Puerto Vallarta is a popular travel destination, frequented by many because of its gorgeous beaches. Puerto Vallarta is a beach destination in Mexico that interlaces the charm of its tradition with a cosmopolitan environment. Located in Mexico’s Jalisco State, Puerto Vallarta’s contrasting terrain makes for a paradise defined by a crystal clear bay and lush jungle-covered Sierra Madre Mountains. The latitude of Puerto Vallarta is 20.653407, and the longitude is -105.225332. Its postal code is 48300, while its area code is 322. Puerto Vallarta’s time zone is Central Standard Time. The population of Puerto Vallarta is 543,530. The climate of Puerto Vallarta is tropical wet and dry. In Puerto Vallarta, the wet season is hot, oppressive, and overcast and the dry season is warm, muggy, and sometimes partly cloudy. Puerto Vallarta consists of diverse neighborhoods that offer everything a visitor needs. Puerto Vallarta is naturally beautiful, surrounded by green jungle hills, lovely beaches, stunning sunsets, rich culture, and the friendliest people. It is no surprise that it attracts many foreign visitors and ends up retiring in the beautiful paradise. It offers a great diversity of lifestyle choices and caters to most needs and budgets. The cost of living is lower than that of the US, Canada, and Europe. Puerto Vallarta is a tourist spot, but less expensive than other tourist hotspots like Cancun. Making it a top choice for U.S. citizens as their second home and retirement place. Generally, a couple lives comfortably for around $2,000.00 or less a month in Puerto Vallarta. It includes rent for a furnished two-bedroom apartment, utilities, health insurance, and a decent standard of living. Compared to the cost of living in the US, this has become an affordable alternative. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Tourism is among the top sectors that provide many job opportunities for locals. Puerto Vallarta is an excellent place to live economically. Luxuriously living for less is what makes Puerto Vallarta special. 

Puerto Vallarta is famous for its numerous landmarks. Among the several landmarks in Puerto Vallarta include the Malecon Boardwalk. The newest Malecon features various more palm trees that give much-needed shade during the midday. The area at Malecon has been designed with pedestrians in mind, so there are spots where people are able to rest and take time to enjoy and observe the vibe. Then there is the Romantic Zone, an entertainment capital, the kind of place where unexpected things happen. The Romantic Zone is one of Puerto Vallarta’s popular areas where both locals and foreign tourists hang out. It has a lively Bohemian vibe and a friendly LGBT community. One must visit Centro Historico for people who want to experience an authentic Mexican vibe. It is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most visited landmarks. Get the authentic Mexican feel by strolling through the cobbled streets of Centro Historico. Every corner of Centro Historico is Instagrammable worthy, so take a lot of pictures when going to the area.  Another notable Puerto Vallarta landmark is Plaza de Armas, or “Main Square” in English. Plaza de Armas’ location is in Old Town, along the Malecon and adjacent to Palacio Municipal, or city hall. There is always something going on in Plaza Lazaro Cardenas. Zumba dancers, vendors selling souvenirs, and musicians playing are seen every morning. It becomes a main social scene with various activities at night. Most landmarks in Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon are made by famous artists and sculptures. Each sculpture is uniquely made and depicts special meanings and representations. One unique landmark at the Malecon is the Subtle Rock Eater. It is a one of a kind bronze and obsidian 7.5 -foot tall sculpture on the corner of Leona Vicario Street and the Malecon in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Others find the sculpture quite odd because of its unusual feature of a clown eating a stone. The Subtle Rock Eater is an artistic display of going through life, and digesting negativity, according to the artist. It is a reminder of what the artist’s childhood looks like, playing in the mud, and always enjoying it. What makes the Subtle Rock Eater unique is that the sculpture is not dreamlike, but rather a little scary and disturbing than an ordinary sculpture.

Listed below are the things to know before Traveling to Puerto Vallarta.

1. Source of Income: A fascinating piece of info about Puerto Vallarta is the influence of the tourism sector. Almost 50% of jobs in Puerto Vallarta are mainly related to the tourism industry. Puerto Vallarta averages over 9 billion pesos in annual revenue, with its primary source of income being tourism. 
2. The Movie Industry: Puerto Vallarta is the location setting for some Hollywood movies, including “The Night of the Iguana,” directed by John Huston. The film features Mismaloya Beach and stars famous actress Ava Gardner and actor Richard Burton. Burton’s love affair with Elizabeth Taylor blossomed during the movie’s filming, and the couple made Puerto Vallarta their second home. Among the famous films shot in PV are Herbie Goes Bananas, Predator with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Limitless starring Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro, among others.  
3. Banderas Bay: At over 900 meters deep, Banderas Bay is one of the world’s deepest bays. It is 42 kilometers wide from point to point, ranking it among the top 10 largest bays in the world. The bay got its name during the time of the Spanish conquistadores when the Spanish forces arrived in the area. Natives faced them holding feathered flags and armed with bows and arrows ready to defend their land. Flags in Spanish are “Banderas,” hence its name. 
4. Las Penas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe: Puerto Vallarta was known as Las Penas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe in the early 1900s. Puerto Vallarta was named after Guadalupe Sanchez, who founded the city in 1851. It wasn’t until 1918 that it was renamed Puerto Vallarta in honor of its former governor, Ignacio Luis Vallarta. 
5. LGBT-Friendly: Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most welcoming and gay-friendly locations. Puerto Vallarta is an LGBT mecca. The Romantic Zone is the gay community in Puerto Vallarta, filled with rainbow flags and drag bars. Some people even call Puerto Vallarta the “San Francisco” of Mexico.  

A landmark is a recognizable natural or artificial feature used for navigation. It is either a building or a place that is easily recognizable. A landmark is used in many ways, including organizing features to “anchor” segments of space, and it is used as an area identifier. Popular landmarks draw attention and tourists. Anywhere in the world, landmarks are frequented by people to spend time walking, taking pictures, and enjoying different activities in the area. Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort destination in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, that is full of impressive landmarks. Some landmarks are statues of famous people who have contributed a lot to Puerto Vallarta. Other landmarks are works of art by famous Mexican artists with several meanings and representations.

Listed below are the Top 10 Landmarks in Puerto Vallarta.

1. Malecon Boardwalk: The Malecon boardwalk is exactly 760 meters (2500 ft) long. The Malecon has great restaurants, Puerto Vallarta is known for its world-class gourmet dining. Many restaurants are within walking distance of it. Most people say that walking along the Malecon is a feel-good area right in front of the sea. The colors, the sounds, and the aromas are the fastest and easiest way to really understand what Puerto Vallarta is all about.
2. Zona Romantica:  The Romantic Zone is famous for its friendly and Bohemian vibe. The people are friendly; the area is very safe. It is renowned for its restaurants, cafés, bars, and art galleries. The Romantic Zone is home to one of the famous beaches in the city, Playa Los Muertos. Romantic Zone is an entertainment capital, the kind of place where unexpected things happen. 
3. Centro Historico: Centro Historico is the heart of Puerto Vallarta, north of Zona Romantica, the Cuale River, and south of 5 de Diciembre. Get the authentic Mexican feel by walking through the cobbled streets of Centro Historico. 
4. Marina Vallarta: Marina Vallarta is an upscale residential community established in the 80s when Puerto Vallarta became a famous alternative to Cancun, and Acapulco. Its location is just 15 minutes north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Marina Vallarta is home to an 18-hole golf course, many resorts, and condos. The area has several restaurants, lovely walking spots, shops, and cultural activities. 
5. Mirador De La Cruz:  Mirador de La Cruz is in Abasolo LB, Cerro, Puerto Valalrta, Jalista, Mexico. Mirador de La Cruz is in the heart of the city. Hiking the mirador de La Cruz is among the free activities in Puerto Vallarta. Getting to Mirador de la Cruz is easy. Simply follow some signs to get there. The climb to Mirador de La Cruz is challenging because it is uphill. It requires excellent physical condition to do that. The hike is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. 
6. Muelle de Playa Los Muertos: Playa de Los Muertos is one of the most famous and most visited beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos beach is 2050 ft long and is one of the cleanest beaches in the state of Jalisco. Playa Los Muertos is located in Puerto Vallarta and lies on the beautiful shores of Banderas Bay in the Zona Romantica area. Los Muertos is mainly the prime attraction in Old Vallarta. 
7. Olas Altas: The Olas Altas beach is certainly well located and well-endowed with lots of fun, eating options, and lodging right in the middle of Puerto Vallarta. Olas Altas is at the northern end of the Romantic Zone. It starts off at the mouth of the Cuale River and ends at the Los Muertos Pier. It is one of the main beaches in Puerto Vallarta city. 
8. Caballito:  El Caballito (The Boy on the Seahorse), is one of the many Puerto Vallarta sculptures. The statue is on the Malecon and its original location is on Las Pilitas. The artist behind the boy on the seahorse sculpture is Rafael Zamarripa. The boy sculpture symbolizes optimism, the charro hat embraces the pride of being from Jalisco, and the outstretched arm represents kindness.   
9. Faro de Matamoros: Faro de Matamoros is a famous tourist attraction that provides a panoramic view of the city and Banderas Bay. Roberto Alcazar built the structure and it was inaugurated on August 15, 1932. The structure has the shape of a square pyramid, and its height is 39 ft (11.89 meters).

Plaza de Armas: Plaza de Armas features a bronze statue of Ignacio Vallarta, the Jalisco attorney and namesake of the city, by Miguel Carmona. Plaza de Armas is “Main Square” in English. Plaza de Armas’ location is in Old Town, along the Malecon and adjacent to Palacio Municipal, or city hall. The square is famous for displaying art. Plaza de Armas is full of charm, and has maintained the feel of a traditional Mexican plaza.

The Malecon boardwalk is a cheerful area on the beachfront. It is right alongside the main town square in El Centro. The Malecon boardwalk is precisely 760 meters (2500 ft) long. Its coordinates are latitude 20.611793 and longitude -105.234396. Its cobblestoned paths stretch for miles along the coastline, inviting visitors to explore and enjoy its vibrant colors, captivating culture, and awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean. There are a lot of things to do at the Malecon such as watching some performers, dances, and other shows. There are several local merchants promoting handcrafted knickknacks, balloons, artworks, mementos, artists, toys, street foods, and more. It is a popular place for people to gather and socialize, and it is a popular spot for people-watching. The Malecon has great restaurants, and Puerto Vallarta is known for its exceptional gourmet dining. Many restaurants are within walking distance of it. Most people say that walking along the Malecon is a feel-good area right in front of the sea. The colors, the sounds, and the aromas are the fastest and easiest way to really understand what Puerto Vallarta is all about. The newest Malecon features various more palm trees that give necessary shade during the midday. The spaces at Malecon have been developed taking into consideration the pedestrians, so there are spots where people are able to rest and take time to enjoy and observe the vibe. Watching several birds on El Malecon Beach is a favorite activity at the Malecon. During the day joggers are seen and people doing early walks at the Malecon.  It gives them fresh and clean air, and the sun peaking over the lush jungle hills is mellow but soft with its golden light. Locals and tourists get to enjoy the amazing nightlife at the Malecon with a wide array of nightclubs and bars. At nighttime, the nightlife entertainment choices on the Puerto Vallarta Malecon kick-off. The Malecon offers a light party vibe and even a perfect area for a romantic evening walk. Whether you’re looking to make memories that last a lifetime or simply kick back and relax, Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon Boardwalk won’t disappoint.

Romantic Zone is the oldest neighboring community in the city and is known to be among the prime places in Puerto Vallarta to visit and live. It is an excellent choice for families with little children, young couples, older adults, and the LGBTQ + community. The romantic Zone provides jobs in the tourism industry and cultural field. The area is near markets, beaches, bus stops, and hospitals. Romantic Zone is famous for its friendly and Bohemian vibe. The people are friendly; the area is very safe. It is renowned for its restaurants, cafés, bars, and art galleries. The Romantic Zone is home to one of the famous beaches in the city, Playa Los Muertos. Romantic Zone is an entertainment capital, the kind of place where unexpected things happen. Sometimes it’s a quirky street performance and, at times, a dignified religious procession. Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone has an exciting mix of locals and tourists, traditional Mexican architecture homes clashing with new condominium buildings with a more contemporary design. Food, drinks, entertainment, shopping, massages, and almost everything is available in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. The Romantic Zone is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most authentic neighborhoods. Nearly all amenities are just a walking distance.

Centro Historico or the “Old Town,” is the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Centro Historico is north of Zona Romantica, the Cuale River, and south of 5 de Diciembre. Its coordinates are 20.6076° N, 105.2363° W. Get the authentic Mexican feel by walking through the cobbled streets of Centro Historico. Puerto Vallarta’s downtown retains much of the original village. The area has lots of little bars, shops, and restaurants. Centro Historico is a lovely part of Puerto Vallarta to hang out. Most people walk up and down the streets appreciating the different murals, discovering small shops, and restaurants. Do not forget to bring along a camera or use a cellphone, as the area has a lot of photo opportunities on every corner. 

Marina Vallarta is simply not just a dock for boats. Marina Vallarta is an upscale residential community established in the 80s when Puerto Vallarta became a famous alternative to Cancun, and Acapulco. Its location is just 15 minutes north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Marina Vallarta’s latitude is 20.7422842, longitude is -103.417968. Marina Vallarta is home to an 18-hole golf course, many resorts, and condos. The area has several restaurants, lovely walking spots, shops, and cultural activities. People visit the Marina to enjoy walking around, and appreciating the impressive luxury yachts, and sailboats that are docked in the area. Marina Vallarta is popular with ex-pats, and families. It is popular with families because it is home to the American School of Puerto Vallarta. The school offers bilingual education from kindergarten to 12th grade. Many tours are available in Marina Vallarta, including the popular whale-watching trips from December to March. Another fun activity to do in Marina Vallarta is renting a private boat. Some of PV’s best luxury hotels are in Marina Vallarta. Visitors have plenty of choices to choose from. Marina Vallarta is very much accessible and not far from the airport.

One fun activity in Puerto Vallarta is going up the hill of the cross, and reaching the Mirador de la Cruz. It has a majestic aerial view of the entire city. Mirador de La Cruz is in Abasolo LB, Cerro, Puerto Valalrta, Jalista , Mexico. Its latitude is  -33.532792, longitude is -70.517083.  Mirador de La Cruz is in the heart of the city. Hiking the mIrador de La Cruz is among the free activities in Puerto Vallarta. Getting to Mirador de la Cruz is easy. Simply follow some signs to get there. The climb to Mirador de La Cruz is challenging because it is uphill. It requires excellent physical condition to do that. The hike is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The easiest route is to start from the Malecon, take Calle Abasolo away from the sea, and go towards the hills behind the city. Many hand-painted signs point out how to get to Mirador de la Cruz along the way. Visitors are greeted with a long set of white stairs as they walk up the streets.  With its abundance of wildlife, its striking rock formations, and its abundant array of photo opportunities, it’s no wonder why Mirador de La Cruz has become one of Mexico’s must-see destinations. Hikers who reach the tops of the Mirador de la Cruz are greeted with a 360-degree view of the Bay of Banderas, and the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Playa Los Muertos is an odd name for a lovely beach. According to local myth, the Playa Los Muertos (beach of the dead) is its name because there was a cemetery at the site. Someone took the initiative and started calling it Playa del Sol (Beach of the Sun), but it didn’t catch anyone’s attention, and continued calling it Playa de Los Muertos. Playa de Los Muertos is one of the most famous and most visited beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos beach is 2050 ft long and is one of the cleanest beaches in the state of Jalisco. Playa Los Muertos is located in Puerto Vallarta and lies on the beautiful shores of Banderas Bay in the Zona Romantica area. Los Muertos is mainly the prime attraction in Old Vallarta. Mountain bikers compete in the annual downhill event that begins at Mirador de La Cruz and is known for its challenging terrain.There are vendors, activities, food, beers, parasailing, kids building castles, and many other activities on the beach. Travelers say that Playa de Los Muertos is an ideal area with plenty of space and an excellent spot for people-watching

Author: Pedro Robin

Senior Advisor 13 March, 2025

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Olas Altas is one of the main beaches in Puerto Vallarta city, it is part of the same beach that is most famous in town, Los Muertos beach. Olas Altas is at the northern end of the Romantic Zone. It starts off at the mouth of the Cuale River and ends at the Los Muertos Pier. Its coordinates are longitude -104.36017, latitude 19.1175. Another street in Old Town is called Olas Altas too. Olas Altas features soft golden sand, at times there are small rocks, which are constant along all beaches of Banderas Bay. The beach is more family-friendly and close to the pier is where the swimmable area is. There are lifeguards at the beach area and only fewer waves. Among The many activities at the beach are parasailing and jet skiing. There are numerous hotels very close to the beach right on the beach end and people have a lot of options to choose from. Along the edge of the beach there are many restaurants that offer delicious cuisines. People who want to buy souvenirs and other products must go to the parallel street named Olas Altas too. There are lots of options and products available at Olas Altas street.  The Olas Altas beach is certainly well located and well-endowed with lots of fun, eating options, and lodging right in the middle of Puerto Vallarta. 

