Diving excursions in Puerto Vallarta open the door to some of the most exciting underwater landscapes in the Pacific, including Los Arcos, Marietas Islands, and El Morro — where volcanic formations, underwater caves, dramatic drop-offs, and colorful marine life create a spectacular setting for both beginner and advanced divers.
TOP ACTIVITIES
Whether you choose to relax on the beach or tour the Puerto Vallarta area, there is plenty to see and do. Read on below for some of our top activities.
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Enjoy a walk along the Malecon
Starting on the north-side at Hotel Rosita (which is the oldest hotel in Puerto Vallarta), walk south along the water all the way to the Los Muertos Pier. While walking, visit one of the many souvenir shops, enjoy a margarita or local Mexican cuisine at one of the many restaurants or bars.
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Located on the north end of the Malecon, you can watch the Voladores de Papantla (or Papantla Flyers) - This is a pre-Hispanic ritual ceremony where five men climb a tall pole and perform an aerial dance from the top of the pole back down to the beach. If you enjoy the show, please leave the Flyers a propina (or tip).
In Centro, near Los Arcos (the arches), you'll be able to take a picture in front of the Puerto Vallarta letters, or during special occasions, enjoy one of the shows at the Amphitheater.
Take a detour to the east and visit the Lady of Guadalupe church, the largest church in Puerto Vallarta.
Or, if you like museums, check out the Naval Museum. Its a great place to cool down in the hot summer heat and learn some of Mexico's naval history.
Moving south, cross the Cuale River bridge, and if you're lucky, you will see a crocodile or two. Take a detour onto Isla Cuale and visit one of many local artisans or have a bite to eat or a drink at one the restaurants on the island.
FUN FACT: Just outside of Oscar's Restaurant, you can enjoy a tequila tasting their distillary and try some of their locally-made tequilas.
Walk further south, and you are in the Emiliano Zapata area of Puerto Vallarta, commonly referred to as Zona Romantica. Visit the popular Saturday market at Plaza Lázaro Cárdenas.
Turn right at Daiquiri Dick's and keep walking south along Los Muertos Beach to the Los Muertos Pier, where you can enjoy lounging on the beach, or even catch a water taxi (or panga) to visit the southern beaches or towns only accessible by water.
Learn about chocolate at Cacao Magico:
Located in Puerto Magico (Cruise Terminal). Fun Fact: Chocolate was invented in MEXICO! Take one of their classes and make your own chocolate, or choose from a selection of their in-store creations available for purchase.
Puerto Vallarta Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour:
A flexible, scenic way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic neighborhoods, beaches, and landmarks, allowing you to hop on or off at any of the official stops throughout the day, including Puerto Vallarta's iconic Marina, Puerto Magico and the Malecon (Centro).
Take a Panga (water taxi) to one of the beaches you can only reach by boat and visit areas with a more rustic laid-back atmosphere with minimal development.
Visit Yelapa, which is a secluded fishing village accessible only by boat. Enjoy the untouched beaches, beautiful waterfalls, vibrant local culture, and unique activities.
Hint: If you take a water taxi, they may include a guide to show you the best Yelapa has to offer.
Visit Playa Colomitas, which is a beautiful beach famous for its crystal-clear emerald waters and gentle waves. It is ideal for swimming, water sports like diving and snorkeling, or simply relaxing and sunbathing.
Spend a full day enjoying Playa Las Animas, one of the most popular and picturesque beaches in Banderas Bay. You can reach this beach by water taxi, or by hiking the scenic coastal trail from Boca de Tomatlán.
Canopy River Park:
Canopy River Park — often simply “Canopy River” — is a nature-adventure park in the jungle outside Puerto Vallarta where you can combine adrenaline with immersive natural surroundings.
Enjoy activities such as zip-lining high above the river and rainforest canopy (FUN FACT: they have 11 zip lines), hiking, driving an ATVs or RZR off-road vehicle, or horse-back or mule rides. For relaxation, enjoy a refreshing dip in the river or the park’s infinity pool.
Go whale-watching, snorkeling, diving, or deep-sea fishing:
Whale Watching is one of the most unforgettable experiences the region offers. Between November through March, you'll have a chance to see majestic humpback whales, that have returned to the area to breed and give birth. You can take a guided boat tour, or if you're lucky, see them from the beach.
Snorkeling excursions in Puerto Vallarta offer an easy and exciting way to explore the vibrant underwater world of Banderas Bay. Visit Los Arcos, Majahuitas, or Colomitos—where crystal-clear waters reveal colorful tropical fish, coral formations, sea turtles, and other marine life.
FUN FACT: While snorkeling gives you a beautiful preview of Banderas Bay’s marine world, diving lets you fully enter and explore it.
Deep sea fishing is an exciting way to experience the rich marine life of Banderas Bay, one of the most productive fishing grounds on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Guided by expert captains, you can encounter world-class species such as mahi-mahi (dorado), sailfish, marlin, tuna, and roosterfish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, the thrill of the open ocean, the stunning coastal views, and the chance to reel in a trophy-sized catch make this adventure unforgettable.
Rhythms of the Night:
Rhythms of the Night is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most magical and immersive evening excursions. The experience begins with a scenic sunset cruise across Banderas Bay to the secluded beach of Las Caletas, where flickering torches and candlelit pathways set the tone for an enchanting night. Guests enjoy a gourmet beachfront dinner under the stars, followed by a world-class live performance inspired by ancient Mexican culture, mythology, and dance. This unforgettable combination of ocean views, fine dining, and a breathtaking theatrical show makes Rhythms of the Night a must-do experience—perfect for romance, celebration, or simply enjoying the beauty and spirit of Puerto Vallarta.
Teatro Vallarta:
Teatro Vallarta is Puerto Vallarta’s premier performing arts venue, hosting concerts, theater, ballet, opera, and cultural events in a modern, centrally located facility, including one of their iconic shows, Mayahuel.
The Mayahuel show at Teatro Vallarta is a vibrant and captivating celebration of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Through stunning choreography, live music, colorful costumes, and powerful storytelling, the show brings to life the legends, traditions, and spirit of ancient Mexico—highlighting the myth of Mayahuel, the goddess of agave. The performance blends folkloric dance with modern theatrical elements, creating a visually spectacular and emotionally moving experience. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to enjoy an authentic, high-quality cultural show in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
Take an Authentic Mexican Cooking Class
A fun and flavorful way to connect with the local culture.
First, shop at the local markets with your chef to choose fresh, regional ingredients, and then learn how to prepare traditional dishes using these ingredients.
Learn authentic techniques, discover the stories behind the recipes, and enjoy a delicious meal you helped create.
Check out a show at one of our Entertainment Venues
Puerto Vallarta offers several entertainment options including live music, cabaret productions, and broadway-style productions. Some of our favorites are: ACT2PV, The Palm Cabaret, Nacho Daddy, La Catrina Cantina, Cuarto de Musica, and Coco Cabaret.
