Wow! Where did those colors come from?
It is nearly impossible to find a travel review of the city that doesn’t mention the gorgeous views during a Puerto Vallarta sunset when the sun drops into the horizon. No doubt you’ve seen nature’s own spectacle from the patio of your Puerto Vallarta room or villa.
The scene is nearly impossible to describe a swath of brilliant gold and scarlet spilling across a blue velvet sky. Have you ever wondered, though, what makes that gorgeous palette?
First of all, be advised that it’s a bad idea to wonder aloud what makes those vivid hues when you’re in the middle of a romantic interlude. That said, if you’re 8 years old or single or if your significant other is, like you, also a bit of a nerd (in a good way, of course), then it’s time to learn something about the mechanics of sunsets.
Actually, there’s a lot more science in a sunset than you may think, and it turns out it’s not that easy to explain. Briefly, it seems that the Earth’s atmosphere causes light from the visible spectrum to scatter. For reasons best understood by physicists, red light is least susceptible to scattering, so at the end of the day, when the sun has dropped low and light is traveling far, the reds are holding it together while other colors in the spectrum are going every which way. It has to do with wavelength and electromagnetic particles. Or something like that.
Enjoy the pretty tones
Visitors and locals agree that there are a few special places in Puerto Vallarta to enjoy the setting sun’s light show:
Of course, you don’t have to search very far to find a good place to watch the sun paint the sky. I personally like them on the Malecon or on one of the many beautiful beaches in town, you get to sit down in the soft sand, enjoy the lapping of the waves and watch the sun slowly sink into the horizon.
Another great place to enjoy a beautiful Puerto Vallarta sunset is from the privacy of your villa or apartment, perhaps relaxing in the hot tub or lounging on the veranda just off your bedroom. One evening is all it takes to get hooked on those colors.
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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