El Niño el Caballito de Mar (The Boy on the Seahorse), or commonly known as “El Caballito” is one of the many Puerto Vallarta sculptures. The statue is on the Malecon, but few people know that the original statue was placed in the late 1960s in Las Pilitas, at the southern tip of Los Muertos Beach. The latitude of Caballito is 20.61116, and the longitude is -105.23475. The artist behind the boy on the seahorse sculpture is Rafael Zamarripa, a respected choreographer, teacher of contemporary and folk dance in Mexico, a famous sculptor, painter, ceramist, designer, and set designer. The hippocampus refers to the sea as the generator of one’s nature. The child symbolizes hope looking to the future. The smile and outstretched arm in welcome represents a symbol of friendship and kindness. The charro hat embraces the pride of being from Jalisco, as well as the culture, traditions, and history of the country.

Faro de Matamoros is Marina Vallarta’s landmark, which stands 110-foot high. It features a circular lounge with live music at the top. Faro de Matamoros is a famous tourist attraction that provides a panoramic view of the city and Banderas Bay. Roberto Alcazar built the structure and was inaugurated on August 15, 1932. The structure has the shape of a square pyramid, and its height is 39 ft (11.89 meters). Faro de Matamoros coordinates are 20°36′33″N 105°14′01″W. The lighthouse is visible from Matamoros Street, where the stairs are located. The back side of the lighthouse has a spiral staircase going up.

Plaza de Armas is a plaza and a local attraction in Centro, Puerto Vallarta. Plaza de Armas is “Main Square” in English. Plaza de Armas’ location is in Old Town, along the Malecon and adjacent to Palacio Municipal, or city hall. The square is famous for displaying art. Plaza de Armas features a bronze statue of Ignacio Vallarta, the Jalisco attorney and namesake of the city, by Miguel Carmona. Plaza de Armas coordinates are 20°36′30.5″N 105°14′8″W. The plaza is a popular meeting place for recreation, dining, art, and culture. It is often a little marketplace with newspapers, magazine sellers, and other vendors during the day. The plaza becomes a main social scene during the evening. Kids are playing, couples are holding hands, and people are talking and laughing in the plaza. Plaza de Armas is full of charm, and has maintained the feel of a traditional Mexican plaza.

Plaza de Armas is a plaza and a local attraction in Centro, Puerto Vallarta. Plaza de Armas is “Main Square” in English. Plaza de Armas’ location is in Old Town, along the Malecon and adjacent to Palacio Municipal, or city hall. The square is famous for displaying art. Plaza de Armas features a bronze statue of Ignacio Vallarta, the Jalisco attorney and namesake of the city, by Miguel Carmona. Plaza de Armas coordinates are 20°36′30.5″N 105°14′8″W. The plaza is a popular meeting place for recreation, dining, art, and culture. It is often a little marketplace with newspapers, magazine sellers, and other vendors during the day. The plaza becomes a main social scene during the evening. Kids are playing, couples are holding hands, and people are talking and laughing in the plaza. Plaza de Armas is full of charm, and has maintained the feel of a traditional Mexican plaza. 

Author: Pedro Robin

Senior Advisor 13 March, 2025

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The Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Refugio is a simple, Gothic-style architecture housing an altar where a heavenly representation of the Virgen del Refugio stands out. A courtyard is seen at the bottom of the chapel, which is the sacristy. The coordinates of Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Refugio are 13.9749097, -89.705012. Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Refugio’s construction started on July 4, 1960. The church’s completion was credited to the generosity of a group of faithful devotees. A lot of people frequent the Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Refugio. The church is open daily from 7:00 am to 06:30 pm. Visiting the area is free of charge.

Puerto Vallarta’s Gringo Gulch is a pretty residential spot in the historical part of Downtown Puerto Vallarta. Its location is on the north bank of the Cuale River on the hillside of El Cerro, and slightly east of Centro. Gringo Gulch got its name from the fair-skinned Americans known as “gringos” who inhabited the area from the 1950s to the 1960s. Papparazi photographs and reports helped in making Gringo Gulch popular. Gringo Gulch is one of the most romantic places in the world. Gringo Gulch is the first-ever American enclave in Puerto Vallarta. It exudes the romantic era of old Hollywood. It was on Gringo Gulch that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s affair blossomed into a two-marriage obsession. The homes and villas in the neighborhood are painted white with tiled roofs covered in bougainvillea. Most houses have colonial designs. Throughout the 1950s, the downtown area north of the River Cuale started as an expat neighborhood. 

The Congregation of Christ Church by the Sea, Iglesia Cristo del Mar, is an inclusive parish of the Anglican Church of Mexico and the worldwide Anglican Communion. Christ Church by the Sea is on Plaza Genovesa Avenue, Francisco Medina Ascencio, in the Hotel zone on the northside of Puerto Vallarta. Its coordinates are 20.6351° N, and 105.2315° W. Sunday services start at 10 am in the lovely palapa-roofed house of worship. The service is in English, often amplified with passages in Spanish. A Parish Hall next to the Church provides space for social events, community activities, and education. Christ Church by the Sea, Iglesia Cristo del Mar, was established in Mexico in 1991. The congregation received parish status in the Diocese of Western Mexico in 2001. The church has a solid year-round membership, with several, most coming from the United States and Canada.

Arena Vallarta is designed to cater all kinds of shows such as recreational, concerts, cultural, wrestling, cockfights, motocross, rodeos, and several artist presentations. The building has an 8000 m2 entirely roofed at a height o f15 meters. Its first-class facilities include a fast food shop area, bathrooms, a media room, and a 600-car parking space. Arena Vallarta is in El Colorado, minutes from Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport. Its location has direct and easy access to the Guadalajara-Mascota highway and highway 200. Arena Vallarta is able to accommodate 8000 people conveniently and holds up to 20,000 standing attendees, using the arena as a stage for bigger events. The Arena Vallarta is handicapped friendly  and has gorgeous private VIP boxes.

Paradise Church is an interdenominational Christian community of faith for expatriates and visitors. Paradise Church offers a contemporary worship style in English. Their service features participatory worship songs and practical teaching in a casual atmosphere. The mission of Paradise Church is to serve the local community of Puerto Vallarta, lift up the poor, and provide opportunities for North Americans to work, helping the poor and disenfranchised. Paradise Church is at El Granero restaurant, Madera 333 in Zona Romantica.

John Huston Plaza is a plaza in Isla Rio Cuale where a bronze statue devoted to the film director John Huston is located. The John Huston Plaza is quiet, and there are few people compared to other plazas. Famous film director John Huston was immortalized with a sculpture of the director sitting in a typical director’s chair. The town wanted to honor the internationally renowned director whose passage through the city had forever marked it. John Huston was the booster of tourism and attention in Puerto Vallarta. Thanks to the filming of the film “The Night of the Iguana,” which happens around Mismaloya Beach, south of Puerto Vallarta. John Houston Plaza is a great spot for people who love the works of the famous Hollywood director.

The Anglican Church of Puerto Vallarta began seventeen years ago. Anglican Church is in Blvd. Francisco, Medina Ascencio, Villas Flores, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. Its coordinates are 20.6755° N, 105.2494° W. The Anglican Church Puerto Vallarta is involved in many Outreach Programs along with their Sunday services at 10 am. The church was established by the couple Father Jack and Shirley in 2001. They invited fellow boaters to join them for Eucharist aboard their sailboat. The group quickly grew and moved into a larger boat. They leased and bought a condo unit and moved the services to their patio in 2004.

The Bailarines De Vallarta features a couple wearing traditional clothes while dancing a regional dance. The sculptures are life-size, cast in bronze, and are unique compared to all the other statues in town. The unique artwork was unveiled on the extension of the Malecon, called Malecon II, in downtown Puerto Vallarta on November 28, 2006. The artist behind the “Vallarta Dancers,” Jim Demetro, highlights the Mexican Hat Dance. Jim Demetro loves to do sculptures honoring the many colorful traditions of Puerto Vallarta, so they won’t be forgotten. What makes the Bailarines De Vallarta unique is its size, movement, and colors. Many of the members of the Anglican Church Puerto Vallarta say that participating in the programs is the most memorable time they spend in PV. Once they realized that the church has programs for feeding the less fortunate, clothing drives, helping with medicines and medical supplies, they make an extra effort to bring things with them each year to share to the poor.

The La Presidencia known as the Municipal Presidency is where Puerto Vallarta’s local government stands. La Presidencia is next to the Plaza Principal or Plaza de Armas in the downtown district. Tourists find the exact address at 132 Juárez Street, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. La Presidencia’s coordinates are roughly 20.6156° N latitude and 105.2365° W longitude. La Presidencia is the hub for municipal affairs in the city and houses the mayor’s, city council’s, and other administrative departments’ offices. The administrative staff, city council, departments, and mayor’s offices are housed there, who run the city and give its citizens access to necessary services.

La Presidencia is a popular destination for both locals conducting municipal business and tourists interested in its architecture and historical significance. La Presidencia is distinguished by its distinctive architectural style, which honors Puerto Vallarta’s colonial past. The building’s historical beauty and visual attractiveness are enhanced by its traditional Spanish colonial-style design, which includes stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and elaborate decorations. Landmarks such as La Presidencia affect local real estate values by adding to the neighborhood’s cultural significance and appeal, and rising demand from consumers looking for close access to historical landmarks and other cultural activities.

Tourists are typically complimentary of La Presidencia, praising its architectural beauty, historical relevance, and symbolic status as the local government building. La Presidencia is easily accessible from the city’s downtown area Situated in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, situated in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Neighborhoods find the landmark more enjoyable to explore on sunny days to take in the architecture and take a stroll through the surrounding Plaza Principal. La Presidencia is a good place for families of all ages to visit to learn about the history and political system of Puerto Vallarta.

Rancho Mi Abuelo is a paintball field in Puerto Vallarta where people come to unleash adrenaline and spend a fun day with their family. Rancho Mi Abuelo is open daily and offers special prices to companies, schools or students. They even provide a special birthday package for people who want to celebrate their special day at the rancho.Rancho Mi Abuelo is a popular choice for visitors who want to experience thrilling adventures. At the same time, there is a restaurant inside the rancho where they serve sumptuous dishes to visitors. 

The Papantla Flyers perform on the Malecon in the middle of Leona Vicario and Pipila street. Every day on the boardwalk in downtown Vallarta a unique and vibrant -filled ritual takes place, the Papantla Flyers. Impressive, colorful, thrilling, but there’s significantly more behind what people see, there are centuries of heritage, pre hispanic Gods. Papantla flyers do not just simply perform in front of the crowd. It is not just a simple show that presents showmanship and their acrobatics skill. The religious traditions of the Papantla Flying Men were established to offer their thanks and prayers  to Chi’chini (the Sun God), Xipe Totec (God of Spring & Fertility), and Tlaloc (the Rain God). The ritual is more of a dance and a prayer as well. It expresses adoration for the earth, its bounty, and its natural forces. Typically, the ritual occurs every spring equinox, in the third week of March. However, since the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, and missionaries, natives were exacted into a religious settlement. The dance was turned and mixed into the Roman Catholic Corpus Christi celebration, observed during the first week of June.

The “Origen Y Destino ” sculpture is in the center of Puerto Vallarta in a prominent position on the Malecon, the Calle de Allende, and the Malecon. Escultura Origen Y Destino is a set of works that originates from the concept of time, the new millennium, human beings, and time and their relationship with history. The project lasted 13 years, from beginning to end. Originally there were only eight pieces which included a horse, a dancer, a chimera, a ship, a whale, a musician, and a wheel and an obelisk, which were planned for the celebration of the new millennium. The ship represents humanity’s search for new horizons. The whale symbolizes the new era humans enjoy while navigating the seas of Science and Technological Advancement. The chimera represents the gradual replacement of animals with machines by humans. The wheel symbolizes the technology and science of mankind. The obelisk, which symbolizes the spirituality of humanity, has an hourglass; a symbol of the transience of the present and life.

La Rotonda Del Mar is the work of Guadaljaran sculptor Alejandro Colunga. It features eight bronze thrones positioned at irregular intervals around a circular stone. The tall chairs are topped with impressionistic sea creatures like a seahorse, and an octopus. Most of the seats are supported by legs that end in claws, making them appear like strange, uncanny monuments. Alejandro Colunga designed the chairs to be interacted with, and they invited visitors to sit in them. 

Lluvia is the newest sculpture on the Malecon, in Puerto Vallarta. The sculpture was unveiled on December 10, 2020. Luvia depicts a young man standing with arms outstretched upward into the sky or rain. The figure not only represents the connection between humans and nature, but seems to offer a welcome embrace to all visitors. Luvia becomes the 34th sculpture placed along the sea’s edge in Puerto Vallarta. The tall sculpture stands at 11.5 ft and weighs 650 kilograms. The sculpture was created by Mexican artist Jovan, who donated it through the Galeria Corsica to the Instituto Vallartense de Cultura (IVC) and the city. The inspiration behind Lluvia is the rainy afternoons of Puerto Vallarta. The artist tried to present a man with arms wide open as a symbol of openness. It shows positively receiving what the world offers with a gesture of happiness and fulfillment, eyes towards the rain.

En Busca de la Razon is a “ladder sculpture” in Puerto Vallarta. En Busca de la Razon is interesting and controversial, a piece a person won’t pass without notice. En Bucasa de la Razon is on Corona Street that ends on the Malecon. Its coordinates are 20°36′39.4″N 105°14′5.6″W. The intriguing sculpture is a creation of the famous Mexican artist Sergio Bustamante. En Busca De La Razon is a distinct 30-foot high statue with three pillow-headed figures and a ladder that two figures are climbing. The sculpture was inspired by Nobel Peace Prize winner, philosopher, and logician Bertrand Arthur William Russell and the philosopher’s writings. The sculpture attracts audiences to interact, some even climbing the ladder to have souvenir photos. 

La Nostalgia Statute is an artistic testimony of the Puerto Vallarta love story between the sculptor and the wife. La Nostalgia Statue is found in downtown Puerto Vallarta, where Pipila Street meets the boardwalk. Its coordinates are 20°36′48.2″N 105°14′0.7″W. The sculpture has a strange coloring between the body and the legs. It is the result of rubbing thousands of visitors’ shorts on the lap of the sculpture. The artist’s love story inspired the bronze figures.  After finding the artist’s one love and then losing track for 27 years, they met again and married in a twist of fate. La Nostalgia Statue is one of the most famous and loved sculptures of Ramiz Barquet in town. 

The Estatua De La Lavandera is on the left when crossing the bridge between the northern zone of the Cuale River and the Romantic Zone at the end of Malecon II. The “La Lavandera” )The Washer Woman) is a sculpture of a woman washing clothes on a rock. Artist Jim Demetro created the bronze sculpture on the wall of the Molino de Agua Condominium. Washing clothes is a tradition on the Cuale River and is still done by many along river banks and other rivers of Jalisco and Mexico. The artist has a 76-year-old local lady as a model to immortalize the memory of the traditional and hard-working laundresses of the area. Washerwomen go to the river with bundles of clothes on their heads, where they build a rustic palapa. They used the river water to wash their clothes and the flat stones on the shore to dry them. They rub the clothes and hit them against the rocks.

The Fisherman statue is in downtown Puerto Vallarta where three streets unite, Libertad, Agustin Ramirez, and Insurgentes. Its location is in the southern part of downtown PV, near the first bridge that connects to the Romantic Zone. The Fisherman statue is a work of art by Mexican artist Ramiz Barquet. The bronze statue was inaugurated on January 12, 1996. The Fisherman statue was donated by Ramiz Barquet’s wife, Nelly. The same Nelly that inspired the landmark sculpture “Nostalgia” on the Malecon. The statue is a tribute to the fishermen of the area. Puerto Vallarta used to be just a small fishing village in the past.  The artist behind The Fisherman Statue prefers the human figure as the subject. Ramiz Barquet is the artist behind numerous works and monuments in the city. 

Another one of the many creations of artist Ramiz Barquet is the Tiburon En Espiral. Tiburon En Espiral is in the Romantic Zone by the sea at the end of Pulpito Street. The artist sculpted the piece to honor the shark as a creature. Barquet saw the shark as one of the most perfect on earth, physically and in terms of efficiency and precision. Barquet saw the shark as a truly virtuous animal.The artist named the shark Casper Cazon, after a dear friend who passed away. The inauguration of Tiburon En Espiral was in November 1996.

Los Amantes is a famous sculpture inspired by Hollywood stars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The bronze sculpture is recognized internationally as one of the most popular sculptures in the world. Los Amantes means “the lovers” in English. The sculpture is located by the Iguana Restaurant & Tequila Bar on Calle Zaragoza in Gringo Gulch, downtown Puerto Vallarta.  The Los Amantes sculpture depicts famous lovers of Hollywood in the 1960s, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. The two movie stars met on the set of a movie and started their love affair. The famous couple were frequent visitors to the town throughout their time together.  

Author: Pedro Robin

Senior Advisor 13 March, 2025

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Known as Two Rising Up, is a welded steel sculpture by Maritza Vazquez. The sculptures are installed along Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon.  The Statue of the Sea Urchins coordinates are 20°36′28.9″N 105°14′13.1″W. The work of art depicts two sea urchins and was initially constructed from a thinner material that was unable to withstand the elements. The Statue of the Sea Urchins is one of the many artworks in Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon. It was created and donated by the BLU, known as Martiza Vazquez, an artist from the city of Guadalajara.

