Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta or Nayarit? From vibrant coastal cities to laid-back surf towns, here’s your complete guide on where to stay, what to do, and the experiences you won’t want to miss.
The sun began to set across the blue waters as waves crashed along the shore. Down the boardwalk awaited a crowd of musicians and tourists near the iconic “Puerto Vallarta” sign. To my left stood a pole displaying photos and descriptions of missing locals, a sobering reminder of the challenges the region faces.
Yet even with this heaviness, the city is alive with energy: bustling streets and a hospitality that welcomes visitors from around the world. In Puerto Vallarta, resilience is part of its story, reminding tourists that they will always be welcome here.
Like many of life’s most unexpected joys, Puerto Vallarta did not intentionally plan to become a tourist spot; it suddenly became one.
Thanks to the 1964 film The Night of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta was thrust into stardom, with several other Hollywood films to follow. With its road to popularity came many tourists eager to follow in the footsteps of filmmakers and experience the beauty of Jalisco.
Jalisco represents the heart of Mexico. It’s the birthplace of tequila and charrería, the national sport, serving as a reminder of the beauty of Mexican culture. Puerto Vallarta is many things: it’s a spot to relax in the sun, explore vibrant streets, and enjoy some of the best food that Mexico has to offer.
Nearby is Nayarit, complete with luxury beach resorts, surf towns, and quiet backroads to explore. Both Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit have something for every traveller.
