Why choose Puerto Vallarta?
If you research a bit, you’ll see PV has many devoted fans, though their opinions must be taken with a grain of salt, you might ask yourself what did that to them… Many call it PV’itis, an “incurable” sickness that makes you come back once and again to this place and if you ever retire, to move down and establish yourself here, among the already considerable number of expats in the area.
What it is exactly, depends on each person, but looking at things logically we could point to the following as defining virtues of the area:
- Kind and welcoming locals.
- The city has it’s own personality and style, this is because the place has grown organically and was not a prefab tourist destination as Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Huatulco and others in the country.
- The surroundings, the sunsets, bay, jungles, and nature in general.
- It’s actually more of a city with a town attitude. You get the best of both worlds.
- Lots and lots to do, cruises in the bay, zoo, beaches, bungee jumping, scuba, snorkel, botanical gardens, spas, canopy tours, ATVs, sports fishing, mountain biking, hiking, the list goes on.
- The place is safe.
- You can get more out of your money here.
- If you want to splurge, the town is full of great restaurants, clubs, bars and for every budget.
- A fun and active expat community.
- Top level hospitals and clinics, no need to save on that!
- It’s well connected to the world with it’s International Airport.
- The city is also very kind and open to the LGBT community.
- Many enjoy the shopping, others the art galleries, others both.
- There are many interesting places to visit within Vallarta, the bay and the surrounding Sierra, colonial towns, small paradise beaches and quaint fishermen towns, and on and on.
…and that is just touching the surface, each person finds different aspects that appeal to them.
Some of the main attractions
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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