The Los Milenios sculpture or The Millenia is the creation of Mathis Lidice (Felix Banos) in the southwest corner of Hotel Rosita at the northern end of Malecon boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta. It is a symbol of the new millennium. The sculpture’s spiral form represents the passage of time. The square where the statue is located was designed to honor the builders of Teuchitlan, Jalisco, the only Mesoamerican city with round pyramids called Guachimontones. 

Los Arcos is in Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta, between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya Beach. Los Arcos is part of a protected national park called Los Arcos Marine Park, founded in 1984. Aside from the arches, there are caves, deep tunnels, and coral reefs found in Los Arcos. The waters around Los Arcos are among the deepest in the bay. It ranges from 9 to 480 meters. The warm, blue water is home to several tropical fish and other sea creatures like trumpetfish, eels, rays, and sea turtles. Los Arcos is filled with natural features that give its visitors a taste of its lovely flora and fauna. Los Arcos is famous for its vast biodiversity, allowing tourists to experience pelicans, penguins, and various other sea and land animals as they co-exist in their natural habitat. Los Arcos is popular for scuba divers and people who love swimming and snorkeling. 

Another interesting work of art by Ramiz Barquet is Saint Pascal Balyon on the Malecon extension. The bronze statue represents Saint Paschal Baylon, the patron saint of cooks. Saint Paschal was a Franciscan friar from 16th-century Spain.  The saint is more related to gardens than kitchens, however, due to confusion with Saint Didacus of Alcala, who was related to a miracle involving a stove. Due to the similar iconography, Saint Pascal Baylon ended up being worshiped by cooks. The statue is found in front of Vitea a few steps from the Urchin sculpture on the boardwalk beside the sea. The sculpture was put in Vallarta to honor chefs from Puerto Vallarta and abroad that visit the city for gastronomic events. 

Author: Pedro Robin

Senior Advisor 13 March, 2025

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The Friendship Fountain is among the most popular sculptures in Puerto Vallarta. The sculpture depicts three jumping dolphins and has an interesting story to tell. Puerto Vallarta became a sister city to Santa Barbara, California on June 12, 1973. Citizens of both communities have had all kinds of positive exchanges, humanitarian missions, sojourns, and donations over the years. The sculpture is similar to a bronze sculpture in Santa Barbara, California. The artist behind The Friendship Fountain is James “Bud’ Bottoms who was in charge of the sculpture elements and Octavio Gonzales Gutierrez was in charge of the sculpting work and putting it together. The artists use dolphins as inspiration from Chumash Indian myth in which the Earth Goddess, Hutash creates a rainbow bridge, Wishtoyo, to help the Indians cross over the mainland. Along the way, some looked down and fell off the bridge. People who fell from the bridge were turned into dolphins to prevent them from drowning. The Chumash have considered them as brothers since then.

The Triton Y La Nereida is a bronze sculpture by Carlos Espino. The artist concentrates on the human form and classical mythology. The sculpture has been moved around slightly, now, it is located approximately where it was unveiled in 1990. The sculpture depicts Triton, one of the Greek gods of the sea, as a merman reaching out to a Siren. The sculpture’s name is “Triton and Siren,” but for some unknown reason, local authorities changed it to “Neptune and the Nereid,” when unveiling the statue on the Malecon. Triton Y La Nereida was completely remodeled in 2011 and was located where Abasolo Street ends on the Malecon, by the Mandala. Its coordinates are 20°36′35″N 105°14′6.9″W.

Faro del Malecon, also known as the Lighthouse of the Malecon, is a well-known landmark located in the heart of the romantic zone of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The Faro del Malecon is a lighthouse that sits on the beach and serves as a beacon for visitors and locals alike.

The lighthouse was built in the early 20th century, and it’s a tall white tower that stands out on the beach, it’s a popular spot for visitors and locals to take in the beautiful views of the Bay of Banderas and the city. The lighthouse is open to the public and offers panoramic views of the city and the bay. The Faro del Malecon is located on the Malecon, which is the main boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta. The Malecon is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike and is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. This makes the Faro del Malecon an ideal spot for visitors to take in the sights and sounds of the city. In recent years, the Lighthouse of the Malecon has been undergoing a remodeling process to make it more accessible to the public, and it’s expected to be a tourist attraction once the works are finished.

The “Estatua Del Burro” is among the newer sculptures in the town of Puerto Vallarta. The Andale Bernardo or “Estatua del Burro,” sculpture depicts two boys, one holding some carrots, and another pushing a donkey and a dog helping in pulling too. It is a sculpture that mixes the old traditions of the miners and the Mexican town spirit. The “burro” (donkey) sculpture is in the now-called Romantic Zone, south of the Cuale River and PV’s “centro.”  It is part of the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood on the west side of Lazaro Cardenas square. The artist behind the “burro” sculpture, Jim Demetro created the work of art intended to be interactive. The artist explains that the sculpture honors the hard-working donkeys who helped in the past move salt from the sea to the mines up in the Sierra Madre. Aside from the donkeys, the artist honors the workers, residents, and visitors that make Puerto Vallarta such a wonderful place.

The Iglesia de la Santa Cruz, is a parish church in Zona Romantica, Puerto Vallarta. The Iglesia de la Santa Cruz is dedicated to the holy cross. It is celebrated every 3rd of May with a celebration called Fiesta de Las Cruces. The holy cross is the patron saint of the masons, who went on a pilgrimage to the church that day. Construction of the Iglesia de la Santa Cruz started in 1954. Iglesia De La Santa Cruz coordinates are 20.6042°N, 105.2330°W.  Iglesia De La Santa Cruz is one of the most beautiful churches in Puerto Vallarta.

The bronze bust of Enrique Carothers Barreto, stands in front of the steps leading up to the bandstand in Lazaro Cardenas Plaza. Enrique Carothers Barreto is an engineer by profession, a businessman, and a hotelier by conviction, having spent years promoting Puerto Vallarta as a tourist destination. Enrique has been twice the president of the Puerto Vallarta Hotel Association, which focuses on the promotion of tourism in Puerto Vallarta. One of Enrique’s notable achievements was the reconstruction of Los Muertos Beach Pier, replacing the former wooden structure. The statue is on a stone plinth created by sculptor Octavio Gonzalez. It is surrounded by many pieces of mosaics in different colors and several artworks around the park. The Estatua De Enrique Carothers acknowledges and pays tribute to Barreto’s hard work and dedication in the tourist industry and promotion of Puerto Vallarta.

Puente Rio Cuale is a bridge along Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon. It spans the Cuale River and connects Centro and Romantic Zone neighborhoods. Puente Rio Cuale coordinates are  20.6060°N, 105.2379°W. The bridge provides direct access to the Malecon promenade in downtown Puerto Vallarta. The Puente Rio Cuale was rebuilt and is now open for traffic. The bridge almost disappeared after hurricane Nora destroyed it in August 2021.

The La Ballena Vallarta sculpture is an impressive humpback whale sculpture that is 12 tons, 8.9 meters high, and 13 meters long. La Ballena Sculpture is at the entrance to Marina Vallarta.

The La Ballena Vallarta is a work of art by Octavio Gonzales. The sculpture has great importance because it is the fruit of the labor of several citizens, hoteliers, restaurant owners, shopkeepers, entrepreneurs, the public administration, and particularly by the tenacity of Octavio Gonzales to finish the beautiful sculpture. La Ballena Vallarta is open all day and free of charge. 

Puerto Vallarta has a Chabad community. Chabad of Puerto Vallarta’s mission is to serve and reach out to all Jews in Puerto Vallarta. Chabad enriches Jewish identity and helps ensure Jewish identity continues by giving educational, religious, and community programs. Chabad is an international movement that spreads Jewish awareness to all Jewish, regardless of gender and age. Chabad is an acronym for Chachman, Binah, and Daas, which translates to wisdom, understanding, and knowledge.

Listed below are the things to know about visiting Puerto Vallarta.

• Regions: Puerto Vallarta is made up of several zones, all of which lie along or near the city’s waterfront, the Banderas Bay. The residential areas are in the eastern part of the city. The Hotel Zone and Marina Vallarta are just a few miles from the airport, while the famous Playa Los Muertos is on the city’s southern side. The southern zone is, like the North zone, a bit far from it all. The main attractions in this area are Mismaloya Beach, Los Arcos de Mismaloya, and the beaches to the south reachable only via sea, which include Quimixto, Yelapa, Las Animas, and Majahuitas.
• Culture: Spanish is the main language spoken in Puerto Vallarta. However, people who work in the tourism industry are English speakers. Knowing a few Spanish words is a lot helpful and respectful, when communicating, especially to locals. The Mexican Peso is Puerto Vallarta’s official currency. However, American dollars are widely accepted in Puerto Vallarta. Majority in Puerto Vallarta are Catholics, but there are other religions and churches in the area such as Christians, Baptists, Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Baha’i.  
• Climate: Puerto Vallarta sits on the Golden Coast of Jalisco, Mexico, at the midpoint of the Banderas Bay. Puerto Vallarta is on the similar latitude as the Hawaiian Islands, that’s why the city’s weather and climate are often compared to Hawaii’s own. Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by luscious jungle and receives a considerable amount of rain during the wet summer months. Its climate has unique dry and wet seasons during the year. Generally, the summer months have a higher chance of rain than the winter months, which are usually dry. During the winter, the local weather changes significantly, and temperatures move into the low to mid (28 – 30ºC). Puerto Vallarta has a warm, tropical climate all year-round. Puerto Vallarta has four seasons, winter, spring, summer, and autumn.
• Food: Food is among the distinct qualities of a place, and in Puerto Vallarta, the options are endless. Food stands, and vendors, are plentiful in the iconic Malecon downtown. Foods like fish on a stick, fresh ceviche, seasonal fruits, nieve de garrafa (Mexican sorbets), and local drinks like tejuino, and agua de tuba, to name a few, are among the street foods available. There are hidden treasures in the surrounding streets where locals eat traditional Mexican fondas, tacos and torta stands, ice creams and ice pops made of exotic Mexican fruits. Traditional and trendy restaurants are in the Romantic Zone. Most locals and tourists eat and hang out in the area. Among the must-try food in Puerto Vallarta includes Ceviche, Birria tacos, Micheladas, Tacos al Pastor, and Chilaquiles.
• Safety: The level of crime index in Puerto Vallarta is 34.43 which is considered to be low. Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination for foreign travelers, although tourists must exercise caution, just as they would 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. The town enjoys a healthy economy and a stable political environment. There are always tourist police on hand to provide assistance and directions.  
• Travel Procedures: Upon arrival at the International Puerto Vallarta Airport, visitors first go through immigration, then they’ll pick up their luggage, and then they’ll go into the customs area. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been no Covid-19 testing requirement for travel to Mexico. The country relies on a travel advisory program that monitors states on a case-to-case basis. However, when not feeling good or having a fever, it is still advised to get tested before traveling. Citizens of the United States need a passport to visit Mexico. Travelers must carry a Mexican Tourist Permit, which is normally issued free of charge upon arrival. Additional fees for tourist permits are mostly absorbed in the plane ticket cost. Travelers must hold onto the permit throughout the trip. Upon departure, the permit is presented.  
• Landmarks: Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort destination in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, that is full of impressive landmarks. Among the famous landmarks in Puerto Vallarta include Plaza de Armas, the Malecon Boardwalk, Zona Romantica, Centro Hisorico, Marina Vallarta, the Cabatillo, Mirador de la Cruz, and many others. One popular landmark in the southern zone is Los Arcos. Nowadays, it is a very popular day-trip destination, both snorkelers, tourists, tour operators, and scuba divers visit this place day in and day out. It’s both very beautiful as a scenic photo-op, but quite impressive for its natural biodiversity above and below water. These little islands sport tunnels that go through them, thus the name: the arches.
• Hotels (Prices and Reviews): Most tourists prefer to stay in places like the Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, and the Romantic Zone while in Puerto Vallarta. The cheapest price found for a hotel in Puerto Vallarta is around $30 per night. The average price of a hotel near Malecon in Puerto Vallarta is  $225 per night, with prices varying based on several factors, including time of year. Hotels near Malecon are usually 55% more expensive than the average hotel in Puerto Vallarta, which is $99. The price of a hotel in PV depends on various factors such as star rating, location, and demand.  Hotel prices near the Playa de Los Muertos cost $215 per night. The price varies depending on the season. Hotels near Playa de Los Muertos are typically 53% more expensive than the average hotel in Puerto Vallarta. Hotels near Los Muertos Pier are around $215 per night. The price fluctuates based on the time of year. Hotels near Los Muertos Pier are 53% more expensive than Puerto Vallarta’s average hotel price.    

Transportation: Most travelers arrive via airplane or cruise ship. Puerto Vallarta’s International Airport, the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, is about 3 miles south of downtown. Meanwhile, the cruise ship terminal is about 3 miles north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Getting around Puerto Vallarta is best done by riding a bus. There are several bus stops and fares are cheap. For a less bumpy ride, take a taxi or an Uber. Car rental is another option, however, it costs a bit.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort town in Mexico, in Jalisco state. It is famous for its beaches, water sports, and nightlife. Its cobblestone center is home to the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Church, boutique shops, and a range of bars, and restaurants. Puerto Vallarta is in the west of Jalisco state. It is where Sierra Madre Occidental and Banderas Bay meet in the Pacific Ocean. Puerto Vallarta borders the Nayarit state to the north and to the south. It borders Cabo Corrientes and Talpa de Allende. To the east, it borders San Sebastián and Mascota, and to the west, it borders the Pacific Ocean. Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown or ‘the Heart of Puerto Vallarta” and declared a cultural heritage by the State of Jalisco. PV’s Downtown is in between the Malecon and the most emblematic constructions that shape the area. There are sculptures, artistic manifestations, Huichol art, the worldwide famous Arcos, and spectacular views of the Banderas Bay all the way along Malecon. Puerto Vallarta is shaped by the Kiosk, a meeting point for festivities and lots of activities for locals and visitors. On the northern side is the City Hall, the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a building located half a block, and whose crown and tower have become an icon of Puerto Vallarta. On the other hand, Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone is where one finds several restaurants, bars, small cafés, art galleries, boutique hotels, and narrow streets. It is popular as a friendly and most diverse area where fun is everywhere during the day and night. Puerto Vallarta’s exclusive area is the Marina Vallarta. The area is exclusive because of the presence of many luxury hotels, condos, yachts, boats, and cruise ships. It is an excellent choice to walk on because of its wide and modern streets with a “city touch.” Marina Vallarta has numerous restaurants that cater to all tastes, cafés, stores, and supermarkets. Next, comes the beaches’ north zone of Puerto Vallarta. Spreading from Downtown up to the Marina Vallarta is the Playa Norte. It is an area with a wide offering of 5-star hotels, large beaches, various restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shopping centers along the main avenue. Playa Norte is the meeting point for sports events and competitions, with world-class golf courses. It is close to the airport and is considered cosmopolitan. The beaches’ southern zone of Puerto Vallarta, is the area where the most gorgeous natural landscapes are found. Among these landscapes are Playa Los Muertos, Garza Blanca, Boca de Tomatlan, Las Animas, the fishing town of Quimixto, and Yelapa.  On the South Zone beaches of Puerto Vallarta is where the Los Arcos National Park is located. It is one of the favorite spots for both local and international tourists with its apparent size. Furthermore, there are numerous world-class resorts located nearby. Another popular alternative is the Botanical Garden. In this area, visitors get to look at the region’s flora and fauna throughout its halls and patios. Scenic places in the middle of the tropical forest connect with river streams that flow from the Sierra Madre Occidental to the Banderas bay.

Listed below are the Landmarks in the South of Puerto Vallarta.

• Los Arcos: Los Arcos or “the Arches,” is named for the huge gray granite islands pushing up out of the ocean in arch formations. Los Arcos is in the Banderas Bay, between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya beach, Puerto Vallarta. The islands continue to entertain thousands of tourists every year with its natural beauty and tropical wildlife. The area is popular for its vast biodiversity.  
• Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens: The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden is a 79 acres botanical garden at 1,300 ft above sea level. Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden was established in 2004 and has been open to the public since 2005.  
• Puerto Vallarta Zoological Gardens: The Puerto Vallarta Zoological Garden is often overlooked because of the many beaches in the area. However, for people who seek to do something different, going to the zoo is an excellent option. The Puerto Vallarta Zoological Gardens is built in the jungle and people get to experience the lush vegetation on the Sierra Madre mountains. Animals are regularly in small cages but are well taken care of by many staff members of the zoo.    

Listed below are the Landmarks North of Puerto Vallarta.

• Ixtapa Archeological Zone: North of the town of Ixtapa along the banks of the Ameca River, is an archeological site with remains going back several thousand years. The Ixtapa Archeological Zone comprises of 29 mounds, and it measures 40 meters in diameter and 8 meters in height. Remains of a ceremonial ball court are included in the site. The first inhabitants of the site were vassals of the Aztatlán kingdom, in Western Jalisco, between 900 and 1200 AD. It is the oldest explored site in Western Jalisco. Residential and ceremonial sites were uncovered in the digs of the site. Among the unearthed items were potteries, incense burners, bowls, amphora, etc. Many of these ancient objects are on display at the Rio Cuale Island Museum.  

