Puerto Vallarta's natural beauty seems to have no limit, and its diversity serves as the backdrop for endless excursions. Whether you wish to enjoy the magnificent beaches, snorkel and dive in the region's reefs, cruise the bay till morning to watch the breathtaking sunsets, or explore the local culture and active nightlife at the Malecon, one thing is certain. There will be no boundaries to your enjoyment.

Puerto Vallarta has been greeting visitors for many years, and it's one of the best cities to visit in Mexico. The city is most renowned for its closeness to the gorgeous waters of Banderas Bay, which makes activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset boat trips easily accessible. When you visit Puerto Vallarta, use Expedia.mx to book your luxury place to stay and flight. These are the places to visit in Puerto Vallarta.

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1. Los Muertos Beach Pier

This lovely building, situated in the middle of Los Muertos Beach, provides a lovely walk away from where tourists may view the stunning sunsets that converge on the location.

The present Los Muertos Pier, designed by architect José de Jess Torres Vega, was opened in 2013 as part of a Puerto Vallarta rebuilding effort. Apart from its attractiveness, it serves as a landing location for pangas (water taxis) that provide tours to the beaches on Banderas Bay's South Shore. The pier is 337 feet long and spiral-shaped, simulating a sail enveloped in the wind and flying through the air.

The pier is now a Puerto Vallarta landmark as well as a major attraction on Francisca Rodriguez Boulevard and its environs. The rebuilt pier was an immediate success and has become one of Puerto Vallarta's most identifiable sights. It's ideal for a romantic stroll, reading a book while listening to the surf, or seeing at night when it illuminates the bustling Los Muertos Beach. Book a guided tour by expedia.mx for the best memories and experience.

2. Vallarta Botanical Gardens AC

A trip to the Vallarta Botanical Garden is a must! And dining at their charming restaurant Hacienda del Oro provides tourists with a panoramic view of the grounds and the glittering Río Los Horcones.

The Vallarta Botanical Gardens first opened its doors in 2004 intending to create Mexico's largest botanical garden in the enchanting tropical highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The Gardens' twenty acres were ranch land, roughly half of which was overgrazed cow pasture and the other half was an old-growth tropical deciduous forest. The Hacienda de Oro Visitor Center and Restaurant, the Gardens' focal point, was built in the first phase. Following that were plant propagation facilities, pathways across the site, a statue manufacturing facility, and numerous plants. The Garden's restaurant and bar, La Hacienda de Oro, is worth a visit on its own; the vista over the jungle and garden grounds is stunning, and the cuisine is, without a doubt, exceptional.

The Vallarta Botanical Gardens were essential in the formation of the Vallarta Orchid Society, which is committed to the research, preservation, and understanding of native Mexico orchid species' specific cultural customs.

3. Playa Camarones

Playa Camarones, a long, flat brown sand beach that literally means Shrimp Beach, was the first urban beach in the nation to acquire the federal government's Playa Limpia (Clean Beach) accreditation. Because of the accreditation, the beach will always have a lifeguard on duty, garbage cans, clean facilities, and disability accessibility. Its position, adjacent to the malecón between the Hotel Rosita and the Buenaventura Hotel, draws a lot of residents. The coastline is always changing; it may be rocky in the morning and clear later when the tide goes out.

Throughout the winter, keep an eye out for whales from the stylish beachside El Solar Bar or the next-door Barracuda Restaurant. While the waves are mild, there are unusual currents here that should deter all but the strongest swimmers. The most common sightings here are small groups of men and boys surfcasting. Playa Camarones is also one of the few beaches in the world to get this honor while being situated in a city, demonstrating the city's dedication to caring for its beaches, as well as the surrounding sea and fauna.

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4. Conchas Chinas Beach

Playa Conchas Chinas (Chinese Shells Beach) is one of the city's most isolated beaches, situated near Fraccionamiento Las Amapas. It is located south of El Plpito on the south end of Los Muertos Beach. Conchas Chinas Beach is one of Puerto Vallarta's most picturesque spots. This beach is only minutes from the city, nestled between forest and mountains, and is distinguished by its blue-green waves and beige sand. Explore the natural ponds created by rock groups, sample some wonderful fried fish, hire boats, and go water skiing. Because of the transparency of the water, you can see the ocean bottom and the many rainbow fish that reside there.

