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Puerto Vallarta will blow you away with its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and friendly charm. If you haven’t been there yet, it’s time to check it out!
In this article, I’ve put together a 3-day itinerary packed with exciting activities for you to explore. You’ll indulge in tasty cuisine, lounge on picturesque beaches, and explore the charming Old Town. So let’s dive into the laid-back experience of Puerto Vallarta together!
First off – when is the best time to visit?
I visited Puerto Vallarta in January on a long weekend break from teaching. I chose to visit in January to escape the Midwestern winter and also take advantage of the comfortable weather there. Puerto Vallarta is beautiful all year, but the months of June-September can be rainy. I recommend visiting between December and April. I used Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on my Sapphire Preferred to book the flights.
Where to stay?
We chose Conchas Chinas because of its beautiful views and tranquil location.
If you prefer to stay closer to the action, Garlands Del Rio in the Romantic Zone is a charming and unique boutique hotel with great reviews.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort, The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is a great option and can be booked with Hyatt Points. It’s easy to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on your Sapphire Preferred to Hyatt to book this stay.
Here’s an interactive map that shows both vacation condos and hotel rooms.
Day 1 – Food Tour in Old Town, Malecón, and the Beach
After arriving the day before, this is your first full day in Puerto Vallarta. Get ready to make the most of it! Keep your breakfast light, because we’re starting the day at 10:30 a.m. with a tasty food tour in the Old Town – Vallarta Food Tours.
I highly recommend kicking off your Puerto Vallarta adventure with this tour, and here’s why: not only will you indulge in an array of mouthwatering Mexican treats, from chilaquiles to agua fresca to birria, but you’ll also receive a helpful orientation to the charming Old Town. As you stroll through the vibrant streets, your guide will point out notable spots, providing a sneak peek into places you may want to revisit later on. It’s the perfect introduction to the flavors and sights that await you in Puerto Vallarta.
No matter how much you pace yourself, it’s impossible to leave this tour without feeling stuffed!
Time to take a leisurely stroll along the Malecón, Puerto Vallarta’s famous boardwalk. Enjoy a relaxed walk by the waterfront, taking in the sculptures, street performers, and panoramic ocean views.
After your walk, there’s still time to enjoy some relaxation by the beach. You have several options. My favorites are:
- Los Muertos Beach is the most famous beach in Puerto Vallarta. This beach is a popular spot right in town, known for its lively atmosphere and bustling crowds, especially on weekends. Situated near the pier and Malecón, it offers a vibrant scene with people enjoying themselves. While it can get a bit crowded, the area is brimming with activity, from fishing boats and water taxis off the pier to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops lining the boardwalk.
- Conchas Chinas Beach is much quieter. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine sandy shores, nestled amidst lush hillsides and crystal-clear waters.
Finish your day with a delicious meal, or if you are still full from the food tour, dessert might be enough. If you are staying in Conchas Chinas, I recommend La Playita Restaurant, located right next to the water.
Day 2 – Whale Watching and Shopping
On day 2 of your Puerto Vallarta adventure, it’s time to get out on the water for an unforgettable whale-watching tour (December-March). I recommend booking ahead on Vallarta Adventures. Then, simply hop in an Uber and head to the marina, where you’ll board the boat that will take you on this exciting excursion. As a bonus, soft drinks and alcohol are included, ensuring you stay refreshed (or tipsy!) throughout the journey.
Once on board, keep in mind that the waves can get a bit bumpy, so take care as you move around the boat. Despite the rocking motion, the waiters aboard do an excellent job of keeping themselves steady as they serve up your drinks with a smile.
As the boat heads out to sea, you’ll soon spot humpback whales jumping in the distance. If you’re visiting in January or February, you’re in luck – it’s the prime time for humpback whale sightings as they migrate to these waters to give birth. Witnessing these massive animals leap out of the water and gracefully splash back down will leave you in awe.
After your whale watching tour, you can head back to Los Muertos Beach for a bite to eat. I recommend The Blue Shrimp Restaurant for open air dining and beautiful views.
After your meal, you can walk a few blocks down to the Cuale Island Flea Market. It’s easy to get to. Just head north with the beach to your left. When you pass the Sea Monkey Restaurant, start looking for signs and get ready to turn right. This market is a fun experience where you can find small trinkets, blankets, and other souvenirs in an open air setting. Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price!
Day 3 – Jet Ski Adventure and Beach Time
For your final day, feel the exhilaration as you fly through the water on a jet ski! I recommend booking this Jet Ski Adventure. My friend and I booked together and we were the only people in the group. We went to the office, changed into our swim suits, and were directed to the jet skis by our guide, who stayed with us the entire time. There is a compartment in the jet ski where you can store your phone and anything else you want to make sure stays dry.
Our guide taught us how to use the jet skis, then towed us out of the marina into the bay. At that point, we upped the speed and made our way down the coast. It was fun to see places like the Malecon and Los Muertos from the water. We even saw our condo in Conchas Chinas as we sped by. The guide took us down to Los Arcos de Mismaloya and offered us time to snorkel. I definitely recommend this memorable experience!
When you’re finished, it’s time to head back to the beach to soak up just a little more sand and sunshine. You can choose to try a new beach with a different vibe, or head back to whichever you enjoyed on Day 1.
In summary
Puerto Vallarta is an absolute dream of a city. The combination of green mountains with the beautiful coastline, the friendly people, and delicious food make this a place not to be missed! With this itinerary, you’ll have the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. Enjoy!