University of Guadalajara Coastal Center: University of Guadalajara is a public and autonomous university system in the Mexican state of Jalisco. It combines an international scope and vision with a strong commitment to society. The university features many public attractions, including the Peter Gray Art Museum and Crocodile Farm. The university is a fundamental institution in the molding of human resources and in the creation of scientific and technological knowledge, both regionally and nationally. The cultural life and artistic wealth of the western region of Mexico is not accounted for without the pioneering and distinct contribution of the University of Guadalajara.

Listed below are the Landmarks in East Puerto Vallarta.
Terra Noble Art and Healing Center: On the hills east of Puerto Vallarta is a New Age Spa, meditation center and artist retreat. The complex is similar to an early Mexican wattle and daub home, and was created by Architect Jorge Rubio.

In the west section of Puerto Vallarta is the famous Banderas Bay. It stretches 62 miles on the West Coast of Mexico, with Puerto Vallarta at its heart. Banderas Bay is Mexico’s third-largest bay. Banderas Bay averages over 1,000 feet deep, but the water temperature, being on the same latitude as Hawaii, is ideal year round for fish. It is home to a quantity of humpback whales, giant manta rays, dolphins, marlin, sailfish, and a myriad of other fine game fish that live in deep water. Banderas Bay is a horseshoe shaped bay with over 50 miles of gorgeous shoreline. It ranges from jagged cliffs to sandy beaches, with the city of Puerto Vallarta essentially in the center.

• Souvenir shopping: The Cuale River Artisan Flea Market is the spot for people who want to shop until they drop. The craft flea market hosts numerous stalls that sell both native Mexican items and souvenirs to take home. There is a wide selection of lovely glass pieces and clay crafts painted in vivid colors that are worth checking out. Pieces are very much affordable at the Cuale River Artisan Flea Market. Talavera pottery is another favorite at the flea market, and they come in a variety of forms from dishware and serving bowls to house numbers and kitchen accessories. Cuale River Artisan Flea Market follows Cuale River, which separates Downtown from the Romantic Zone.    
• Fresh Local Produce: Olas Altas Farmer’s Market in Lazaro Cardenas Park is one of the best weekend attractions in Puerto Vallarta. Locals and expats enjoy buying and sampling various fresh local produce at Olas Altas Farmer’s Market. The market’s sellers must make, bake, or grow the products they sell at Olas Altas Farmer’s Market. There is a wide selection of organic vegetables, exotic fruits, coffees, chocolates, cheese, ice cream and local meat. Local artisans sell their masterpieces like jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, and more. Olas Altas Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from the first Saturday of November to the last Saturday of April between 9:30 am and 2 pm. 
• Strolling: The Malecon Boardwalk is the famous seaside attraction in Puerto Vallarta. There are a number of fun things to do at the Malecon. The Puerto Vallarta Malecon is a kilometer-long boardwalk that goes along the coast of central Puerto Vallarta. At the Malecon there are countless shops, restaurants, art exhibits, cultural sites, and entertainment. People from all over the world travel to see the sculptures and art exhibits that have made the Malecon such a popular destination.   
• Sunset Watching: Muelle de Playa Los Muertos is the perfect spot for sunset watching in Puerto Vallarta. The view from the pier is absolutely stunning, both day and nighttime. The main feature of the Pier is the large metal structure, known as the Sail, which is towards the end of the pier.    
• Snorkeling: Los Arcos Marine Park is among the frequented spots for several water activities like snorkeling. Los Arcos is famous for its vast biodiversity, allowing tourists to experience pelicans, penguins, and various other sea and land animals as they co-exist in their natural habitat. Los Arcos is popular for scuba divers and people who love swimming and snorkeling.  
• Surfing: Olas Altas Beach means “high waves beach,” but the only waves suitable for surfing small waves are near the Cuale River. The waves are strong enough to surf, sometimes reaching heights of 2 meters and above. The best time to enjoy surfing at Olas Altas Beach is from April to October. Olas Altas Beach is a quiet stretch of beach about 1 km north of Playa Los Muertos Pier.  
• Hiking: Hiking the Mirador El Cerro de la Cruz is a popular activity in Puerto Vallarta. It offers the best view in Puerto Vallarta, and it is an ideal morning workout. The start of the hike begins at Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon, opposite the beach. Known as the hike to the cross, the short hike not only provides hikers with a majestic view, they get a bit of exercise at the same time. 
• Street Food: Plaza de Armas is the place to go for a better deal on street foods in Puerto Vallarta. The plaza is filled with food booths, all serving authentic Mexican food at an affordable price. Plaza de Armas is next to Los Arcos monument. 

Travel is an essential part of life. An exploration of different cultures in different countries makes one richer in knowledge and unforgettable experiences. There are many beautiful destinations in the world, and each of these places has different qualities that make them one of a kind. On the Pacific side of Mexico, a stunning tropical destination is frequented by many not just because of its beauty but its unique quality that is impossible to resist. Puerto Vallarta is a tropical destination in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Spending a day is not enough in Puerto Vallarta, although it is possible, for people who fall in love instantly in the beautiful paradise. Puerto Vallarta is even a top choice among ex-pats from the U.S. and Canada. With so many things to see, do, and eat in Puerto Vallarta, a five-day itinerary is quite enough to experience its magic and true beauty.      

Listed below are the steps on How to Create a Travel Route in Puerto Vallarta.

1. Day 1: The majority of flights in Puerto Vallarta arrive at the airport late in the afternoon. Guests don’t have ample time to do some exploration on their first day at Puerto Vallarta. The first order of business, change out of travel clothes into some casual beach attire, and head down to a restaurant near the beach. Order a tropical drink and some guacamole, then people-watch. Kill some time while waiting for the gorgeous Vallarta sunset. Take a dozen pictures, while enjoying the first day at the beautiful paradise of Puerto Vallarta. After some refreshments, stroll along the Malecon and try on some tacos, crêpes, and fresh fruits from the food stand. Check out the central Plaza de Armas, and watch the concert at the adjacent shoreline Los Arcos amphitheater. Then head over to Mandala or the Zoo, to get a groovy night and work off those margaritas.  
2. Day 2: No one resists a beach on the first full day in a paradise like Puerto Vallarta. Start the day by heading out to the beach. Begin at the seafront north of the Rio Cuale, stroll south over the bridge, and continue along the seashore walkway along Playa Los Muertos. Walk out on the new pier and grab a lounge chair at any of the beach clubs or restaurants. For more exploration, head south by local Mismaloya or Boca bus, and then head back into town to marvel at the sunset along the famous Malecon. Later, hit one or more of the nightclubs on the Malecon, a party central, especially during spring break.  
3. Day 3: After beach hopping on the second day, time to try some water activities. Take a relaxing day cruise for snorkeling at Los Arcos, and waterfall swimming at either Yelapa or Quimixto. Do not forget to try some pies from the pie ladies of Yelapa. 
4. Day 4: After all the previous day’s activities, resting for a day is ideal, for people who are always on the go try heading out of town. An adventure at Punta Mita or Sayulita village is lovely. There are a lot of activities like strolling, boogie boarding, or try surfing in the area. Head south if one is taking a break from the sun and surf today, make a stop at the Puerto Valalrta Zoo or go to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to see their amazing collection of orchids and scenic grounds. The two destinations are excellent for nature photography and bird-watching.  
5. Day 5: A vacation wouldn’t be complete without picking some souvenirs for people back home. Spent buying some mementos of the trip, heading down to Isla Cuale, and checking out some sales in the various shops and stalls. Head into the Mercado Municipal, if the heat is not a problem, just downhill from the bridge. For the rest of the day, schedule a special tour such as horseback riding, or a whale-dolphin watching excursion to the Islas Marietas. Lastly, do not miss out on the last sunset at Puerto Vallarta.

Listed below are the Points of Interest in Puerto Vallarta for going with Children.

• El Centro: The vibrant city of Puerto Vallarta is famous for its lovely beaches, countless reports, and bustling nightlife. It is a popular destination that draws in tourists from all over the world.  El Centro is near big supermarkets, hospitals, and all the other comforts of a relaxed life. No one ever gets bored in El Centro. 
• The Malecon: It is a seaside promenade that runs through the heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is a great place for children to play and explore, with plenty of sculptures and public art to discover.  

Plaza de Armas: Plaza De Armas is very much ideal for children and young kids. Plaza de Armas is a great area to sit and relax, and see the local life go by. It is surrounded by boutiques and various shops. The area is a good spot for kids to run and play, and for grown-ups to take a break. There are free live performances at the outdoor amphitheater, and the sunsets are awesome.

Listed below are the Points of Interest in Puerto Vallarta for Couples.

• El Centro: El Centro is ideal for couples who want to stay in an atmospheric vibe. Known for its cobbled streets, El Centro is a popular part of the city for vacationing couples. Couples go for a romantic walk through its narrow cobbled stones, overlooking the landmark church, and lovely colonial buildings. Some of the city’s best boutique hotels occupy the houses and mansions that are filled with greenery on the hilly streets.   
• Amapas: Nestled into the Sierra Madre and surrounded by tropical vegetation, Amapas is a popular destination that is ideal for every need. Amapás has some of the best ocean and sunset views in the region, making it popular for couples. It has private homes and condos, alongside many impressive luxury villas that feature traditional Mexican architecture combined with ultra-modern design. Couples who stay in Amapas are always treated to romantic sunset views of the ocean.    
• Marina Vallarta: The Marina Vallarta is one of the most famous areas in Puerto Vallarta. Conveniently, its location is just five minutes away from the airport. Marina Vallarta is a master-planned resort community that includes residential areas. A gorgeous 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 options to entertain themselves and do fun activities like playing golf on Marina’s own 18-hole golf course. It even has tennis courts, a bowling alley, and grocery stores.  

Boca de Tomatlan: Another best place for couples to stay in Puerto Vallarta is Boca de Tomatlan. Referred to by locals as simply Boca, the village is accessible by car, taxi, bus, or boat. Boca has its own Malecon with several opportunities for renting a boat or enjoying an afternoon of fishing. The beach at Boca is exceptional, and it is the site of many water taxi services that take ferry passengers to more isolated beaches to the south. The beach at Boca is among the rare areas in Puerto Vallarta where people get to enjoy its unspoiled natural beauty. Couples who prefer to stay in quaint inns and bed and breakfasts have plenty of choices among the affordable inns in Boca.

Listed below are the Points of Interest in Puerto Vallarta for Culture and Art.

• Galerias Sergio Bustamante: Galerias Sergio Bustamante is like a gallery and a museum rolled into one. Sergio Bustamante is a painter, sculptor, and designer. Bustamante’s creations have stood out worldwide for their originality. Bustamante is the artist who created many of the sculptures along the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta. The gallery is in El Centro near the square and features Bustamante’s excellently handcrafted and designed masterpieces. Bustamante’s art pieces are unique, thought-provoking, and intriguing. For people who like art, statues, and jewelries, it is the place to go.  
• Plaza De Armas: In Puerto Vallarta, Plaza De Armas is the main city plaza, located between the Malecon, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, the Tourism Office, and the Arches on the Malecon amphitheater. It has all the charm and feel of a traditional Mexican plaza with a few modern extras like free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and a Starbucks. For years, Plaza de Armas has been a meeting place for recreation, dining, art, and culture, and the tradition continues up to this day.    
• Peyote People: Peyote People specializes in the yarn paintings and bead art done by the WIxarika known as the Huichol Indians. It is a wonderful art gallery that sells a wide variety of items from all over Mexico. People who are searching for original Native American art must visit Peyote People. They have a wide selection in all price ranges and much more quality pieces than most other shops. Peyote People has two shops located in Puerto Vallarta, one is on Olas Altas and the other on the Malecon. 
• Gringo Gulch: Gringo Gulch is one of the most romantic places in the world. Gringo Gulch is the first-ever American enclave in Puerto Vallarta. It exudes the romantic era of classic Hollywood. It was on Gringo Gulch that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s affair blossomed into a two-marriage obsession. The houses and villas in the neighborhood are white with tiled roofs covered in bougainvillea. Most houses have colonial designs. 
• Folklore Bazaar, Old Town Vallarta: Folklore Bazaar is a Mexican Folk Art Gallery that features the beauty, diversity, joy, and richness of Mexican culture. The gallery exposes a wonderful variety of arts and crafts from all over the Mexican Republic. All the pieces are 100% handmade, crafted by artisan families who have preserved the family tradition from generation to generation.

• Hotel Zone: The Hotel Zone in Puerto Vallarta is an area with plenty of hotels, and resorts, next to each other on the beach. Hotel Zone is a popular area for vacationers. It is a bustling region that offers visitors so much to see and do. Its location is set in a narrow area between the beach and the highway. It starts from the stadium to the cruise ship terminal. Aside from its many hotels and resorts, among the favorite activities in Hotel Zone is shopping. The Hotel Zone has many international shops where visitors are able to shop while vacationing. The Hotel Zone offers wide, soft beaches that stretch from the Marina into town. There are four beaches in the area, from north to south. These beaches are Playa de Oro, Playa Los Tules, Playa las Glorias, and Playa Tranquila.   
• Conchas Chinas: One of the most fascinating and favorite beaches in Puerto Vallarta is Conchas Chinas. It is actually a series of tiny beaches separated by rocky cliffs. The beaches have golden sand and lovely emerald green waters. Conchas Chinas is very accessible, just minutes from the Romantic Zone. What makes China stand out is its enclave between the mountainous jungle of the Sierras and the Crystalline coasts of the Pacific Ocean. 
• Marina Vallarta: Marina Vallarta is an ideal neighborhood for vacationers. The Marina is host to numerous splendid yachts, sailboats, and charter boats. Its long magnificent 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.  
• The Romantic Zone: The Romantic Zone is Puerto Vallarta’s friendliest neighborhood. It is a perfect place to spend a vacation, especially for first-timers. All amenities are within walking distance. The area is near markets, beaches, bus stops, and hospitals. Romantic Zone is famous for its friendly and Bohemian vibe. One thing that makes the Romantic Zone a well-loved place is that it seamlessly combines traditional Mexican culture with modern amenities and influences.     

Downtown Puerto Vallarta: Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown is a must-visit place if one is looking for an authentic Mexican vibe. Over the years, PV has dramatically grown, stretching along the waters of Banderas Bay. However, Downtown Puerto Vallarta is indeed on its own. Located in the southern half of the city, where the most historical sights are found. In PV’s Downtown is where the iconic Puerto Vallarta letters and the lovely boardwalk called the Malecon are found.

Listed below are the Points of Interest in Puerto Vallarta for Living.

• El Centro: El Centro is the heart of the city. El Centro is one of Puerto Vallarta’s famous places. It is definitely the heart of Puerto Vallarta, as it is home to the city’s renowned Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The main square in front of the church is a favorite hub of activity day and night. El Centro is a commercial and residential neighborhood. There are plenty of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, and galleries. There are many perks to staying in EL Centro, whether for a short vacation or living permanently. It is a super convenient location, not far from the airport or Romantic Zone. El Centro is always lively. There are dogs barking, fireworks going off, and music blaring from the nightclubs and fiestas.      
• 5 De Diciembre: 5 De Diciembre, locally known as 5D, is not a huge neighborhood, but it sure packs a punch. The 5 De Diciembre neighborhood is a perfect place to stay if one is looking to experience a more authentic Puerto Vallarta than the Romantic Zone. It is a popular home base for digital nomads. The 5 De Diciembre starts right after the stadium and expands to the start of the Malecon. 5 De Diciembre is mainly a residential neighborhood where there aren’t necessarily many activities to do. However, one won’t be bored in 5D, if eating tacos and going to the beach is one activity best enjoyed. The primary thing to do in 5 De Diciembre is head down to Playa Camarones. The neighborhood is home to a large market called Mercado del Mar. It is an ideal place to go shopping, where the freshest and cheapest seafood and local produce are sold.  
• Romantic Zone: The Romantic Zone is an excellent choice for families with little children, young couples, older adults, and the LGBTQ + community. Food, drinks, entertainment, shopping, massages, and almost everything is available in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. The Romantic Zone is among Puerto Vallarta’s most authentic neighborhoods. Nearly all amenities are just a walking distance. The area is very much accessible to everything.  
• Marina Vallarta: Marina Vallarta is perfect for families who want to live comfortably and luxuriously. It is an exclusive neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Marina Vallarta is a paradise that offers everything nice. It has impressive yachts, boats, and a golf course. Families who prefer upscale living must choose Marina Vallarta. It provides state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services for all.  