Conchas Chinas Beach is without a doubt one of the most intriguing and spectacular beaches in the Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone, Banderas Bay, and Mexican beaches in general. The fusion of multiple habitats in one spot, along with its elegant coast and undersea profile, has given the area a beauty that must be experienced to be appreciated. It is essentially a collection of tiny beaches separated by rocky outcrops. There are beaches with clear golden sand and water that is a dark emerald green-blue.

5. Puerto Vallarta Malecon

You haven't visited the city until you've strolled along at least part of the mile-long Malecon. Not only will the beauty of the Banderas Bay waters and surrounding mountains surprise you, but so will the diversity of alternatives accessible in the lively downtown area. The colorful Malecon in Puerto Vallarta has been the town's essence since its inception. The landmark Malecon is dotted with sculptures by well-known artists, art and craft stores, boutiques, and restaurants, and it is regarded as the gathering place par excellence.

Experience open-air concerts and creative expressions at Los Arcos amphitheater and along its almost one-kilometer promenade; indulge your taste at local and international restaurants with spectacular views of the Pacific; and observe the iconic Puerto Vallarta sunsets from front-row seats. You may also walk to the famed Malecón Beach. It's not one of the better alternatives and is more for sunbathing or a short walk along the sandy edge; it's not a swimming pool and isn't suggested for children, but it's great to have someplace to rest and relax right beside the downtown and Romantic Zone region.

6. Butterfly Sanctuary Mariposario Jardin Magico

The Butterfly Sanctuary, "Mariposario Jardin Mágico," is a must-see on your next visit to Puerto Vallarta if you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. It is not only a unique and enjoyable experience, but it also allows you to learn about and respect these beautiful animals. The sanctuary provides something for everyone, whether you're a butterfly aficionado or simply looking for a fun day out.

Mariposario Jardin Magico, Puerto Vallarta is a Butterfly House and Sanctuary in Vallarta where you may watch local butterfly species and types. Mariposario Jardin Magico, which opened in 2019, is Banderas Bay's only butterfly refuge. It is home to around 3,000 butterflies from 33 different species and provides individual and small group trips as well as 2-hour kids experiences. Visitors release a young butterfly and witness it take its maiden flight at the conclusion of each tour.

The Ranch is surrounded by lush woodland and has a big pond abounding with animals such as turtles, great egrets, and wild ducks. In addition to the Butterfly Sanctuary, Rancho Madre Tierra includes walking paths, disc golf, paintball, camping, go-karting, and Temazcal rituals.

7. Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

When Our Lady of Guadalupe arrived on the hill of Tepeyac in Mexico in 1531, she announced herself as the Mother of God and the Mother of All Humanity. Juan Diego, an indigenous farmer, saw a shimmering figure on the hill. After identifying herself with him, Our Lady requested that Juan construct a shrine in that same location so that she may exhibit and share her love and compassion with everyone who believes.

After that, Juan Diego paid a visit to Archbishop Juan de Zumárraga of what is now Mexico City. Zumárraga laughed him off and demanded that the future Saint give verification of his narrative as well as proof of the Lady's identity.

The shape of this church in downtown PV is one of the resort town's most distinctive looks, and its ringing church bells are one of its most identifiable sounds. The church is a focus of activity during the Feast of Guadalupe, which is celebrated every year from December 1 to December 12. There is a lot of music, dancing, and street professionals throughout the yearly event. According to recent visitors, you may enjoy visiting this parish just by resting for a minute on a Malecón promenade to observe the church's Renaissance-style tower.

Final Conclusion

Puerto Vallarta, with its stunning position on Mexico's coast, is naturally one of the most popular vacation cities in Mexico. The city is most renowned for its closeness to the gorgeous waters of Banderas Bay, which makes activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset boat trips easily accessible.

With beaches on one side and the Bahia Banderas mountain range on the other, this town will appeal to both beachgoers and adrenaline addicts. ATV Jungle Tours and Zip Line Excursions are two options for adventure travel in Puerto Vallarta.

Are you debating between Cancun and Puerto Vallarta for your next Mexico beach vacation? Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta? How do you decide?!

Although the other two are fantastic in their own right, with some of Mexico's greatest beaches, Puerto Vallarta offers a more real, cultural vibe. It is also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly locations on the planet. Expedia.mx makes it easier for you to book your flight, hotels, and packages all in one place.