1. Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Cost. Free
In the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta is The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe known locally as La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. Built between the 1930s and 1940s and known for its crowned Renaissance-style tower, this iconic church is a catholic place of worship and is open daily.
During December, the Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the country's significant and celebrated events that honor the Virgin Mary. The days leading up to December 12 are festive around the church. Nightly vendors are selling food, traditional dancers, and mariachi bands perform. On the final night, a procession starts at the beginning of the cobblestone streets of downtown Vallarta. It ends at the church with a mass to honor the Virgin Mary.
The crown that sits atop The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe was restored in 1981. Eight angels hold up the crown, and it is topped with a glass dome and cross similar to crowns of kings and queens.
2. Puerto Vallarta Malecón During the Evening
Cost. Free
This mile-long seafront facing walkway is the perfect location for watching the sunset and enjoying an evening stroll in Puerto Vallarta. Along the way, you will encounter many souvenir shops, dining facilities, bars, and sculptures. One of my favorite sculptures is called "Nostalgia" by Ramiz Barquet. Inspired by Ramiz and his wife's personal life, the couple would often sit down side by side on the malecón and contemplate life as they looked into town.
3. Artwalk Around Downtown Puerto Vallarta
Cost. Free
While walking around the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta, you will encounter various street art. I love the artwork because it is colorful, vivid, and pays homage to Mexico's unique culture.
4. Beaches of Puerto Vallarta
Cost. Free
The best beaches can be found in Puerto Vallarta. Depending on your mood, you can hang out by one of the beach bars with tourists and locals to people watch and relax. If you prefer to be away from the crowds, you can go further down the south of Puerto Vallarta and find more secluded spots such as Playa Palmares, where you can typically find peace and quiet on most weekdays.
5. Marino Los Arcos National Park
Cost. Free to view from Mirador Los Arcos de Mismaloya. If you would like to take a boat ride head over to Playa Mismaloya and from there you can catch a boat. You may have to negotiate but for reference, I paid MXN 500 during my visit which is around $25 depending on the exchange rate.
You can experience Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a Mexican National Marine Park, from the viewing point to appreciate its beauty. But if you really want to explore the area I highly recommend the boat rides that will take you out to the granite islands. From there you can choose to dive or snorkel around the area. This area is the deepest part of Banderas Bay and is protected so fishing is not allowed in this area.
6. Palo Maria
Cost. Free. If you prefer to go with a guide, contact me, and I will put you in touch with a local guide familiar with the area.
You can easily hike to the first falls from the bridge. It is about a 45-minute hike in, and I highly recommend wearing sneakers with good traction. If you have hiking boots, use them. If you want to go further past the 1st falls, you will have to climb the side of the falls. It is wet and slippery, so if you attempt to climb it, go slow and be extra careful as people have fallen off this area. Please take any trash you accumulate back with you, do not dispose of it in the area.
7. Campamento Tortuguero Boca de Tomates
Cost. Free. Donation is optional.
This is a free and fun learning activity to experience with your kids and family members. During the months of August to March, hundreds of newly hatched Olive Ridley turtles are released into the wild. This is one of several locations where visitors and locals can experience this event.
8. Mirador Cerro de La Cruz
Cost. Free
The perfect location to view the Puerto Vallarta sunset. There are several ways to access this location from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Be prepared with water, sunblock, and comfortable hiking shoes because you will be ascending in order to reach the top of La Cruz.