Fluvial Vallarta: Fluvia Vallarta is all about aesthetics and community. The neighborhood has more parks and green spaces than industrial developments and nightclubs. People who like walking, running, biking, and hiking must select Fluvia Vallarta as the area to live in. The site is newly built, and all the electrical wiring is underground. No unsightly electric poles are wrapped in miles and miles of tangled wire. Furthermore, the sidewalks and streets are smoothly paved, making it the best place for individuals with mobility challenges. They are flat, unlike most parts of Puerto Vallarta. Fluvial Vallarta is a fantastic upper-middle-class neighborhood with a lot to offer families. The conveniences of daily living in Fluvial Vallarta are abundant. There are various international and bilingual schools, banks, gas stations, Walmart, Costco, and La Comer, all within walking distance. Fluvial Vallarta is full of life and character, mellow yet booming. Modern yet traditional. The quiet and peaceful area makes it a conducive choice for couples, families, retirees, and anyone looking for a place with all the conveniences needed for a permanent home.

Listed below are the Points of Interest in Puerto Vallarta for Investing in. 

• Marina Vallarta: Marina Vallarta is the most exclusive neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta and a perfect tourist attraction. It has residential areas and golf courses overlooking the Pacific beaches. People who plan to buy a property in Marina Vallarta have plenty of choices when it comes to restaurants, coffee shops, resorts, hotels, handicraft stores, and a superstore. The Marina has its own lighthouse that offers a panoramic view of the ocean. Marina Vallarta is not just an upscale destination, but a paradise that offers the best of everything. To be precise, Marina Vallarta is an upscale enclave that boasts a 450-slip marina with slips ranging from 30-140 feet in length. The Marina is host to several splendid yachts, sailboats, and charter boats. Its long magnificent promenade offers numerous restaurants, delis, cafés, shops, bakeries, spas, and a little supermarket. Marina Vallarta offers state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services.    
• Romantic Zone: The Romantic Zone, known as Old Vallarta, is one of the best locations to buy a property in Puerto Vallarta. Romantic Zone is the oldest neighboring community in the city and is known to be among the prime places in Puerto Vallarta to visit and live. It is an excellent choice for families with little children, young couples, older adults, and the LGBTQ + community. The romantic Zone provides jobs in the tourism industry and cultural field. The area is near markets, beaches, bus stops, and hospitals. Romantic Zone is famous for its friendly and Bohemian vibe. The people are friendly; the area is very safe. It is renowned for its restaurants, cafés, bars, and art galleries. The Romantic Zone is home to one of the famous beaches in the city, Playa Los Muertos. Romantic Zone is an entertainment capital, the kind of place where unexpected things happen. Sometimes it’s a quirky street performance and, at times, a dignified religious procession. Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone has an exciting mix of locals and tourists, traditional Mexican architecture homes clashing with new condominium buildings with a more contemporary design. Food, drinks, entertainment, shopping, massages, and almost everything is available in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. The Romantic Zone is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most authentic neighborhoods. Nearly all amenities are just a walking distance. 
• Conchas Chinas: Conchas Chinas is among the most renowned communities in the Banderas Bay region. Hailed as the “Beverly Hills” of Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is one of the first communities to develop in the region. Conchas Chinas is a prestigious neighborhood offering a diverse real estate collection. Modern condominium developments are sprinkled among traditional villas built in classic Puerto Vallarta architecture. Conchas Chinas luxury condos offer an ideal investment opportunity for people looking to invest in resort-quality vacation rentals. Some of the most breathtaking homes for sale in Puerto Vallarta are in Conchas Chinas. The neighborhood offers both direct beach access and impressive views from the hillside. Conchas Chinas is an excellent choice of neighborhood for people looking for a tranquil, sophisticated living.   
• Amapas: Amapas is a neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico that is known for its high-end luxury properties, hillside views, and proximity to the beach. It is on the south side of the city, between the neighborhoods of Conchas Chinas and Los Muertos. The area is well-known for its high-end villas and condos with ocean view, and it is popular among expats and retirees. Amapas is known for its local beach called Playa Olas Altas, this beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and it’s also a great place for children to play in the sand and waves. There is a playground for children, and the beach is equipped with bathrooms and showers.
• South Shore: The South Shore of Puerto Vallarta is known for its upscale properties and luxury resorts, which makes it an attractive area for real estate investment. The area is popular among expats and retirees, which can drive up property values and rental income. Many properties in the area have stunning ocean views and the area is also well-connected to the rest of the city and its amenities.

Puerto Vallarta beaches are a paradise that offers numerous beauty to its visitors. Located in Mexico’s Jalisco State, Puerto Vallarta’s contrasting terrain makes for a paradise defined by crystal clear bays and lush jungle-covered mountains. Puerto Vallarta consists of diverse neighborhoods that offer everything a visitor needs. Beaches in Puerto Vallarta range from the most secluded to the most easily accessible. However, despite their remoteness, some secluded beaches of Puerto Vallarta offer the unspoiled beauty of nature.

Listed below are the Best Beaches In Puerto Vallarta for Swimming.

1. Los Muertos Beach: Playa Los Muertos is an odd name for a lovely beach. According to local myth, the Playa Los Muertos (beach of the dead) is its name because there was a cemetery at the site. Someone took the initiative and started calling it Playa del Sol (Beach of the Sun), but it didn’t catch anyone’s attention, and continued calling it Playa de Los Muertos. Playa de Los Muertos is one of the most famous and most visited beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos beach is 2050 ft long and is one of the cleanest beaches in the state of Jalisco. Playa Los Muertos is located in Puerto Vallarta and lies on the beautiful shores of Banderas Bay in the Zona Romantica area. Los Muertos is mainly the prime attraction in Old Vallarta. There are vendors, activities, food, beers, parasailing, kids building castles, and many other activities on the beach. Travelers say that Playa de Los Muertos is an ideal area with plenty of space and an excellent spot for people-watching.  
2. Playa Conchas Chinas: Playa Conchas Chinas is considered among the most stunning beaches in Puerto Vallarta. The incomparable beauty of Playa Conchas Chinas is because of its majestic scenery and natural environments surrounding the magnificent sprawl of beige sand. Playa Conchas Chinas combines beige sand, jungle-covered mountains, and blue-green crystal-clear rock pools and waters. The name “Concha Chinas” was after a mollusk found in the sea of Banderas Bay. Translation from the native language means “Curvy Shell.” 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 on the beach. Playa Conchas Chinas features beige-colored sand and blue-green waters. The water is so clear that the ocean floor, including different multicolored fish, are visible.    
3. Las Caletas Beach: Playa Las Caletas is south of Puerto Vallarta ninth municipality of Cabo Corrientes, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Playa Las Caletas Beach and Nature Reserve is a secluded stretch of the Bay of Banderas shoreline, which has since become a dream day-trip destination for vacationers in Puerto Vallarta. At Playa Las Caletas, one wishes to escape the hustle and bustle of busy central beaches and wile away the hours swaying in a hammock, snorkeling, or enjoying a soothing massage on the shores of Las Caletas. Compared to other beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Las Caletas is private and unreachable independently. The beauty of Playa Las Caletas is stunning. Visitors are greeted with tropical plants everywhere, leaving an impression as if walking through the jungle. Among the several activities in Playa Las Caletas include scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling with sea lions, and guided nature walks.
4. Playa Caballo: Playa Caballo, or “Horse Beach” is located south of the famous tourist attraction, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Playa Caballo is a lovely, isolated, and pristine beach. The beach is only accessible via water taxi. Adventure seekers opt to access the beach by going hiking. The trail leads hikers through the jungle, beginning in the scenic seaside village of Boca de Tomatlan. Playa Caballo is almost perfect and presents golden sand and crystal clear jade-colored water. The waves at Playa Caballo are pretty strong and are ideal for some water sports activities. Playa Caballo is 300 meters from east to west and 30 meters wide. There are no available services, just the beach, palm trees, and the sea. 
5. Playa Camarones: 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. Playa Camarones includes several shops, bars, and restaurants. Camarones Beach was awarded a Blue Flag Certification. A Blue Flag Certification is given to clean beaches, have low pollution levels, protect the environment, and balance human activities without compromising the ecosystem. Despite Playa Camarones urban location, it was able to bag the Blue Flag Certificate. Generally, Playa Camarones has a sandy surface, smooth and soft, so it is ideal for practicing water sports on the shore. Camarones Beach is a meeting area for locals and foreign travelers alike. The LGBT community has a strong presence in 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 take one to the beach. 
6. Playa Garza Blanca: Garza Blanca Beach translates to “white heron beach” in English and derived its name from the birds that hang around the beach. Playa Garza Blanca is a beach located south of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, among the gorgeous beaches in the state of Jalisco. Visitors have an option to stay near the area, as there are several hotels and resorts nearby. Playa Garza Blanca has clear blue water and powdery white sand, making it a Blue Flag Certified beach. A Blue Flag Certificate is given to significantly cleaner beaches that are well taken care of by the community and facilitators. An added consideration is being given to Playa Garza Blanca to keep it clean and safe for humans and sea animals. Access to the beach is so easy; one only has to take a taxi directly to the beach. Various activities are to be enjoyed in Playa Garza Blanca, including sunbathing, building sand castles in the sand, or enjoying the lovely waves and waters. 
7. Playa Madagascar: Playa Madagascar is a small, isolated, rarely visited beach with captivating beauty. It is perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city—located on Puerto Vallarta’s South Shore, next to the town of Boca de Tomatlán, in the municipality of Cabo Corrientes. Madagascar is a beach of soft white sands and crystalline waters with blue and green colors, distinguished by the giant boulders that frame it and add an exotic and isolated touch. At this small beach of one-of-a-kind beauty and calm waves, visitors feel like they are in a natural wilderness paradise. It is perfect for relaxing while watching the waves swell and appreciating the horizon, where the sea converges harmoniously with the sky and the mountains. These combined features make it a rare spot to experience one of Mexico’s most impressive virgin natural landscapes.
8. Playa Palmares: Playa Palmares is among the top beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Playa Palmares area is clean and safe and is awarded a Blue Flag certificate, which means that added care is put forth to keep the beach’s cleanliness and good image. The beach gives visitors access to a car park with pedestrian entry and a ramp for wheelchairs for people with special needs. The beach has well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. Playa Palmares is an impressive sample of the apparent endless charm that Jalisco, Mexico offers visitors. It is located around 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and is easily reached by car or city bus. Depending on traffic, the drive takes about 17 minutes and offers majestic scenery of the Bay of Banderas and its gorgeous white sand beaches and lush forest-covered mountains. Playa Palmares has two access points, and at the south end, there is a bar called Canto Palmeres where people enjoy food and drinks. Vendors are walking up and down the beach selling local Mexican snacks for reasonably affordable prices. Playa Palmares is gifted with light golden sands and clear aqua-green shallow waters. 
9. Playa Quimixto: Playa Quimixto is a beach in the southern part of Banderas Bay, called the southern zone. Most beachgoers get there through the sea in one of the “pangas’ or water taxis. Playa Quimixto is a little fishing village with less than 500 residents. Horseback riding is one option to access the beach. Horses are for hire for around 250 pesos. Unlike many other beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Playa Quimixto is less crowded and is not full of many vendors. The Quimixto beach is situated in an urban area, among the mountains. It is slightly sheltered by trees that provide natural shade.  It is a relaxing beach to hang out on. Playa Quimixto has golden colored sand and clear turquoise water. Some activities around the area include surfing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. The Quimixto beach has a narrow width and an average depth.  

Playa las Gemelas: Playa las Gemelas is situated south of Puerto Vallarta, kilometer 7.5 of the Federal Highway 200 to Barra De Navidad. Playa las Gemelas is a lovely beach with a calm atmosphere, turquoise-clear water, and golden sand. “Gemelas” means “Twin Beaches” in Spanish because they’re two tiny beaches next to each other. Each beach is separated by stone walls and has a length of almost 100 meters. The other one requires a bit of hiking. Las Gemales beach is small, the north beach is around 140 yards (ca. 128 meters), and the south coast is 200 yards long. The beach tends to be crowded, especially during peak and weekend seasons. Visitors must bring their food and drinks because vendors and shops are unavailable in the beach area. Playa las Gemelas has fine sand and clear emerald water. Water activities like kayaking and snorkeling are ideal; however, visitors must bring their equipment.

Puerto Vallarta was not always the bustling vacation destination it is right now. Puerto Vallarta’s history begins with the indigenous people of Aztatlan, who were residing in the Ameca River Valley region (now known as Nuevo Vallarta). Spaniards coined the name Bahia de Banderas which translates to Bay of Flags, in reference to the colorful flags carried into battle by the indigenous community. Formerly known as Las Peñas, Puerto Vallarta, city and main port of Jalisco state in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta lies on the Pacific coastal lowland, 6 miles south of the Ameca River on Banderas Bay. The Spanish established a rudimentary shipyard on Banderas Bay for expeditions to Baja California in 1644. The modern town site dates from the mid-1800s, and its formal port from 1885. Puerto Vallarta’s name was changed in 1918. Puerto Vallarta’s population grew quickly after the introduction of banana plantations in the area in the 1920s, despite a destructive hurricane in 1925. The city was damaged by floods in 1971 and 1992, and by an earthquake in 1995. Puerto Vallarta became dependent on tourism and related services following World War II. It was put on the map, and became famous because of the filming of the movie “The Night of the Iguana.” The film production set up shop on Mismaloya Beach and began building the hotel as a set for the movie in 1963. The movie features movie stars, Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, and is directed by John Huston. What made Puerto Vallarta even more popular, was when Richard Burton brought along Elizabeth Taylor to Puerto Vallarta. The couple then made Puerto Vallarta their second home. Paparazzi arrived in Puerto Vallarta to capture the extra marital, and on-set affair, which made headlines around the world. After the publicity Puerto Vallarta received from the international press during the filming of “The Night of the Iguana,” more members of the international media started to visit Vallarta, and began to document the charm of the destination. Tourism flourished, then the Mexican government started to support Puerto Vallarta’s development into a world-class tourism destination by allotting funds in infrastructure. An international airport was then constructed, alongside road developments and highways. Puerto Vallarta was upgraded from a municipality to a city during its 50th anniversary in 1968. Puerto Vallarta is the second-biggest metropolitan area in the state of Jalisco, after Guadalajara. The city celebrated its 50th anniversary as a city in 2018, which marks its 100th anniversary as a municipality.

Puerto Vallarta has a rich history dating back to pre-Hispanic times. The early inhabitants of Puerto Vallarta were the indigenous people called Aztatlan, who were living in the Ameca River, the area now known as Nuevo Vallarta. Little is known about the city before the 1800s. It was developed to serve as a port to up-coming mining towns in the Sierra. Some evidence of habitation from 580 Bc is well documented by the Cuale Archeological Museum. There are records of battles between indigenous Indians and conquering Spanish colonialists, which are believed to have taken place during the 16th century. The growth of silver mining towns in the Sierra led Puerto Vallarta to become an established beach-landing port. One of the most significant events in the history of Puerto Vallarta was the purchase of land surrounding the village by the Union en Cuale mining company in 1859.   

El Carrizal and Las Penas were Puerto Vallarta’s former names. Las Penas and El Carrizal were founded in the independent period on December 12, 1851. Married couple Guadalupe Sanchez Torres and Ambrosia Carillo together with some friends among others, gave the name Las Penas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe for being that day dedicated to the Virgin. Las Penas, belonging to the municipality of Talpa, was formed by Decree No. 210 of the H. Congreso del Estado on October 31, 1886.  

The history of a place reflects so much about its present state, and past events add up to its value and beauty. Puerto Vallarta was once a small fishing village in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Puerto Vallarta has become one of the most desired holiday destinations in the world at present. The village of Puerto Vallarta was elevated to municipality status and changed its name after former state governor Ignacio Vallarta in 1918. Most of Puerto Vallarta was owned by the Union en Cuale company, managed by the American Alfred Geist during the early 20th century. Alfred Geist sold only large plots at high prices or otherwise leased the land for short-term. The citizens petitioned the government for a land grant based on the new constitution’s provisions, to allow the new municipality to develop and sort out the issue. The Local Agrarian Commission approved a grant of some 9,400 hectares, with the land to be seized from the union en Cuale company. The grant was settled as an ejido holding (a farming cooperative administered by the government). The municipality was twice taken over by Cristero forces during the Cristero War. The national government posts a small garrison under Major Angel Ocampo after it was recaptured for a second time. The garrison was placed near the mouth of the Cuale River. It supervises the planting of many of the palms that now line the beaches near the mouth of the Cuale River to eliminate beach erosion during heavy rains in October 1928.  One casualty of the battle   was local pastor Padre Ayala who was exiled to Guadalajara for playing a part in provoking the local revolt. Padre Ayala died there in 1943, and the pastor’s remains were given back 10 years later and lay to rest in the main parish church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Puerto Vallarta and the agricultural valley became an important destination for those leaving the Sierra towns. People who were seeking a place to settle moved to Puerto Vallarta as mining activities in the Sierra waned at the beginning of the 20th century. The Montgomery Fruit Company was employed in the area around Ixtapa from 1925 until 1935. Conflict with the state government over labor issues eventually led to the progress being abandoned. However, it provides an essential source of employment in the area for ten years. The first airplane service in PV appeared in 1932. At the same time, electrical service on a small scale arrived and the first suspension bridge over the Cuale River went up. The first plumbing system in Puerto Vallarta began in 1939. Puerto Vallarta was connected by road to Compostela, Nay in 1942. Americans were starting to be attracted to Puerto Vallarta by the 1950s. People who came to PV during that time were mostly artists and writers who sought a retreat from the USA of the era of Eisenhower and McCarthy. Gringo Gulch started to develop as an expat neighborhood on the hill above the Centro. The city attracted Mexican artists and writers who were willing to give up the comforts of life in the cities for its scenic and rural advantages. The Mascota mule trail was replaced by a packed dirt road by early 1956.  A 24-hour electrical generation arrived in 1958. A new airport came on the scene, connecting Puerto Vallarta with Los Angeles, in 1962. Puerto Vallarta’s population started to extend beyond the Centro and Gringo Gulch, and the Colonias of 5 de Diciembre and Emiliano Zapata began to grow by the early 1960s. 

