Puerto Vallarta Vacations — Mexico's Most Charming Resort Town
Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is widely regarded as Mexico's most charming resort town — a place where cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a thriving art scene coexist with beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, and the extraordinary natural beauty of Banderas Bay. Unlike the purpose-built resort zones of Cancún and Cabo, Puerto Vallarta has a genuine Mexican character that makes it one of the most beloved destinations in the country.
Why Visit Puerto Vallarta?
- ✓Malecón — the beautiful waterfront promenade with sculptures and restaurants
- ✓Old Town (Zona Romántica) — cobblestone streets and the best restaurants in Mexico
- ✓Whale watching — humpback whales in Banderas Bay (December–March)
- ✓Marietas Islands — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with a hidden beach
- ✓Sierra Madre mountains — zip-lining, canopy tours, and traditional villages
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Old Town Walking Tour
Explore the cobblestone streets of the Zona Romántica — the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Malecón, and the extraordinary restaurant scene.
Whale Watching
Watch humpback whales in Banderas Bay (December–March) — one of the world's great whale watching destinations.
Marietas Islands Tour
Take a boat to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Marietas Islands — snorkelling, bird watching, and the famous hidden beach (Playa del Amor).
Sierra Madre Canopy Tour
Zip-line through the Sierra Madre jungle — extraordinary views of Banderas Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Cooking Class
Learn to make authentic Mexican cuisine in a hands-on cooking class — market tour, molcajete guacamole, and traditional mole.
Art Gallery Hopping
Explore Puerto Vallarta's extraordinary art scene — the town has more galleries per capita than almost any city in Mexico.
Ready to book your Puerto Vallarta trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Fine Dining
Café des Artistes
Puerto Vallarta's most celebrated restaurant — exceptional French-Mexican cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
Traditional Mexican
El Arrayán
A beloved restaurant in the Zona Romántica serving exceptional traditional Mexican cuisine — the best mole in Puerto Vallarta.
Seafood
Mariscos Cisneros
A beloved local seafood restaurant — fresh ceviche, fish tacos, and grilled seafood at excellent prices.
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta
LuxuryA beautiful resort on the Hotel Zone beach — exceptional service, multiple pools, and excellent dining.
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
LuxuryA stunning resort on a private beach south of Puerto Vallarta — exceptional spa, multiple restaurants, and beautiful jungle setting.
Hotel Boutique 7 Cielos
BoutiqueA beautifully designed boutique hotel in the Zona Romántica — intimate, stylish, and perfectly located.
Planning Your Puerto Vallarta Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
November through April — perfect weather and peak season. May through October is the rainy season, with lower prices.
🌤️ Climate
Tropical with warm, humid weather year-round (22–32°C). The dry season is November–April; the rainy season is May–October.
✈️ Getting There
Direct flights from Calgary to Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) — approximately 4.5 hours. Multiple airlines offer direct service.
Wendy's Take on Puerto Vallarta
35+ years of travel expertise
Hello, fellow travelers! Wendy here, and today I want to share my absolute delight for a destination that truly captures the heart: Puerto Vallarta. With its enchanting cobblestone streets winding through vibrant neighborhoods, the dramatic backdrop of lush jungle mountains, and the sparkling expanse of Banderas Bay, this Mexican gem offers an unforgettable escape. It’s a place where traditional charm meets breathtaking natural beauty, creating an atmosphere that’s both exhilarating and deeply relaxing.
Puerto Vallarta is truly a destination for everyone. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a family looking for adventure, or a solo traveler eager to explore, you’ll find your perfect rhythm here. The city is renowned for its welcoming spirit, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local culture, savor incredible cuisine, and discover hidden artistic treasures. I’ve helped countless clients, over my 35+ years in travel, discover the magic of this coastal paradise, and it never ceases to impress.
For the best experience, I always recommend visiting Puerto Vallarta between November and April. During these months, the weather is simply divine—warm, sunny days with comfortable evenings, perfect for enjoying everything from beach activities to exploring the Sierra Madre foothills. You’ll avoid the hotter, more humid summer months and the rainy season, ensuring your days are filled with sunshine and adventure.
My personal favorite thing about Puerto Vallarta? It has to be the vibrant Malecón. Strolling along this iconic boardwalk, with the ocean breeze on your face, watching street performers, admiring the unique sculptures, and soaking in the lively atmosphere as the sun sets over Banderas Bay—it’s pure bliss. Every time I’m there, I feel a profound connection to the energy and beauty of the place. It’s a sensory feast that truly embodies the spirit of Mexico.
For those planning a trip, here’s a booking tip from my years of experience: consider booking your accommodations and any major excursions well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Popular resorts and tours fill up quickly, and securing your choices early can often lead to better rates and availability, ensuring a seamless and stress-free vacation. Don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted travel advisor to help navigate the options and tailor your perfect Puerto Vallarta adventure!
Insider Tips — Puerto Vallarta
Always carry small denominations of Mexican pesos for street vendors and smaller purchases; while USD is accepted, you'll often get a better rate with local currency.
If you're looking to avoid the busiest crowds and get better value, aim for the shoulder seasons like late April to May or November. The weather is still fantastic, and you'll have more breathing room.
Don't miss a visit to the Zona Romantica in the evening. It's not just for LGBTQ+ travelers; it's a vibrant area with fantastic restaurants, live music, and a truly authentic PV atmosphere.
Consider booking a whale watching tour between December and March. It's a truly magical experience to see humpback whales in Banderas Bay, and many tours offer sighting guarantees.
For a unique cultural experience, try to visit during Día de Muertos (November 1-2). The city comes alive with beautiful altars and celebrations that are both respectful and visually stunning.
Frequently Asked Questions — Puerto Vallarta
Is Puerto Vallarta good for families?
Puerto Vallarta is excellent for families — beautiful beaches, water parks, whale watching, and a very family-friendly culture.
Is Puerto Vallarta safe?
The tourist areas of Puerto Vallarta are generally very safe. It is one of Mexico's most welcoming and safe destinations for tourists.
Do Canadians need a visa for Mexico?
No — Canadian citizens can visit Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days with a valid passport.
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Book Your Puerto Vallarta Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Puerto Vallarta vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Puerto Vallarta Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Puerto Vallarta travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.