Maybe it was the lush tropical climate, or the white sandy beaches that first caught the eye of tourists who began to flock to this Mexican paradise in the late 19th century.
Or maybe it was something more that made John Huston choose Puerto Vallarta as the setting for “The Night of the Iguana” (and the headline-grabbing, off-screen romance of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton).
With so much that Puerto Vallarta has to offer, every moment in this beautiful vacation spot can be shaped to meet your individual desires. Find yourself strolling back in time as you meander down the streets of the historic area of town, or the village of San Sebastian (15 minutes by plane) or follow your own steps to the rhythms of the Mariachi.
Your eyes can feast on beautiful textiles, original works of art from local artists and all over the globe, or the breathtaking beadwork of the Huichol Indians. Your mouth will water with anticipation for the authentic Mexican cuisine, while chefs from around the world serve up delicacies in renowned international restaurants.
You may seek out the pristine white sand of the beach, or do your best to avoid it on one of seven exceptional golf courses.
With ample opportunities for activity at every turn, your adventurous side will never go unfulfilled, unless, or course, you want to give it a rest. In that case, Puerto Vallarta is the ideal location for glorious, sun-soaked inactivity.
Culture
In this Mexican beach paradise, tradition and international style fuse to create a spirited and sophisticated culture.The vibrant colors of traditional Mexican dress can only be rivaled by the intricate beadwork of the Huichol Indians. Puerto Vallarta may be new to you, but the Huichols have long enjoyed its beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.
Stroll through the centuries on cobblestone streets with the air sweet from the music of old Mexico. Mariachi originated here in Jalisco, as did Tequila. Each helps ensure that Mexican nightlife is never dull.
Plan your visit around the array of festivals that celebrate all aspects of this vibrant culture from international cuisine to art to film to fishing.
Beaches
Our primary draw for many, Puerto Vallarta has miles and miles of wide sandy playas, some boasting coves seemingly carved just for two, others quite popular with lots of palapa restaurants, amenities and services.
Majahuitas
Located on a remote, secluded cove south of Puerto Vallarta, Majahuitas beach is accessible only by boat (i.e. water taxi).
Quimixto
One of three remote beaches south of Puerto Vallarta that is accessible only by boat. Pangas or water taxis leave the mainland several times a day for this out-of-the-way shore.
Boca de Tomatlán
A small seaside village cove that sits at the edge of the jungle, three miles south of Mismaloya, where the mouth or boca of the Tomatlan river meets the bay, hence its name.
Mismaloya
Probably the most well known Puerto Vallarta beach due to the filming of "Night of the Iguana" here in l963, this 500-meter-long beach sits at the very edge of the jungle where the Mismaloya creek meets the sea.
Gemelas
"Twin" beach is two small crescent-shaped beaches at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Here the surf is gentle and good for swimming.
Garza Blanca
A small city beach located off the Barra Navidad road at Km 6 on the way to Mismaloya, this white sand beach is framed with palms and crystal clear water that laps the shoreline.
Playa lo Muertos
"The Beach of the Dead" was so named because of a battle fought a century ago between gold and silver smugglers from the mines of the Rio Cuale and the natives who tried take their stolen booty from them
Hotel Zone
This beach is the most active of beaches in Puerto Vallarta as it stretches south from the municipal marina nearly to the downtown area.
Nuevo Vallarta
The clean white sand beaches here seem endless. The beaches of Nuevo Vallarta begin four miles north of the airport.
Bucerias
The name means "Place of the Divers." Its 5-mile stretch of white sand beaches is the longest along the Bay of Banderas