Puerto Vallarta was placed on the map as one of the major resort destinations during the 60s and the 70s. One of the main reasons for Puerto Vallarta’s boom in tourism is the Mexican federal government resolved old property disputes of the land that had communal status. Next is that, Hollywood director John Huston filmed the 1964 movie “The Night of the Iguana” in Puerto Vallarta’s Mismaloya. The U.S. press gave extensive coverage to Elizabeth Taylor’s love affair with Ricahrd Burton, during the filming of the movie. The publicity helped put Puerto Vallarta on the map for US tourists. Another reason is that the Mexican government prioritized and invested significantly in improving transportation in Puerto Vallarta, making it an easy travel destination. It even helped that Puerto Vallarta was uplifted to city status in 1968. Puerto Vallarta has attracted a lively immigrant community from the U.S., Europe, and Canada since then. The city presents its new image. U.S. President Richard Nixon met with Mexican then-President Gustavo Diaz in Puerto Vallarta for treaty negotiations. The visit highlighted Puerto Vallarta’s newly developed international airport and resort infrastructure. Resort hotel development in Puerto Vallarta boomed in the 1970s. Puerto Vallarta experienced fast growth in global-brand luxury hotels and world-class resorts. There were approximately 41 five-star and four-star rated hotels in Puerto Vallarta in 2013. An economic downturn in Mexico causes tourists to flock to Puerto Vallarta. The Mexican peso was devalued, and Puerto Vallarta turned into a bargain destination for US tourists in 1982. The upstick created additional development, just like the Marina, which started in 1986. Puerto Vallarta experienced a marked increase in problems related to poverty during the early 1980s. Although the devaluation of the Mexican peso gained a number of tourists to the area, less and less was being done to accommodate them with housing and related infrastructure. The Puerto Vallarta government worked to improve the quality of infrastructure in the area by doing developments. The federal agrarian law was amended, allowing for added secure foreign tenure of former ejido land, in 1993. People controlling the ejido land were allowed to petition for regularization. It is a process that converts their controlling interest into fee simple ownership. That means that the property is for sale, and it led to a boom in the development of private residences, particularly condominiums. Puerto Vallarta’s expansion began. 

Puerto Vallarta has a tropical wet and dry climate, with constant temperatures and humidity all year round. Puerto Vallarta has dry winters and rainy summers. The average daily high temperature is 30 °C. The average daily low temperature is 21 °C, and the average daily humidity is 75%. Aside from its lovely beaches, one distinct characteristic of beautiful Puerto Vallarta is its pleasant weather. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is tropical, sunny, pleasant, and warm most of the year. Puerto Vallarta enjoys a consistent subtropical climate all year round. Summer months are hotter, more humid, and rainier than other seasons. Puerto Vallarta’s climate is among the many reasons it is so popular. It has a pleasant atmosphere all year round and fewer rain showers. Puerto Vallarta’s strategic location is one reason hurricanes are not hitting the area. The Sierra Madre Mountain range protects Puerto Vallarta from storms. Snowbirds and ex-pats enjoy the Puerto Vallarta climate in general. 

Yes, Puerto Vallarta Climate is convenient for living in. Puerto Vallarta has a low risk of being hit by hurricanes. Puerto Vallarta’s privileged location makes it perfect for most tourists because the nearby Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges offer it some natural protection from storms. The weather starts to warm up in April, and the average highs are in the mid-26s Celcius by May. Tourist crowds are less in the springtime in Puerto Vallarta. Summer in Puerto Vallarta is hot and rainy. The climate tends to be quite humid, and rain falls mainly in the afternoon or nighttime. The fall seasons in Puerto Vallarta continue into September, and temperatures cool off in October. The rainy season continues during these months. Comfortable weather starts in November, as well as an increase in tourists. Puerto Vallarta’s winter season is the best time. Temperatures dip around sunset, with average lows around 60 degrees. Throughout December, the weather is still warm and sunny, perfect for the whale watching season and numerous cultural festivals in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta has 25 miles (ca. 40 km) of coastline and various topography, including tropical jungles, rough riverbeds, steep mountainsides, and dry flatlands. 

Yes, Puerto Vallarta Climate is convenient for living in. Puerto Vallarta has a low risk of being hit by hurricanes. Puerto Vallarta’s privileged location makes it perfect for most tourists because the nearby Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges offer it some natural protection from storms. The weather starts to warm up in April, and the average highs are in the mid-26s Celcius by May. Tourist crowds are less in the springtime in Puerto Vallarta. Summer in Puerto Vallarta is hot and rainy. The climate tends to be quite humid, and rain falls mainly in the afternoon or nighttime. The fall seasons in Puerto Vallarta continue into September, and temperatures cool off in October. The rainy season continues during these months. Comfortable weather starts in November, as well as an increase in tourists. Puerto Vallarta’s winter season is the best time. Temperatures dip around sunset, with average lows around 60 degrees. Throughout December, the weather is still warm and sunny, perfect for the whale watching season and numerous cultural festivals in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta has 25 miles (ca. 40 km) of coastline and various topography, including tropical jungles, rough riverbeds, steep mountainsides, and dry flatlands.   

No, Puerto Vallarta’s climate is not harsh for older people. In fact, Puerto Vallarta has a pleasant climate almost all year round. One evident example of how good the weather is in Puerto Vallarta is the many snowbirds visiting the area. People who are tired of the harsh winter climate of their country indeed enjoy the warm climate of PV. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate and tends to be hot on some days, it is still better for older adults to refrain from doing outdoor activities especially if it is too hot.  

The occupations with the most workers in Puerto Vallarta are sales employees, dispatchers, dependent on trade, traders in stores, bricklayers, stonemasons, and related. The sectors that concentrated the most units in Puerto Vallarta economics are retail trade, temporary accommodation and food preparation and drinks, and other services except government activities, based on the Economic Census of 2019.  The average cost for a condominium in Puerto Vallarta is $450,000. The average price of $450,000 typically includes 1,600 to 2000 square feet (ca. 186 square meters), two bedrooms, two baths, marble floors, brand-new granite countertops, and common areas with a swimming pool. Puerto Vallarta condo prices range from $500,000 to $1,500,000 if the buyer is willing to spend more. These prices would provide some excellent, beautiful, and spacious properties with panoramic ocean views. Condos are the most popular part of the market right now. A basic two-bedroom, two bathrooms, 2500 square feet (232 square meters) house in a safe neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta would start at around $250,000. The prices for places near the beachfront start from $800,000 to $1,500,000. The cost of living is lower than that of the US, Canada, and Europe. Puerto Vallarta is a tourist spot, but it’s less expensive than other tourist hotspots like Cancun. Generally, a couple lives comfortably for around $2,000.00 a month or less in Puerto Vallarta. It includes rent for a furnished two-bedroom apartment, utilities, health insurance, and a decent standard of living. Compared to the cost of living in the US, this has become an affordable alternative. Money stretches further while offering a comfortable lifestyle.  

Originating as a quaint fishing village, Puerto Vallarta has blossomed through development as one of Mexico’s most popular beach resorts. Set against a backdrop of the towering Sierra Madre Mountain ranges, swaying palm trees grace golden sand beaches that kiss the shores of the clear Pacific Ocean. Puerto Vallarta has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Puerto Vallarta found its first fame in the 1960s as the filming location for the movie “Night of the Iguana, starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Although PV has numerous resorts, shopping malls, and housing developments, it has retained its authentic Mexican vibe. Puerto Vallarta was once labeled as “La ciudad más amigable del mundo,” (The Friendliest City in the World). People in PV are the friendliest and most welcoming, anyone is welcome in Puerto Vallarta. The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board has connected travel agents, operators, and other tourism partners across the resort city to champion a thriving tourism sector. Puerto Vallarta has the highest hotel occupancy levels of any beach destination in Mexico at present. Puerto Vallarta had a high development as leisure tourism became a more essential part of its economy. In response, the tourism board was launched in 1996, expanding upon the efforts of an initial mixed funding trust established by private investors and the state of Jalisco. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport received a total of 1,190,700 passengers from January to June 2022. Puerto Vallarta has established itself as one of the favorite destinations, achieving excellent results in visitor arrivals during the first half of the year. It is the reflection of the constant promotional actions carried out in PV. At present, Puerto Vallarta has 12 international air routes, 23 from the United States, 14 to Canada, and 2 from Europe. At the same time, Puerto Vallarta received a total of 106,289 passengers by sea through the 95 cruise ships during the first half of 2022. Any time is perfect to travel to Puerto Vallarta, however, its high season is between mid-December to April, and the low season is from May to December. For some people, the period from November to December is the best because things start to cool down. The rains dissipate and the lush mountains retain their luscious green colors, making for a perfect backdrop.  Puerto Vallarta continues to merge itself as one of the tourist destinations with the greatest vigor in visitor arrivals and has obtained historical figures during the first half of the year. Currently, various national cooperative advertising campaigns are maintained with partners such as PriceTravel, BestDay, Expedia Mexico, Aeromexico, Aeromar, Volaris, Viva Aerobus, TAR, and MagniCharters. Puerto Vallarta has even positioned itself ahead of any other destination within the digital strategy. It has built the largest community, which totals more than one million followers on its three main platforms. It has accomplished a reach in social networks of more than 9 million impacts. 

Puerto Vallarta is among the friendliest places in the world. It has established itself as one of the favorite places of the LGBT community for more than 60 years. Thirty-four percent of Puerto Vallarta’s tourists were reported to be LGBT in 2020. Additionally, PV has hosted seven Annual Gay Pride festivals, with the number of events and attendees growing every year. There are numerous reasons why PV is a first-class LGBT destination. From the beaches to the businesses to the bars, these are just some proof of why it is well-loved by the LGBT community all over the world. Among the favorite activities of gays and lesbians in PV is the nightlife. There are numerous gay bars and clubs in the city. They have everything from friendly lounges with sidewalk seating to upscale rooftop martini bars, strip clubs, gay saunas, and bathhouses. Most are found in the Romantic Zone, which is especially welcoming to the LGBT community. Almost all gay bars are within walking distance in the Romantic Zone. Puerto Valalrta’s beaches are phenomenal, and there is a popular gay beach section near the Los Muertos Pier. The gay section is found in the beachfront bar called “Blue Chairs.” On the other side are the green chairs of Ritmos Beach Cafe, which has a larger gay clientele. There isn’t an officially-designated gay beach in Puerto Vallarta, but the beaches by Blue Chairs, Mantamar, and Ritmos are where most of the LGBT crowd hang out. There are specific tours, especially for the LGBT community in Puerto Vallarta. 

One of the most popular tours is the Diana’s Tours. It is a must-try tour for LGBT people when in Puerto Vallarta. The all-day journey runs from October through July, attracting guests from around the globe, even a few locals. The tour costs around $130. Diana’s tours have been operating for 22 years and often sell out in advance. Shops and businesses around PV are gay friendly. It is easy to spot gay-friendly businesses everywhere in the Romantic Zone. Other gay-friendly activities that are popular in PV are gay resorts and spas. People from the LGBT who want to spend extra cash for a taste of luxury must visit the highly-rated hotels specifically aimed at the gay crowd. Safety is not even a problem in Puerto Vallarta, it has been a longtime destination for the LGBT community. The area is safe, however securing one’s belongings and having common sense surely adds to the safety of a place, no matter what part of the world. The LGBT community is truly celebrated in Puerto Vallarta. Gays, Lesbians, and other genders enjoy and relax in a beautiful community without the fear of being judged. Puerto Vallarta is considered to be the San Francisco of Mexico, LGBT tourists from all over the world travel each year to experience PV’s easily accessible, welcoming, and affordable gay beach destination.

Puerto Vallarta has something to offer everyone. With so many things to do, there are several tours being offered in the city, depending on one’s preferences. One popular tour in PV is the Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour by Vallarta Food Tours. Get a taste of Puerto Vallarta culinary scene during the Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour. The tour’s duration is three hours and 30 minutes. The comprehensive walking food tour is led by a local guide who shares stories and the history of the city. The walking tour is perfect for first-time visitors, as they are able to sample snacks and drinks from nine various meticulously-selected spots in Puerto Vallarta. The cost of the walking tour is $55 and includes a maximum of 10 people per group. Tour participants start at the Lazaro Cardenas Park, and end at Gaby’s Restaurant Bar. Another popular tour is the Full Day Private Cruise In Puerto Vallarta with Snorkeling by Anamar Adventures. The full-day private cruise offers a responsible marine tourism experience that focuses on providing a personalized service around the bay. The maximum capacity on the boat is 12 people. The price is established by the private rental of the boat. It comes with a highly trained and knowledgeable staff. Tour participants are able to sail, snorkel, swim, and paddleboard in Los Arcos National Park. Each tour participant must pay $713.36 for the tour of 6 hours. The trip starts with a take-off at the Marina, which includes a small tour of the Marina and an introduction to the resident crocodile. Then, snorkeling in Los Arcos with a final stop at Las Animas where participants get to enjoy the local fare. People who enjoy keeping up their adrenaline rush must try the Puerto Vallarta Original Canopy Tour, Ziplining, Tequila, and Speed Boat Ride. Kick off the adventure in a speed boat ride appreciating the lovely views of Puerto Vallarta, or choose the land-only transaction. Fly high above the jungle and river on 15 of the longest and highest zip lines. Then enjoy some free time to enjoy lunch at the riverfront restaurant, take part in a traditional tequila tasting, swim, kayak, or jump from the waterslides to natural pools on the river. The canopy course is Puerto Vallarta’s original zip line circuit. Soar over more than two miles of cable above the jungle and the Los Horcones River. The zipline is more than 1400 ft. long, above the mountains and the raging waters of the beautiful river below. The staff is highly trained zip-lining experts who make safety a top priority while still having fun. After the canopy, enjoy a lovely lunch at their riverfront restaurant accompanied by a fresh drink. Enjoy sampling a variety of local tequilas. Then slide down on their waterslides and swim in the natural pools of the river, where kayaks and water toys are waiting. Puerto Vallarta Original Canopy Tour, Ziplining, Tequila, and Speed Boat Ride prices start from $105. The tour takes approximately five hours, on average.

Through the years, Puerto Vallarta has been the popular choice among ex-pats, particularly from the United States. One of the many reasons why Puerto Vallarta is a perfect place to live is because of its natural beauty. The beaches in Puerto Vallarta are among the world’s most beautiful. Visitors are able to enjoy stunning sunsets, countless water sports, golden sands, and clear blue waters. The weather is one important factor why Americans are moving to Puerto Vallarta. The word magnificent is one adjective to describe the weather in Puerto Vallarta. Almost all-year-round weather in Puerto Vallarta is pleasant. Although there are apparent rain and dry seasons, even in the rainy months, it is highly improbable that bad weather ruins a vacation in PV.  Puerto Vallarta is home to plentiful sunshine, which makes it ideal weather for vacationing. The winter months in Puerto Vallarta are attractive, boasting mild, pleasing temperatures, and low dipping to around 16ºC during the coolest part of the night. Puerto Vallarta is generally safe from most hurricanes due to its location within Banderas Bay, which provides protection from the ravages of more exposed coastlines. Puerto Vallarta has a typical tropical climate, with nearly constant temperatures and humidity year-round. The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta is much lower compared to the U.S. Living in the United States is expensive, especially during retirement. The cost of owning a property is a very big burden in the U.S. However, property in Puerto Vallarta is quite inexpensive. People get more home for less money. Puerto Vallarta has an exciting mix of locals and tourists, traditional Mexican architecture homes clashing with new buildings with a more contemporary design. Food, drinks, entertainment, shopping, massages, and almost everything are available in Puerto Vallarta. The area is on Banderas Bay, which offers some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Puerto Vallarta’s location provides a fantastic view of the sea, and even the sight of the Sierra Madre Mountains is to be appreciated. The city has various international stores that offer everything needed for day-to-day life. Living in Puerto Vallarta includes all modern services, including high-speed internet and satellite TV. Health care is readily available, and less expensive. Hospitals and dental clinics in Puerto Vallarta have top-of-the-line equipment and U.S.-trained medical professionals.  Puerto Vallarta is well-connected with main highways running from the USA and other parts of Central America. It’s an accessible city by land, sea, and air, and it has added to the allure and growth of PV in recent years. Puerto Vallarta is situated right in the center of the Mexican Riviera. It is only a few hours away from any major American or Canadian airport. The cost of living is average in Puerto Vallarta, but much lower than in similar destinations in the U.S. 

