary of scams and situations compromising their safety. Puerto Vallarta and its surrounding areas are mainly considered female-friendly. The region is dotted with hostels and beach hotels where solo travelers meet and mingle. The locals are always friendly, so solo travelers won’t find it hard to mingle with the locals. It helps a lot to know a few basic Spanish phrases for faster communication. Walking alone on the streets at night must be avoided in any part of the world, not just in Puerto Vallarta. Always be alert to the surroundings and the people around, especially in bars. Avoid being too friendly with unfamiliar people, and do not get in a car with strangers. 

Yes, Puerto Vallarta’s beaches are safe. Planning is always ideal, especially when traveling to the beach. Beach essentials like food, drinks, towels, and sun protection must always be in any beachgoer’s bag. It is important too to consider if the beach is child-friendly. Knowing the depths of the water and the natural surroundings of the beach helps one’s stay to be comfortable and safe. Other Puerto Vallarta beaches have waves and are more profound. Families with little children need to consider going to beaches that are easily accessible and offer many amenities. Puerto Vallarta has several Blue Flag Certificate beaches, meaning that the quality of the beach is good and its surrounding area. One of the most famous beaches around Puerto Vallarta is Los Muertos. Los Muertos beach is right across the bridge in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos beach is 2050 ft long and is one of the cleanest beaches in the state of Jalisco. Playa Conchas Chinas is a Blue Flag Beach, meaning the city of Puerto Vallarta takes reasonable care to keep the area clean. There is no garbage found on the beach. Playa Conchas Chinas is considered among the most stunning beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Playa Conchas Chinas feature beige-colored sand and blue-green waters. The water is so clear that the ocean floor, including different multicolored fish, is almost visible. Camarones Beach is one of the cleanest and most notable tourist beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Playa Camarones is a comprehensive piece of clear sand that stretches from Villa Premiere on the north side to Jesus Langarica street right by Hotel Rosita. Camarones Beach is a meeting area for locals and foreign travelers alike. The LGBT community enjoys the area. Annual LGBT festivals and parties take place in Playa Camarones. Access to Camarones Beach is easy. All the streets west of Mexico Avenue in downtown Puerto Vallarta are heading to the beach.