Buying a property anywhere, not just in Mexico, requires much studying. A thorough investigation is usually needed, especially with the property’s location. Is the property located in a safe neighborhood? Are the amenities easily accessible? These are just a few of the many questions one needs to answer when deciding to purchase a property. Identifying all the factors to consider when purchasing a property helps one to know if it is worth buying the property quickly. Not to mention that efforts are being made, and much money is involved. It is only normal to conduct thorough investigations, especially if the buyer is from a foreign land. A property, after all, is a life-long investment with a significant potential for value increase over the years. Look for a property that matches one’s lifestyle. Second, establish a Fideicomiso. The main idea of Fideicomiso is to give foreign buyers the rights of real estate ownership, while a Mexican bank holds the responsibility as the trustee. The fideicomiso is very secure. Only banking institutions authorized and regulated under Mexican banking laws serve as fideicomiso trustees. An advance payment of a year of establishment fee and a government fee is required when someone opens a fideicomiso. The bank works with the buyer, seller, and lawyers to place the legal title to the property in the fideicomiso. A fideicomiso is the best way to get around Mexican laws restricting foreign real estate ownership in restricted zones. Establishing fideicomiso means foreigners are free to invest in any specific property and use it for whatever they want without the need to acquire Mexican citizenship. Third, estimate all closing costs. The closing costs in Mexico include various fees and expenses. These costs are the responsibility of the buyer. The cost of owning a property in Mexico entails multiple fees and taxes. Typically, costs refer to transferred tax, trust permit, foreign investment registry, trustee bank acceptance fee, first year’s trust fee, non-encumbrance certificate, appraisal for future tax assessment, registration fees in the Land Registry Offices (LRO), preventative notice advice, and notary’s fee.

 Fourth, check if all the documents are in order. A property buyer must have a purchase and sale agreement (Contrato de compraventa) drawn up. Typically, Attorneys and Real Estate Agents would have to do it. The legally binding version of the contract is Spanish. Have the attorney check the Spanish version and explain it further. Depending on how a buyer purchased the property, the Attorney, and the Real Estate Agent draw up the papers for a direct deed, help one form a Mexican corporation, or create a bank trust. Ensure that the Notary and agent have the necessary documents: A duplicate copy of the seller’s title. The seller has to give the original title on the day of closing. A copy of the registration of the property in the public register. A copy of the Regimen of the Condominium in case of a condo purchase. A Non-lien Certificate was acquired through a property title search from the Public Proper Registry. Make sure that there are no unpaid utility bills. One must ensure that they update and pay the yearly property taxes correctly, and have an appraisal of the property done for tax purposes. Furthermore, secure all the documents in Mexico’s real estate investment requirements to make the buying process a breeze.  Fifth, make sure that all transactions are notarized. Purchasing a property in Mexico, a person must go to the notary public first. The buyer is the one responsible for choosing the notary public. For real estate transactions, buyers do not need an attorney. The notary public is ultimately capable and legally authorized to execute the transaction. Have the notary public identify if the land is not ejido land (communal agricultural land). The notary public needs from both seller and buyer to complete the transaction: proof of full name, proof of dates and place of birth, official identification with a photograph, marriage certificates, and a visa to prove a person is in Mexico legally. Sixth, select a reputable and experienced real estate agent. Real estate agents are licensed to help people buy, sell, and rent homes and other properties. Real estate agents are more familiar with the local market, the neighborhood, and the local highlights. A good working relationship with a professional and experienced local realty agent lasts for years and pays long-term dividends. Lastly, pay the real estate property tax on time. Property taxes (predial) in Mexico are meager. It is normal to have annual property taxes of $300 or less. Property taxes seldom run higher than about $800. These taxes must be paid yearly to Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT). Failure to pay Mexico Property Taxes and Tax Rates results in substantial fines, legal action, and even deportation.

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is worth a real estate investment. Real estate properties in Puerto Vallarta are among Mexico’s most desired real estate. Puerto Vallarta is perfect for people who want to invest in property in a coastal area. The beachfront homes in Puerto Vallarta have a great view of the sea and the Sierra Madre Mountains, which are very beautiful. Real estate is available on the beachfront in Puerto Vallarta, ranging from high-rise condominium units to luxurious villas. Owning a property in front of the beach gives one a lovely view and is an excellent investment for the future. Beachfront properties are always in demand and are a wonderful rental stay for tourists, ex-pats, and foreign investors. Most beachfront properties in Puerto Vallarta are mostly near hospitals, restaurants, cafés, markets, and several stores. Everything is easily accessible. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place to invest. Condominiums are not the only real estate available in the city. Numerous properties, like houses, office spaces, commercial farms, hotels, and the new residential development, are for sale in Puerto Vallarta. Buying a condo in Puerto Vallarta is easy, even for foreign buyers. Foreign investors and buyers must find a perfect location to buy a property. Real estate agents are always present in the real estate market, and they are people who assist buyers with the process. Finding a property in the area is so easy. There are numerous condos for sale in Puerto Vallarta. Buyers need to identify where their budget is likely to lead them. Prices of a condominium in Puerto Vallarta vary depending on the property’s location, age, and utilities. 

Some of the most popular occupations in Puerto Vallarta include automation engineer, Automotive Service Technician/Mechanic, and Business Intelligence Specialist which pay between $107k and $781k per year. The average salary in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco is $318k. The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta, is lower than the national average. The occupations with the most workers during the second quarter of 2022 were Sales Employees, Dispatchers, and Dependents of Trade, Traders in Stores, and Bricklayers, Stonemasons, and Related. Many of the occupations available in Puerto Vallarta are classified as inferior by the Secretariat for Social Development, and even jobs that are generally well-paying tend to be seasonal. For instance, waiters depend heavily on tips to supplement incomes as low as 80 pesos a

Most jobs available in Puerto Vallarta are hospitality jobs in the tourism industry. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Among Puerto Vallarta’s job opportunities is a career in the real estate industry. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Tourism is among the top sectors that provide many job opportunities. The real estate industry is another option for jobseekers in Puerto Vallarta. Properties in Puerto Vallarta are among the sought-after in the world. Some companies hire through the corporate or U.S. office, some through individual hotels, and some through job posting websites. Foreigners who want to work in Puerto Vallarta need a temporary residency with work permissions. A foreigner must have a valid job offer, and the employer must apply first for a work permit for the foreign worker.

Puerto Vallarta’s water quality is almost incomparable to other destinations in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta’s local government has funded millions to improve and upgrade its water treatment facilities. They observed international standards in providing a safe water supply to the city’s municipalities. Water quality is evaluated yearly in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta’s water has been considered safe for human consumption for 17 consecutive years. It has a certificate of purity and is one of only two vacation destinations in Mexico to receive that important distinction.  The high quality of Puerto Vallarta’s water has been part of the local culture. Even top hotels, and other accommodations in Puerto Vallarta, own a filtration system alongside the local filtration system. Bottled waters are popular, too, in Puerto Vallarta. Some people still drink only bottled water bought in stores. Bottled waters are typically available in half-liter, 1.5-liter, and 2 liters. Access to safe drinking water is very essential, especially in a foreign country. Safety and cleanliness must be a top priority, particularly for foreign visitors unfamiliar with the local water supply. Puerto Vallarta doesn’t compromise its people and visitors regarding this matter by having high standards to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all.  

Puerto Vallarta’s air quality is generally acceptable for most people. However, people who are a bit sensitive experience minor to moderate symptoms from long exposure. The ground level irritates existing respiratory diseases, and leads to throat irritation, and chest pain. Puerto Vallarta’s air is moderately polluted. Greater than the maximum limit established for one year by the World Health Organization. 

No, there is no allergy risk due to Puerto Vallarta’s climate. The climate of Puerto Vallarta is a combination of tropical wet and dry climates. Most of Puerto Vallarta’s climate is hot, making it an ideal place for vacations. However, the heat of the sun causes some irritations, sunburns, and even strokes when exposed for a prolonged time. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most dangerous heat-related illnesses. Spending some time at the beach is one of the favorite activities in Puerto Vallarta, but do not stay outside when the temperature is high. Drinking lots of water helps in keeping hydrated. Wearing sunscreens all the time is one protection against the scorching heat of the sun. The risk of allergies from dust and dander is low in Puerto Vallarta. However, being cautious of one’s environment is always sensible, especially for people who have a high risk of allergies. Check the weather and learn when conditions such as the wind increase pollen levels as a preparation. Always shower after being outdoors, remove pollen being picked up outside, and change clothes. Minimize indoor pollen by keeping the windows shut and using air conditioning.   

Getting around Puerto Vallarta is relatively easy. There are different modes of transportation in the area. The best way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus. A bus ride is the cheapest option. Puerto Vallarta bus service is available to the Hotel Zone, El Malecon, Romantic Zone, and Marina Vallarta. There are several bus stops, and the fares are cheap. A one-way fare starts at about 50 cents. For a less crowded and bumpy ride, take a taxi or an Uber. Another option is renting a car. However, it is pretty expensive. Almost all travelers arrive via airplane or cruise ship. The cruise ship terminal is about 3 miles (4.83 km) north of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

On the other hand, the nearest airport is about 3 miles (4.83 km) north of downtown. A taxi ride from the airport to the Hotel Zone costs around $26. Rental vehicles provide access to all the main tourist attractions of Puerto Vallarta. However, rates are pricey. Mexico recognizes U.S. driver’s licenses, so travelers won’t need an international driving permit unless they plan to drive more than 300 miles (ca. 483 km) in Mexico during their stay. Taxis are an excellent and affordable way to get around the city. Fare charges are by zone, not meter. Ask the driver for a rate sheet to keep track. The minimum taxi fare usually is around $2.10 to $3.70 around town. Traveling is a breeze because Puerto Vallarta transportation has a very good public system, covering the whole city and beyond.

Puerto Vallarta has no passenger rail service at the moment. Typically, buses connected with Tepic, where passenger rail service was on the main north-south trunk of Ferromex. Going north, trains continued to Nogales, its namesake city in Arizona. One of the remaining passenger train rides in Mexico frequently starts with a bus ride to Chihuahua and rides west along the famous Copper Canyon route to the Pacific. The route crosses the impressive canyon. Passenger trains in Mexico have eleven routes, including one to Puerto Vallarta. 

A car is not badly needed  in Puerto Vallarta because public buses are prominent. Puerto Vallarta’s bus  routes are all over the Bay, plus there are numerous taxis, and Uber are present. However, if one has a car, there are enough parking spaces, and the traffic isn’t too bad. Puerto Vallarta is well-connected with main highways flowing from the USA and other parts of Central America. It’s an accessible city by land, sea, and air, and it has added to the charm and broadening  of PV in recent years.

A new or used car in Puerto Vallarta is more expensive than its counterparts in the United States. Buying a brand-new car in Puerto Vallarta is almost as expensive as in the U.S. or Canada. One has to go to a car dealership, find the perfect match, and agree on the price. The main difference, however, is that the price listed for a car at a dealership in Puerto Vallarta is not negotiable. While financing is possible, it usually comes with high-interest rates that add up. Most dealerships that offer in-house financing offer an expensive interest rate of up to 25%. Buying a used car is another option for owning a car in Puerto Vallarta. There are a few sites where most locals used to find used cars all around the city. Most of these websites promote used cars sold at dealerships near a location where one is browsing. Another method to find a used car in Puerto Vallarta is by word of mouth. To be safe and avoid any scams, check the seller’s ID and verify if the seller is the real owner of the car. Check if the name matches the title. While Mexico has emerged as an ally for U.S. automobile producers, the country has not yet become a major market for new cars. For instance, consumers in Mexico purchased just over one million new cars in 2013. It was the first time, since the outbreak of the global recession in 2008, that Mexico’s car sales exceeded one million. 

Visiting Puerto Vallarta on a cruise ship is fun. It is one of the most ideal ways to reach beautiful Puerto Vallarta. However, visiting PV via cruise ships is time-consuming. Puerto Vallarta is a well-known cruise port frequented by several major cruise lines. The PV Cruise Port has the capacity for three liners simultaneously. Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port receives ships regularly all year round. Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port was ranked as one of Carnival Cruise Line’s “Top 5 Ports in the World,” in 2015. The first cruise ship arrivals to PV started on May 31, 2005. The arrival of the Disney Magic and Disney Wonders ships caused a sensation at the time. 

Puerto Vallarta’s current governor is Enrique Alfaro Ramirez. Ramirez was elected Governor of Jalisco state for the period 2018 to 2024. Luis Alberto Michel Rodriguez is the Presidente Municipal, or the City Mayor. The City Council is in charge of the administration of the Municipality. Its main responsibilities include forming, ordering, and locating its actions in order to get an improvement in the population’s quality of life and complete development of the Municipal Territory. The municipal President is the representative of the Municipality. The Mayor is the one in charge of executing the City Council’s decisions and the person in charge of monitoring the good activity of the Municipal Public Administration. Among its legal functions among many others is to take part in the discussions that came from the City Council sessions with voice and vote. Appoint and remove municipal public servants, act as chairman of the debates in the City Council Sessions, and preside over the Planning Committee for Municipal Development. The Receiver is in charge of monitoring and defending municipal interests and legally representing the City Council and monitoring the municipal Treasury’s management. Councilors as members of the City Council have among their functions to present initiatives for municipal regulations. Propose resolutions and policies to the City Council. Request to be summoned in writing to regular and extraordinary sessions of the City Council. The General Secretary formulates the minutes of the sessions by the City Council. Issue copies, certificates, credentials, and other certifications required by the councilors according to their powers. The Municipal Treasurer manages the Municipality’s securities, collecting municipal contributions, accounting, enforcement, and coercive collection. Including the verification of income and expense accounts, formulation of budget drafts, integration of the public account, and the application of expenses. The Municipal Comptroller, on the other hand, is the internal control body. Its functions include surveillance and control of municipal assets, as well as the work and actions of public servants. The tour requires good weather, if it’s canceled due to bad weather a different date is set, or participants get a full refund.    

Puerto Vallarta is made up of several zones, all of which lie along or near the Banderas Bay. Residential areas are in the eastern part of the city. North and east of the city are famous pueblos, or towns, that offer a less commercialized and more authentic Mexican vibe.  

Below is the geographical map of Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta is in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Its geographical coordinates are 20° 37′ 0” North, 105° 15′ 0” West. Puerto Vallarta is in the time zone Central Daylight Time. Puerto Vallarta features 25 miles of coastline and a diverse topography, including tropical lush jungles, rocky riverbeds, steep mountain sides and dry flatlands.  

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. 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 most 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.” The level of crime index in Puerto Vallarta is 34.43 which is considered to be low. Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination for foreign travelers, although tourists must exercise caution, just as they would 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. 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 smart helps in ensuring safety anywhere. 

Puerto Vallarta has several good, exclusive schools. The majority of learning institutions in Puerto Vallarta are bilingual. Some are even trilingual. Most schools even have their own sports facilities, other extracurricular activities, and some are recognized for the great level of English taught. The American School of Puerto Vallarta in Marina is one of the top schools and is most preferred by ex-pats. The reason for that is because it doesn’t follow the SEP Mexican curriculum; instead, they stick to similar holidays and regulations as the American educational system.   

Yes, Puerto Vallarta has a university. Puerto Vallarta has a school from one of the best-known universities in Mexico, the University of Guadalajara. However, it has various lesser-known public and private university options, like the UNIVA university and the Instituto Tecnologico de Puerto Vallarta. These universities offer high school-level education. Getting a good education is easy in Puerto Vallarta since most schools offer good facilities and a good curriculum.

No, the U.S. High School system is better than Puerto Vallarta High School system. However, the Secretaria de Educacion Publica (SEP) has improved greatly in the last few years. School text books have improved. Computer lessons are included in most schools, and they are adding English classes in the future. High school is not mandatory in Mexico. Most preparatoria schools are only in urban areas, which makes education quite expensive for those from rural areas. Students enrolled in a preparatoria receive either a vocational certificate or a diploma to then move on to a four-year University to get a degree. Mexico has only two types of schools, a public and a private school. In the United States they have public schools, charter schools, private schools, and homeschooling.

Puerto Vallarta offers delectable food for any kind of palate all around town. Puerto Vallarta is known for its exceptional culinary offerings, and is considered the second gastronomic capital of Mexico. Mexican food is loved worldwide. Food is among a place’s distinct qualities, and the options are endless in Puerto Vallarta. Food stands, and vendors, are plentiful in the iconic Malecon downtown. Foods like fish on a stick, fresh ceviche, seasonal fruits, nieve de garrafa (Mexican sorbets), and local drinks like tejuino, and agua de tuba, to name a few, are among the street foods available. There are hidden treasures in the surrounding streets where locals eat traditional Mexican fondas, tacos and torta stands, ice creams and ice pops made of exotic Mexican fruits. Traditional and trendy restaurants are in the Romantic Zone. Most locals and tourists eat and hang out in the area.  One popular street in the Romantic Zone is the Basilio Badillo. In the street of Basilio Badilio there are local bakeries, chocolateries, and all kinds of eateries. There are food tours available in Puerto Vallarta for people who want to try pre-Hispanic and Hispanic food. The best way to indulge in some of these foods is by joining a food tour. These food tours take people to family farms, agricultural communities, and into the heart of a hidden village in the Sierra Madre. Some of the food they offer include mole negro, nopales, homemade bread, handmade tortillas, grasshoppers, hibiscus salad with fruits, zucchini blossoms, and huitlacoche. Among the many dishes in Puerto Vallarta, the traditional ones are surely enjoyed by tourists. Puerto Vallarta’s conventional dishes include ceviche, a popular seafood dish that is made up of raw fish, octopus or shrimp, that is cured in citrus juices, chili peppers, herbs, chopped onions, coriander and other seasonings. Ceviche is usually served with crispy tostadas, and spicy salsa. Seafood in Puerto Vallarta is fresh, since most of it is locally caught by fishermen in the ocean of Banderas Bay. Another traditional food in Puerto Vallarta is the Birria Tacos. A breakfast favorite among locals, Birria Tacos are available on most street corners. Birria is a meat stew that’s bathed in and marinated in herbs, spices, and chilis. The meat is tender and brewed in a red broth-like sauce, which is then served on a cooked tortilla. Birria Taco is typically served as a breakfast or brunch taco. A popular drink in Puerto Vallarta is the Michelada. A Michelada is made of tomatoes, lime, beer, spices, and chili peppers. The drink is served in a chilled glass rimmed with piquant chili flakes and lime.

A popular tourist destination in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta has some of the best restaurants that serve traditional Mexican, and international cuisines.  Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta range from offering street foods to elegant fine dining. Among the popular restaurants in Puerto Vallarta is La Palapa Restaurant. A Mexican-French-Asian fusion dish on the beach is what La Palapa Restaurant is all about. La Palapa Restaurant in Old Town on Los Muertos Beach offers open-air dining indoors and out. It is an elegant but laid-back fusion of Mexican, French, and Asian food in one. Among the popular dishes being served in the restaurant is the coconut shrimp with mango purée and potato coriander purée. La Palapa Restaurant is open daily from 8:30 am to 11:30 pm. The restaurant is ideal for couples who want to spend a romantic evening by the beach while enjoying a sumptuous meal. Another popular restaurant in Puerto Vallarta is about 22 minutes south of the center of the city. Fredy’s Tucan is famous for serving some of the best breakfast in Puerto Vallarta. People are always lining up to get in, especially on Sundays. Fredy’s Tucan serves Mexican, and American meals in a festive setting. They serve breakfast items like strawberries, cream pancakes, steak and eggs, and Mexican chilaquiles. La Leche in Puerto Vallarta is an upscale, casual restaurant with amazing food. La Leche is popular among hip crowds. Menus in La Leche change every day. People who come to the restaurant are able to taste new dishes every time. La Leche staff are friendly, and bilingual. The ingredients used by the chefs are guaranteed fresh and locally produced. One particular event in Puerto Vallarta benefits the environment. Since Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most eco-friendly beach destinations, it is only right to support these environmental events. The sea turtle releases are a local sea turtle protection program. The release of sea turtles starts in July and ends in December. Puerto Vallarta encourages tourists and guests to help the locals release the turtles, return them to the ocean, and protect them from predators.  

Mexican culture is always celebrated in Puerto Vallarta. Different festivals and events are observed in the city annually. People get to enjoy music, food, and the rich culture of Puerto Vallarta. Among the events in Puerto Vallarta is the free public show of the Municipal Ballet Xiutla in the Lazaro Cardenas Plaza in Old Town, Puerto Vallarta. The event is held every Sunday on the Los Arcos del Malecon stage at 8:00 pm. Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Week is commemorated annually. It is a food festival where almost 60 restaurants participate to showcase their special menus, allowing locals and visitors to try their amazing dishes. Participating restaurants offer a three-course menu with appetizers, a main course, and a dessert at discounted prices during Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Week. Art enthusiasts enjoy the Puerto Vallarta Historic Downtown Art Walk. The highly anticipated event is in the city’s historic center, where art lovers are welcome. It is a self-guided walk every evening on Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 10:00 pm, from October 31 to May 29.

Mexicans are known to be Catholic devotees, among their many festivals are religious and celebrated in the whole country. Puerto Vallarta’s Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) is celebrated every 6th of January. The Catholic holiday is a very important celebration throughout Mexico.  and other parts of Latin America. The celebration is not that festive, only among families enjoying a rosca, a traditional round-shaped cake with a little figurine of baby Jesus baked into it. The person, who finds the figurine inside the cake, has to buy tamales for the entire party afterwards, it is a Mexican tradition observed yearly. Another local festival is the Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship). In most parts of the world, February 14 is celebrated as Valentine’s Day. However, for Mexicans, it is a celebration of love and friendship. Of all the Mexican festivals, Cinco de Mayo is known to be the definitive Mexican holiday. However, contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not very significant at all. It is celebrated because of the Mexican victory over French forces during the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in some touristy bars and restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, catering exclusively to American tourists. Día de la Madre (Mother’s Day) is a festival in Puerto Vallarta that shows how Mexicans really love their moms. During Mother’s Day, expect street vendors to be selling flowers at every intersection. Almost all restaurants are fully booked during the evening. Independence Day is one of the biggest holidays in Puerto Vallarta, and the entire country. The celebration takes place for two days. The celebration starts on the evening of September 15, with the traditional re-enactment of the Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores). The event marked the beginning of the Mexican War for Independence. The Mayor leads the shout of “Viva Mexico,” from the city hall’s balcony at 11 pm, and the fireworks begin. A massive parade through town follows the celebration the next day. Fireworks light up the night sky during the evening. The Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead is by far the most popular festival in Puerto Vallarta. Several parties are to be seen in cemeteries around the city. These are for individual families commemorating the lives of their dearly departed. People usually eat pan de muerto (bread of the dead), traditional sweet bread decorated with bone-shaped pieces, usually with sugar on top. The most important religious image of Mexico is our Lady of Guadalupe. It is Mexico’s most significant annual festival, especially in Puerto Vallarta. Our Lady of Guadulpe is the namesake of Puerto Vallarta’s main church. The festivity starts on the 1st of December, with the procession of the Lady of Guadalupe. Groups representing schools, businesses, civic associations, and neighborhoods make processions through Old Town to the main church for twelve days. Bigger groups feature parade floats, folkloric dancers, musicians, and pyrotechnics as they make their way through the narrow streets. The processions culminate in the festival on December 12.

1. Romantic Zone: The Romantic Zone is the most accessible neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Romantic Zone is one of the prime places in Puerto Vallarta to visit and live. It is perfect for families with little children, young couples, older adults, and the LGBTQ + community. Jobs in the Romantic Zone are usually in the tourism industry and cultural field. The Romantic Zone is popular for its friendly and Bohemian vibe. Romantic Zone’s location is very accessible, it is near markets, beaches, bus stops, and hospitals. 
2. 5 de Diciembre: In between EL Centro and the Hotel Zone, is a neighborhood called 5 de Diciembre. The neighborhood is quieter than downtown. No one really knows where the name 5 de Diciembre originated. Many people come to the area because of the big resorts. The place features some of the best taco stands in the city. Prices in 5 de Diciembre are generally cheaper compared to Downtown or the Hotel Zone.  
3. EL Centro: Puerto Vallarta downtown or locally known as El Centro is one of the most well known for both locals and tourists. The area is popular for expats too. El Centro has a rich culture and history. El Centro is near big supermarkets, hospitals, and all the other comforts of a relaxed life. No one ever gets bored in El Centro. 
4. Hotel Zone: The Hotel Zone in Puerto Vallarta includes a number of hotels, resorts, dance clubs, discos, cinemas, restaurants, and more, all on the beachfront. Hotel Zone is in a narrow area between the beach, the Puerto Vallarta Marina, and the highway. People never run out of things to do in the Hotel Zone. People go shopping, pampering at spas, taking a boat tour, etc. in the Hotel Zone.  
5. Fluvial Vallarta: Fluvial Vallarta is an upcoming neighborhood for tourists and expats. Costco, Starbucks, and big movie theaters are some of the promising establishments in the area. Fluvial Vallarta is in the northern part of the city, so properties here are quite affordable because the area is still in the pre-construction stage. Solid hydraulic concrete streets and avenues, and underground utility wiring are just a few of the many other amenities of life in Fluvial Vallarta. 
6. Marina Vallarta: One of the loveliest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta is Marina Vallarta. Aside from being a resort area, Marina Vallarta is a fantastic real estate market. Luxury condos are found in the area. It houses an impressive golf course and the pacific beach is just a walking distance. Marina Vallarta is not just a boat docking area. There is a bit of everything in the neighborhood, making it among the most desired destinations in Puerto Vallarta.  

• Aarón Díaz: Aarón Díaz was born in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico to an Irish-American mother and a Mexican father. Aarón Díaz is an actor and a singer. The actor married actress Kate Del Castillo on August 29, 2009, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Diaz was cast in the ABC thriller series Quantico in the recurring role of CIA recruit in 2016.
• Alberto Ramirez:  Alberto Ramirez is a former Mexican footballer and played for the Mexico National Team at the youth level. Alberto Ramirez was named captain of Mexico U-17 at the 2003 FIFA World Championship held in Finland. Footballer Alberto Ramirez was selected for the under-21 nationals squad for a tournament in Toulon in 2005. 
• Gerardo López Villaseñor: Gerardo López Villaseñor is a Mexican professional tennis player from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. Gerardo has a career-high ATP ranking of 505 achieved on February 17, 2020. On the junior tour, Gerardo López Villaseñor has a career-high ITF junior ranking of 138 achieved in September 2013. 
• Carlos Munguía Fregoso: A famous, Puerto Vallarta’s official historian and chronicler is Carlos Munguía Fregoso. The historian was the author of numerous articles on the history of Puerto Vallarta, and several books. Among the recent works of Carlos Munguía Fregoso is the Panorama Histórico de Puerto Vallarta.
• Francisca Rodriguez y Rodriguez: Francisca Rodriguez y Rodriguez was Puerto Vallarta’s first teacher. Francisca arrived in Puerto Vallarta in 1918 from Tomatlan, and worked as a Puerto Vallarta schoolmistress until retirement in 1943. Francisca Rodriguez y Rodriguez was remembered as La Pachita (the little Pasha) by generations of schoolchildren in Vallarta.  
• Manuel Lepe Macedo: A renowned painter for naive style paintings, a style closely associated with Puerto Vallarta. Manuel Lepe Macedo’s works are displayed in town at the Peter Gray Gallery at the University of Guadalajara’s Coastal Center near Ixtapa.

• Nuevo Vallarta: Nuevo Vallarta is a planned residential resort in the Municipality of Banderas Bay, in the state of Nayarit, Mexico. Nuevo Vallarta receives many tourists from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It has several malls, stores, and other prime necessities. Nuevo Vallarta is the sister resort to Puerto Vallarta, but it’s neither a city nor a village, but a magnificently planned lattice of attractions.  The beach is wide, white, and long. It has warm waters with a few waves to play with, but no strong currents. Nuevo Vallarta is full of luxury hotels, residential-resort communities, grand villas and residences, dozens of restaurants, tennis clubs, a water park, and three local golf courses.  
• Riviera Maya: The Riviera Maya is a section of the Caribbean along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Riviera Maya offers world-class restaurants, quiet beach bars, live music, fishing, boating, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, and scuba diving. One of Mexico’s top tourist destinations, the Riviera Maya receives a lot of investment from the government and private sectors. It is a popular tourist destination, full of all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, and glamping options that feel miles away from civilization. Riviera Maya’s restaurants have even drawn a culinary following, due to celebrity and well-known chefs venturing to Tulum. It is home to archeological sites that feature the remains of ancient Mayan towns. Adventure seekers surely enjoy the 2500 cenotes, semi-open limestone caves, or sinkholes believed to be the entryway into the Mayan underworld.       
• Playa del Carmen: Playa del Carmen is a top Mexican Caribbean destination. It has the best beaches, water, amenities, and nightlife. Playa del Carmen used to be an important Mayan stop along the pilgrimage route toward the nearby island of Cozumel. Cozumel was considered to be a sacred place at the time. Playa del Carmen was formerly known as “Xaman-Ha,” which means in Mayan “waters of the north.” Travelers and locals visit the city for relaxation, culture, nature, and a less expensive but beautiful travel destination at present. There are several types of accommodations in Playa del Carmen, ranging from all-inclusive to boutique hotels and more. 
• Puerto Morelos: Puerto Morelos remains a quaint, small-town feel despite its massive tourist town of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The seaside town lies on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico. Visitors flock to Puertos Morelos to enjoy its peaceful beaches and  excellent snorkeling. The 2nd largest barrier reef in the world is found near the shores of Puerto Morelos. Divers rave about the beautifully separated shore and reef of dark blue and light green striking bands. The town is separated into two by a protected mangrove. One side is perfect for lazy days on the beach and the other side for exploring local culture through street food halls and markets. 
• Cozumel: Cozumel used to be a secluded island hideaway, but now it is one of the most renowned tropical locales in Mexico. Boasting white sand beaches, coral reefs, high-tech amenities and a massive swath of wild areas. Cozumel is an island paradise in every sense of the word. Cozumel measures about 30 miles long and 9 miles wide. Its Mayan name translates to “Island of the Swallows,” a nod to its indigenous bird population. Cozumel is a well-known diving spot. It is home to 40 different dive zones with depths ranging from 30 meters, or 100 feet. The eastern side is lined with rugged limestone cliffs, and a wide open ocean. It has abundant waves more idealwaves more ideal for surfing than swimming. Across from the ferry docks, Plaza Central, is where locals hang out, especially during weekends. The area has shops, restaurants, hotels, and charming resorts.   
• Isla Mujeres: Isla Mujeres is driven by tourism, as well as a strong winter season.   It has a rocky coast and strong surf. Isla Mujeres isn’t the typical sandy island destination most people picture in their dreams, yet many still frequent this area. Isla Mujeres surrounding waters are teeming with sea life and divers, snorkelers, and fishers are seldom disappointed. Isla Mujeres is famous for its white sand beaches, calm crystal clear turquoise waters, and the warmest locals in the Mexican Caribbean. Isla Mujeres is more laid back than Cancun. However, there are still some interesting things to do in the area such as water sports, shopping, exploring and making new friends. 
• Huatulco: A vacation resort area on Mexico’s Pacific coast is Huatulco. The Huatulco area is unified by the little villages of La Crucecita, Santa Cruz, Chahue, and Tangolunda. It has a wide variety of accommodations to suit any budget. Its accommodations range from rooms for rent, budget-friendly hotels, vacation condominiums, and luxury villas. Huatulco’s main attractions are its nine bays and 36 beaches. Many of these beaches are pristine and still primitive. There are shops in the small communities of the Hualito Area, where visitors are able to shop. About 80% of all tourism in Huatulco is local in nature, and only about 20% is foreign. The reason behind that is because direct international flights are restricted to flights from a handful of Canadian cities, Chicago, and Houston, all others having to make a link through Mexico City. 
• Guadalajara: Guadalajara is quite underrated as a main tourist destination in comparison to Mexico City. However, Guadalajara has just as much to offer as Mexico’s capital and even boasts experiences and cultural heritage one won’t find in Mexico City. Guadalajara is a metropolis in western Mexico. It is the capital of the state of Jalisco. Guadalajara is the 20th largest metropolitan area in the Americas. Public transport is far less stressful in Guadalajara. Although the city has only two metro lines, most things around the center are accessible on foot. Beers are cheaper in bars, entry is generally free, and hostels and accommodations are not as expensive. The nearest beach in Guadalajara is just four hours away. 
• Lapaz: La Paz is the capital city of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, located on the Gulf of California. It is known for its beaches, marine life, and cultural attractions. Since the mid-1970s, when an international airport was built and the Transpeninsular Highway from the US-Mexico border was paved, La Paz has been a popular tourist destination. Sport fishing (marlin, sailfish, tuna, and other species), aquatic activities, and visits to surrounding islands for diving and wildlife observation are among the attractions.
• Baja California: Baja California is a peninsula in northwest Mexico that separates the Pacific Ocean from the Gulf of California. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rugged deserts, and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and surfing. The peninsula is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Baja California Peninsula, the Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve and the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, which is one of the largest protected areas in Latin America. The two major cities in Baja California are Tijuana and Mexicali. Tijuana is near the border of the United States, while Mexicali is the capital city of the state of Baja California. Baja California is also known for its wine production, particularly in the region of Valle de Guadalupe. 

Jalisco is one of Mexico’s states. Jalisco is among Mexico’s most important tourism destinations. It offers several beach resorts, Mexico’s second-largest city, and numerous outdoor activities. The state of Jalisco is ranked as the seventh-biggest state in Mexico, accounting for 4.1% of the country’s territory. Guadalajara is the state capital of Jalisco. The state consists of 125 municipalities organized into twelve administrative regions. Jalisco is essential as the origin of several distinctive Mexican traits and cultures, such as mariachi, ranchera music, tequila, birria, and jaripeo. Some of the most prominent tourist destinations in the state of Jalisco are Puerto Vallarta, the Guadalajara metro area, the Costalegre and Los Altos de Jalisco Regions, Lake Chapala and the Montana Region. Jalisco is home to two major indigenous communities, the Huichols and the Nahuas. There is a community of expats too in the state of Jalisco, largely citizens of the United States and Canada.